15 Best Places to Visit in South India in March: Hill Stations, Beaches & Culture 🌿🌊🏛

Best Hill Stations to Visit in March

Munnar, Kerala

Munnar, a paradise of rolling tea plantations, misty hills, and abundant wildlife, is a top pick for March. The climate remains cool (15°C - 25°C), making it ideal for leisurely walks through tea estates and treks to panoramic viewpoints. The Eravikulam National Park, famous for the rare Nilgiri Tahr, is also open during this time, and March is when the Neelakurinji flowers may start blooming in some areas.

Things to do: Visit tea plantations, trek to Anamudi Peak, explore Eravikulam National Park.

Ooty, Tamil Nadu

Ooty, known as the Queen of Hill Stations, offers a refreshing escape in March with temperatures between 12°C - 22°C. The botanical gardens are in full bloom, and the Nilgiri Mountain Railway provides a nostalgic ride through tunnels and valleys. March is a great time to visit before summer crowds arrive.

Things to do: Ride the toy train, explore the Ooty Botanical Garden, enjoy boating at Ooty Lake.

Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu

Kodaikanal, with its mist-covered cliffs and pristine lakes, is another fantastic March getaway. Temperatures range from 13°C to 23°C, offering a cool and pleasant atmosphere. The scenic Coaker’s Walk, surrounded by pine forests, is perfect for a morning stroll. March is also a good time to witness cloud inversions at Dolphin’s Nose.

Things to do: Walk along Coaker’s Walk, visit Bryant Park, enjoy a boat ride on Kodai Lake.

Coorg, Karnataka

Coorg is famous for its lush coffee plantations, waterfalls, and rich Kodava culture. The 14°C to 26°C temperature makes it comfortable for plantation visits and hikes. The landscapes are green and fresh before the summer heat sets in. March is also the best time to visit the Dubare Elephant Camp before the summer rush begins.

Things to do: Take a coffee estate tour, hike to Abbey Falls, visit Dubare Elephant Camp.

Wayanad, Kerala

Wayanad, with its lush forests, wildlife sanctuaries, and ancient caves, offers a mix of adventure and relaxation. March temperatures range from 15°C to 30°C, and early mornings are ideal for trekking. The Edakkal Caves, featuring prehistoric carvings, are a highlight for history lovers.

Things to do: Explore Edakkal Caves, visit Banasura Sagar Dam, go on a wildlife safari in Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary.

Best Beaches to Visit in March

Varkala, Kerala

Varkala stands out with its cliffside beaches, mineral springs, and yoga retreats. March temperatures range from 24°C to 32°C, making it ideal for sunbathing and water activities. The beach offers breathtaking sunset views, and Ayurvedic spas in the area provide holistic relaxation.

Things to do: Try paragliding, enjoy an Ayurvedic massage, explore local seafood cafés.

Kovalam, Kerala

Kovalam is a popular beach town known for its crescent-shaped beaches and iconic lighthouse. The water remains warm and clear in March, and temperatures hover around 25°C to 33°C. Kovalam also offers surfing and catamaran rides, making it an adventure-friendly beach.

Things to do: Visit the lighthouse, try surfing, take a catamaran ride.

Gokarna, Karnataka

Gokarna is a quieter alternative to Goa, famous for its unspoiled beaches and spiritual atmosphere. The temperature in March ranges from 22°C to 34°C, making early mornings and evenings the best time to explore. Om Beach and Kudle Beach are ideal for relaxation and water sports.

Things to do: Beach hopping, sunset trekking, visit Mahabaleshwar Temple.

Pondicherry (Puducherry)

Pondicherry’s French charm, vibrant beaches, and colonial architecture make it a unique beach destination. March temperatures range from 23°C to 32°C, and it’s a great time to explore Auroville, White Town, and the scenic Promenade Beach.

Things to do: Explore White Town, visit Auroville, cycle along the Promenade.

Netrani Island, Karnataka

Netrani Island, also known as Pigeon Island, is a hidden gem off the coast of Karnataka, renowned for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life. This island is one of the best scuba diving spots in India, with colorful coral reefs, exotic fish, and even occasional sightings of whale sharks. The temperature in March ranges from 24°C to 32°C, making it an ideal time for water activities. Since the island is uninhabited, visitors must take a boat from Murudeshwar to reach this stunning diving destination.

Things to do: Go scuba diving or snorkeling, take a boat ride around the island, enjoy panoramic views from Murudeshwar Temple

Best Cultural Destinations to Visit in March

Hampi, Karnataka

Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage site, boasts stunning temple ruins and breathtaking landscapes. March temperatures can reach 36°C, so early morning sightseeing is recommended. The ruins of the Vijayanagara Empire transport you back in time.

Things to do: Visit Virupaksha Temple, climb Matanga Hill for sunrise, explore the Royal Enclosure.

Madurai, Tamil Nadu

Madurai, home to the magnificent Meenakshi Amman Temple, is a cultural powerhouse. March temperatures range from 24°C to 36°C, and it’s an excellent time to explore the city's vibrant temple festivals and food scene.

Things to do: Visit Meenakshi Temple, try street food, explore the Gandhi Museum.

Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu

Mahabalipuram is a UNESCO-listed town known for its ancient rock-cut temples and sculptures. March temperatures range from 25°C to 34°C, and the sea breeze makes exploration comfortable.

Things to do: See the Shore Temple, explore Pancha Rathas, visit Arjuna’s Penance.

Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu

Thanjavur is the birthplace of classical South Indian art and home to the Brihadeeswarar Temple. March temperatures reach 25°C - 37°C, so exploring in the early morning or evening is recommended.

Things to do: Visit Brihadeeswarar Temple, explore Thanjavur Palace, shop for Tanjore paintings.

Fort Kochi, Kerala

Fort Kochi offers a mix of colonial history, art, and a vibrant coastal culture. March temperatures range from 24°C to 33°C, making it a great time to explore on foot. The streets are lined with quirky cafés and art galleries.

Things to do: See the Chinese fishing nets, watch a Kathakali performance, visit the Jewish Synagogue.

Is It the Best Time to Visit South India?

March is undoubtedly a good time to visit South India, but whether it’s the best time depends on the specific destination and your personal preferences. The weather varies across the region, with pleasant conditions in hill stations, comfortable beach experiences in early March, and cultural destinations that may start heating up by the end of the month.

One of the biggest advantages of visiting in March is the cool and refreshing climate in hill stations like Munnar, Ooty, Kodaikanal, Coorg, and Wayanad, where temperatures range between 10°C and 25°C. This makes it an excellent time for trekking, sightseeing, and enjoying nature walks before the summer heat sets in. Beaches like Varkala, Kovalam, Gokarna, and Pondicherry are also enjoyable, with temperatures between 22°C and 34°C. However, coastal humidity can rise in late March, making early mornings and evenings the best time to explore.

Another benefit of traveling in March is that it’s a shoulder season—meaning there are fewer tourists and better deals on accommodations and flights compared to the peak winter months of December to February. It’s also a great time for cultural experiences, as many festivals take place in March, including Holi in Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, the Meenakshi Temple Festival in Madurai, and Theyyam performances in Kerala.

However, March may not be ideal for all destinations. Cultural and historical sites like Hampi, Madurai, Mahabalipuram, Thanjavur, and Fort Kochi can experience rising temperatures (up to 36-38°C) by the end of the month, making afternoon sightseeing uncomfortable. Wildlife safaris in places like Bandipur, Periyar, and Kabini might also be less rewarding, as many animals move deeper into forests due to the dry conditions. If wildlife spotting is a priority, April and May are better as animals gather around water sources. Coastal areas, especially the Kerala backwaters, start to become more humid, though early March remains pleasant.

Verdict: Should You Visit South India in March?

✅ Yes! March is a great time to visit hill stations, beaches (especially in early March), and cultural destinations if you don’t mind a little warmth. The combination of pleasant weather, lower travel costs, and vibrant festivals makes it a fantastic time for an immersive travel experience.

⚠️ Maybe not if you dislike hot weather and plan to visit lowland heritage sites like Hampi or Madurai in late March, as temperatures can be high.

If you prefer cooler weather across all regions, November to February is the best time to visit South India. However, if you can handle a bit of warmth, March still offers a well-balanced travel experience with fewer crowds and unique cultural events. 😊