Thailand in March: Temperatures are starting to rise!
Releasing turtles into the sea
It can be said that with the month of March, the hot period has arrived throughout Thailand. Temperatures of about 30-40°C are then even possible. What kind of activities are you going to do with that heat? Perhaps lying on the beach, but wait there is much more to experience in the month of March.
Despite the warm weather, there are still many fun attractions and fantastic activities, such as water sports and beaches, which are perfect for the hot month of March. A traditional festival that takes place in this month is the “Releasing Turtles into the Sea of Phang Nga”. Once the festival is over, the sea trips from Phang Nga begin.
Another choice is to head to the northeastern region, where there are no beaches, but a rich and valuable culture and traditions. Examples of traditional festivals include “Bun Phawet” or 'Bun Mahachat' in Roi Et, which is a major traditional event that takes place annually in March.
Koh Similan in Phang Nga
The hot month of March is the time to brave the sun's rays, jump in the water and challenge the warm breeze. Start at Kok Similan in Phang Nga, the largest island of Mu Ko Similan. The sea is very clear and green like emerald, and the beach looks white because of the fine sand. This place is perfect for water activities like diving to see the corals and explore the beauty of the fishes and sea turtles. Another highlight is the gigantic rock cliff with a panoramic viewpoint. Climb up to appreciate the view with your own eyes. It's phenomenal and it's no wonder that both Thai and foreign tourists keep coming here.
Koh Similan in Phang Nga
Releasing turtles into the sea
Another festival also held in March is “Releasing Turtles into the Sea” which attracts both Thai and foreign tourists. There are many activities, such as the sea turtle conservation exhibition, OTOP products for sale, some entertainment to enjoy during the evening hours, etc. Besides Thale Phang Nga, Phu Khao Ya in Ranong is another landmark where you can enjoy the warm breeze March can defy. Phu Khao Ya are complex grassy hills, without trees. One of the beautiful places which is totally unique. There are more challenging activities in March. Just jumping into the water, rafting, enjoying a waterfall excursion are fantastic activities.
Not only does jumping into the water help to escape the heat, but it is also a good opportunity to admire nature up close. River rafting can be done in many regions of Thailand; for example at Srinagarind Dam, SaiYok, Thong Pha Phum, Kanchanaburi Province; Rajjaprabha Dam, Surat Thani Province; Patho Rafting, Chumphon Province; Sirindhorn Dam, Ubon Ratchathani Province, or even in the northern region, which is Mae Ngat Dam, Chiang Mai Province.
Cave exploration in Lam Khlong Ngu national park
Cave exploration in Lam Khlong Ngu national park
Another activity that adventure lovers cannot miss and is great for escaping the March heat is “Cave Exploration in Lam Khlong Ngu National Park” in Kanchanaburi, a place of abundant nature, both trees and wildlife. The highlight is exploring many large caves in this area. The most popular caves are Sao Hin Cave and Swallow's Cave.
You need a good level of fitness because of the activities that await you, including trekking, jumping and floating in the water. Some parts of the route are slippery, while other parts are steep and full of rocks. It can be said that this is definitely a challenging place for adventurous travellers.
Bun Phawet Fair -Editorial Credit: indyeyes/Shutterstock.com
Bun Phawet Fair
In addition to the adventurous activities and amazing attractions, there is another interesting religious ceremony held in March that must be attended. It is the Bun Phawet Fair or Mahachat Merit-making Fair of Roi Et Province. This fair is held annually at the beginning of March. It is a religious fair with many traditional values. The monks come to the fair for a sermon on Phra Wessandon and during the sermon there are 13 processions following the 13 chapters of the Mahachat sermon. At the fair there are some Khao Pun shops where visitors can get a giveaway Khao Poon Pun (Thai vermicelli). The objectives of the fair are to promote Buddhism, preserve and promote the traditional culture of Roi Et, promote tourism and strengthen the good relationship between the people.
It sounds absolutely perfect for the attractions, activities and ceremonies that take place in March. However, there is much more to discover and experience for visitors.