March sees the arrival of spring in much of the world, a time for celebration and festivities. India bursts into color with Holi and countries like Japan and South Korea erupt into hues of pink as cherry blossom season arrives.
Elsewhere, the weather is starting to warm up in southern Europe, and it’s a great time to steal a march on the crowds. And over in Ireland, it’s party time as St Patrick’s Day sees revellers dress in green and drink more Guinness than you’d have thought possible.
If you’re trying to decide where to travel in March this year or next, then see what you think of these top vacation ideas.
India
Holi is celebrated on the last full moon day of the Hind luni-solar calendar month. Occasionally this falls in February, but most years, Holi takes place in March. It’s a wonderful time of year to take in India’s cultural wonders, as the entire country erupts into a festival atmosphere.
Expect to see locals covered head to toe in colored paint, and perhaps even join the fun yourself. Average temperatures in India at this time are around 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F), way down on the extreme highs of summer. This makes it a great month for tiger safaris in Rajasthan, and for visiting iconic monuments like the Taj Mahal.
March Escape Recommendation: Ananda in the Himalayas
Why We Recommend Ananda Spa Luxury Resort in India at Locals Insider
Located in the serene Himalayan foothills (India), Ananda retreat is more than just a wellness luxury spa hotel —it’s a transformative journey. Perfect for a March escape, this renowned holistic sanctuary offers tailored programs designed to rejuvenate the mind, body, and soul.
Ananda’s location, steeped in spirituality as the birthplace of Ayurveda and yoga, sets the tone for an immersive experience. Guests can choose from a variety of wellness programs, including stress management, meditation retreats, and holistic detoxes. Whether you’re battling burnout, seeking better sleep, or simply wanting to reset, Ananda offers personalized therapies in a setting that feels both luxurious and grounding.
Highlights We Love:
- Luxury Meets Tradition: Residing in a Maharaja’s palace estate, Ananda combines royal charm with world-class wellness.
- Custom Wellness Programs: Options include Panchakarma detox, Yogic Detox, and stress management tailored to your needs.
- Tranquil Surroundings: The 100-acre estate, lush gardens, and Himalayan vistas provide the perfect backdrop for healing and relaxation.
- Unique Offerings: From Ayurvedic treatments and emotional healing to guided yoga and meditation sessions, Ananda integrates modern science with ancient traditions.
Ananda offers comprehensive and intensive detox programs tailored to rejuvenate the body and mind:
Yogic Detox: Available in 7, 14, and 21-night durations, this program incorporates Asana (posture) and Pranayama (breathing techniques) to activate organs and prepare for holistic rejuvenation.
Panchakarma: A 21-night Ayurvedic cleanse that detoxifies and revitalizes, offering a complete healing experience rooted in traditional Indian wellness practices.
Holistic Detox: Starting at 7 nights, this program introduces Ananda’s signature detox experience, combining Ayurveda, international therapies, and wellness consultations.
March’s temperate weather makes it an ideal time to embrace the peaceful solitude of the Himalayas. If you’re seeking tranquility, cultural depth, and a chance to reconnect with yourself, Ananda promises an unforgettable experience.
Locals Insider Tip: Book the Holistic Detox Program for a comprehensive introduction to Ananda’s transformative offerings.
Japan (and South Korea)
Late March into April sees the spring cherry blossom in South Korea, but particularly, Japan, burst into life. Entire cities are carpeted in pink, and locals rush out to enjoy picnics and other celebrations. Many of Japan’s most iconic landmarks and monuments are surrounded by cherry blossom trees, making this a great time to capture memorable photos and join the festivities.
If wondering where to go in March, Japan has to be near the top of your list. Spring also heralds warmer temperatures, with averages of 8°C to 16°C (46°F to 61°F) across many of the main cities.
Portugal
If you’re wondering where is warm in March in Europe, then Portugal could be your answer. Whilst it’s still chilly in northern Europe, things are warming up further south, meaning Portugal’s Algarve is an attractive option for some late winter sun.
Temperatures around Faro are generally around 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F), ideal for coastal hikes and quiet beach days. For those looking to enjoy a Porto city break, it’s also the beginning of wine season in the Douro Valley with the region’s vineyards waking up from their winter slumber.
California, USA
For domestic travel, March is a great time to tackle the hiking trails and dramatic landscapes of Yosemite, Joshua Tree, Sequoia and other national parks, before the summer highs (and wildfires) arrive later in the year. It’s the season for wildflowers to bloom too, adding a scenic element to the landscape.
Temperatures are pleasant for outdoor exploration without being stifling, averaging around 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F) along the coast, and a little more inland. Cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco are bathed in warm sunshine, and crowds are way down on the summer months too – this also means you’ll spend less on flights and accommodation.
Ireland
If it’s good March weather you’re after, then perhaps give Ireland a miss. The country is still pretty cold and wet, averaging 8°C to 12°C (46°F to 54°F), though some brighter spring days may be starting to appear. The main reason to consider a trip to Ireland in March is that on 17 March each year, the country erupts into festivities in honor of Saint Patrick.
Locals and travelers alike dress in green and hit the booze early, drinking copious amounts of that famous black stout, Guinness. Dublin in particular, sees all the fun, though there are more tame celebrations happening all over the country. Accommodation and flights get very expensive as this is the most popular time of year to travel to Ireland, so make sure your book your trip well in advance.
Deciding where to go in March can be tricky, as there are so many options now that the Northern hemisphere is leaving winter behind. Japan and South Korea are two of the best destinations, with the unique spring cherry blossom proving a real drawcard. And over in Ireland, it’s party time, a great option for any travelers celebrating birthdays or stag dos!
