India, Asia
Rajasthan in May
The hottest month, with dust storms and hot winds. Many heritage hotels offer steep discounts for good reason.
The straight answer
May is a month to think twice about visiting Rajasthan. The hottest month, with dust storms and hot winds. Many heritage hotels offer steep discounts for good reason.
- Weather
- Extreme heat, highs near 106F (41C), often higher
- Crowds
- 1 of 5
- Prices
- 1 of 5
What May is like in Rajasthan
May is the hottest month in Rajasthan and one to avoid. Highs are near 106F (41C) and often higher, with dust storms and hot winds across the desert. Crowds disappear and many heritage hotels offer steep discounts, but for good reason. Most desert camps near Jaisalmer are closed, and sightseeing is only realistic in the first hours after dawn.
This month is not suitable for families with children, older travelers or anyone new to extreme heat, since dehydration comes on quickly. Only hardy travelers chasing rock-bottom rates or tiger sightings should consider it. For a comfortable trip, plan for October to March, with November to February the best.
Make the most of May
What is especially good about Rajasthan this month.
Deep hotel discounts
Palace and heritage hotels cut rates sharply, so pool time in a grand property is the main pleasure of the month.
Ranthambore water holes
Tigers stay close to water in the heat, so dawn safaris can be rewarding if you can bear the temperatures.
Quiet Udaipur evenings
A sunset boat on Lake Pichola is one of the few outdoor plans that stays pleasant in the heat.
What to pack for May
- Loose, light-colored cotton clothes
- A wide-brimmed hat and high-SPF sunscreen
- Electrolyte packets and a large water bottle
- A scarf to protect your face from dust storms
Our timing tip
If you must go, do sightseeing only from dawn to about 10am, rest indoors through the afternoon, and head out again after sunset.
Book Rajasthan for May.
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- Hotels for May
Hotels. Expedia
Hotels in RajasthanOpens a hotel search for Rajasthan in May, dates filled in. Book early for the best months: the good rooms go first.
- Rentals on Vrbo
Vacation rentals. Vrbo
Vacation rentals in RajasthanWhole homes, condos and villas. Usually the better deal for families and groups, with a kitchen and room to spread out.
- Tours and tickets
Tours and tickets. Expedia
Tours and tickets in RajasthanTimed-entry tickets, day trips and guided tours in Rajasthan for May. Popular slots sell out in the best months.
Things to do in Rajasthan
Amber Fort, Jaipur
Go at opening to beat the heat and the tour buses. Walk up or take a jeep rather than an elephant ride.
City Palace, Jaipur
The royal family still lives in part of it. Combine with the Jantar Mantar observatory and Hawa Mahal next door.
Mehrangarh Fort, Jodhpur
One of India's most impressive forts, with an excellent audio guide. Sunset from the ramparts over the blue city is unforgettable.
Udaipur and Lake Pichola
Take a sunset boat ride and visit the City Palace. The lakes are fullest after a good monsoon.
Jaisalmer Fort and the Thar dunes
A living fort with homes and shops inside, and desert camps at the Sam or Khuri dunes. Best from November to February.
Ranthambore National Park
Book safari permits well ahead in peak season. Core zones close during the monsoon, roughly July to September.
Beat the crowds
- Hit Amber Fort, Mehrangarh, and City Palace at opening time. By 10am in season the tour buses from Delhi have arrived.
- February and early March have excellent weather with fewer crowds than December's holiday rush.
- Avoid Diwali week and Christmas to New Year for the big cities unless you book months ahead. Domestic travel peaks and prices can double.
- Stay in smaller towns such as Bundi, Chittorgarh, or Kumbhalgarh to break up the circuit and see forts without crowds.
Know before you go
- Ranthambore's core safari zones close for the monsoon from roughly July 1 to September 30. Some buffer zones stay open.
- Many desert camps near Jaisalmer close from about April to September because of heat.
- Some heritage hotels reduce services or close wings in the summer low season.
- During Holi, many shops close in the morning and the streets can be rowdy. Wear old clothes and keep your valuables safe.
Rajasthan in May, quick answers
Is May a good time to visit Rajasthan?
May is a month to think twice about visiting Rajasthan. The hottest month, with dust storms and hot winds. Many heritage hotels offer steep discounts for good reason.
What is the weather like in Rajasthan in May?
Extreme heat, highs near 106F (41C), often higher.
Is Rajasthan crowded in May?
May is one of the quieter months in Rajasthan; most sights can be done without long waits.
Keep planning Rajasthan.
The months either side, and the best one if this is not it.
Also at their best in May
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