You'll hear two things about March in Thailand:
"It's one of the best times to go," and "It's way too hot and smoky."
Both are true, depending on where you go. Once, I was snorkeling in the clear waters near Koh Lanta, while my colleague in Chiang Mai couldn't even see the mountains from his hotel. That's why we don't offer blanket answers.
This is not just another "Thailand is great all year" blog. We'll tell you how the heat really feels, where the weather helps your trip, and how to avoid hidden problems.
What's the Weather Like in Thailand in March?
- Average temperature range: 27–34°C (80–93°F)
- Average rainfall: 25 mm (1 inch)
March kicks off Thailand's hot season (March–May), and you'll notice the heat building the farther north you go. But with the dry season still in play (November–March), rain is unlikely to spoil your plans, with 2–3 days in most areas. Thus, if you're not too sensitive to the heat, March can still be a great time to visit.
1. Northern Thailand (Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Pai)
March in Northern Thailand is a trade-off month. Weather-wise, it's dry and warm, with cooler air in the mountains, like Doi Inthanon near Chiang Mai.
But this is also the peak of the annual haze/burning season, when slash-and-burn farming creates persistent smoke. Places like Pai and Mae Hong Son often have "unhealthy" air. This smoke dulls the views and can make breathing hard.
If you have breathing issues or want clear views, we don't recommend northern Thailand in March. Instead, go earlier in the year or pick cleaner-air places like islands.
If you're set on visiting, plan to avoid heavy outdoor activities like trekking. Choose hotels with good air filtration, and pack a mask. On our trips, we provide high-quality masks and adjust itineraries to minimize exposure.
Dull Panorama from Doi Inthanon National Park in March2. Central Thailand (Bangkok, Ayutthaya, Kanchanaburi)
Central Thailand in March is hot, dry, and sunny, making it a shoulder month for sightseeing before the peak heat of April. Unlike the north, air quality here is usually good, though occasional haze can drift in.
In Bangkok and Ayutthaya, mornings are still bearable early in March. By mid-month, the heat feels intense. I still remember visiting Wat Arun in Bangkok at midday. The temple was stunning, but due to the strong sun and lack of shade, I skipped the photos and headed straight for somewhere cooler.
To cool off, try water activities in Kanchanaburi—its floating houses and waterfalls are refreshing. When exploring cities, use air-conditioned transport and rest during the hottest hours (noon to 3 PM).
Wat Arun under the hot sun with few visitors3. Southern Thailand (Phuket, Krabi, Koh Samui): Best Places to Go
You get clear skies, calm seas, and great diving and snorkeling. Water temperatures hover around 28°C (82°F), ideal for swimming. Ferries run smoothly between islands.
If you love snorkeling or diving, this is prime time, especially around the Andaman coast (Phuket, Krabi, Similan), which offers stunning dive spots. The Gulf side, including Koh Samui and nearby islands, tends to be a bit quieter, making it ideal for families or couples who want some peace without sacrificing convenience.
The only challenge is popularity: beaches and resorts are busy, and rates stay high. For a quieter experience, consider day trips to less-visited islands or boutique resorts on Koh Yao Noi or Koh Lanta.
So, where to go in Thailand in March?
With daytime temps often above 35°C (95°F), focus on cooler places like jungle escapes and beaches. Phuket and Koh Samui are top easy-access islands, while Khao Sok offers water and jungle adventure. For culture, Bangkok and Kanchanaburi work well early in the month before the heat builds.
Check out more tips on planning a trip to Thailand.
Is March a Good Time to Visit Thailand?
It's one of our favorite shoulder-season months—weather-wise in the south and cost-wise in most areas.
By mid- to late March, the holiday crowds thin out, and hotels often cut prices by around 15% compared to peak season.
Despite the heat, you'll find plenty of sunny days and fewer crowds at major attractions—whether that's beaches, city landmarks, or cultural sites. This means more space to relax and explore without the usual peak-season rush.
If you're a couple looking for quiet boutique stays or a family hoping to stretch your budget without sacrificing comfort, March hits a sweet spot.
Select your best time to visit Thailand from our expert guide: Best & Worst Time to Visit Thailand.
What to Pack for Thailand in March
Think light, breathable, and sun-proof: linen shirts, cotton dresses, wide-brimmed hats, and walking sandals are perfect for the heat.
Don't forget sunscreen and mosquito repellent, especially for island evenings. A scarf or shawl is handy for temple visits or unexpected sun exposure.
Average Temperatures and Rainfall in Thai Cities in March
| Destination | Min–Max Temp (°C/°F) | Rainfall (mm) | Rainy Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bangkok | 24–33 / 75–91 | 9.6 | 1.8 |
| Ayutthaya | 23–34 / 73–93 | 7.8 | 1.4 |
| Kanchanaburi | 23–34 / 73–93 | 8.7 | 1.3 |
| Chiang Mai | 20–35 / 68–95 | 15.24 | 2.2 |
| Chiang Rai | 18–33 / 64–91 | 20.32 | 2.6 |
| Sukhothai | 24–37 / 76–98 | 20.32 | 2.8 |
| Krabi | 23–34 / 73–93 | 60.96 | 6.4 |
| Ko Phuket | 24–33 / 76–92 | 60.96 | 6.6 |
| Ko Samui | 27–32 / 80–89 | 55.88 | 4.5 |
Data source: Weather Spark.
FAQ: Thailand in March
Q: Is Thailand too hot in March?
It's getting hotter—but still manageable, compared to the nearly 40°C (104°F) in April and May. Mornings and coastal areas feel pleasant. Pack smart and plan around the heat.
Q: Which islands are best for couples or families in March?
Koh Samui and parts of the Gulf Coast tend to be quieter and ideal for families. Couples may prefer less crowded spots like Koh Yao Noi or boutique resorts on Koh Lanta.
Q: Is March the rainy season?
No, March is still part of the dry season across most of Thailand. You might see brief showers on the East Coast islands, but they're rare.
Q: Is March cheaper than January-February?
Yes—especially mid- to late March. Hotel deals start appearing, and beaches are less crowded.
Q: Is it safe to travel with kids in March?
Yes, especially to the islands and central regions. Just avoid outdoor-heavy plans in northern Thailand due to air pollution.
Q: What is the best time to visit Thailand?
November to February is the best time to visit Thailand weather-wise and for its vibrant events like the romantic Yi Peng Lantern Festival, New Year celebrations, and flower festivals.
Ready to Plan Your March Escape?
March can be one of the best months to explore Thailand—if you know where to go and how to plan smartly.
We've helped dozens of travelers make the most of Thailand in March—avoiding the haze, dodging the worst heat, and finding those under-the-radar gems. Let us take the guesswork out of planning—start your custom Thailand itinerary today.
Learn more about the weather in Thailand for 12 months and find out the best places to visit each month.
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