Kerala in March: Weather, Places & Travel Tips

Why Visit Kerala in March?

March represents one of the most fascinating times to visit God's Own Country. As a transition month between the peak winter tourist season and the approaching summer, March offers travelers a unique blend of advantages: fewer crowds, competitive pricing, and generally pleasant weather across most regions. For those seeking an authentic Kerala experience without the hustle and bustle of peak season, March provides the perfect window of opportunity.

The weather during March showcases Kerala's diverse climatic zones at their most accessible. While coastal areas begin to feel the warming embrace of approaching summer, the hill stations maintain their refreshing coolness, and the famous backwaters offer breezy, comfortable conditions. This climatic diversity means you can experience beaches, hills, and backwaters all in one trip, each region offering its own version of March perfection.

March also brings excellent value for money. With the December-February peak season behind us, accommodations and tour operators offer competitive rates. You'll find better availability at premium houseboats, luxury resorts, and heritage properties that might be fully booked during peak months. This combination of good weather, fewer crowds, and better prices makes March an intelligent choice for budget-conscious travelers who don't want to compromise on experience.

Weather & Climate in March

March in Kerala is characterized by transition and regional variation. The month begins with remnants of winter's pleasantness and gradually transitions toward warmer summer temperatures. This progressive warming means early March feels distinctly different from late March, allowing flexible travelers to choose their preferred weather conditions.

Regional Temperature Variations

Coastal Areas (Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram, Kozhikode): Coastal Kerala experiences temperatures between 28°C and 34°C during March. Humidity levels range from 70-80%, creating the classic tropical coastal feel that characterizes Kerala's famous beaches. While temperatures climb as the month progresses, sea breezes provide natural air conditioning, making coastal exploration comfortable, especially during mornings and evenings.

Hill Stations (Munnar, Thekkady, Wayanad): The hills offer refreshing respite from coastal warmth, with temperatures hovering between 18°C and 25°C. Mornings and evenings in Munnar can even require light sweaters, creating perfect conditions for trekking, plantation tours, and outdoor exploration. The crisp mountain air, combined with clear skies, offers spectacular visibility and stunning photography opportunities.

Backwater Regions (Alleppey, Kumarakom): The backwaters maintain pleasant conditions throughout March, with temperatures typically between 26°C and 32°C. The water bodies themselves create a cooling effect, making houseboat journeys comfortable even during warmer afternoons. The gentle breeze that sweeps across Vembanad Lake and interconnected canals adds to the comfort level.

Rainfall and Humidity

March is predominantly a dry month across Kerala, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. While the monsoon season is still months away, occasional light showers might occur, particularly in the latter half of the month. These sporadic rains, when they do happen, are typically brief and refreshing, adding to the region's lush greenery without disrupting travel plans.

Humidity varies significantly by region. Coastal areas experience higher humidity levels (75-80%), which can feel somewhat sticky, especially for visitors not accustomed to tropical climates. Hill stations, conversely, offer much lower humidity (50-60%), creating comfortable conditions for physical activities. The backwaters fall somewhere in between, with humidity levels around 65-70% that feel manageable due to constant airflow.

Best Places to Visit in Kerala in March

Munnar: Tea Garden Paradise

March is arguably the best time to explore Munnar's famous tea gardens. The weather is pleasantly cool (18-25°C), perfect for trekking through plantation trails without the extreme cold of winter months or the dampness of monsoon. The tea bushes themselves maintain their vibrant green hue, creating the iconic rolling green landscapes that have made Munnar famous.

Key attractions in Munnar during March include:

• Eravikulam National Park: Home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, this park offers excellent wildlife sighting opportunities in March weather. The Rajamalai region provides spectacular views of the Western Ghats.
• Tea Museum: Learn about tea processing and the history of tea plantations in Kerala. The museum offers fascinating insights into colonial-era plantation life.
• Mattupetty Dam: Perfect for boating with stunning backdrops of tea-covered hills. The calm waters reflect the surrounding mountains, creating picture-perfect moments.
• Top Station: Offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Western Ghats and the valley below. The clear March skies provide excellent visibility for photography.

What makes Munnar special in March is the reduced crowding compared to peak winter months. You'll find easier access to popular viewpoints, shorter waits at restaurants, and a more relaxed overall experience at premium resorts. March also brings blooming season for certain wildflowers, adding splashes of color to the predominantly green landscape.

Alleppey: Backwater Bliss

Alleppey (Alappuzha) in March offers quintessential Kerala backwater experiences under ideal conditions. The weather is warm enough to enjoy the water but not so hot that houseboat journeys become uncomfortable. March brings calm waters and clear skies, creating perfect reflections in the intricate network of canals, lagoons, and lakes that define the backwaters.

A houseboat stay in Alleppey during March includes:

• Traditional Kerala Meals: Houseboat chefs prepare authentic Kerala cuisine featuring fresh catch from the backwaters, local vegetables, and traditional recipes passed down through generations.
• Village Life Observation: Watch daily life unfold along the canals—fishermen casting nets, women washing clothes at ghats, children playing on banks, and farmers tending to paddies.
• Sunset and Sunrise Views: March's clear skies create spectacular sunrise and sunset views over the water. The backwaters transform into a canvas of oranges, pinks, and purples during these golden hours.
• Birdwatching: March is excellent for spotting migratory and resident bird species including kingfishers, herons, cormorants, and terns.

March advantages include better availability and competitive pricing for houseboats. Unlike December-January when premium boats book out weeks in advance, March often allows for last-minute bookings even at top-rated houseboat operators. The pleasant temperatures also make open-air deck time more enjoyable, whether for meals, relaxation, or photography.

Kochi: Cultural Melting Pot

Kochi in March offers comfortable weather for exploring the city's rich cultural heritage. With temperatures around 28-32°C, sightseeing is pleasant, especially when planned around the heat of midday. March brings fewer tourists to popular attractions, meaning more intimate experiences at Fort Kochi's historic sites and shorter wait times at restaurants.

March highlights in Kochi include:

• Fort Kochi Walking: Explore the historic Fort Kochi area with its Portuguese, Dutch, and British colonial architecture. The comfortable March weather makes extended walking tours enjoyable.
• Chinese Fishing Nets: Witness these iconic fishing mechanisms in operation at Fort Kochi beach. The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon when fishermen haul in their catch.
• Jew Town and Synagogue: Explore the historic Jewish quarter with its 16th-century Paradesi Synagogue, antique shops, and spice emporiums. March weather makes wandering through these narrow streets comfortable.
• Kathakali Performances: Evening Kathakali dance performances showcase Kerala's traditional art form. Many cultural centers offer daily shows that explain the elaborate makeup, costumes, and storytelling.
• Mattancherry Palace: Also known as the Dutch Palace, this museum houses beautiful murals depicting scenes from Hindu epics. The palace offers insights into Kochi's royal history.

Thekkady: Wildlife Adventure

For wildlife enthusiasts, Thekkady in March presents excellent opportunities for wildlife sightings. The Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, home to elephants, tigers, bison, and numerous bird species, offers optimal viewing conditions in March weather. The cooler temperatures compared to coastal areas make jungle safaris comfortable.

Key Thekkady experiences in March include:

• Periyar Lake Boat Safari: Early morning boat rides on Periyar Lake offer chances to spot wildlife coming to drink at the water's edge. The calm lake waters reflect the surrounding forest, creating magical scenes.
• Spice Plantation Tours: Walk through cardamom, pepper, cinnamon, and clove plantations. March weather makes these walking tours pleasant, and guides explain the cultivation and medicinal uses of various spices.
• Elephant Encounter: The Elephant Junction offers opportunities to interact with elephants, including feeding and bathing them. These ethical experiences provide close encounters while supporting animal welfare.

Things to Do in Kerala in March

Backwater Experiences

March's weather is ideal for exploring Kerala's famous backwaters. Beyond the popular houseboat stays, consider:

• Kayaking: Paddle through narrow canals inaccessible to larger boats, getting an up-close look at village life along the waterways.
• Shikara Rides: Traditional small boats offer sunset cruises through less crowded backwater channels.
• Village Walks: Many houseboat operators include guided village walks where you can experience coir making, toddy tapping, and traditional fishing techniques.

Beach Activities

Kerala's beaches in March offer excellent conditions for:

• Swimming and Sunbathing: Water temperatures are warm and inviting, while air temperatures create perfect sunbathing conditions.
• Water Sports: Surfing, parasailing, and jet skiing are available at Kovalam and Varkala beaches.
• Cliff Jumping: Varkala's cliff beaches offer opportunities for adventurous cliff jumping into the Arabian Sea.
• Beachside Dining: Fresh seafood restaurants offer beachfront dining with spectacular sunset views.

Cultural Experiences

March provides comfortable weather for:

• Kathakali Shows: Witness this elaborate dance-drama form with its distinctive costumes and makeup.
• Kalaripayattu: Watch Kerala's traditional martial art form in action at dedicated cultural centers.
• Temple Festivals: Some temples conduct festivals in March, featuring processions, traditional music, and elephant participation.
• Ayurveda Treatments: Many visitors combine their March trip with Ayurvedic treatments and massages. The pleasant weather enhances the rejuvenating experience.

Travel Tips for Kerala in March

Packing Essentials

For a comfortable March Kerala trip, pack:

• Light Cotton Clothes: Breathable fabrics for coastal areas and backwaters.
• Light Sweaters: Essential for Munnar and other hill stations where mornings and evenings can be cool.
• Comfortable Walking Shoes: Essential for plantation tours, fort exploration, and village walks.
• Sunscreen and Hat: Sun protection is crucial, especially between 11 AM and 3 PM.
• Rain Jacket: While March is mostly dry, occasional showers can occur, especially late in the month.
• Insect Repellent: Important for backwater areas and evenings, especially in forested regions.
• Swimwear: For beach and pool activities.

Booking Tips

• Advance Booking: While March is less crowded than peak season, popular properties still require advance booking, especially for weekends.
• Houseboat Selection: Choose reputable operators with good maintenance records. March allows flexibility in booking, but research is essential.
• Internal Travel: Book inter-city travel (cars, trains) in advance for better rates and confirmed availability.

March offers a perfect balance of weather, crowds, and pricing for Kerala travel. Whether you seek the misty hills of Munnar, the tranquil backwaters of Alleppey, the cultural richness of Kochi, or the wildlife of Thekkady, March provides ideal conditions to experience Kerala's diverse attractions at their authentic, un-crowded best.