Best Countries to Visit in March

Top 10 Places to Visit in March

March is usually a transition period in many countries. It is a pleasant time when the winter has just retreated, and the world starts getting a little warmer. In some places, the snow starts melting, while somewhere, the flowers start blooming.

Overall, March is considered an off-season month in the tourism sector. There is no certainty of many things, but it is among the most budget-friendly times to plan an international trip.

1. Costa Rica

Starting off with one of the most diverse countries to explore in March, Costa Rica is a treasure trove for nature lovers. The country has several biodiversity hotspots, including volcanoes, rainforests, mangroves and wildlife. Situated in Central America, Costa Rica is home to various species, with over 250 mammals and a whopping 900 bird species.

Visa Requirement for Indians

Indians must apply for a Costa Rica tourist visa. Visa on arrival is currently not offered to Indians until they are a green card holder or have permanent residency in the US, Canada, EU, Scotland, England, Wales, Northern Ireland, Switzerland and Iceland.

Weather Conditions

The dry season is the best time to explore Costa Rica. During March, Costa Rica sees temperatures ranging from 22°C to 28°C. The weather is perfect for a beach holiday and has minimal rainfall. March is considered a high season in Costa Rica, so get ready for high prices and crowds. If you are on a budget, go for the ‘Green season' between May & November.

Best Things to Do in Costa Rica

• Visit the Jade Museum and Barrio Amón in San José
• Visit Playa Grande and Playa Hermosa for some water activities and stunning sunsets.
• The 5,000-foot-tall Arenal Volcano is among the world's most active volcanoes. You should also visit the La Fortuna town that lies at its base.
• Go for wildlife watching in the Tortuguero National Park. March has the best chance of spotting a sea turtle.
• Visit Cosa Rica's one or more national parks. Famous ones include Corcovado National Park and Manuel Antonio National Park.

2. Turkey

March is the beginning of spring for Turkey. Many areas may still have some snow, but it is a great time to visit prominent Turkish places, including Cappadocia and Istanbul. Since this is shoulder season, you can find nice boutique hotels at lower prices. You will also find fewer crowds at major attractions.

Visa Requirement for Indians

Indians need a pre-approved visa for Turkey. Make sure you have suitable travel insurance plan as soon as you book your flights and hotel.

Weather Conditions

March is the first Spring month with snow and rain in many parts of Turkey. The weather is slightly cold in some Aegean and Mediterranean coasts, with temperatures around 13°C.

Best Things to Do in Turkey

• Ride hot air balloons in Cappadocia. You can find affordable and authentic cave hotels, and visit fairy cliffs & underground cities.
• Attend the Istanbul Dancing Festival and Istanbul Tulip Festival.
• Tour historical sites like the ancient city of Aspendos and the ruins of Side and Ephesus.
• Walk around the Aegean and Mediterranean cities.

You may like to read more about: Best Things to Do in Turkey

3. Sri Lanka

Among India's closest neighbours is a country with spectacular beauty and a scope of tourism. Sri Lanka sees a stunning tropical-coastal spring during March, getting a lot of visitors from near and far. It's among the most beautiful and budget-friendly countries for Indians who wish to vacation among wildlife and nature.

Visa Requirement for Indians

Indians can apply for a Tourist ETA to visit Sri Lanka. They must have have a prior approval before their visit.

Weather Conditions

You can experience Sri Lanka in all its glory in March. The temperature in March is around 24-32 and is perfect for most activities. It can get a little bit of rainfall, making March a very pleasant month to visit Sri Lanka.

Best Things to Do in Sri Lanka

• Head to the 2000-year-old Polonnaruwa to explore some stunning historical ruins.
• Explore the wildlife, temples, and meditation centres in Sri Lanka's cultural capital Kandy.
• Visit the vibrant city of Colombo to experience Sri Lanka's unique blend of diversity.
• Take a hot air balloon ride in Sigiriya.
• Try scuba diving in Hikkaduwa.

4. Maldives

Famous for its pristine beaches and coral reefs, the Maldives in March is as perfect as it gets. March is the high season for the Maldives as its tropical climate sees perfect weather for most outdoor tourism activities. Your plans are least likely to be interrupted by rain and the sun is not strong enough to burn your skin.

Visa Requirement for Indians

The Maldives offers visas on arrival to Indian tourists. This visa is valid for 30 days and is free of cost.

Weather Conditions

March in the Maldives is a dry month with minimum rainfall. Average temperatures range between 27°C and 32°C, making it perfect for outdoor activities.

Best Things to Do in Maldives

• Go for a whale submarine tour to experience the underwater life.
• Visit Maldives' oldest mosque, Hukuru Miskiiy. It has excellent architecture and mesmerises millions of tourists every year.
• Try Maldives food at Shell Beans restaurant. You can order different coffee blends and authentic Maldives cuisine.
• Explore vibrant coral reefs through snorkelling and scuba diving in the Maldives.

5. South Africa

Surrounded by water, South Africa is a beautiful place yet to be explored properly by travellers. Its abundance can best be experienced in March when this country sees the best weather conditions. March is just the start of autumn (as South Africa is in the Southern Hemisphere!), and you can explore Cape Town just after the hot summer.

Visa Requirement for Indians

Indians need a visa to visit South Africa. There is no visa-on-arrival facility for Indians.

Weather Conditions

You will enjoy a 12-hour long day in South Africa during March. Temperature average 22°C to 27°C making it pleasantly warm. However, keep warm clothes for the night as the temperature dips to 14°C. March is perfect for exploring various areas of the country, including Cape Winelands, Kruger National Park and Vamizi Island.

Best Things to Do in South Africa

• Visit the Addo Elephant National Park for a wildlife safari. You will see many elephants, lions, ostriches and antelopes during March.
• Head to Cape Winelands if you're a wine enthusiast. You can book a resort here and sample extensive wine varieties, including Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon and Pinot.
• Try rope swings and bungee jumping in Durban. It has the largest rope swing in the world at 209 feet high.
• Buy a wood carving souvenir from Gazankulu, Limpopo.

6. Seychelles

Among the most popular island destinations, Seychelles offers the perfect experience in March. The weather is ideal for exploring this emerald island nation. You can easily explore many islands without any rainy interruption or heat exhaustion.

Visa Requirement for Indians

Seychelles is a visa-free country for Indians. However, you must have the necessary documents like a valid Indian passport and international travel insurance for Seychelles.

Weather Conditions

The temperature in Seychelles does not exceed 32°C during March. The average temperature is around 28°C, and the average humidity does not exceed 75%.

Best Things to Do in Seychelles

• Explore Vallee De Mai, the stunning UNESCO Heritage Site
• Go for some rock climbing in Constance Ephelia
• Try zip-lining across 8 different ranges in Seychelles
• Go for a Therese Island boat tour. You can experience a great night barbecue with the locals by the beach!

7. Bhutan

India's friendly neighbour is a dream destination for budget travellers who want to have a beautiful mountain experience. The last Himalayan Kingdom, Bhutan remains a mysterious place for all kinds of tourists. March is perfect to visit the Tiger's Nest Monastery and Chele La Pass.

Visa Requirement for Indians

Indians don't need any visa to visit Bhutan. If you're reaching Bhutan via air, you will get a free entry permit upon your arrival.

Weather Conditions

March in Bhutan sees pleasant weather with a cool breeze. However, varying altitude levels make it difficult to determine exact weather conditions. March also marks the beginning of the Spring season in Bhutan, with beautiful blooms in the valley. It will get chilly at night, so ensure that you pack light woollen clothes. The weather during the day is pleasant, and you can comfortably explore the places. The temperature can range from 15°C at night to 25°C during the day.

Best Things to Do in Bhutan

• Drive through Paro and Haa Valley to get beautiful views of snow-topped mountains
• Trekk to the Taktsang Monastery, considered as the holiest place in Bhutan.
• Explore various museums, markets, cafes and landmarks in the charming capital city of Thimphu.
• Visit Phentsholing to explore famous attractions like Amo Chuu, Zongtho Pelri Lhankhang Temple, and Kharbandi Goemba Monastery.

8. UAE (Dubai)

Among the most popular destinations among Indians, Dubai offers pleasant weather in March. Dubai's spring season is in March, making it perfect for many activities. This is also the perfect time to visit the Miracle Garden in Dubai, the largest flower garden in the world. You will see about 45 million flowers beginning to bloom here.

Visa Requirement for Indians

Indians must apply for a valid UAE visa for Dubai. Make sure to buy appropriate travel insurance for Dubai from India before you leave.

Weather Conditions

March is when Dubai sees significantly cooler weather, with temperatures ranging from 18°C to 29°C.

Best Things to Do in Dubai

• Visit the iconic Burj Khalifa
• Spend a day in Burj Al Arab hotel
• Explore the Global Village Dubai
• Visit the Palm Jumeirah archipelago in Dubai

9. Morocco

Morocco is a vibrant country that sees springtime beginning in March. It is the month before peak season, so you can explore its Mediterranean cities without a lot of crowds. It is also perfect for daytime desert safaris and beach holidays.

Visa Requirement for Indians

Indians must get a pre-approved visa for Morocco. It takes around a week to process the tourist visa.

Weather Conditions

Overall, Morocco sees warmer weather in March, with temperatures well over 20°C. However, high-altitude destinations like Atlas and Sahara may still be freezing cold and inaccessible.

Best Things to Do in Morocco

• Explore the city of Marrakech. It will be pretty empty in March, perfect for leisurely exploration and local marketing.
• Take a desert safari in the Sahara Desert during the day.
• March is best for a beach holiday in Morocco. You can visit Agadir or Martil for a relaxing time by the coast.
• Explore the historical city of Tangier on foot.
• Visit the UNESCO world heritage site Medina, located in the diverse coastal city of Tetouan.

10. Thailand

On every Indian's list of countries is Thailand, another beautiful place close to home. Thailand is home to stunning beaches, monasteries, temples, museums and shopping hotspots. The country is hot and humid throughout the year, but March offers some respite. Thanks to its cool and comfortable temperatures, March is one of the best times to explore Thailand.

Visa Requirement for Indians

Thailand has visa on arrival for Indians. The visa on arrival is valid for 30 days. While mandatory travel health insurance has been lifted, don't forget to buy Thailand travel insurance from India. It will keep you financially safe from any emergency expenses.

Weather Conditions

March weather in Thailand is moderately hot and less humid than usual. The average temperature ranges from 25°C to 34°C and lets you explore a lot of places without interruptions.

Best Things to Do in Thailand

• March is perfect for visiting the Khao Yai National Park. you can experience Thailand's rich flora and fauna during March.
• Explore Ko Samui beach for thrilling water sports and cool summer nightlife. Thanks to the good weather, you can also go for snorkelling and sea kayaking.
• Visit Phi Phi Island to explore Thailand's coral reefs in March.
• Explore Krabi in March for clear skies and moderate crowds. You can also visit the Krabi Elephant Sanctuary in this comfortable weather and with minimal crowds.

Wrapping it Up,

Any trip is incomplete without a checklist. Ensure you carry all the essentials for whichever country you visit this March. While these countries can vary significantly when it comes to their culture, food or weather, there are some common factors.

Buying travel insurance must be on your checklist, irrespective of the country you're visiting. Each country offers varying experiences, but emergencies and mishaps are the same everywhere. With trip insurance, you can rest assured and have a memorable time this March!