Things to Do in St. Uttgart in March
March weather, activities, events & insider tips
March Weather in St. Uttgart
Is March Right for You?
Advantages
- Perfect shoulder season - 40% fewer crowds than peak December-February period, making temple visits and city exploration much more pleasant
- Optimal diving conditions in the Andaman Sea - 25-30m (82-98 ft) visibility and calm seas before monsoon season begins in May
- Mango season peaks in March - street vendors sell premium Nam Dok Mai mangoes for ฿30-50 ($0.85-1.40), and local dessert menus feature seasonal specialties
- Hotel rates drop 30-50% compared to high season while weather remains excellent - luxury beachfront resorts cost ฿3,500-6,000 vs ฿8,000-12,000 in February
Considerations
- Temperature climbs throughout the month - early March feels comfortable at 29°C (84°F), but late March reaches 34°C (93°F) making midday activities uncomfortable
- Afternoon thunderstorms increase frequency from 20% in early March to 40% by month-end, typically hitting between 2-4pm and lasting 45-60 minutes
- Tourist infrastructure begins scaling back - some island day trips reduce frequency, and beach clubs start earlier closing times as operators prepare for low season
Best Activities in March
Similan Islands Diving and Snorkeling Tours
March offers the final month of exceptional diving conditions before the marine park closes for monsoon season. Water temperature reaches perfect 28°C (82°F), visibility extends 25-30m (82-98 ft), and whale shark sightings peak. Morning departures avoid afternoon weather buildup. Crowds are 50% lighter than February peak season.
Bangkok Temple and Market Cycling Tours
Early morning temple cycling becomes essential in March as temperatures soar after 10am. The lower humidity of early March (65-70%) makes 3-4 hour cycling tours comfortable. Fewer tour groups mean better photo opportunities at Wat Arun and quieter temple courtyards. Local markets stock peak-season tropical fruits.
Khao Yai National Park Wildlife Watching
March marks the end of cool season, making this the final month for comfortable jungle trekking. Wildlife activity increases as animals search for water sources. Hornbill and gibbon sightings peak during early morning hours when temperatures remain at manageable 26°C (79°F). Waterfalls maintain good flow from earlier rainy season.
Floating Market and Canal Tours
March's lower water levels create ideal conditions for navigating Bangkok's canals. Morning tours (7-10am) avoid the intense late-March heat while showcasing daily life along the klongs. Seasonal fruits like mangoes and rambutans appear in floating vendors' boats. Tourist numbers drop 35% from February levels.
Chiang Mai Hill Tribe Trekking
March offers the last comfortable trekking weather before hot season begins. Mountain temperatures remain pleasant at 20-25°C (68-77°F) during day hikes. Clear skies provide excellent mountain views, and hill tribe villages are accessible via dry trails. Rhododendrons bloom in higher elevations creating spectacular scenery.
Railay Beach Rock Climbing
March provides ideal limestone climbing conditions - rock faces remain cool during morning sessions, while afternoon sea breezes moderate temperatures. Rainfall stays minimal, ensuring reliable outdoor climbing. Lower tourist numbers mean easier access to popular routes and climbing schools have better instructor availability.
March Events & Festivals
Makha Bucha Day
One of Thailand's most important Buddhist holidays featuring candlelit processions around temples nationwide. Locals dress in white and participate in evening wien thien ceremonies. Alcohol sales prohibited, and many businesses close. Particularly spectacular at major temples in Bangkok and Chiang Mai.