In a subcontinent known for its scorching summers, March is the month of love when it comes to travel. With pleasant, airy weather and plenty of festivals across the country, it’s the time when India comes alive with travel experiences that are bound to change your world. It’s also the perfect time to try your hand at the various outdoor activities that the country offers.
As for your dream spot, India offers a spectacular variety of experiences that you ought to explore. Be it trekking on the scenic hills amidst mountains or river rafting in one of the country’s most sensational rivers, March signifies a season of limitless opportunities when it comes to travel.
Here are 11 memorable places that you can visit this March before the heat truly settles in.
Lakshadweep or One Lakh Islands is a breathtaking archipelago of nearly a hundred islands scattered over the Arabian Sea off the southwestern coast of India. It is India’s smallest union territory with Kavaratti as its capital. It’s a region known for India’s coral islands and is famed for its mesmerizing blue waters and natural beauty that has not been diminished owing to too much industrialization or modernization.
It’s no secret that Lakshadweep is primarily known for the view of its splendid waters and the gorgeous sights it entails. The islet of Minicoy or Maliku is one such example of a spot that will enthrall you with its sapphire-colored seas and peaceful, uninterrupted travel experience. You could also visit the lagoon of Bangaram Island or go scuba diving and uncover the flora and fauna of the deep seas at Agatti or Kadmat Islands. Visiting in March means plenty of sunbathing, watersports, and outdoor exploration without heat and exhaustion getting in the way.
Also read: Top 7 Things To Do In Lakshadweep
By Air:
The Agatti Airport on the island of the same name is the only airport in Lakshadweep. It is connected through flights via the Cochin Airport. From Agatti Airport, one can avail of the helicopter facilities to travel to Kavaratti or any of the other islands/islets.
By Sea:
MV Amindivi, MV Arabian Sea, MV Bharat Seema, MV Dweep Setu, MV Kavaratti, MV Lakshadweep Sea, and MV Minicoy are the seven ships through which you can gain sea-way access to the archipelago of Lakshadweep. Comfort and associated amenities depend on the nature and price of the seat booked. The sea-way journey from Cochin to Lakshadweep may take anywhere between 14-20 hours.
If you’re a kid born in the 90’s in the south, then you’ve probably heard your parents reminisce about their honeymoon in the picturesque hill station of Ooty in Tamil Nadu. Known for its expansive view of the tea plantations and the scenic hill ranges, Ooty has been an evergreen romantic spot for the last several decades. It’s also known for another rare specialty - the Neelakurinji, which is a shrub that flowers only once in twelve years, staining the hills a deep purple color.
Also read: 12 Things You Must Do In Ooty For A Trip Worth Remembering
Some of the must-visit places in Ooty include the Ooty Botanical Gardens, the Deer Park, and the Doddabetta Peak. If you want to kick back and seek respite on the banks of Ooty’s fine rivers, then have no fear, because this hill station is the place to be. The Emerald Lake lives true to its name with waters the color of the precious gem glistening over the peak and the Avalanche Lake is perfect for adventure activities like trekking, hiking, and even river rafting!
If you’re a history buff and want a more rounded understanding of what makes this tiny hill station in the south so special, then visit the Tea Museum at Doddabetta Road for a deeper insight into the indispensable cultural and historical role the beverage has played in the backdrop of the town.
Also read: 7 Best Luxury Hotels In Ooty For A Romantic Getaway
By Air:
The Coimbatore International Airport is the closest airport and is distanced at around 87.2 kilometers from the hill station. This airport is known for its high connectivity with other prime cities of the country with regard to domestic flights and is also perfect for international tourists. You can cover the rest of the distance via taxicab services available at the airport.
By Train:
If you want to reach Ooty by train, your safest bet would be to book a train to the Mettupalayam Railway Station in Mettupalayam, Coimbatore. This railway station, which is 40 kilometers from the city, is perfectly accessible across the various Indian states and major cities.
The Nilgiris Mountain Railway is a service directed more towards tourists than residents, which covers the 46-kilometer route to Ooty in colorful, aesthetic trains to make the journey unforgettable. However, this service is unreliable as a mode of transportation as it only operates on limited timings.
By Road:
Ooty is a city that is tailor-made for road journeys. Not only is it well-connected and makes travel fairly easy, but the spectacular locale makes the journey itself stunning. The National Highway 181 facilitates travel via the city of Coimbatore. The National Highways 209 and 275 connect the city of Bangalore with Ooty. The National Highway 275K also connects Ooty with other cities in the south like Bantwala and Calicut.
If there is one city that has propelled India to the international front in terms of its aesthetic beauty and cultural significance, it is Agra. Located on the banks of the Yamuna river and home to so many of India’s historical landmarks, Agra is to India what India is to the world; a crowning jewel.
A city that bloomed under the reign of the Mughals in the 1500s, today, Agra is located in the state of Uttar Pradesh continuing to be the hub of learning, culture, and aesthetic advancement. It is home to two of the UNESCO World Heritage sites; the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort and is, therefore, a trip that would guarantee both fun and enlightenment!
Also read: 9 Awesome Hostels In Agra For The Passionate Backpacker
One of the main sites that you ought to include in your Agra itinerary includes the Fatehpur Sikri, which is a structure founded by Emperor Akbar, done up entirely in red sandstone. Other monuments of significance on this site include Jodha Bai's Palace, Jama Mosque, and Buland Darwaza. What is an Agra visit without the Taj Mahal? This symbol of eternal, undying love has remained one for the books for decades and is entirely worth the visit to get that perfect click of you holding the tip of the minaret.
The Agra Fort and the Tomb of Itimad-ud-Daulah are also must-visit spots in the city. If you’re closer to nature than history, do make it a point to visit the Elephant Conservation and Care Center and Agra Bear Rescue Center while you’re there!
Also read: Exploring Agra - The Agra Travel Guide
By Air:
While Agra’s domestic airport is the Kheria Airport, international flyers will have to book a flight to the Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi and cover the rest of the distance to the city (229 kilometers) via taxicab or bus from the airport.
By Train:
There are five railway stations in Agra - Agra Cantt Station (the main station), Agra Fort Railway Station, Raja ki Mandi, Agra City, and Idgah Railway Station, and these stations are well-connected to other prime cities in the country through local and fast trains seven days a week.
By Bus:
The Idgah Bus Stand and the ISBT are the two interstate bus stands in the city that make travel to and from most major Indian cities easy and convenient. Buses ply to and from these stands frequently.
Rameswaram is a tiny municipality located on Pamban Island in the state of Tamil Nadu. While this tiny locality might not seem like much at first glance, it’s of great significance in Hindu mythology and is regarded as the bridge across Lanka that Lord Rama built to protect his wife Sita from Ravana’s advances. It is perhaps renowned most for housing the Rameswaram Shiva Temple, which is one of the world’s most religious spots for Vaishnavites and Shivaites.
Also read: 8 Things To Do In Rameswaram For An Awesome Holiday
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As mentioned before, the Rameswaram Shiva Temple is of great interest to visitors - and for good reason! Regardless of your religious affiliation, the temple is also an architectural phenomenon and a sight to behold! The Agnitheertham on the shores of the Sri Ramanathaswamy temple is also a spiritually charged site worth visiting.
Rameswaram, which is also known for being the humble birthplace of Late Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam, also has the A. P. J. Abdul Kalam House and Memorial which honor his legacy and small beginnings.
Apart from the temples, Rameswaram, being a coastal municipality, boasts of its own assortment of stunning beaches like Ariyaman Beach, Olaikuda Beach, and Dhanushkodi Beach.
By Air:
The Madurai Airport, located 175 kilometers from Rameswaram, is well-connected to all the major cities of the country like Chennai, Mumbai, Bangalore, etc. and has recently begun accepting International flights too.
By Train:
The Rameswaram Railway Station is known for its high connectivity to other cities via rail and is your best bet to travel to the little municipality.
By Bus:
The Tamil Nadu State Road Transport Corporation buses offer a safe and convenient passage to and from the region connecting it across the country. You can also opt for your own car or avail of private bus facilities to traverse the region by road.
Andaman and Nicobar Islands, an archipelago of nearly 527 islands is located to the east of the Bay of Bengal and is known for its presence of pristine white beaches and bright blue waters. The Havelock Island or the Swaraj Island is the largest Island of the Ritchie’s Archipelago in Andaman and is often considered a paradise for watersports enthusiasts and connoisseurs of peaceful vacation spots.
Also read: 7 Fun Things To Do In Andaman And Nicobar Islands
Known for its exceptional views and white sandy beaches, Havelock Island is primed for beach-lovers from across the world. The Elephant Beach, with its assortment of corals and reefs, is one such spot that is perfect for water activities like kayaking, scuba diving, snorkeling, etc. If you’re one who cannot get enough of beaches, go visit the Great Radhanagar Beach, Vijaynagar Beach, the Laxmanpur Beach, or the Niel Beach.
By Air:
To reach Havelock Island, you would have to book a flight to the Veer Savarkar International Airport located in Port Blair, Andaman. From Port Blair, avail of the seaplane facilities offered by the Pawan Hans Helicopters Limited which will enable you to fly to the island in less than 20 minutes on Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays.
Also read: Experiencing Scuba Diving In The Andamans
By Water:
Once you reach Port Blair, you can avail of the catamaran ferry or the government ferry services to Havelock Island which will entail a journey of around 2.5 to 3 hours.
‘Pink City’, ‘Island of Glory’, ‘The Paris of India’ - this gorgeous capital city located in the northern state of Rajasthan has many sobriquets owing to its enchanting architecture and beautiful tourist sensibilities. Known for its monuments, desert dunes, and distinct cultural artifacts, Jaipur might prove to be an endeavor in the summers because of its temperatures that might touch 50°C. That paired with the once-in-a-lifetime experience of the Jaipur Elephant Festival gives you added incentive to visit this unforgettable city in the month of March.
Also read: Exploring The Forts And Palaces In Jaipur
Jaipur is a haven for architecture fanatics as it carries the current of Mughal architecture centuries after the influence has faded. The Amber Fort and the Jantar Mantar Observatory are two UNESCO World Heritage Sites that are known for their confluence of natural beauty with architectural wonder and are integral to Jaipur’s indispensable position in India’s cultural history.
The City Palace in Old Jaipur, which includes the Mubarak Mahal, the Armoury, the Pritam Nivas Chauk, and the Diwan-i-Am includes a rendition of how royalty in India once lived. Filled to the brim with beautifully landscaped courtyards and gardens, palatial edifices, and exquisite costumes and textiles, this spot will fill you with ardor for old India’s luxury.
The Jaipur Elephant Festival, which is held on Holi every year featuring elephants decked up in elaborate costumes of color and brocade, is also a cultural phenomenon that one shouldn’t miss in the city of Jaipur.
Also read: Visiting Jaipur - The Jaipur Travel Guide
By Air:
The Jaipur International Airport located in the city, which is also well-connected to all the major cities in the country, is your best bet to reach this city.
By Train:
The Jaipur Junction Railway Station is connected to prime cities across the country and within the state of Rajasthan too.
Also read: The Chokhi Dhani Experience In Jaipur
By Road:
Having a fairly advanced road network system, Jaipur is a city that can also be accessed via road. The NH 8, 11, and 12 are the main National Highways that connect Jaipur to other important cities in the north like New Delhi, Gwalior, Ajmer, Agra, etc.
Wayanad is a district in the state of Kerala famed for being the only plateau in the state. The Vellarimala, standing at an altitude of 2,240 meters, is the highest point in the district and is known for its striking view and lush greenery. Its rich tribal background and the various rivers that run through it, like the Kabani and Chaliyar rivers, and the natural goldfields give it a distinct unforgettable quality to all those who have visited.
Also read: 7 Fun Things To Do In Wayanad For A Tranquil Holiday
The little Kuruva Island in Wayanad is a small, protected river delta over the Kabini river and is the perfect pitstop to relax and take in the wonders of nature. The Chembra Peak in Vellarimala also captures the highest altitude in the district and is made profuse with lovely greenery and natural waters. While you’re there, also try out adventure sports like zip-lining if you’re an adrenaline junky.
The Edakkal Caves and the Pookode Lake are other tourist attractions that embody the beautiful natural spirit of the district.
By Air:
The Calicut International Airport is one of the oldest and most well-connected airports in the southern region. Book a flight to this airport and cover the rest of the distance to the district (68 kilometers) through taxicab or airport bus facilities.
Also read: Staying Atop A Treehouse In Wayanad
By Train:
To travel by rail, one can book a ticket to the Kozhikode Railway Station and then book themselves a local bus to the district. The distance between the two is 84 kilometers.
By Road:
Wayanad is exceptionally connected via its road system. The Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) offers buses that ply regularly to and from major cities in the south. Private buses can be hired for the purpose of travel too. The NH-766 connects the southern cities of Kozhikode, Thamarassery, Kalpetta, Sulthan Bathery, Gundlupet, Mysore, and Kollegal.
While Mathura is more of a pilgrimage destination than a tourist spot, it is still one of India’s most special spots because of its historical and mythological weightage and the sheer aesthetic quality that it possesses. Mathura is located in the northern district of Uttar Pradesh and is widely believed to be the birthplace of Lord Krishna and one among the Sapta Puri, or Seven Holy Cities in the country. It has a rich history too, as it passed from one empire to another, and is today a site of huge archeological interest.
Primarily, Mathura is a district known for its temples and its engineering. A few spectacular spots that ought to be visited are Shri Krishna Janmasthan Temple, Govardhan Hill, Birla Mandir, Vaishno Devi Dham, etc.
Holi is a festival that is of special significance in the Hindu calendar and the Holi celebrations in the district are a spectacle to behold. In the villages Barsana, Nandgaon, Braj, and Vrindavan, the streets are decked in all the colors of the rainbow. Songs and dances that symbolize Krishna’s love for his Radha are enacted and the Holika Dhahan or the Holi Fire ceremony takes place in the Phalen Village.
By Air:
The Kheria Airport is the domestic airport that the city has, which is located 49 kilometers from Mathura. The closest international airport is the Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi which is around 170 kilometers from the district.
By Train:
The Mathura Junction is the closest railway station that boasts great connectivity to all the other Indian cities. Pre-paid taxi cabs are available from this railway station to commute to your desired destination.
Gangtok, the Buddhist hotspot of our country, is a city in the northern state of Sikkim. Gangtok, which is part of the eastern Himalayan range, is known for its breathtaking view of the hill ranges and is considered a favored pilgrimage venue for followers of the religion of Buddhism ever since the construction of the Enchey Monastery in 1840.
The city, which once used to be a trading unit between Tibet and British India in the early 19th century, is flanked by the charming rivers of Roro Chu and Ranikhola, which only adds to the scenic prospect of the city. It’s also the Indian hub of Tibetan architecture and handicrafts.
Also read: Gangtok Travel Guide
Gangtok is a city of spectacular views. For these views, what better place to visit than the Kanchenjunga or the Five Treasures of the High Snow? This is the highest peak and is the perfect confluence of thick, lush forests, and stunning high mountain views. For souvenir shopping and to get the flavor of the local markets, visit the MG Road.
Given its history, Gangtok is also a haven of monasteries. Rumtek Monastery, Ranka Monastery, Phodong Monastery, and Tsuk La Khang Monastery are a few of the centers of Buddhist heritage that you could visit to behold the structural beauty and spiritual fervor that characterizes the city.
By Air:
The airport nearest to Gangtok is about 128 kilometers away in Bagdogra, in West Bengal. From the airport, you can hire a shared taxi or a private vehicle that will get you to Gangtok in approximately 4 hours.
By Train:
The nearest railway station to Gangtok is about 148 kilometers away, known as New Jalpaiguri in Siliguri. The station is well-connected to major cities in India. From New Jalpaiguri, you can take a taxi to Gangtok or go to Siliguri Bus Station and catch a state-run bus to Gangtok, which will take you about 5-6 hours.
By Road:
If you’re going to be making the trip from Siliguri, Darjeeling, or Kalimpong, you can consider driving to Gangtok. For those coming from other cities or a different state altogether, you might want to opt for the train or flight, because the distance on the road will be taxing.
Mount Abu is an impressive hill station located in the Sirohi district in the northern state of Rajasthan. The Guru Shikhar, or the highest peak in the district, is known for its long winding roads amidst the picture-perfect hill ranges, valleys, and thriving greenery.
Mount Abu, which is short for Arbudaanchal or Arbuda Mountains, also has great symbolic and mystical significance in the Hindu religion. Since it’s located in the state of Rajasthan, which is famed for its scorching summers, March is the perfect month to explore the region's secrets as it promises a fair, pleasant climate.
Also read: 9 Fun Things To Do In Mount Abu To Make It Memorable
The Guru Shikhar, dubbed Oasis in the Middle of the Desert, is the highest peak in the Arbuda Mountains of the Aravalli Range and is a must-visit in your Mount Abu trip. It’s also a great spot for outdoor activities like mountaineering, trekking, hiking, mountain biking, etc. The Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary is a haven of the region's rare wildlife and flora.
While you’re there, do try to catch a sunset at Mount Abu Sunset Point and visit the Dilwara and Raghunath Temples to soak in the magic of spirituality that the region offers.
By Air:
If you’re a domestic flier, then you can book a flight to the Maharana Pratap Airport, Udaipur, which is located 210 kilometers away from Mount Abu and is the nearest domestic airport. The nearest international airport is the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport which is 221 kilometers from the hill station. Prepaid taxicab services are available at both these airports.
By Train:
The Abu Road Railway Station boasts of high connectivity to all the prime cities in the country.
By Road:
Both state and private buses ply regularly to and from the town of Mount Abu. These buses make travel by road accessible, especially to and from cities like Delhi, Jaipur, Udaipur, Jaisalmer, etc. The National Highway 27 connects Mount Abu with the cities of Beawar in Rajasthan and Radhanpur in Gujarat.
The capital city of Meghalaya, Shillong is famed for its view tucked amidst clouds. Full of nature’s finest valleys, hill ranges, and greenery made profuse with a moist climate, Shillong could be your sanctuary from the heat this March. Boasting a subtropical highland climate, Shillong is also a hub of local marketplaces and serene natural tourist spots. It’s a waterfall paradise and is relatively unpolluted and clean, making it a perfect getaway spot for nature enthusiasts.
Also read: 9 Fun Things To Do In Meghalaya For A Memorable Holiday
The Shillong Peak is the point that has the highest altitude in the region that abounds with an extraordinary view of the mountain ranges beneath. If you’re a fan of outdoor sports, then this area also offers boating, excursions, trekking, sightseeing, etc. As mentioned before, Shillong is a place to visit for waterfalls of all kinds! A few of those include Crinoline Falls, Elephant Falls, Bishop Falls, etc.
Tibetan cuisine and culture are a great part of what makes Shillong so culturally unique from the rest of the country. The heartland of Shillong is a hub of small-scale and large-scale cafes and restaurants that sell local Tibetan delights with Indian twists. The Bara Bazar is also a space of great cultural significance in the region as not only is it the Market of the People, but also a commercial space that is dominated by female traders.
Also read: Meghalaya Travel Guide
By Air:
The Shillong Airport at Umroi is the domestic airport of the region. However, if you’re flying internationally, you’ll have to book a flight to the Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati, Assam, which is around 127 kilometers from the city of Shillong. This distance can be traversed through a cab as bus services are yet to be installed.
By Train:
The nearest railway station to the capital city is in Guwahati, Assam. While this entails a significant amount of traveling time, this railway station is extensive and well-connected to other major cities like Chennai, Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, etc.
By Road:
Meghalaya has a road network of around 7,633 km, which makes it quite well-connected in terms of its roads. National Highways 6 connects to the cities of Guwahati, Tripura, and Mizoram, 106 with Nongstoin, and 206 with Dawki.
Which Is Colder In March, Ooty Or Kodaikanal?
Owing to its higher altitude, Ooty is always colder than Kodaikanal, especially in the months of December to March.
Which Is The Coolest Place In Tamil Nadu?
The top three coolest places in Tamil Nadu are Yelagiri Hills (230 km from Chennai), Kolli Hills (355 km from Chennai), and Yercaud (368 km from Chennai).
Is March A Good Time For Goa?
March is a great time to visit Goa, as the pleasant, dry climate range does not rise above 30°C and makes exploration of the various beaches and churches possible and enjoyable.
What Is The Best Month To Travel In India?
India has a subtropical climate that can get quite humid in the summers. Therefore, the best months to travel are in the winter months of December to March.
What Is The Coldest City In India?
The city of Dras in Kashmir is the coldest city in the country, with temperatures dropping below -10°C some winters.
Which Language Is Spoken In Ooty?
Tamil is mainly spoken in Ooty.
How Can I Travel In Agra?
There are many way where you can get around Agra. This city has a good public transportation system as it offers trains, rickshaws, taxis, buses, and even tongas for convenient moving.
Do I Need A Passport For Andaman?
Indians don't need a passport or a permit to visit Andaman.
