Kerala in March: Weather, Experiences & Travel Guide For a Perfect Spring Escape

The warm breeze, shimmering backwaters, and fading in March. It’s a beautiful time to explore all your favourite destinations, local shops and romantic viewpoints in Kerala. Local festivals like Paripally Gajamela and Attukal Pongala also take their grand form during this season.

March in Kerala is that pleasant time of the year that occurs between February’s rush and April’s heat. Locals call this duration a ‘sweet spot’ for savvy travellers. The expenses are light on the pocket, and there’s lush greenery everywhere, offering endless relaxation.

If this is what your ideal trip to Kerala looks like, read further to plan your dream itinerary.

Table Of Content

Is March a Good Time to Visit Kerala?

Yes, March is a good time to visit Kerala, and here’s why.

• Ideal season for all types of travellers who want to avoid peak-season prices.
• Transition month with dry weather, fewer tourists, and cheaper stays.
• Pleasant weather with clear skies, making exploration convenient.

Kerala In March Weather: What to Expect?

The weather in Kerala in March brings cool evenings and sunny afternoons. Summer is just around the corner with gentle breezes and clear skies. Travellers who love boat rides, hill exploration and beach walks prefer to arrive here during this time.

• Average temperatures: 24°C to 34°C.
• Coastal regions (Kochi, Alleppey): warm & breezy.
• Hill stations (Munnar, Wayanad): cooler and crisp.
• Rainfall: minimal to none; dry season continues.

Kerala In March Weather Breakdown by Region

Kochi, Varkala, and Munnar are among the best places to visit in Kerala in March. Each offers a unique experience that ranges from serene backwaters , rangingand lively beaches to tranquil hill views.

Best Places to Visit in Kerala in March

Whether you prefer backwater boat rides, summer beaches, or cosy hill stations, Kerala in March has something for everyone. Given below is a detailed guide for each destination, so you can plan your itinerary accordingly.

For Backwaters & Beaches

If you like wildlife viewing, comfortable houseboat trips and cultural immersions, the backwaters are for you. But if you enjoy a lively experience with water sport adventures and relaxation, the beaches call you.

1. Alleppey & Kumarakom 

These famous backwater attractions offer exciting local culture, delicious seafood and lots of fun. When visiting Kerala in March, both destinations attract fewer crowds and offer houseboat stays at significant discounts.

• Things to do – birdwatching, boat rides, and local cuisines
• Places to visit – Alappuzha Beach, Kumarakom bird sanctuary, Vembanad Lake, Ambalapuzha Sri Krishna Temple
• Ideal for – Family and offbeat travellers

2. Varkala 

From cafe hopping to paragliding and sunset cruises, Varkala is a dream destination for travellers who love a chill experience. In March, the weather is ideal for a variety of water activities, from surfing to swimming.

• Things to do – Beach relaxation, water sports, explore cliff-top cafes
• Places to visit – Papanasam Beach, Anjuthengu Fort, Varkala Aquarium
• Ideal for – Friends and cousins

3. Marari Beach 

A less commercial location offering a restful experience, Marari Beach is ideal for travelling in March. It is dry, comfortable and pleasant, making it best for a visit.

• Things to do – Relax on the beach, go for a swim, practice yoga and get a massage
• Places to visit – St. Andrew’s Church in Arthunkal, Mariculum fishing village, St. Andrew’s Church, Arthunkal
• Ideal for – Solo travellers and couples who love leisure

For Hills & Wildlife

For those looking for serene places to visit in Kerala in March, the hill stations are perfect. They are loved by solo travellers, families and couples alike.

1. Munnar 

The tea gardens and lush greenery all look even more surreal in March. This season is also ideal to go trekking in case you are here with family and friends.

• Things to do – Explore the tea gardens, guided tours, and romantic viewpoints
• Places to visit – Eravikulam National Park, Top Station, Echo Point, and Kundala Dam Lake for boating
• Ideal for – Couples and solo travellers

2. Wayanad 

When in Wayanad in March, the wildlife sanctuaries are a must-visit. The Edakkal caves here are also very famous for attracting tourists from all around the globe during this time of the year.

• Things to do – Visit wildlife sanctuaries, tea gardens, caves and waterfalls
• laces to visit – Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, Edakkal Caves
• Ideal for – Couples and friends

3. Thekkady/ Periyar 

Thekkady and Periyar are both ideal places to travel in Kerala in March. Both of them offer a variety of activities and things to do during this time that are cheaper and less crowded.

• Things to do – Wildlife safari, bamboo rafting, spice garden exploration, adventure sports
• Places to visit – Periyar Tiger Reserve, Periyar Lake, Mullaperiyar River, Kumily
• Ideal for – Couples and families.

For Culture & History

The climate in Kerala in March is ideal for visiting places like Thrissur, Fort Kochi and Palakkad. They are not only cheaper during this time, but also offer unique cultural experiences.

1. Thrissur 

March in Thrissur is all about the beats of the drum and temple rituals. It is also the cultural capital of India, offering a variety of sacred temples to visit. Although the weather is slightly warm, it is quiet and authentic, making it perfect for a visit.

• Things to do – Explore temples, watch cultural performances, visit museums, and try local cuisine.
• Places to visit – Vadakkunnathan Temple, Shakthan Thampuran Palace, Kerala Kalamandalam, Thrissur Zoo, Punnathur Kotta Elephant Sanctuary.
• Festivals to Attend: Pooram preview events, temple festivals, and early rehearsals for Thrissur Pooram.
• Ideal for – Photographers, families and culture lovers

2. Fort Kochi 

Fort Kochi looks surreal in March with gentle sea breezes and sunset views ideal for Chinese fishing nets. It is also popular for it’s colonial charm and art cafes.

• Things to do – Stroll along the beach, visit art cafés, explore street murals, and take heritage walks.
• Places to visit – St. Francis Church, Mattancherry Palace, Jew Town, Paradesi Synagogue, Fort Kochi Beach.
• Festivals to Attend – Kochi Muziris Biennale, temple festivals in nearby Ernakulam.
• Ideal for – Art lovers, history buffs, couples, and anyone who enjoys culture with a sea view.

3. Palakkad 

The lesser-known forts and rustic vibes of Palakkad offer the kind of peace you crave in Kerala in March. It is also popular for its local culture and traditions, which are visible in its grand festivals.

• Things to do – Visit heritage sites, take nature walks, enjoy local cuisine, and explore rural life.
• Places to visit – Palakkad Fort, Malampuzha Dam & Gardens, Silent Valley National Park, Kalpathy Heritage Village, and Dhoni Hills.
• Festivals to Attend – Kalpathy Chariot Festival (if dates align), local temple festivals.
• Ideal for – History lovers, nature seekers, families, and offbeat travellers.

Things to do in Kerala in March

• Take a springtime houseboat cruise
• Visit tea estates in bloom inMunnar
• Spot wildlife in Periyar & Wayanad
• Go beach hopping, especially in Varkala, Kovalam, and Bekal
• Attend cultural festivals
• Experience Ayurveda treatments as March is thegreat season to detox before summer.

Festivals & Events in Kerala in March

Kerala in March hosts many grand festivals, known for their unique rituals and traditions. The Attukal Pongala is an all-women gathering, while Chettikulangara Bharani is a parade of horse effigies.

1. Attukal Pongala (Thiruvananthapuram)

Held in Attukal Bhagavathy temple every year, Attukal Pongala is a 10-day festival.

• What to do – Witness millions of women preparing Pongal (a special rice)
• Highlights – Largest all-women gathering in the world, multiple unique rituals
• Importance – Celebrates good over evil
• Why travellers can’t miss – The festival has been recognised by the Guinness World Records for its large female gathering and women’s empowerment.

2. Paripally Gajamela (Kollam)

The largest elephant festival  Kodimoottil Bhagavathy Temple every year.

• What to do – Watch the parade, click photos, and enjoy folk performances and temple festivities.
• Highlights – Ornate elephants, colourful parasols, and powerful traditional drumming.
• Importance – Dedicated to Goddess Bhadrakali
• Why travellers can’t miss – One of the most unique festivals in Kerala in March

3. Pooram Festivals (Across Kerala)

These are grand temple celebrations in Kerala in March that are rooted in ancient traditions. The most famous of them all is the Thrissur Pooram festival.

• What to Do: Attend the processions, enjoy the cultural performances and watch the fireworks
• Highlights: The vibrant elephant parades, colourful umbrellas and lively crowd
• Importance: Honouring temple deities and marking unity among local communities.
• Why Travellers Can’t Miss It: One of the most interesting festivals with culture, dance and music

Suggested Itineraries For Kerala in March

Planning a trip to Kerala in March can be tough when doing it all by yourself. That’s why we’ve curated three comprehensive itineraries for your convenience. Each of them caters to a different budget type. So, you can choose one that fits you best.

5-Day Itinerary (Culture + Nature)

Route: Kochi, Munnar, Alleppey and back to Kochi

Day-wise Plan:

• Day 1: Get to Kochi, enjoy Fort Kochi, Marine Drive and Mattancherry
• Day 2–3: Drive to Munnar, enjoy the stunning tea gardens, Eravikulam National Park, and waterfalls.
• Day 4: Head to Alleppey for a houseboat stay on the backwaters.
• Day 5: Return to Kochi (shop and take leisure strolls to cover the place)

Highlights: Kochi’s heritage charm, Munnar’s misty hills and Alleppey’s cosy houseboats
Tips: Light woollens for the hills. In case you want a houseboat ride, book in advance.
Average Package Cost: ₹25,000–₹35,000 per head
Inclusions: Accommodation, breakfast, transport, sightseeing, and houseboat meals.
Exclusions: Flights, entry tickets, and personal expenses.

7-Day Itinerary (Backwaters + Wildlife)

Route: Trivandrum, Varkala, Thekkady, Kumarakom, and Kochi

Day-wise Plan:

• Day 1–2: Head to Trivandrum and relax at Varkala Beach.
• Day 3–4: Visit Thekkady for Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary and a spice plantation tour.
• Day 5–6: Head to Kumarakom for birdwatching and backwater cruising.
• Day 7: Explore Kochi before you leave

Highlights: Backwater bliss, wildlife safaris, and coastal serenity.
Tip: Wear comfortable shoes for Thekkady, as there’s a lot of walking.
Average Package Cost: ₹35,000–₹50,000 per head
Inclusions: Accommodation, transfers, breakfast, wildlife and boat tours.
Exclusions: Airfare, optional activities, and personal expenses.

10-Day Offbeat March Trip

Route: Kozhikode, Wayanad, Palakkad, Athirapally and Fort Kochi

Day-wise Plan:

• Day 1–2: Arrive at Kozhikode’s beaches and enjoy their delicious local cuisine.
• Day 3–4: Click pictures of the waterfalls, visit the mysterious caves, and forests in Wayanad.
• Day 5–6: Visit Palakkad Fort, Silent Valley, and rural villages.
• Day 7–8: Travel to Athirapally for scenic waterfalls and nature walks.
• Day 9–10: Visit Fort Kochi, exploring art cafés and heritage spots.

Highlights: Offbeat destinations, lush landscapes, and authentic Kerala culture.
Tips: Ideal for slow travellers who prefer nature over crowds.
Average Package Cost: ₹45,000–₹65,000 per head.
Inclusions: Accommodation, transfers, guided tours, and select meals.
Exclusions: Flights, entry fees, and personal spending.

Pros & Cons of Visiting Kerala in March

While Kerala in March offers pleasant weather, grand festivals and lively vibes, afternoons can be warm. Here’s a list of both pros and cons of visiting Kerala during this time, so you can plan your trip wisely.

Pros:

• Lesser crowds, which means more peaceful sightseeing
• Cheaper rates everywhere, including tours and stays
• The weather is pleasant and comfortable for visiting beaches and hill stations
• Cultural festivals are in full swing

Cons:

• Afternoons are warm and humid in the coastal regions of Kerala
• Pre-summer dryness may brown out some landscapes

Travel Tips For March Travel in Kerala

• Drink enough water – Don’t litter plastic bottles, get your own reusable water bottle
• Plan morning sightseeing – To avoid the scorching sun (carry a sunscreen in either case)
• Pack light cottons – Don’t let the sun get to you
• Pre-book houseboats & hill station stays – Enjoy the romantic views with your loved one

What to Pack For Kerala in March?

• Carry breathable summer wear (preferably cotton).
• Don’t forget your sunscreen, hat and sunglasses to avoid sun damage.
• Carry swimwear for houseboats and beaches.
• A light jacket for the cool weather in Munnar and Thekkady.
• Insect repellent (especially for backwater areas).

Why Book Your March Kerala Holiday With TravelTriangle?

• Customised tour packages for all types of travellers
• Exclusive discounts on stays, transport, and houseboat rides in Kerala in March
• Verified curated experiences and local hosts
• 24/7 support throughout your journey

Conclusion

Kerala in March looks beautiful, with pleasant weather and a comfortable climate. The water rides, houseboat tours and local cuisines await you this season. If you’re ready to book your trip to Kerala , make sure you book an affordable package with TravelTriangle to get your dream package now. Talk to our experts now!

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Image Sources: Wikimedia Commons, Facebook, Pexels and Pixabay.

FAQs About Kerala In March

Is Kerala too hot in March for travel?

No, the weather is mostly pleasant with warm afternoons and cool evenings. This is Ideal for travelling and sightseeing across the country.

Is March a good month for houseboats in Alleppey?

Yes. March is the most favourable time for houseboat tours in Alleppey, as the backwaters shimmer with the warm hues of the sun.

Are beaches safe and swimmable in March?

Yes. Most beaches in Kerala are safe and suitable for swimming in March. However, we recommend checking the tides before engaging in water activities and performing them under the supervision of local experts.

Will I get to see wildlife in March?

Yes. Places like Periyar and Wayanad wildlife sanctuaries are home to exotic species in Kerala in March. Do take the safari rides with your family and friends for a fun experience.

Are there any unique festivals in March?

Yes. Attukal Pongala and Thrissur Pooram are some of the grandest and most unique festivals in Kerala in March.

How many days should I plan for Kerala in March?

Depending on your budget, you can plan a trip to Kerala in March for 5, 7, or even 10 days.

Are there any offbeat places worth exploring in March?

There are many. Alleppey, Munnar, and Varkala are among the most offbeat places worth exploring in Kerala in March.

Are there mosquitoes in Kerala in March?

Yes. Some places do have mosquitoes in Kerala in March. That is why it is recommended to carry a mosquito repellent to avoid inconveniences.

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