Are you planning to visit Thailand in March? Perfect timing! Thailand welcomes the hot season in March, striking a beautiful balance of sunny weather and charm; each region imparting a unique season allure. This guide is aimed to assist you with what to expect, travel tips, for your visit and the delights you can anticipate on a tropical adventure.

What to Expect from Thailand’s March Weather

Thailand is decked in the vibrant hues with a consistent, warm tropical climate. You can expect things to get hot as the temperatures continue to rise. This month the temperatures range between a balmy 25°C in the evening and daytime temperatures of a toasty 35°C — the sweet spot for those longing for a hearty dose of sunshine and blue skies!

Solidify your hat choice, slip on those sunglasses and let’s dive deeper into the nuances of Thailand’s March weather. 

• South: The southern Thailand provinces, including Phuket and Krabi, stay warm and dry, making most days perfect for a dip in the ocean or a leisurely lounge on the sandy shores. You can expect similar weather to the previous month with the average temperatures ranging between 28°C and 34°C, ideal for anyone looking to soak up some tropical warmth.
  
• Central Thailand: In the bustling heart of Bangkok, it’s typically hot and humid, the daily humidity rate tends to hover around 70% to 80%. Staying hydrated is key to surviving Bangkok this month. It’s an added incentive to try Thailand’s delightful iced teas and fresh tropical fruit juices, both of which can be a godsend when the weather gets muggy. 
  
• Eastern Coast: This month on the east coast you can expect warm temperatures, averaging around 28°C, creating a perfect tropical paradise vibe and near perfect weather for a beach holiday.  Alongside this, rainfall is typically low, with an average of approximately 30mm throughout the entire month. However, it’s worth noting that weather can occasionally be unpredictable, with rain showers generally short-lived and promptly replaced by sunshine. 
  
• Northern Thailand: In the northern regions of Thailand including Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai, this is the start of the burning season and air quality falls to an unacceptable standard. We would not recommend travel to the north at this time. 

Thailand has three seasons, and this month sees the beginning of the hot season which
continues until May.

While brief tropical showers may sneak in, they’re usually short-lived and provide a refreshing respite from the heat. It’s also worth noting that with fewer tourists around compared to the peak season, March provides you with an opportunity to experience Thailand at a more leisurely, authentic pace. 

Temperatures & and rainfall in Thailand in March

Location	Average High (°C)	Average Low (°C)	Days of Rainfall
Bangkok	34	24	4
Phuket	33	25	10
Ko Samui	29	24	5
Ayutthaya	35	23	3
Koh Chang	31	23	4
Hua Hin	32	22	4

What you need to know about Thailand in March

Let’s go over the many advantages and few challenges you might face if you decide to pack your bags for a trip to Thailand in March. 

Benefits of visiting Thailand in March

Going to Thailand in March has its own set of advantages that add to the allure of this vibrant country.

• Dry season perks: March, being part of Thailand’s dry season, witnesses relatively lower rainfall. Perfect if you plan to spend most of your time outdoors, exploring the natural and cultural beauties spread across the country. Plus, you don’t need to pack that rain gear!
  
• Beach beauty at its peak: With the sea being calmer and clearer, the charm of Thai beaches is further embellished in March. Whether it’s sunbathing, swimming, or exploring reefs and marine life, the pleasant weather of March offers fabulous opportunities.
  
• Bustling local events: Thailand is renowned for its rich local culture and traditions. In March, numerous local events and festivals like National Elephant Day held on 13 March, National Muay Thai Day on 17 March and the Pattaya International Music festival, Pelupo, providing visitors with an opportunity to mingle with the locals and get a better understanding the local lifestyle.
  
• No Public Holidays: Although there are some fun one day events, this month rarely coincides with major Thai public holidays, which translates into lower volumes of local tourists. You can enjoy the attractions without throngs of people crowding your view. 
  
• Flora in full bloom: March is also a time when many plants bloom in Thailand. These include the flamboyant flame trees, colourful cherry blossoms, and the fragrant Siamese Jasmine – it’s a perfect time for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts!
  
• Less crowded tourist spots: Unlike the peak tourist seasons, March is a less busy period, ensuring a more peaceful and less crowded experience at major tourist attractions. If you’re someone who prefers quieter holidays, March might just be the perfect time for you.

Things to consider if travelling to Thailand in March

• It’s hot: expect the weather to be humid throughout most March, which can take some getting you to for any of you unaccustomed to it. We call it 2 t-shirts a day weather.
  
• It can be smokey: The burning season typically starts from late January and continues until around mid-April. This could lead to bouts of unpleasant, smoky air quality most of the time, making outdoor activities and sightseeing plans, particularly around Chiang Mai and the north difficult. 
  
• East Coast Beaches attract jellyfish: While the beaches might be idyllic, do bear in mind that March is the start of the jellyfish season along Thailand’s eastern coast. Precaution is necessary, and we recommend you check with locals on the current conditions.
  
• Prices can still be high in top spots: Pricing for accommodation and attractions can also vary widely, with some places offering low-season rates and others maintaining their high season prices. For instance, a five-star resort in the popular destination of Phuket may still demand high season prices in March, whereas a smaller guesthouse in Krabi, a serene beach town in the south, might offer more affordable rates reflecting the low season status.

Thai Public Holidays in March

Good Friday on the 29 March is a public holiday. While there are other days of observation such as King Nangklao Memorial Day and Veterans’ Day, which are not official public holidays.

The best places to visit in Thailand in March

The sunny yet comfortable temperatures of March provide the perfect opportunity to explore a diverse range of attractions; from lush landscapes, stunning coastlines and pristine beaches to bustling cityscapes teeming with culture, let’s uncover the top spots that will make your Thai journey unforgettable.

Unveiling the Charm of Thai Beaches in March

If you’re planning your trip to Thailand in March, the country’s stunning coastline is a definite must-see. Here are some of the top picks: 

• Railay Beach, Krabi: Accessible only by boat, this beach’s limestone cliffs and clear waters create a serene atmosphere for relaxation. March’s calm seas make it an ideal time for a visit.

• Hua Hin Beach: Known for its calm waves and a long stretch of sand, it offers a more peaceful beach experience. Kids can safely play in the shallow waters here.
  
• Mae Nam Beach, Koh Samui: If you’re looking for tranquillity, this beach is for you. It’s less crowded in March, so it’s easy to find a peaceful spot to unwind under the sun. You may also like to add a side trip to Koh Phangan anytime outside the full moon party. 
  
• White Sand Beach, Koh Chang: The beach gets its name from its beautiful, fine white sand. Visit in March, you can enjoy a calm sea and long sunny days here.

Some of Thailands most popular beaches can be overcrowded in March. If you are not looking to party, perhaps give these a miss and choose one from the list above.

• Patong Beach, Phuket: This is typically a very crowded spot particularly in March because of its popularity with spring breakers. If you’re looking to enjoy a quiet beach, it’s best to skip Patong in March and head to one of Phuket’s other amazing options.

• Jomtien Beach, Pattaya: Known for its loud bars and nightlife, it can become quite busy and noisy in March. Perhaps make your way further south to Ko Chang.
  
• Chaweng Beach, Koh Samui: This beach tends to get particularly crowded, especially in March. Thus, it’s less favourable if you’re seeking tranquillity. 
  
• Phi Phi Island: Although stunning, the beaches on Phi Phi Island can become extremely overcrowded with tourists in March, making it less peaceful and potentially detracting from the natural beauty. Try Ko Yao Yai instead. 

Exploring the Bustling Streets of Bangkok

The weather during March is comfortably warm, offering ample opportunities to explore the city round the clock. With no rainy days and temperatures ranging between 24°C to 34°C, it’s the perfect time to enjoy Bangkok on foot and not feel you need to spend half the day indoors enjoying the air conditioning!

In March, Thailand’s fertile fruit season begins, offering an array of delicious fruits like mangoes, durian, and rambutan at the peak.

This month brings in less rain, moderate temperatures and fewer tourists, meaning you can enjoy popular spots with less queuing and crowding.

Don’t miss the weekend Chatuchak Market, the largest of its kind in Thailand offering all things imaginable – clothes, homeware, food, art pieces and much more. Roam around Khao San Road, famed in traveller circles for its vibrant nightlife, or take a longboat ride through the city’s canals for a different perspective. 

If you want something a bit more local, consider going a few BTS stops along the line. We stayed at Ari on our most recent visit and highly recommend it.

Bangkok is a multi-sensory experience with intricately decorated temples, colourful markets, and the irresistible smell of street food wafting through the air. 

Despite the bustling city life, tranquil escapes await with a number of impressive parks across the city and a stoll in one of these is a wonderful way to start or end your day in Bangkok. 

While March does see some rainfall, bursts are often short and can even add to the city’s charm, offering relief from the heat, although they do push the price of your Tuk Tuk home up by double or more!  

March’s Hidden Gems: Lesser Known Spots to Visit in Thailand

Visiting Thailand in March offers more than just stunning beach holidays and lively festivals. It’s also a chance to discover lesser-known sites that, while often overlooked by tourists, provide a truly authentic experience. Whether it’s your first time to visit Thailand or your second, exploring these hidden gems will add an extra layer of charm to your trip.

Scenic Landscapes: Kanchanaburi

Start your adventure with Kanchanaburi. Often overlooked by tourists for its more known counterparts, this area is home to breath taking waterfalls, National Parks like Erawan National Park and historic landmarks including the infamous Death Railway and Bridge over the River Kwai and plenty of choices for stunning temple visits The weather in March is relatively dry, making this a fantastic time to visit and explore the outdoors. 

Equally mesmerising is the Isaan region in northeast Thailand. Known for its distinctive culture, mouthwatering cuisine, and ancient Khmer temples, such as Phanom Rung Historical Park, it offers a different taste of Thailand away from the typical beachfront experiences. 

Underwater Wonders: Similan Islands & Koh Tao

For passionate divers, the Similan Islands should be high on your list. Despite being more popular in December and January, visiting in March will give you the advantage of far fewer crowds.

You’ll have the magnificent coral reefs and vibrant marine life all to yourself. 

Time-Travel: Sukhothai

History buffs should not miss the chance to explore Sukhothai, the first ancient capital of Siam. Smaller crowds in March mean more peaceful exploration of the historical ruins and absorbing the rich spiritual atmosphere at your

Festivals and Events in Thailand in March

The month is peppered with colourful festivals and traditional events that truly bring to light the rich Thai culture. 

• National Elephant Day (13th March) – A celebration of Thailand’s national animal, the elephant. More information can be found at http://nationalelephantday.org
  
• Pattaya International Music Festival (Mid-March) – An international musical sensation that hits the shores of Pattaya every year. Check out http://pattayamusicfest.com for details.

• Wai Khru Muay Thai Ceremony (17th March) – A spectacle of Thai martial arts rituals. Visit http://waikhrumuaythai.com for more information.
  
• Bangkok International Fashion Week (End of March) – For fashion enthusiasts, this is a must-see event. Additional information and dates can be found at http://bangkokfashionweek.com.
  
• International Kite Festival in Hua Hin (10 March) – with kite fighting battles and world class kite design, this is a colourful spectacle for all. 

Ready to go?

A trip to Thailand in March can be a unique and delightful experience. You can choose to enjoy the peace of the East Coast’s beautiful sandy shores, delve into the vibrant charm of Bangkok’s busy streets or explore the less-visited yet equally appealing places like Kanchanaburi, Similan Islands, and Sukhothai. March is indeed a great time to experience Thailand. 

The favourable weather, interesting cultural events and vibrant festivals also contribute to making it an ideal time to appreciate the diverse spirit of Thailand, often referred to as Southeast Asia’s jewelled crown. 

Thailand in March has it all. The decision to visit, we promise, is one you’ll not regret!