Things to Do in Southeast Asia in March

March Weather in Southeast Asia

32°C (90°F) High Temp

24°C (75°F) Low Temp

120mm (4.7 inches) Rainfall

75% Humidity

Is March Right for You?

Advantages

Dry season peak - minimal rainfall (only 8 rainy days) makes it ideal for island hopping and outdoor activities without weather disruptions
Perfect diving and snorkeling conditions - calm seas, 30m+ (98ft+) visibility, and whale shark season in the Andaman Sea
Cool mornings and evenings (24°C/75°F) create comfortable conditions for temple visits, walking tours, and outdoor dining from 6-9am and 5-8pm
Peak harvest season means exceptional street food - mango season begins, fresh seafood is abundant, and night markets are at their most vibrant

Considerations

Hottest month of the year - midday temperatures hit 35°C+ (95°F+) making outdoor activities uncomfortable from 11am-3pm
High season pricing - accommodation costs 40-60% more than low season, and popular destinations like Phi Phi Islands get extremely crowded
Burning season in northern Thailand creates hazy skies and poor air quality, particularly affecting Chiang Mai and mountain regions

Best Activities in March

Similan Islands Diving and Snorkeling

March marks the absolute best conditions for underwater activities - crystal clear water, calm seas, and peak whale shark season. The dry season ensures boat trips operate daily without weather cancellations. Water temperature is perfect at 28°C (82°F), and visibility often exceeds 30m (98ft). This is the last month before the marine parks close for monsoon season.

Booking Tip: Book 10-14 days ahead through licensed dive operators. Day trips typically cost ฿3,500-4,500, liveaboard options ฿8,000-15,000. Look for operators with insurance and PADI certification. See current tour options in the booking section below.

Bangkok Temple and Market Cycling Tours

Early morning cycling (6-9am) takes advantage of the coolest part of the day before crowds arrive. March's dry conditions mean no muddy paths or rain interruptions. The cool morning air makes the 10-15km (6-9 mile) routes comfortable, and you'll experience local morning routines at temples and markets.

Booking Tip: Join guided tours that start at 6am to avoid midday heat. Half-day tours typically cost ฿1,200-2,000 including bike and guide. Book with operators who provide helmets and have insurance coverage. Check booking options below for current availability.

Northern Thailand Mountain Trekking

Despite the haze, March offers the coolest trekking conditions before the hot season intensifies. Trails are completely dry, making multi-day treks safer. Early morning starts (5am) provide clear mountain views before haze builds up. Hill tribe villages are most accessible with all trails open.

Booking Tip: Book 2-3 week treks through certified guides. Multi-day treks cost ฿4,000-8,000 per person including meals and accommodation. Choose operators who start treks very early to avoid afternoon heat and haze. Current trek options available in booking section.

Floating Market and Canal Tours

March's low rainfall means stable water levels and comfortable boat rides. Morning tours (7-10am) avoid the intense heat while markets are most active. The dry season ensures all waterways are navigable, and vendors have the best selection of fresh seasonal produce including early mangoes.

Booking Tip: Book early morning tours starting at 7am. Half-day tours typically cost ฿1,800-2,800 including transport and boat. Choose tours that include multiple markets and authentic canal routes. See current tour selections in the booking widget below.

Rock Climbing at Limestone Cliffs

March provides ideal rock climbing conditions - dry limestone with excellent grip, no rainfall to cancel sessions, and comfortable climbing temperatures in early morning and late afternoon. The dry season means all routes are accessible and rope conditions are optimal.

Booking Tip: Book morning (7-11am) or late afternoon (3-6pm) sessions to avoid peak heat. Half-day climbing costs ฿2,200-3,500 including equipment and instruction. Choose operators with certified guides and quality safety equipment. Current climbing tour options below.

Evening River Cruises and Sunset Tours

March evenings are perfect for river activities - calm water conditions, clear skies for sunset views, and comfortable temperatures dropping to 26°C (79°F). The dry season provides consistent weather for evening departures and spectacular sunset photography opportunities.

Booking Tip: Book sunset cruises departing 5:30-6pm for optimal lighting and temperature. Evening tours cost ฿1,500-3,000 depending on inclusions. Look for boats with covered areas and complimentary drinks. Browse current sunset cruise options in the booking section.

March Events & Festivals

Mid March (exact date varies by lunar calendar)

Makha Bucha Day

One of Thailand's most important Buddhist holidays featuring candlelit processions around temples after sunset. Witness locals participating in 'wien tian' ceremonies where thousands walk clockwise around temple halls carrying candles, incense, and lotus flowers. Alcohol sales are prohibited nationwide.

Early to Mid March

Holi Festival Celebrations

Indian communities in Bangkok and major tourist areas celebrate with color powder festivals. Khao San Road and Phahurat district host the largest celebrations with music, traditional foods, and color throwing from 10am-4pm.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

SPF 50+ sunscreen and reapply every 2 hours - UV index reaches 9+ during peak hours (10am-3pm)

Lightweight, breathable cotton or bamboo fiber clothing - avoid polyester which traps heat in 75% humidity

Light rain jacket or compact umbrella - afternoon showers are brief but intense when they occur

Insulated water bottle holding at least 1L (34oz) - dehydration happens quickly in hot, dry conditions

Electrolyte packets or tablets - essential for replacing minerals lost through constant sweating

Cooling towel or bandana that you can wet and wear around your neck during hot midday hours

Comfortable walking shoes with breathable mesh - feet swell in heat and you'll walk 8-12km (5-7 miles) daily

Wide-brimmed hat or cap with UV protection - provides crucial shade for face and neck

Quick-dry shorts and t-shirts for multiple daily outfit changes due to sweating

Lightweight long pants and long sleeves for temple visits and evening mosquito protection

Insider Knowledge

Schedule all outdoor activities before 10am or after 4pm - locals completely avoid midday sun during March heat waves

Book accommodations with pools or near shopping malls with AC - you'll need cool refuge during 11am-3pm peak heat periods

Carry small bills (฿20, ฿50 notes) - vendors often lack change for large bills, and you'll buy water frequently throughout the day

Download offline maps before heading out - phone batteries drain 50% faster in extreme heat, and you'll need GPS for finding shade stops

Avoid These Mistakes

Scheduling walking tours or outdoor sightseeing between 11am-3pm when temperatures exceed 35°C (95°F) and UV is dangerous

Underestimating water needs - tourists often get dehydrated needing 3-4L (101-135oz) daily versus normal 2L (68oz)

Booking northern Thailand trips without considering burning season haze that reduces visibility and affects breathing