May in India means the sun beats down with relentless ferocity with quiet afternoons into sweltering pits. The air feels dry, and the days stretch long, reminding us of the peak of summer’s grip. But it’s also a time of opportunity: school holidays, a desire for a refreshing break, and the perfect excuse to explore the world. School bells ring out, signaling the start of eagerly awaited summer vacations, a time when families look for some respite and adventure. The desire for a refreshing break, a cool oasis away, and what better way to quench that thirst for renewal than to embark on an international journey?
For Indian travelers, May isn’t just a month to stay home and chug glasses of chhaas and shikanji; it’s a call to action with several places to visit in May outside India. It’s the perfect time to create lasting memories with loved ones, to explore landscapes that contrast sharply with the familiar, and to immerse oneself in experiences that rejuvenate the mind and spirit.
If you’re looking to escape the intensity of the Indian summer and craft those unforgettable moments, here are 7 incredible countries to visit in May, each carefully selected to offer a delightful getaway, tailored specifically for the Indian traveler’s desire for relief and discovery.
Why May is Ideal for Indian Travelers
- Heat Relief: Escape India’s intense summer with cooler, pleasant climates in many parts of the world.
- School Holidays: Take advantage of children’s summer vacations for memorable family trips.
- Pre-Peak Season: Enjoy fewer crowds and potentially better deals before the peak tourist season hits in many places.
- Refreshing Experiences: Embrace diverse cultures, landscapes, and activities that offer a welcome change from the Indian summer.
7 Best Countries to Visit in May
Escape the sweltering Indian summer with these seven exquisite international destinations in May, perfectly timed for the pleasant weather. Discover diverse cultures and breathtaking landscapes, from peaceful Himalayan retreats to vibrant Southeast Asian adventures. Your global journey begins here.
South Korea
South Korea, a top contender for the best country to visit in May, transforms into a traveler’s haven with blooming flowers and comfortable temperatures. This makes it one of the most sought-after best places to visit in May abroad for those escaping the Indian heat. The stark contrast between the modern marvels of Seoul and the serene natural beauty of Jeju Island offers a diverse experience.
Families will especially enjoy the attractions like Lotte World and Everland, making it among the best countries to visit in May with family. Exploring the vibrant K-culture and efficient travel infrastructure ensures a memorable journey, solidifying its place among the top places to visit in May outside India.
- Weather: Best times to visit, with comfortable temperatures, clear skies, and blooming flowers.
- Difference from India: Experience a blend of modern cities and serene natural beauty, with a focus on technology and culture.
- Practical Reasons: Enjoy a clean, efficient travel experience, explore K-culture, and escape the Indian heat.
- Top Cities & Bucket List Destinations: Seoul, Busan, Jeju Island, Gyeongju.
Best of South Korea
Family: Lotte World, Everland, Children's Grand Park.
Couple: Nami Island, romantic dinners in Seoul, cherry blossom viewing (early May).
Friends: Explore Hongdae's nightlife, hike in Bukhansan National Park, K-Pop experiences.
Bhutan
Bhutan, with its tranquil Buddhist culture and pristine landscapes, offers a serene retreat, making it one of the ideal countries to visit in May. The pleasant May weather enhances the beauty of ancient monasteries like the Tiger’s Nest and the lush valleys of Paro and Punakha.
Families can engage in meaningful cultural experiences, while couples can enjoy romantic stays in traditional lodges, making it a versatile destination among the best places to visit in May outside India. The focus on Gross National Happiness provides a unique and peaceful escape, distinct from the hustle of Indian summers.
- Weather: Pleasant temperatures, clear skies, and lush green landscapes.
- Difference from India: Experience serene Buddhist culture, pristine natural beauty, and a focus on Gross National Happiness.
- Practical Reasons: Enjoy a peaceful retreat, explore ancient monasteries, and escape the heat in a tranquil environment.
- Top Cities & Bucket List Destinations: Thimphu, Paro, Punakha, Tiger’s Nest Monastery.
Best of Bhutan
Family: Visit monasteries, explore local markets, hike to scenic viewpoints.
Couple: Romantic stays in traditional lodges, scenic drives, meditation retreats.
Friends: Trek in the Himalayas, explore cultural sites, experience Bhutanese festivals.
Vietnam
Vietnam in May, though marking the beginning of the wet season in some areas, still offers warm temperatures and a vibrant cultural experience, making it a strong contender for the best country to visit in May. The diverse landscapes, from the stunning Ha Long Bay to the historic streets of Hoi An and the bustling cities of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, cater to various interests.
Families can enjoy cruising through scenic bays, couples can explore romantic tailor shops, and friends can dive into the vibrant nightlife, confirming its appeal among the best places to visit in May abroad. The affordable travel and unique culinary scene make it a popular choice among the places to visit in May outside India.
- Weather: Beginning of the wet season in some parts, but generally offers warm temperatures.
- Difference from India: Experience a vibrant mix of Southeast Asian culture, delicious cuisine, and stunning natural beauty.
- Practical Reasons: Enjoy affordable travel, explore diverse landscapes, and experience a unique cultural blend.
- Top Cities & Bucket List Destinations: Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, Hoi An, Ho Chi Minh City, and the Mekong Delta.
Best of Vietnam
Family: Explore the ancient streets of Hoi An, cruising in Ha Long Bay, and Vietnamese street food.
Couple: Romantic boat cruises, explore the tailor shops in Hoi An, and enjoy a relaxing beach stay.
Friends: Explore the vibrant nightlife in Ho Chi Minh City, trek in Sapa, and try local cuisine.
Georgia
Georgia in May, with its mild temperatures, presents an ideal time to explore its ancient history and stunning Caucasus Mountain scenery, placing it firmly among the best places to visit in May outside India. Families can enjoy exploring the old town of Tbilisi and visiting ancient monasteries, while couples can savor wine tasting in Kakheti, and friends can hike in the mountains.
This destination offers a blend of cultural and natural experiences, making it suitable for everyone, including those seeking the best countries to visit in May with family. The affordable travel and delicious Georgian cuisine further enhance its appeal.
- Weather: Fantastic time to visit, with mild temperatures.
- Difference from India: Experience a blend of ancient history, modern culture, and stunning Caucasus Mountain scenery.
- Practical Reasons: Enjoy affordable travel, explore historic cities, and savor delicious Georgian cuisine.
- Top Cities & Bucket List Destinations: Tbilisi, Mtskheta, Kazbegi, and the wine region of Kakheti.
Best of Georgia
Family: Explore the old town of Tbilisi, visit ancient monasteries, enjoy cable car rides.
Couple: Wine tasting in Kakheti, romantic dinners in Tbilisi, scenic drives in the mountains.
Friends: Hike in the Caucasus Mountains, explore Tbilisi's nightlife, try Georgian cuisine.
Indonesia
Indonesia in May, at the start of the dry season, offers a tropical paradise with warm temperatures and less humidity, making it one of the best places to visit in May outside India. The stunning beaches of Bali, the lush rice terraces of Ubud, and the vibrant cultural experiences provide a diverse range of activities.
Families can enjoy beach activities and temple visits, couples can enjoy romantic sunsets and spa treatments, and friends can indulge in surfing and nightlife, making it a versatile destination among the best places to visit in May abroad. The unique Hindu culture and stunning natural landscapes make it a memorable destination.
- Weather: Beginning of the dry season, with warm temperatures and less humidity.
- Difference from India: Experience a tropical paradise with stunning beaches, lush rice terraces, and a unique Hindu culture.
- Practical Reasons: Enjoy a relaxing beach vacation, explore cultural sites, and experience Balinese hospitality.
- Top Cities & Bucket List Destinations: Ubud, Seminyak, Uluwatu, and the Gili Islands.
Best of Indonesia
Family: Explore rice terraces, visit temples, enjoy beach activities.
Couple: Romantic sunsets, spa treatments, private villa stays.
Friends: Surf at the beaches, explore nightlife & beach clubs, island hopping.
Kazakhstan
Kazakhstan in May, with its pleasant temperatures and blooming steppes, offers a unique blend of nomadic culture and modern cities, making it a compelling choice for places to visit in May outside India. Families can explore Almaty’s parks and ice rinks, couples can enjoy romantic dinners and canyon explorations, and friends can engage in hiking and nomadic cultural experiences. The vast landscapes and unique cultural experiences make it a less crowded and intriguing option among the countries to visit in May.
- Weather: May brings pleasant temperatures (10-25°C) and blooming steppes.
- Difference from India: Experience vast landscapes, nomadic culture, and modern cities.
- Practical Reasons: Enjoy unique cultural experiences, explore natural wonders, and escape the heat in a less crowded destination.
- Top Cities & Bucket List Destinations: Almaty, Nur-Sultan, Charyn Canyon, and the steppes.
Best of Kazakhstan
Family: Explore Almaty's parks, visit the Medeu ice rink, ride cable car to Kok-Tobe.
Couple: Dinner in Almaty, explore the beauty of Charyn Canyon, visit the futuristic city of Nur-Sultan.
Friends: Hike and trek in the mountains, experience nomadic culture, explore Almaty's nightlife.
Cambodia
Cambodia in May, though hot and humid, offers a unique opportunity to explore ancient temples and rich history, making it a fascinating choice for places to visit in May outside India. One can explore Angkor Wat and cultural villages, couples can enjoy sunset views at temples, and friends can explore Phnom Penh’s nightlife and historical sites. The unique cultural blend and historical significance make it a compelling destination among the best places to visit in May abroad.
- Weather: May is hot and humid, but before the peak of wet season, with temperatures (25-35°C).
- Difference from India: Experience ancient temples, rich history, and a developing Southeast Asian culture.
- Practical Reasons: explore ancient temples, and experience a unique cultural blend.
- Top Cities & Bucket List Destinations: Siem Reap (Angkor Wat), Phnom Penh, and Sihanoukville.
Best of Cambodia
Family: Explore Angkor Wat, visit the Cambodian cultural village, and enjoy boat rides.
Couple: Sunset views at Angkor Wat, romantic dinners in Siem Reap, and exploring ancient temples.
Friends: Exploring the nightlife in Phnom Penh, visiting the killing fields, and exploring the temples.
A trip in May offers Indian travelers a perfect escape from the sweltering heat and a chance to explore the world’s diverse wonders. From South Korea’s vibrant cities to Bhutan’s serene monasteries, and from Bali’s tropical beaches to Georgia’s ancient charm, these 7 destinations promise unforgettable experiences. But planning an international trip can be overwhelming, especially with varying climates, cultural nuances, and logistical considerations.
That’s where JustWravel comes in. Imagine crafting your dream May getaway without the stress of endless research and bookings. JustWravel specializes in curating personalized travel experiences, ensuring every detail of your journey is meticulously planned.
With JustWravel, you can trade the heat of India for the cool breezes of the international destinations all while enjoying seamless travel and unparalleled support.
Countries to Visit in May FAQs
Several countries stand out as the best country to visit in May. South Korea is a fantastic choice, offering comfortable temperatures and beautiful blooms, making it one of the top places to visit in May outside India. Georgia is another excellent option, with mild weather perfect for exploring its historical sites and stunning mountains. These are often considered among the best countries to visit in May with family due to their diverse attractions.
When considering the best place to go abroad in May, Vietnam offers a compelling mix of cultural experiences and natural beauty. While some regions may see the start of the wet season, May generally provides warm temperatures, making it ideal for exploring its vibrant cities and scenic landscapes. These destinations are often featured in lists of the best places to visit in May abroad.
While many destinations are warming up in May, some higher-altitude regions or those further from the equator can still offer cooler temperatures. For example, certain parts of Kazakhstan, particularly in the mountainous areas, might still experience colder weather in May. However, most of the popular best places to visit in May abroad are known for their pleasant warmth during this month.
The best travel destination in May can vary depending on your preferences, but Indonesia is a strong contender. With the beginning of the dry season, it offers ideal conditions for enjoying its beautiful beaches and cultural sites. This makes it a popular choice among the places to visit in May outside India.
When deciding which is the best place to visit during May, Bhutan presents a unique and tranquil experience. The pleasant May weather enhances its pristine natural beauty and allows for comfortable exploration of its monasteries and valleys. It’s one of the more serene countries to visit in May.
Several countries to visit in May can be relatively affordable. Vietnam often stands out as a budget-friendly option, offering great value for accommodation, food, and activities. Georgia can also be a cost-effective choice compared to some Western destinations. When looking for the best countries to visit in May with family on a budget, these can be good options.
Discover international destinations with JustWravel.