When May rolls around, Indian travelers often start looking beyond borders for their next summer escape. Finding the best places to visit in May can be challenging, but fortunately, there are plenty of stunning destinations that don’t require complex paperwork.

From Southeast Asia’s beaches to Middle Eastern getaways and island nations that welcome Indian passports with open arms, here are ten early summer vacation spots that are easy, affordable, and unforgettable.

1. Istanbul, Turkey

Photo by Nattakorn Maneerat from Getty Images

Istanbul is drenched in sunlight and moderate warmth during May, offering the perfect climate for sightseeing without the exhausting summer heat. Tulip festivals wind down, and the city’s historic neighborhoods, buzzing bazaars, and sparkling Bosphorus cruises are at their most inviting.

Wander through the Grand Bazaar, explore the magnificent Hagia Sophia, cruise along the Bosphorus, and savor panoramic views from rooftop cafes. For a deeper cultural experience, attend a mesmerizing whirling dervish performance that captures the spiritual heart of Turkey.

Visa Info: Indians can apply for an e-visa if they hold a valid
U.S./UK/Schengen visa. Others can get a Turkish sticker visa via a straightforward process.

Flight Tip: Direct flights from Delhi and Mumbai to Istanbul are available via Turkish Airlines and IndiGo.

2. Hokkaido, Japan

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When considering where to travel in May for natural beauty, Hokkaido stands out. This city transforms into a stunning canvas of blooms during the month, with fields of vibrant tulips and cherry blossoms lingering longer than in the rest of Japan. The weather is cool and refreshing, ideal for scenic drives, hikes, and soaking in natural hot springs.

Explore the colorful flower fields in Furano, enjoy fresh seafood in Sapporo’s bustling markets, and take leisurely walks around the crystal-clear lakes of Shikotsu-Toya National Park. May is also a wonderful time to visit local farmers’ markets and sample Hokkaido’s famed dairy products and sweets.

Visa Info: Japan requires a tourist visa, but the process is streamlined and friendly for Indian applicants.

Flight Tip: Fly directly to Tokyo from Delhi and Mumbai, then take a domestic flight to New Chitose Airport, Sapporo.

3. Cebu, Philippines

Photo by Oneinchpunch

Cebu basks in glorious sunshine this time of the year, making it one of the best travel destinations in May for Indians who want to go island hopping, dive, and enjoy famous beaches. The dry season ensures clear waters and vibrant marine life for snorkelers and divers.

Swim with whale sharks in Oslob, cool off at the stunning Kawasan Falls, and island-hop around Mactan and Bantayan. For an authentic taste of local life, explore the bustling Carbon Market, brimming with crafts, fresh produce, and street food.

Visa Info: Indians can apply for an e-visa online. Those holding valid U.S., UK, Schengen, Australia, or Canada visas may qualify for visa-free entry.

Flight Tip: One-stop flights to Cebu via Manila or Singapore are available from major Indian cities.

4. Hanoi, Vietnam

Photo by Vinh Dao

May brings a refreshing change to Hanoi with clear blue skies, cooler evenings, and blooming flora. It’s an excellent time to experience the city’s vibrant culture, colonial architecture, and nearby natural wonders before the humid monsoon season.

Roam the charming Old Quarter, visit the serene Hoan Kiem Lake and the Temple of Literature, and take a scenic day trip to Halong Bay. Cap your Hanoi experience by attending a traditional water puppet show, an art form unique to Vietnam’s heritage.

Visa Info: An e-visa is available for Indians, valid for 30 days, and is easy to obtain online.

Flight Tip: VietJet offers direct flights to Hanoi from Delhi and Mumbai.

5. Bali, Indonesia

Photo by davidf from Getty Images Signature

May marks the sweet spot between Bali’s rainy and peak tourist seasons. Bali consistently scores high in the world rankings for the best places to visit in May. Expect sunny days, vibrant festivals, and great surf conditions. It’s an ideal month for beachgoers, culture seekers, and adventurers alike.

Catch some waves at Seminyak and Uluwatu, explore the island’s ancient temples, and unwind in Ubud with yoga and spa treatments. Don’t miss the dramatic Kecak fire dance performed against the sunset backdrop at Uluwatu Temple.

Visa Info: Visa-on-arrival for Indian passport holders. Just pay the fee at the airport (approximately ₹2,400)

Flight Tip: One-stop flights from Delhi, Mumbai, and Chennai via Kuala Lumpur, Bangkok, or Singapore make getting to Bali easy.

6. Koh Samui, Thailand

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While mainland Thailand begins to experience showers, Koh Samui remains largely sunny and dry, offering an early summer escape. Its palm-fringed beaches and luxurious resorts make it a tropical paradise and one of the top destinations in May.

Spend your days lounging on Chaweng and Lamai beaches, chasing waterfalls, and exploring hidden temples. For a lively local vibe, visit the Fisherman’s Village Night Market for an evening of food, shopping, and entertainment.

Visa Info: Visa-on-arrival or e-visa available. Often free during promotional windows.

Flight Tip: Connect easily with flights from Delhi and Mumbai via Bangkok to Koh Samui.

7. Langkawi, Malaysia

Photo by Ersin Demir from Getty Images

Langkawi enjoys sunny weather with minimal rainfall in May, which is perfect for beach vacations and outdoor adventures. This makes it one of the perfect May travel destinations for those seeking tranquility. It’s less crowded compared to December to February, making it an affordable and serene choice.

Ride the Langkawi Cable Car to panoramic heights, soak up the sun at Pantai Cenang Beach, and explore lush mangrove forests by boat. Experience local flavors and vibrant culture at the lively Langkawi Night Market, which changes location daily.

Visa Info: Indians can apply for an e-visa or eNTRI, both of which are quick and affordable.

Flight Tip: Fly into Kuala Lumpur from Delhi, Mumbai, and Chennai and connect to Langkawi.

8. Grand Baie, Mauritius

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Grand Baie boasts near-perfect weather in May: sunny days, lower humidity, and calm seas ideal for beach hopping, water sports, and exploring vibrant coastal towns without the summer rush.

Dive into the turquoise waters at Pereybere Beach, browse the colorful stalls of the Grand Baie Bazaar, and take scenic catamaran trips to offshore islands. Enjoy a traditional Mauritian sega dance performance by the beach in the evening.

Visa Info: Indians enjoy visa-free entry for up to 60 days.

Flight Tip: Direct flights from Mumbai; one-stop flights from other cities via Dubai or Nairobi.

9. Galle, Sri Lanka

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Early May offers sunny mornings and manageable humidity in Galle, perfect for exploring colonial forts, beaches, and the charming old town before heavier rains set in.

Walk the historic ramparts of Galle Fort, explore maritime history at the museum, and relax on the nearby Unawatuna Beach. To deepen your experience, take a Sri Lankan cooking class inside a centuries-old colonial home.

Visa Info: Indians can easily apply for a Sri Lanka ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) online.

Flight Tip: Short and affordable flights from Chennai, Mumbai, and Bangalore.

10. Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Photo by Andrey X. from Canva

Dubai heats up in May but remains manageable early in the month. For Indian travelers seeking luxurious early summer vacation spots without long flights, Dubai is ideal. Shopping malls, water parks, and desert safaris are great ways to enjoy the city before the extreme summer temperatures arrive.

Marvel at the Burj Khalifa, shop till you drop at Dubai Mall, and venture out for thrilling dune bashing in the desert. Before mid-May, experience the vibrant atmosphere of the Global Village, a multicultural festival park that showcases cultures from around the world.

Visa Info: Indian travelers can apply online for a tourist visa. Those with a U.S. visa may be eligible for a visa-on-arrival.

Flight Tip: Direct flights from nearly every major Indian city, often under 4 hours.

Takeaway

You don’t need to jump through hoops to have a memorable May holiday. These ten destinations offer a mix of natural beauty, cultural experiences, beaches, and convenience. Whether you’re craving an island escape or a city retreat, use OneAir to track unpublished flight deals and hidden hotel prices to these destinations. You’ll travel smarter, save more, and explore the world on your terms.

Sign up for OneAir and start saving on your next international adventure.

*Banner photo by Quang Nguyen Vinh from Pexels