Thailand Weather in March

March is the precursor to Thailand's hottest period, especially in the last week of March. Temperatures are starting to rise throughout Thailand and it can be felt in the northern Thailand as well as in Bangkok and other central destinations with the exception of the southern provinces and islands.

The rain that can be expected in March depends on the region. The monsoon approaches from the Indian Ocean, so more rain can be expected on the coast than inland.

March is a shoulder season on all islands and it’s a great time to go there as you get sunny weather with less crowds. Tourists mainly head to the islands in the south of Thailand (Koh Lanta, Koh Tao, Phuket) where the weather on the coast remains sunny and warm with pleasant water temperatures. It is a good time to escape from the heat and is far enough away from the unpleasant smog in northern Thailand.

Summary of Thailand weather in March

Average temperature: 32°C

Average daytime temperature: 37°C

Average temperature at night: 25°C

Number of sunny hours: 8

Precipitation in mm: 149 mm

Number of rainy days in the month: 17

Water temperature: 29°C

Details about the weather in March

Bangkok and Central Thailand

Temperatures are still rising. In Bangkok, Ayutthaya and Central Thailand, expect temperatures in the area from 30°C to 35°C. The heat can be unbearable during the day so day trips to visit main attractions can become unpleasant and tiring. It is a little better to enjoy the heat by the sea. If you are sensitive to the heat, then be sure to book a room with air conditioning. The nights in the center of the country are warm, but not less than 25°C. The rain is rare.

Eastern Thailand

Rains come to Eastern Thailand earlier than anywhere else. So don't be surprised if it rains a little every 3-4 days. However, more frequent showers help to keep the heat under control and it is a bit colder than in other areas. If you want to visit a local island, then you can visit the island of Koh Samet, which is about halfway between Bangkok and the island of Koh Chang. On the coast of Pattaya and the islands nearby, the air warms up to 31°C during the day, and the sea temperature is about 29°C. With a pleasant climate this month, it is recommended to visit this area in Thailand.

Northern Thailand

In northern region, in the vicinity of the cities of Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai, the weather that was comparatively cool before, is now particularly affected by the heat. The daily temperatures rise to 35°C in March and at nights it is relatively cool, around 20°C.

However, unpleasant smog is a much bigger problem than the heat so it is not recommended as a travel destination for March. Every year in March, Thai farmers burn their fields in preparation for the new season. This smog irritates the eyes and causes respiratory problems. Therefore, it is better to avoid this region in March (and April). March is a fairly dry month and rains are rare at this time of the year, making smog and its consequences even worse.

Northeast Thailand - Isan

Like Northern Thailand, Northeastern Thailand suffers from smog caused by the farmers burning their fields in March. It is not as bad as in the north of the country, but it still exists at this time. Temperatures continue to rise and can reach about 35°C and more. The only advantage of traveling to the northeastern part of the country in March is the comfort of knowing that it is even hotter in April!

Southern Thailand - East Coast

March, on the other hand, is an ideal month for island hopping. On the southeast coast in the Gulf of Thailand and adjacent islands, March still offers beautiful weather with temperatures around 30°C and little rainfall. You will experience some showers during your vacations but that is acceptable and you will hardly be bothered by it. The sea in the bay warms up to 29°C. Koh Samui, Koh Phangan and Koh Tao are excellent destinations in March. Most of national park and islands are also open for tourists.

Southern Thailand - West Coast

Compared to the east coast, the west coast of Southern Thailand in the Andaman Sea region offers slightly higher temperatures and slightly more precipitation in March than the coasts and islands in the east. However, the weather is still great and the number of tourists is lower compared to January and February. From Krabi to Koh Lanta you can expect excellent climatic conditions. Due to the high air temperature during the day, about 32°C, the high humidity is not easily tolerated by the elderly and children. The sea temperature reaches 31°C, but at this time of the year it is not always comfortable to swim in the sea. The water can be muddy due to the sand that has risen from the bottom.

Tips for planning a vacation in Thailand in March

If you are planning a vacation in Thailand in March, you should prepare well in advance. You should follow the simplest safety rules in order not to get sunstroke. Even some local residents are not comfortable from such intense heat.

The best thing is that there are fewer people on the islands in March than in January or February. Visiting local attractions also becomes less problematic, there are enough places for everyone.

Due to the increasing heat, the flow of tourists in Thailand is slightly decreasing. This is followed by a decrease in accommodation prices, especially for high-class hotels with 4-5 stars.

Fairs and Festivals in March

Important holiday in March is Makha Bucha Day which is one of the 4 most important Theravada Buddhist holidays in Thailand. It is believed that on this very day Buddha formulated the basic provisions of his teaching. The main event of the holiday is organized at all temples in Thailand.

The favorable weather on the coast of the Gulf of Thailand encourages a visit to the incredibly colorful Kite Festival, which traditionally takes place in the small town of Cha Am. You will see the competition of unique kites floating into the sky.

Another unusual festival taking place every year on the first Saturday of the month at Bang Phra Temple is Wai Kru Sak Yant Festival. This is the festival of magical tattoos, all visitors to which have the opportunity to change an existing tattoo or fill in a new one.

March 17 is called Muay Thai Day, and fights and competitions are held everywhere on this day.

The Full Moon Party, is a tourist festival which takes place on the beach of Haad Rin on Koh Phangan every month of the year, on the day of the full moon. During seasonal peaks, the Full Moon Party can bring together nearly 20,000 tourists.

Overall weather conditions in Thailand in March

Bangkok weather in March is ✦ - good

Chiang Mai weather in March is ✦ - good

Krabi weather in March is ✦ - very good

Koh Samui weather in March is ✦ - perfect

Phuket weather in March is ✦ - very good

Pattaya weather in March is ✦ - very good

Kanchanaburi weather in March is ✦ - good

Hua Hin weather in March is ✦ - very good

Koh Chang weather in March is ✦ - very good

Isan weather in March is ✦ - good>