India in March: weather and travel tips

As winter's chill dissipates, India awakens to the enchanting arrival of spring in March. This season of renewal unveils a rich tapestry of experiences, from the snowy peaks of the Himalayas to the sun-kissed beaches of Goa. Here’s our guide to the weather in India in March.

India in March at a glance

March represents one of India's best travel months, with pleasant spring weather before the intense heat arrives, and the colorful Holi festival celebrations.

• Average temperatures between 68°F and 95°F (20°C and 35°C), warm but not yet scorching across most regions
• Excellent time to visit with comfortable weather nationwide and vibrant Holi festival celebrations
• Peak tourist season brings higher crowds at major attractions and increased accommodation prices, especially around Holi

What is the weather like in India in March?

The weather in India in March is some of the most comfortable of the year. Most regions stay dry, with clear skies and cooler mornings that make sightseeing much easier than in the hotter months. Rajasthan, Delhi, and other northern areas are ideal for visiting forts, markets, and palaces.

In the south, beach towns and hill stations are still manageable before the summer heat kicks in. Trekking routes in the Himalayan foothills start to open up, and desert regions like Jaisalmer are still pleasant for camel rides or overnight camps. Holi celebrations bring color and energy, though they can impact transport. If you're traveling across regions, March gives you flexibility with minimal weather disruptions.  Set on taking a trip to India? Embark on your dream trip hassle-free with the help of our India travel experts.

Average daily temperatures in March

March brings some of the year’s most comfortable weather across India. In the north, cities like Delhi reach highs of 85 to 90°F (29 to 32°C) with cooler nights around 60 to 65°F (16 to 18°C).

Southern states like Kerala and Tamil Nadu heat up during the day to around 90 to 95°F (32 to 35°C), with evenings staying warm at 75 to 80°F (24 to 27°C). Hill stations like Shimla or Darjeeling are much cooler, usually around 55 to 70°F (13 to 21°C). Across the country, skies stay clear and rainfall is minimal.

Coastal waters sit at 82 to 86°F (28 to 30°C), great for swimming. With long days and festivals like Holi, March is one of the best times to travel around India before the real heat of summer sets in.
 

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Is March a good time to visit India?

March is a transitional month for India when the country begins to bid farewell to the chilly winter and welcomes the warmth of spring. The weather in India in March varies depending on the region, making it an interesting time to plan your visit. 

With minimal rainfall across most regions, this month sets the stage for an extraordinary exploration of India's diverse landscapes. March is also filled with colorful festivals—the most famous one is Holi, celebrated with great enthusiasm and joy throughout the country.

Another advantage of visiting India in early spring is fewer crowds compared to the winter months and the summer vacation period. For more tips, see our guide to how to plan a trip to India.

• Spring weather across most regions
• Holi festival celebrations
• Minimal rainfall nationwide
• Fewer crowds than winter months
• Regional weather variations to consider

What about the crowd and cost?

March is a transition month in India, with crowds and costs varying depending on your destination. In most places, you can expect fewer crowds compared to the peak winter season.

Accommodation prices may start to drop slightly, offering a more budget-friendly experience. However, popular tourist spots can still have moderate crowds, so consider less-traveled destinations for a quieter and more cost-effective visit. See more in our guide to the best time to visit India.  

Where to go in India in March

March in India means the weather is still bearable, the crowds are manageable, and Holi adds a flash of color to cities and towns across the country. It’s also a transition point before the hotter months, so it's a good time to cover ground. Here are some of the best places to visit in India. 

Rajasthan (Jaipur, Udaipur, Jodhpur)

March is a great month to explore Rajasthan’s palaces, forts, and old cities. You can walk through Jaipur’s old quarter in the morning, then head to Udaipur for lakeside sunsets. Holi is a big deal here, with processions, local gatherings, and dry color powder everywhere. Out in the desert, camel camps start picking up again. Stores and markets are busy, but not frantic, and many craftspeople return from winter festivals with new work.

Kerala

The backwaters stay calm in March, and it’s a good time to rent a houseboat or take a ferry through village routes. You’ll pass churches getting ready for Easter, fishermen fixing nets, and spice plantations beginning their seasonal shift. In the hills, tea estates are quieter, and places like Munnar feel cooler and less busy. Ayurvedic treatments are still common, and there’s often a focus on wellness around this time of year. See our favorite temples in Kerala.

Varanasi

March in Varanasi brings cooler mornings and smoky, golden evenings. Dawn boat rides feel quieter and more intimate, with fewer travelers on the river, while the city begins to build towards Holi with street altars, marigolds, and paint-splashed steps along the ghats.

Temples remain busy but manageable, and it is easier to spend time with local guides, priests, or boatmen without feeling rushed. For 5-day India trips in March, Varanasi offers a short but powerful immersion, intense in spirit yet softened by the season’s gentler light and festive anticipation.

What to do in India in March 

March arrives in India with a burst of vibrant colors, festive celebrations, and natural beauty that beckon travelers from near and far. Here are some of the best things to do in India. 

Celebrate Holi

March is the perfect time to experience the vibrant festival of Holi in India. Join locals in throwing colorful powders and water balloons, celebrating the triumph of good over evil. The cities of Mathura, Vrindavan, and Jaipur are known for their grand Holi celebrations.

Explore Kashmir

March is an excellent month to visit Kashmir, as the snow starts to melt, revealing lush green landscapes. You can explore the serene Dal Lake, enjoy a shikara ride, or visit the iconic Mughal Yards in Srinagar.

Go on a wildlife safari in Ranthambore

Ranthambore National Park in Rajasthan is a fantastic destination for wildlife enthusiasts. March offers favorable weather to embark on a safari and spot tigers, leopards, and various other wildlife species in their natural habitat.

Visit the Taj Mahal

No trip to India is complete without visiting the iconic Taj Mahal. March provides pleasant weather for exploring this UNESCO World Heritage site in Agra. Witness the mesmerizing beauty of this architectural marvel and learn about its rich history.

Planning your itinerary

Our India itineraries are crafted to help you experience the best of the country, stress-free. Think of them as a starting point—perfect for planning but flexible enough to adjust to your own pace and interests. After all, travel is about freedom, but a little planning goes a long way.

• India itinerary 10 days: Ten days gives you enough time to explore India’s Golden Triangle: Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur. Expect to see iconic sites like the Taj Mahal, bustling markets, historic forts, and a taste of India’s vibrant culture.
• India itinerary 14 days: Two weeks lets you dive deeper—cover the Golden Triangle, plus Varanasi’s sacred Ganges rituals or the palaces of Rajasthan.