Thailand Weather in March

In March, Thailand has entered the hot season as weather grows increasingly scorching. However, the upside is that there is little rainfall and the number of tourists is low. Overall, it can be considered a cost-effective travel period.

Hot Overall

In March, temperatures across Thailand frequently exceed 36 degrees Celsius (97 degrees Fahrenheit); however, variations in terrain and elevation gives rise to significantly different physical sensations in various regions.

Affected by its relatively high altitude and inland terrain, northern Thailand sees significant day-night temperature variations. For instance, in Chiang Mai, the daytime highs can reach 38 to 40℃ (100 - 104℉), while the nighttime lows drop to 17 to 23℃ (63 - 73℉). Specifically, the early mornings and evenings are pleasant and comfortable - air conditioning is not even necessary. However, the days are swelteringly hot. Fortunately, with an average humidity of only 50%, the air is comparatively dry - sweat evaporates quickly, leaving no sticky discomfort, making the overall experience relatively tolerable.

The central region’s flat terrain, coupled with the urban heat island effect, has substantially narrowed the diurnal temperature range. For example, in Bangkok, the daytime highs range from 34 - 39℃ (93 - 102℉), and nights offer little relief, with low hovering around 27 - 29℃ (81 - 84℉). To make matters worse, the water vapor rising from the Chao Phraya River keeps humidity levels steady at around 71%, increasing the muggy feeling - you’ll feel sticky even when stepping out in the morning or evening, and by noon, it’s like walking into a sauna.

The overall temperature in southern Thailand is comparable to that in the central region. However, the coastal cities are blessed with sea breezes, which can effectively alleviate some of the stuffiness.

Generally Low Rainfall

Average precipitation: 37 mm from 4 rainy days

In March, the rainfall across Thailand is generally low. The average monthly precipitation in the north and central regions is basically no more than 30 mm, with less than 3 rainy days. Even in the south, which is influenced by marine moisture, the rainfall is still not high. For example, the average monthly precipitation in Phuket is only 59 mm, with 6 rainy days.

At this time, the rainfall is mostly localized showers: often, it can be sunny one moment, then sudden raindrops the next, and usually clears up again in just ten minutes. Even across the street, it is often the case that one side is experiencing a downpour while the other side remains dry. Such showers barely disrupt travel plans.

Severe Haze

Influenced by the traditional slash-and-burn agricultural model, northern Thailand experiences the severest haze of the year in March, thus making the city rank among those with the worst air quality worldwide.

At this time, the sky is shrouded in a thick haze, the distant mountains become hazy and indistinct, and the air is filled with a pungent smell of smoke. Long-term exposure to such an environment is highly likely to cause respiratory discomfort.