Can You See Snow in May in Manali? A Late-Season Snow Guide

I still remember standing at Delhi’s ISBT in early May, sweating under the sun but dreaming of snow in May in Manali. I took the scenic route — one of the best road routes from Delhi to Manali — and hoped for snow up there. Everyone told me it was too late. “Snow in May? Not possible,” they said. But something inside me pushed me to find out for myself.

Hi, I am Manoj Kumar, a travel writer and your go-to explorer from Trip Guru Go. I have visited Manali in all seasons, but this time, I was particularly curious. Could I still catch a glimpse of snow even as summer was knocking on the door?

This story is from my May trip to Manali. I will show you where I found snow (yes, there was some!) and whether this season is still worth it for snow lovers. If you’re dreaming of snowy photos, I’ve got honest answers for you.

👉 If you are planning your trip, here’s a complete guide on how to reach Manali by road, train, or flight.

Let’s dive in.

❄️ Does Manali Receive Snowfall in May? [Short Answer for Curious Travelers]

Fresh snowfall in Manali in May is scarce, but seeing snow is still possible.

During my trip, there was no live snowfall in the town itself. But just a short drive uphill, I found snow patches still clinging to the slopes of Rohtang Pass and Gulaba. These places hold on to winter a little longer, even as summer takes over the valley.

So if you are expecting snowflakes falling from the sky, May might disappoint. But if you are okay with walking on old snow, touching it, and clicking snowy pictures, you will still find a few magical spots.

The key is to go higher. Manali town is green in May, but the upper regions? They still whisper of winter.

🌡️ Manali Weather in May: What Changes and What Stays

If you have never visited Manali in May, the first thing you will notice is the shift in season. The biting cold of winter is long gone, replaced by pleasant, cool days and slightly chilly nights.

In May, the days felt cool, with temperatures ranging between 12 °C and 18°C. At night, it dropped to 5 or 6°C. I did not need a heavy jacket in town, but up in Rohtang and Gulaba? That chill hit different. Carry warm layers if you plan to head there.

The skies were mostly clear, and the sun felt warm, but not harsh. Honestly, it was the perfect weather to walk around Old Manali, explore cafes, and still dream of snow just a few kilometers away.

If you are expecting snowy winds or icy roads, May will surprise you with its greenery. But that is also what makes it beautiful — the snow might be fading, but nature is blooming. Planning your first trip? Check out our complete Manali tourism guide. It covers everything — from local transport to must-see places. 

🧭 Where to See Snow in Manali in May? Top Snow Points Near Manali

If you are visiting Manali in May and hoping to touch snow, you will have to go higher than the town. Based on my recent trip, here are the best snow spots near Manali in May, along with what I personally found at each one:

🏔️ 1. Rohtang Pass (If Open)

This is your best bet for finding snow in May — but only if it is open. The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) clears Rohtang Pass every year. They usually open it by mid- or late May. The timing depends on the weather and how quickly they remove the snow.

When I visited in the second week of May, it was still closed to tourists. But the locals told me that snow piles up here till June, and once it opens, you will find plenty of snow for photos, fun, and short treks.

Tip: Always check the status at the Manali taxi union or tourism office. You might need a permit to go.

❄️ 2. Gulaba Snow Point

If Rohtang is closed, Gulaba is your next best option. It is around 22 kilometers from Manali, and the snow here lasts longer than in the town. I saw people enjoying snowball fights and sliding down small slopes here, even in early May.

You might not find deep, powdery snow, but it is enough for that first snow experience. It felt surreal to touch snow with bright sunshine around.

🏞️ 3. Solang Valley

Solang is better known for paragliding and ATV rides in May, but I was lucky to spot small snow patches near the higher ridges.

It is not the best place for snow in May. But if you are already visiting, take a short walk uphill. You might still spot some leftover snow from winter.

🧗 4. Hamta Pass (For the Adventurous)

For trekkers, the Hamta Pass trek can offer snow even in late May. It is a multi-day trek, and not for casual tourists.

I met a group of backpackers who completed the trek around May 20th — they had walked through snowy patches above Chika and Balu Ka Gera. If you are serious about seeing snow and love hiking, this is a solid option.

✅ Summary Table: Snow Points in May

If your heart is set on snow in May, I highly recommend planning a Gulaba visit first, then checking with locals about Rohtang’s opening status. That strategy worked for me and saved my snow trip.

🚧 Rohtang Pass in May: Is It Open? What If It’s Closed?

This was the big question during my trip: “Is Rohtang Pass open in May?” Honestly, it depends on the weather and road clearance work by the BRO (Border Roads Organisation).

When I reached Manali in early May, the pass was still closed to tourists. Snow clearance was underway, and the locals said it usually opens between May 15 and May 25, depending on how harsh the winter was. In 2025, it opened around the third week of May, but only for private vehicles with valid permits.

📋 What to Do If Rohtang Is Closed

Do not cancel your snow plans just yet! Here are your best alternatives:

• Gulaba: This spot lies en route to Rohtang and often holds snow till late May. It is open even when Rohtang is shut.
  
• Marhi: Another popular stop before Rohtang, this area sometimes gets cleared earlier and offers panoramic snow views. Think of it as Rohtang’s little cousin — quieter, but still photogenic.
  
• Check daily updates: Visit the Manali Tourism Office or ask at your hotel desk. They usually know the latest road conditions.
  
• Online permit system: If the pass is open, you need to apply for a Rohtang Pass permit via the Himachal Pradesh Tourism website. It is limited, so book early.

🧠 My Tip:

I missed Rohtang by just five days. But I still managed to get a snow fix in Gulaba, and honestly, it was worth it. So do not stress too much — nature always finds a way to surprise you in the hills.

🥶 Is There Fresh Snow in May in Manali? What I Saw

This is probably the biggest doubt most travelers have: “Will I see fresh snowfall in May in Manali?” I had the same hope when I packed my bags. But let me give it to you straight.

There is no fresh snowfall in Manali town during May. The winter season ends by February, and even higher areas like Rohtang or Gulaba do not usually get fresh snow after April.

What I saw was residual snow — old, melting patches left over from the winter months. Some of it was clean and soft, while other spots had turned icy or mixed with mud, especially in more touristy zones. Not Instagram-perfect, but still better than sweating in a Delhi traffic jam.

But even though it was not freshly fallen snow, that first touch of ice-cold snow in bright sunlight still felt magical. I saw kids making snowballs, families taking selfies, and couples lying on snowy patches like it was January.

🌨️ Expectation vs Reality

🧠 My Honest Take:

If you are okay with seeing and touching snow, even if it is not freshly fallen, May will still give you that joy. But if your heart is set on watching snowflakes fall, then you might want to plan your trip between December and March instead.

Still, for someone coming from Delhi’s summer heat, just sitting in the snow wearing sunglasses in May felt like a reward.

🧳 What to Pack for Snow Hunting in May (Without Freezing!)

Packing for Manali in May can get tricky. You are not heading into deep winter, but you still need to be snow-ready, especially for Gulaba or Rohtang.

Here is what I packed (and what I was glad I did):

✅ Essentials You Should Carry

• ✅ One pair of thermal innerwear – Just enough for cold mornings in higher altitudes.
• ✅ A lightweight down jacket – Easy to carry and warm enough for snow zones.
• ✅ A windproof shell – Comes in handy when the wind picks up near snow patches.
• ✅ Woolen cap and gloves – I forgot my gloves once. Never again.
• ✅ Waterproof shoes or snow boots – Dry feet = happy day.
• ✅ Good sunglasses – The snow glare in sunlight can be intense. Unless you enjoy squinting like a detective in every photo.
• ✅ A small backpack with a rain cover – Kept my hands free and gear dry.
• ✅ Rohtang permit (if open) – Apply online or check locally before you go.
• ✅ Offline Google Maps + power bank – Mobile networks fade as you climb.
• ✅ A few energy bars – Always useful when you’re up there longer than expected.

💡 Pro Tip: I skipped the bulky sweaters. Manali town stays mild in May, and you can rent snow gear near Gulaba if needed.

⚠️ Avoid Overpacking

You do not need bulky sweaters or heavy wool jackets unless you are trekking. Manali town stays quite mild in May. I saw locals walking around in T-shirts by the afternoon.

🧠 Pro Tip from My Experience:

I forgot my gloves and had to buy an overpriced pair in Gulaba. Lesson learned — carry your own. Also, rent gumboots and snow gear only if you plan to play in the snow. If not, your regular waterproof shoes and jacket are enough.

💬 “Everyone said snow in May was impossible. But the mountains had other plans.”

— Manoj Kumar

They laughed when I packed gloves — until I sent them a snow selfie.

📸 My Snow Experience in Manali in May [Photos, Emotions, and Real Talk]

The moment I first touched snow during this trip, it was not falling from the sky, and it was not fresh. But it still brought a wide smile to my face.

After hearing “No snow in May” from everyone, I decided to try anyway. I left Manali early in the morning with a local cab driver named Suresh bhaiya. The road toward Rohtang was still closed, but we drove up as far as possible, till Gulaba. And there it was.

Patches of white, crunchy snow were scattered on the slopes. Not deep. Not perfect. But real.

I saw kids screaming with joy, people posing in rented snow gear, and a couple from Gujarat making a tiny snowman. One guy wore sunglasses, a shawl, and gumboots — like a Himalayan fashion experiment. I quietly stepped away to a corner, crouched down, and let the cold snowflakes melt between my fingers. That moment — peaceful, slow, and silent — felt more magical than any snowfall I had seen in peak winter.

🖼️ What I Captured

• Snow-covered rocks with green trees in the background — the contrast was stunning.
  
• Families sliding down with plastic sleds and laughter echoing.
  
• A group of friends dancing on a snowy patch, playing loud Punjabi songs.
  
• And that one selfie I took — with snow behind me and sunshine all around.

🎒 The Mood of May Snow

It is not winter. But it is not fully summer either. The vibe in Manali during May is somewhere in between, and that’s what makes it special.

You might not get heavy snowfall, but you do get something better: peace, space, and the beauty of snow without the biting cold.

🤔 Is May Too Late to See Snow in Manali? [Pros & Cons for Travelers]

After my trip, I can say this confidently — May is not too late, but it is not the best time either. Whether you should go depends on what kind of snow experience you are looking for.

Here is a clear breakdown of what to expect if you are planning your Manali trip in May:

✅ Pros of Visiting Manali in May for Snow

• Fewer Tourists, Less Rush:
  Compared to winter holidays, May feels peaceful. No massive crowds or long traffic jams.
  
• Comfortable Weather:
  You do not have to freeze. Mild sunshine with a cool breeze makes exploring easier, even in higher areas.
  
• Still Some Snow Around:
  At places like Gulaba and (if open) Rohtang Pass, you can still see and touch snow, even without snowfall.
  
• Affordable Accommodation:
  Hotels and homestays often offer better deals in May than in peak winter months.

❌ Cons of Visiting Manali in May for Snow

• No Fresh Snowfall:
  If you are dreaming of snow falling from the sky, May will likely disappoint.
  
• Snow Is Limited and Patchy:
  What you see is old, melting snow, sometimes mixed with mud in busy areas.
  
• Rohtang May Still Be Closed:
  Early May travelers may miss Rohtang Pass completely if BRO has not cleared the road.
  
• Not a “White Wonderland”:
  Manali town itself looks green and summery, not like the snow-covered scenes of December–January.

🧠 My Honest Advice:

If you are traveling in May just for snow, manage your expectations. Do not go expecting winter. But if you want a mix of snow, sun, and serenity, May is still a beautiful time to experience Manali differently.

I went with low expectations and came back with warm memories. And a few snow selfies too.

📅 Best Time to See Snow in Manali (If May Is a Maybe)

If you are not fully satisfied with the snow options in May, I totally get it. That was me once, too. The good news is, Manali offers amazing snowfall opportunities during several other months.

Here is a quick breakdown of when to visit Manali for guaranteed snow, based on what I have experienced and what locals confirmed during my stay.

❄️ Month-by-Month Snow Guide for Manali

👉 Planning a trip in peak winter? Check out the top snow activities and winter attractions in Manali for an unforgettable experience.

🧠 When Should You Go for Guaranteed Snowfall?

If you want to experience actual snowfall (with flakes falling from the sky), plan your trip between:

• End of December to mid-February – Best snow, full winter magic
  
• Early March – Still good, especially at Solang and Rohtang sides
  
• Late November to early December – First snow usually starts around then

Want to compare snowfall by month? Check our full month-wise Manali snow guide for exact timing.

🎯 Final Thoughts

If you’re hoping for snowfall and snowy white views, May might disappoint you. But if all you want is to touch snow, breathe in the cool air, and take a break from the heat, May still has its charm.

When I planned my trip, I kept my expectations low. No snowfall, no promises. Yet the joy of standing in snow at Gulaba, even under the summer sun, felt real and rewarding. It may not be a snowy fairytale, but it’s the kind of plot twist summer needs. It reminded me that snow is not always about grand scenes — sometimes it is about quiet moments and small joys.

Manali in May is a soft experience — a mix of seasons, a taste of snow, and a whole lot of calm. And just as we were leaving Gulaba, a few tiny flakes floated down. Maybe it was just the wind. Or maybe — the mountains had heard my wish.

So yes, it is worth it — just go with the right mindset. And if budget is a concern, check the cheapest ways to reach Manali before you book. 

🔗 More Snow & Weather Tips for Manali Travelers

Snow in May is rare, but not impossible. These handpicked guides will help you track snow, plan safer, and travel smarter:

• Heavy snowfall season in Manali – Find out which months bring the deepest snow
• Peak time to see snowfall in Manali – When snow is most visible and beautiful
• Best season to visit Manali with fewer risks – Select your ideal month based on health and weather
• Live snowfall tracking for Manali today – Check current snow status before your trip
• Manali Winter Comfort Guide – Cold survival tips if May surprises you with snow
• Today’s temperature and weather in Manali – Know exactly how Manali feels this week
• May vs Winter crowd in Manali – Compare spring peace with winter rush
• Best climate for your Manali trip – Match your comfort with the season
• Snowfall in Manali – Best Time, Live Updates & Cold Survival Tips – My master guide for snow timing, travel prep, and cozy stays

❓ FAQs: What Most People Ask About Snow in May in Manali

Manoj Kumar

Hi, I am Manoj Kumar, the voice behind Trip Guru Go. I am a travel researcher, SEO content expert, and founder of this blog. With over 12 years of experience in digital travel research, I simplify complex destinations into real, helpful, and trustworthy guides.

Every article I write is backed by local sources, real traveler experiences, and deep fact-checking. Even if I have not visited every place personally, I never share anything without strong on-ground insight.

I do not sell travel packages or promote anything paid. My only goal is to help you travel smarter — with zero fluff, 100% honesty, and a deep focus on your safety and experience.

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