11 Best Himalayan Treks in May 2025 | Best Summer Treks

Table of Content

Why is May an Ideal Month for Trekking?
Top 11 May Treks
Expert Tips from Trek the Himalayas

11 Best Himalayan Treks in May 2025

Trekking in May is one of the best treats you can give yourself. While most people chase the buzz of peak season, they often miss the quiet, untouched beauty that the trails hold this time of year. There's something special about walking through landscapes in full bloom and peaceful forests, with only the sound of your footsteps and the breeze for company. May treks offer a unique kind of joy, one that’s slower, softer, and more personal. This is the perfect time to experience the trails with pleasant weather.

To help you choose your perfect May trek, this article brings you a list of the best Himalayan treks to experience in the fresh and beautiful month of May. Before we skip to the best May treks, here is a little about what makes May the ideal time for trekking.

Why is May an Ideal Month for Trekking?

Perfect Weather Conditions: May offers the ideal balance, warm days and cool nights, making it extremely comfortable for trekking without the extremes of heat or cold.
Blooming Spring Landscapes: The Himalayas are in full spring bloom during this time, with vibrant flowers like rhododendrons and magnolias lining the trails, adding color and charm to your journey.
Clear Mountain Views: The skies remain mostly clear in May, offering stunning, uninterrupted views of snow-capped peaks and surrounding valleys.
Peaceful and Less Crowded Trails: Unlike the crowded peak season, trails in May are quieter, allowing you to truly enjoy the peace and serenity of the mountains.
More Trek Routes Open Up: Many high-altitude treks begin to open in May, including popular ones like Bali Pass and Buran Ghati giving you more options to explore.

Rupin Pass Trek

Region: Himachal Pradesh
Duration: 7 days
Grade: Moderate to Difficult
Best Time: May, June, September, October

When it’s summer, there’s nothing better than being around waterfalls, and the Rupin Pass trek offers exactly that. One of the best Himachal treks, this stunning trail is known for its scenic beauty and especially its waterfalls. The highlight of the trek is the majestic three-tiered Rupin waterfall, and what makes it even more special is that you don’t just see it from a distance, you actually trek alongside the waterfall, making it a truly unforgettable experience. Starting from the village of Bawta, the route takes you through some of the most beautiful parts of Himachal Pradesh, peaceful villages, green meadows, flowing rivers, tall pine forests, and dramatic high-altitude passes. If you’re planning on trekking in Himachal and looking for an adventurous summer trek, Rupin Pass has it all.

Buran Ghati Trek

Region: Pradesh
Duration: 7 days
Grade: Moderate to Difficult
Best Time: May, June, September, October

The Buran Ghati trek in Himachal Pradesh is another ideal trek to do in May, it is a journey that perfectly combines scenic beauty with adventure, making it one of the best May treks in the Indian Himalayas. Starting from the charming village of Janglik, the trail winds through dense oak and pine forests, lush meadows dotted with wildflowers, and traditional Himachali hamlets. As you ascend, the landscape transforms dramatically, leading to snow-laden paths and the high-altitude Buran Pass, where a steep ice wall descent adds an unforgettable edge to the experience. The panoramic views of snow-capped peaks and endless valleys make every step worthwhile. If you trek Buran Ghati in May you would find an ideal blend of soft snow, clear skies, and blooming alpine scenery. Undoubtedly one of the best Himachal treks, this route promises a complete Himalayan adventure packed with beauty of the Himalayas.

Annapurna Circuit Trek

Region: Nepal
Duration: 15 days
Grade: Difficult
Best Time: March, April, May, October, November

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of the most iconic and diverse trails for trekking in Nepal, with a perfect mix of natural beauty, cultural richness, and high-altitude adventure. This trail takes you through deep valleys, charming mountain villages, and picturesque landscapes, with major highlights including the stunning Tilicho Lake, the sacred site of Muktinath, the dramatic Thorong La Pass which is one of the highest trekking passes in the world and constant views of the towering Annapurna Massif will keep you going. Accessible even during the pre-monsoon season, it’s a great choice for trekking in summer, especially in May and early June, when the skies are clearer and the trails less crowded. As one of the top summer treks, the Annapurna Circuit offers a life-changing journey through changing terrains and cultures of Nepal.

Surya Top Trek

Region: Uttarakhand
Duration: 7 days
Grade: Moderate
Best Time: May, June

Surya Top is another scenic and peaceful trek in Uttarakhand, offering a quiet escape into the Himalayas. It takes you through the wider, lesser-explored side of the beautiful Dayara Bugyal meadows. Trekking in May here is a delightful experience, most of the snow has melted, revealing lush green meadows that look like a living painting. The trail is calm and untouched by crowds, allowing you to truly enjoy the silence and beauty of the mountains. The trek starts from Barsu village, passes through Siyari and Dayara Bugyal, and finally leads you to Surya Top, the summit of the trek. From the top, you get an amazing view of Bandarpoonch, Srikanth, Jaonli, and the Gangotri range. Along the way, you’ll find plenty of dreamy spots, perfect for taking a break, admiring the view, and simply soaking in the peace around you. If you’re looking for a refreshing and offbeat experience while trekking in Uttarakhand, Surya Top is a perfect choice.

Chandrakhani Pass Trek

Region: Himachal Pradesh
Duration: 5 days
Grade: Easy to Moderate
Best Time: May, June, July

The Chandrakhani Pass Trek is a peaceful and scenic trail in Himachal Pradesh, perfect for exploring quiet forests, green meadows, and wide mountain views. Still lesser-known, it becomes accessible in May, making it one of the ideal summer treks for even beginners. During this time, the meadows bloom with wildflowers and the views of the Pir Panjal, Parvati, and Dhauladhar ranges are crystal clear. The trek begins with a drive from Manali to Rumsu village, followed by a scenic trek through campsites like Naya Tapru and Chaklani. The highest point, Chandrakhani Pass, offers stunning panoramic views and a rewarding sense of achievement. Among the best treks in May, this trail is a great choice for beginners seeking a summer escape in the Himalayas.

Har Ki Dun Trek

Region: Uttarakhand
Duration: 7 days
Grade: Easy to Moderate
Best Time: April to June, September to November

The Har Ki Dun trek in May is another loved trail of the Himalayas. This trek is perfect for anyone looking for an easy to moderate level scenic summer getaway. Tucked away in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand, this trail makes up to the list of best summer treks in India. Trekking in May here gives you a magical blend of seasons, the last traces of snow melt into clear mountain streams, the meadows turn lush green, and tiny wildflowers bloom along the path, painting the landscape with color. One of the most unique aspects of this trek is the chance to witness the timeless charm of remote Himalayan life. As you pass through ancient villages like Gangad and Osla, time seems to slow down, letting you absorb every detail, from the traditional wooden houses to the warmth of local hospitality. Starting from Sankri, the trail takes you through changing landscapes, finally leading to the Har Ki Dun valley, nestled amid the vast mountains.

Gaumukh Tapovan Trek

Region: Uttarakhand
Duration: 8 days
Grade: Moderate to Difficult
Best Time: May, June, September, October

The Gaumukh Tapovan trek in Uttarakhand is a perfect blend of rugged trails, lush greenery, and snow-clad Himalayan peaks. Starting from the sacred town of Gangotri, this trek takes you to the revered source of the river Ganga, Gaumukh, and even further to the serene meadows of Tapovan. As you set on this journey, you’ll traverse a variety of terrains, from dense forests to rocky paths, with the constant companionship of the roaring Bhagirathi River. One of the highlights is crossing a crystal-clear water stream, a refreshing break amidst the hike. With panoramic views of majestic peaks like Shivling and Bhagirathi sisters, every step is packed with beauty and tranquility. Trekking here in summers is rewarding, as the weather is pleasant, the skies are clear, and the paths are accessible, making Gaumukh Tapovan in May one of the most sought-after experiences for trekking in Uttarakhand. It's not just a trek, but a collection of beautiful moments that linger long after the journey ends.

Goechala Trek

Region: Sikkim
Duration: 11 days
Grade: Difficult
Best Time: March to May, September to November

The Goechala trek in Sikkim is an amazing journey through the Eastern Himalayas, known for its dramatic landscapes, vibrant flora, and up-close views of towering peaks like Kanchenjunga. Beginning from the quaint village of Yuksom, this trek takes you through dense rhododendron forests, alpine meadows, and misty valleys, each turn revealing a new shade of nature’s grandeur. The trail gradually ascends to the Goechala Viewpoint, where the sight of the mighty Kanchenjunga at sunrise is a moment etched in memory. Along the way, trekkers pass through charming campsites like Dzongri and Thansing, with every stop offering unique vistas and a chance to soak in the serene beauty. Trekking in May is ideal, as the rhododendrons are in full bloom and the weather is clear and comfortable, making Goechala in May a beautiful trekking experience for every trekker passionate about trekking in India.

Ranthan Kharak Trek

Region: Uttarakhand
Duration: 7 days
Grade: Moderate
Best Time: April, May, September to November

If you're looking to explore a lesser-known trail in the Himalayas, the Ranthan Kharak Trek in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand is a perfect choice for a peaceful yet rewarding trek in Uttarakhand. This moderately difficult trek starts from the beautiful village of Gogina and takes you through a mix of gentle paths and steep climbs. Along the way, you’ll walk through open highland clearings known as “Kharaks,” which give the trek its name. One of the best parts of this trek is the blooming rhododendrons in May, when the forests turn colorful with shades of red and pink, a jaw-dropping sight for any trekker. The ridge walk to Ranthan Top is another highlight, offering wide, panoramic views of some of the tallest Himalayan peaks, including Nanda Devi, Sunanda Devi, and Panchachuli. With its quiet trails, vibrant landscapes, and pleasant views, the Ranthan Kharak Trek's best time is surely in May, when you can experience the beauty of this trail to the best.

Bali Pass Trek

Region: Uttarakhand
Duration: 8 days
Grade: Difficult
Best Time: May, June, September, October

The Bali Pass Trek in Uttarakhand is another exciting and beautiful trek in the Himalayas which is ideal for trekking in May. Though it offers a thrilling adventure, it is still accessible to fit beginners who are ready for a challenge. Starting from Sankri, a popular base village for many scenic treks, the trail connects the Har Ki Dun Valley to the Yamunotri Valley, giving you the rare chance to walk from one lush valley to another over a high-altitude pass. Along the way, you’ll pass through thick forests of maple, pine, and cedar, and visit beautiful villages like Dhatmeer and Gangad, where you’ll meet warm-hearted locals and see traditional wooden houses. While the Bali Pass Trek difficulty level is considered as difficult due to steep climbs and snow-covered sections, the overall experience is deeply rewarding. Bali Pass trekking in May offers clear skies, pleasant weather, and snow at the higher altitudes, making this journey truly experiencing.

Sar Pass Trek

Region: Himachal Pradesh
Duration: 5 days
Grade: Moderate
Best Time: May, June

The Sar Pass Trek in Himachal Pradesh is a stunning adventure that takes you through ever-changing landscapes, from dense pine forests and quaint villages to open meadows and snow-covered trails. Starting from the lively town of Kasol, the trek winds its way through picturesque campsites like Grahan, Min Thach, and Nagaru, offering trekkers a mix of thrill and serenity. One of the most exciting moments is crossing the actual Sar Pass, where a snow slide descent adds a burst of adrenaline to the journey. The views of the Parvati Valley and surrounding peaks are nothing short of mesmerizing. This is a popular summer trek of Himachal, as during this time, the trails at the higher altitudes are wrapped in snow while the skies remain clear, creating an ideal trekking condition.

Expert Tips from Trek the Himalayas

Trekking in May is generally comfortable with clear skies and pleasant weather, but it still requires good planning and preparation. Here are some easy and useful tips from Trek The Himalayas experts to help you get ready for a safe and enjoyable trek:

Book Early: To get the best routes and avoid last-minute hassles, always try to book your trek at least 2–3 months in advance.
Rent Gear if Needed: If you're not a regular trekker, there's no need to invest in expensive gear. You can rent high-quality trekking equipment from Trek The Himalayas rental store for a budget-friendly and convenient option.
Stay Eco-Friendly: Choose companies that follow sustainable and eco-friendly trekking practices. Carry reusable bottles, avoid plastic, and leave no waste behind.
Acclimatize Well: For high-altitude treks, it's important to acclimatize properly. Reach the base location a day or two early to help your body adjust and avoid altitude sickness.
Stay Hydrated & Eat Well: Keep drinking water regularly and eat healthy, energy-rich meals to stay fit throughout the trek.
Pack Smart: essential items like warm clothes, sunscreen, sunglasses, a cap, and rain protection. Also, pack a personal first aid kit with basic medicines, even though most guided treks include medical support.
Layer Up: weather can change fast. Wearing layers helps you adjust easily to changing temperatures.
Footwear Matters: Wear good-quality trekking shoes that are already broken in. Avoid using brand-new shoes during the trek.
Practice Beforehand: Prepare your body by doing regular walks, light hikes, or cardio workouts a few weeks before your trek.

When you trek with Trek The Himalayas, one of the best trekking companies in India, most essential gear and expert support are provided, so you can enjoy a safe, smooth, and memorable trekking experience.