Last updated: August 21, 2025
May in Shimla, India offers a delightful blend of warm temperatures and refreshing breezes, making it a perfect time for outdoor exploration. The maximum temperature can reach around 31°C (89°F), while the average hovers around a comfortable 20°C (69°F), providing ideal conditions for visitors. However, the minimum temperature dips to a cool 9°C (49°F), suggesting a need for light layers during the evenings. This month also sees 90 mm (3.6 in) of precipitation spread over 14 days, adding a touch of lushness to the stunning landscapes. With a humidity level of 38%, the air feels pleasantly refreshing, enhancing the beauty of Shimla’s scenic views.
May in Shimla heralds the transition into warmer months, with temperatures reflecting a notable rise from previous months. The minimum temperature climbs to 9°C (49°F), while the average temperature settles at a comfortable 20°C (69°F), peaking at a delightful 31°C (89°F). This upward trend from the cooler April temperatures not only enhances the town's charm but also invites an influx of tourists eager to bask in the scenic beauty of the Himalayas. As the vibrant colors of spring reach their zenith, May becomes a perfect time for outdoor adventures, making Shimla a captivating retreat for nature lovers and explorers alike.
In May, Shimla receives an average of 90 mm (3.6 in) of precipitation over 14 days, marking a transition into the monsoon season. This amount is slightly lower than the preceding months of March and April, which recorded 99 mm (3.9 in) and 94 mm (3.7 in) respectively. However, the frequency of rainy days is on the rise, indicating a shift towards the wetter climate that characterizes the upcoming monsoon months. As June approaches, precipitation dramatically increases, foreshadowed by May's consistent downpours that begin to prepare the landscape for the deluge of July and August. This period not only brings the beauty of blooming nature but also sets the stage for the lush greenery that follows in the high-altitude region of Shimla.
May in Shimla, India, marks a transitional period in humidity levels. With a consistent 38% humidity, it maintains the same moisture levels as April and continues into June. This stability sets the stage for the impending summer monsoon, which dramatically changes the humidity landscape. As the months progress, the humidity skyrockets, particularly in July and August, when it peaks at 72% and 87%, respectively. The shift from May's dry spell to the later months illustrates a clear increase in moisture, reflecting the climactic shift typical of this scenic Himalayan region. As the cool mountain air gives way to the anticipation of the monsoon, May offers a brief respite, ideal for outdoor activities before the weather takes a wetter turn.
As May unfolds in Shimla, the UV Index reaches its peak at 13, falling under the extreme exposure category, with a burn time of just 10 minutes. This notable increase from April's index of 11 signals a trend of intensifying sun exposure as summer approaches, reflecting a similar pattern seen in the following months of June and July. With the UV Index consistently staying in the extreme range, it’s crucial for residents and visitors alike to take precautions against potential sunburn. As the warmth of spring transitions into the heat of summer, ensuring adequate sun protection is more important than ever. For those interested in UV insights, more information can be found at Shimla UV Index.
UV Risk Categories
May shines brightly in Shimla, India, as the city basks in an impressive 380 hours of sunshine. This peak of sunlight marks a gradual rise from the winter months, where January's 225 hours feel distant. From February onward, the days steadily grow longer, culminating in the warmth of April and May, which glow with the highest sunshine hours of the year. Following May, the sun still graces Shimla generously, with June closely trailing at 378 hours, but the exuberance of spring begins to wane as monsoon approaches. The overall trend showcases Shimla's transition into the summer, making May a perfect time to revel in the beauty and allure of this Himalayan gem.
As spring transitions into summer, May in Shimla, India, presents a moderate chance of sunny weather, with a 58% likelihood of clear skies. This marks a noticeable dip from the lush sunshine experienced in earlier months, like January (77%) and February (74%), which are renowned for their bright days. As the month progresses, the sun appears less frequently, hinting at the onset of the monsoon season. Interestingly, June sees a slight rebound with 61% sunshine, yet it quickly plummets to a mere 28% in July. Therefore, while May is still a relatively pleasant time with decent sun, it serves as a subtle precursor to the cloudier, rainier months ahead.
In Shimla, India, the month of May marks a delightful transition into longer days, boasting 13 hours of daylight. This increase is part of a gradual trend that begins in January with just 10 hours and steadily advances through the spring; April brings 12 hours, paving the way for the sun to linger even longer in May. Following this peak, daylight begins to taper off slightly in the summer months of June and July, where it reaches 14 hours before returning to 13 hours. As the year progresses into autumn, the daylight steadily diminishes, settling back down to 10 hours by November. This cyclical pattern highlights the seasonal rhythm of daylight, inviting residents and visitors alike to embrace the vibrant warmth of May in Shimla.
In May, Shimla experiences a gentle average wind speed of 1.7 m/s (4 mph), reminiscent of the slightly breezier April. This mild wind pattern, mirroring the conditions of February and June, creates a serene atmosphere perfect for exploring the lush landscapes and vibrant blooms of spring. As the year progresses, we witness a gradual decline in wind speeds, especially during the summer months of July and August, where the winds slow down to a whisper, averaging 1.4 m/s (3 mph). This trend indicates a transition from the refreshing breezes of late spring to the calmer days of monsoon, making May a delightful time to enjoy the crisp air before the rains set in.
Weather in Shimla varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares May’s weather to other months in Shimla, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.
May and January present strikingly different weather conditions. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 9°C (49°F) to a maximum of 31°C (89°F), bringing an average of around 20°C (69°F). The month experiences 90 mm (3.6 in) of precipitation over approximately 14 days, accompanied by lower humidity levels of 38%, creating a warm and relatively dry atmosphere. In contrast, January is much colder, with temperatures dipping between -5°C (23°F) and reaching a maximum of 18°C (65°F), averaging just 6°C (43°F). This winter month sees around 84 mm (3.3 in) of precipitation spread over 8 days, along with higher humidity levels at 63%, resulting in a damp and chilly environment. For more specific insights into January weather, you can explore Shimla weather in January.
May and February present quite contrasting weather conditions. In May, temperatures range from a comfortable 20°C (69°F) on average to highs of 31°C (89°F), making it a warm and pleasant month. In contrast, February experiences much cooler temperatures, with averages around 9°C (48°F) and extremes dipping down to -4°C (26°F). Both months experience similar levels of precipitation, with May receiving 90 mm (3.6 in) over 14 days, while February records 89 mm (3.5 in) over just 9 days, though February's higher humidity at 53% contributes to a chillier feel. For a deeper look at February’s climate, you can refer to Shimla weather in February.
In comparing the weather of March and May, it's evident that May is significantly warmer, with average temperatures reaching 20°C (69°F), while March has a cooler average of 13°C (56°F). March experiences a minimum temperature that can drop to -3°C (27°F), whereas May's minimum is a milder 9°C (49°F). In terms of precipitation, March has slightly higher rainfall at 99 mm (3.9 in) compared to May's 90 mm (3.6 in), though both months see a similar number of rainy days, with March receiving rain on 13 days and May on 14 days. Humidity levels are also higher in March at 47%, while May's humidity drops to 38%. For more detailed information, you can visit Shimla weather in March.
In comparing the weather of April and May, we observe a gradual warming trend. April features a minimum temperature of 5°C (42°F), with an average of 18°C (65°F) and a maximum of 30°C (87°F). In May, the temperatures rise, with a minimum of 9°C (49°F), an average of 20°C (69°F), and a maximum reaching 31°C (89°F). While both months experience similar levels of precipitation—94 mm (3.7 in) in April versus 90 mm (3.6 in) in May—the number of rainy days slightly increases from 13 in April to 14 in May. Additionally, humidity remains constant at 38% for both months. For a more detailed look at April’s weather, visit Shimla weather in April.
In May, the weather in Shimla features a minimum temperature of 9°C (49°F) and an average of 20°C (69°F), with highs reaching up to 31°C (89°F). This month experiences about 90 mm (3.6 in) of precipitation over 14 days, while the humidity remains relatively low at 38%. In contrast, June sees slightly warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 13°C (55°F) and an average of 22°C (71°F), peaking at 32°C (90°F). However, it also brings increased rainfall, with precipitation totaling 159 mm (6.3 in) across 16 days, maintaining the same humidity level of 38%. For more details on the weather during this time, you can visit Shimla weather in June.
May and July in Shimla offer contrasting weather experiences. In May, temperatures range from a cool 9°C (49°F) at night to a warm 31°C (89°F) during the day, with an average of 20°C (69°F). This month sees relatively low precipitation of 90 mm (3.6 in) over about 14 days, accompanied by lower humidity at 38%. In contrast, July brings cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 15°C (60°F) and a maximum of 29°C (84°F), averaging 22°C (72°F). However, July is significantly wetter, experiencing heavy rainfall of 407 mm (16.0 in) spread across 28 days and a much higher humidity level of 72%. For more detailed insights, check out Shimla weather in July.
When comparing the weather in May and August, notable differences emerge. May features milder temperatures, ranging from a minimum of 9°C (49°F) to a maximum of 31°C (89°F), with an average of 20°C (69°F). In contrast, August brings warmer nights with a minimum temperature of 17°C (62°F) and a cooler maximum of 28°C (83°F), resulting in an average of 22°C (72°F). Precipitation also varies significantly; May experiences 90 mm (3.6 in) over 14 days, whereas August sees a substantial increase in rain, with 357 mm (14.1 in) across 29 days. The humidity levels reflect this trend, escalating from 38% in May to a much more humid 87% in August. For more detailed insights, check out Shimla weather in August.
May and September in Shimla present contrasting weather patterns that reflect the transition from spring to autumn. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 9°C (49°F) to a maximum of 31°C (89°F), with an average of 20°C (69°F). The month sees moderate precipitation, with about 90 mm (3.6 in) spread over 14 days and a relatively low humidity of 38%. In contrast, September experiences slightly milder temperatures, with lows of 13°C (56°F) and highs of 27°C (82°F), averaging at 21°C (69°F). However, it is a much wetter month, receiving 275 mm (10.8 in) of rain over 21 days and a significant increase in humidity, rising to 82%. For more details on Shimla's September weather, you can check out Shimla weather in September.
May and October present distinctly different weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 9°C (49°F) to a warm average of 20°C (69°F), peaking at 31°C (89°F), with a total precipitation of 90 mm (3.6 in) spread over 14 days, and relatively low humidity at 38%. In contrast, October sees cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 7°C (44°F), an average of 17°C (62°F), and a maximum of 27°C (81°F). This month experiences significantly less rainfall, with only 38 mm (1.5 in) over 7 days, but humidity rises notably to 78%. For more information on October weather, visit Shimla weather in October.
May and November showcase distinctly different weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a mild 9°C (49°F) at night to a warm 31°C (89°F) during the day, with an average of 20°C (69°F). This month experiences about 90 mm (3.6 in) of precipitation over 14 days, while maintaining a relatively low humidity level of 38%. In contrast, November brings cooler temperatures, with nighttime lows of 1°C (34°F) and daytime highs reaching 22°C (71°F), averaging at 11°C (53°F). The month sees less rainfall, totaling 40 mm (1.6 in) over just 6 days, but humidity rises significantly to 74%. For a more detailed look at the weather specifics, you can check Shimla weather in November.
May and December present stark contrasts in weather. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 9°C (49°F) to a maximum of 31°C (89°F), with an average of 20°C (69°F). The month experiences around 90 mm (3.6 in) of precipitation over 14 days, accompanied by relatively low humidity at 38%. In contrast, December sees much cooler temperatures, with a minimum of -3°C (27°F), an average of 8°C (46°F), and a maximum of 20°C (68°F). Precipitation drops significantly to 37 mm (1.4 in) over only 5 days, yet humidity rises to 69%. For more details on December weather, you can check Shimla weather in December.
As May unfolds in Shimla, the weather transforms into a delightful blend of warmth and mildness, making it a popular time for visitors seeking to escape the heat of the plains. With temperatures reaching a maximum of 31°C (89°F) yet averaging a comfortable 20°C (69°F), the month stands out from the cooler spring months and the heavier rains of the upcoming monsoon. You can expect a moderate amount of rainfall, with about 14 days experiencing precipitation totaling around 90 mm (3.6 in), creating a refreshing atmosphere amidst the lush greenery. Humidity remains relatively low at 38%, enhancing the pleasant experience of exploring this charming hill station. For a deeper dive into what to expect throughout the year, check out the comprehensive details at Shimla Climate.