Kerala in March: Late Season Weather and Where to Go

March brings rising heat and humidity to Kerala, but with smart timing you can still enjoy beaches, backwaters and hill stations without the crowds.

Weather patterns and what to expect

By March, Kerala is transitioning from the cool, dry spell of January and February to the pre-monsoon heat. Daytime temperatures along the coast climb to 32–34°C, while the hill stations like Munnar stay pleasant at 20–25°C. Humidity increases, especially in the afternoons, and brief thunderstorms can occur, mostly in the evenings. The Arabian Sea is warm, and sea breezes offer some relief on the beaches. Unlike the peak season, rainfall is infrequent, so outdoor activities remain largely unaffected. However, the sun is intense, so plan sightseeing for early mornings and late afternoons, and stay hydrated.

The first half of March is generally drier and slightly cooler than the second half. If you're sensitive to heat, aim for the early part of the month. Also, note that the Malayalam New Year, Vishu, falls in mid-April, so March is relatively free of major festivals, meaning fewer crowds at popular spots. This makes it an ideal time for a quieter experience, but do check the Hindu calendar for any regional temple festivals that might cause temporary closures or traffic diversions.

Where to go: coast, backwaters or hills?

For beach lovers, the southern coast around Kovalam and Varkala is a good bet. Kovalam's Lighthouse Beach and Hawa Beach are less crowded than in December, and you can find sunbeds without hassle. Varkala's cliff-top restaurants offer stunning views, and the sea is calm enough for swimming. Further north, Bekal in Kasaragod district has a quieter beach and a historic fort. If you prefer backwaters, Alleppey (Alappuzha) and Kumarakom are excellent; the houseboat experience is more pleasant in March than in the peak monsoon, though midday heat can be stifling, so choose a boat with good shade and fans.

The hill stations of Munnar, Thekkady and Wayanad offer a refreshing escape. Munnar's tea plantations are lush, and the temperature is perfect for hiking. Thekkady's Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is great for boat safaris, and you might spot elephants and bison. Wayanad's caves and waterfalls are also worth exploring. However, note that March is not the best time for wildlife sightings as animals tend to stay in the shade. If you had to pick one, I'd recommend Munnar for its cool climate and scenic beauty. For heritage, Kochi's Fort Kochi and Mattancherry offer colonial architecture and art galleries, but the heat can be draining, so explore in the early morning.

Practical tips for a March visit

Book your accommodation in advance, especially in popular spots like Munnar and Alleppey, as March is still part of the tourist season and good hotels fill up. However, you might find better rates than in December. For houseboats, confirm that the boat has a shaded deck and fans; some operators offer air-conditioned bedrooms, which are worth the extra cost. When it comes to food, stick to freshly cooked meals and drink bottled water to avoid stomach issues. Carry light, breathable clothing, a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen. Also, pack a light raincoat or umbrella for occasional showers.

Transport between destinations can be time-consuming; for example, the drive from Kochi to Munnar takes about 4 hours, and from Thiruvananthapuram to Kovalam is just 30 minutes. Consider hiring a car with a driver for flexibility. If you're relying on trains, book tickets early, as many routes are busy. For internal flights, Kochi and Thiruvananthapuram have airports. Also, be aware that March 8th is International Women's Day, which might be celebrated in some hotels with special events. Finally, keep an eye on the weather forecast; if a heatwave is predicted, adjust your plans to include more indoor activities or take a break during the hottest part of the day.

Where to stay: recommendations

In Munnar, choose a hotel or resort with good views and a garden; many are located around Chithirapuram and Pothamedu. For backwaters, Alleppey has numerous houseboats and homestays; I'd suggest staying overnight on a houseboat for a unique experience. In Kochi, Fort Kochi has boutique hotels in heritage buildings, while the Ernakulam area offers modern comforts. For beaches, Kovalam has resorts ranging from budget to luxury, and Varkala has cliff-top guesthouses with sea views. If you're heading to Wayanad, Vythiri and Kalpetta have eco-resorts and homestays.

Given the current demand on our site, we see many searches for Kerala, Thrissur, Thiruvananthapuram, Malappuram and Kanhangad. If you're interested in culture, Thrissur is known for its temples and the Thrissur Pooram festival (though that's in April/May). Thiruvananthapuram, the capital, has palaces and museums. Malappuram and Kanhangad are less touristy but offer authentic experiences. Based on your itinerary, I would book a hotel in Munnar for the hills and in Alleppey for the backwaters, as these offer the best escape from the heat. Use our site to compare prices and read reviews; with 63 hotel views and 6 checkouts recently, there's active interest, so book soon to secure your preferred choice.

Questions, answered

Is March a good time to visit Kerala?

Yes, March is a good time if you don't mind the heat. It's less crowded than peak season, and hill stations remain pleasant. Be prepared for rising temperatures and humidity, especially in the afternoons, and plan activities accordingly.

What should I pack for Kerala in March?

Pack light, breathable clothing, a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. A light raincoat or umbrella is useful for occasional showers. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring hill stations and heritage sites.

Which places are best to visit in Kerala in March?

Munnar and Wayanad for cooler climates, Alleppey for backwaters, and Kovalam or Varkala for beaches. Kochi offers heritage and culture. Avoid the hottest part of the day and stay hydrated.

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