March casts a spell on Indians for it’s the sweet spot where winter bids adieu and summer slowly starts to set in. While this weather comes with its set of cute dilemmas like whether to keep one foot outside the blanket or inside, it also brings the perfect temperatures for a vacation. This is the ideal time if you want to head for a quick solo trip or plan your toddler’s summer vacation. Let’s head to some of the best places you can visit in India in March.
Lakshadweep
Once called the Laccadive Islands, Lakshadweep means One Hundred Thousand Islands in Malayalam. Nestled 400 km away from Kerala’s southwest coast in the Arabian Sea, it’s India’s smallest union territory, covering just 32 sq km across 36 islands (far from its namesake!). To reach the archipelago, you must obtain a permit from Kochi even if you’re an Indian visiting.
What’s most enticing about Lakshadweep is its seclusion, which makes for a quiet vacation. You’ll find the archipelago to be quite serene, which adds to its allure. Each island here has a magic of its own that you can experience from the cuisine, accommodation, and activities offered.
Let’s take the southernmost Minicoy Island, for instance. You can explore the wrecks of three ships here. Visit Amini Island, which is known for walking sticks made from tortoise and coconut shells. Want to party? Visit Bangaram Island – the only place in Lakshadweep where you can legally drink alcohol. Despite their differences, there’s one thing in common – the chance to go scuba diving, snorkeling, and kayaking. If you’re not a sporty person, Lakshadweep has some of the best sunset vistas that you can soak in as you settle on the beach.
How To Reach Lakshadweep:
By Air: Agatti Aerodrome is the only airport in Lakshadweep which is connected to Cochin International Airport in Kochi, Kerala. The airport in Kochi however is well connected to different cities.
By Waterways: There are over 7 cruises you can board from Kochi to reach Lakshadweep. Some of them are MV Kavaratti, MV Arabian Sea, MV Lakshadweep Sea, MV Lagoon, MV Corals, MV Amindivi, and MV Minicoy.
Ooty, Tamil Nadu
The Queen of the Nilgiri Hills, Ooty is a picturesque little hill station in Tamil Nadu. You may even recall this place as the summer capital of the East India Company. It’s the perfect getaway if you’re not ready yet to welcome the summers because Ooty in March still swings between cold and pleasant temperatures. The hill station captivates you with the panoramic view of the Nilgiris along with fresh aroma from the lush green tea plantations and waterfalls that’ll allure you into extending your stay here.
Fun fact? Hit Bollywood banger Chaiyaa Chaiyaa featuring Shah Rukh Khan and Malaika Arora was shot in the Nilgiris Mountain Railways in the Nilgiris Hills.
Some of the must-visit places in Ooty include the Ooty Botanical Gardens, Thread Garden, St. Stephen’s Church, Deer Park, and Doddabetta Peak. The Emerald Lake lives true to its name with water that matches the color of the precious gem glistening over the peak while the Avalanche Lake is perfect for adventure activities like trekking, hiking, and even rafting! If you’re a history buff and want a deeper understanding of what makes this hill station special, then visit the Tea Museum at Doddabetta Road for an insight into the cultural and historical role the beverage has played in the backdrop of the town.
How To Reach Ooty:
By Air: The nearest airport is the Coimbatore International Airport (about 88 km away).
By Train: Mettupalayam Railway Station in Coimbatore is the closest to Ooty (about 58 km away).
By Road: Ooty is well connected to different cities in the South via National Highways 181, 209, 275, and 275K.
Agra, Uttar Pradesh
Sitting by the Yamuna River in Uttar Pradesh, Agra will pull you like a magnet, thanks to the Taj Mahal, one of the world’s 7 wonders. This city is a treasure trove of Mughal history, boasting UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Agra Fort and Fatehpur Sikri.
It’s a hotspot on the Golden Triangle tourist circuit, along with Delhi and Jaipur. This destination is a foodie’s paradise with Agra’s famous Petha and Kachori Chaat on the savory side stealing the show alongside the Taj.
If you’re into history and architecture, Agra’s your playground. You must visit the monument of love and maybe rekindle your own love tale at the Taj Mahal. Besides that, you can also visit Fatehpur Sikri and Agra Fort for those extra history lessons. Putting an end to history is Wildlife SOS, the largest sloth bear rescue center in the world.
For some memorabilia, shop at Sadar or Kinaari Bazaar where you’ll be impressed with the collection of marble artifacts, you’ll even want to gift them to those over-nosy relatives.
How To Reach Agra:
By Air: Agra does have an airport of its own but it’s not very commercial. So the closest airport is Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi (about 235 km away) from where you can travel either by train or bus.
By Train: Agra Cantonment Railway Station is well connected to different cities.
By Road: Agra is easily accessible via different highways like Yamuna Expressway, Agra-Lucknow Expressway, and NH 11, 44, and 19.
Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu
Rameswaram is a tiny piece of land on Pamban Island in Tamil Nadu, might not catch your eye at first, but it holds a huge significance in Hindu tales. Legend has it that Lord Rama and his army constructed the Ram Setu here; the bridge that got them to Sri Lanka to rescue Sita from Ravana. The place is famous for the Rameswaram Shiva Temple, a super holy spot for Hindus.
This temple’s history and spiritual vibe draw people from all over. Whether or not you’re a believer, 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 is also known to be the birthplace of India’s former President, Late Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam. You can also visit A. P. J. Abdul Kalam House and Memorial, which honors his legacy and humble beginnings.
Apart from the temples, Rameswaram, being a coastal town, boasts of its assortment of stunning beaches like Ariyaman Beach, Olaikuda Beach, and Dhanushkodi Beach.
How To Reach Rameswaram:
By Air: The nearest airport to Rameswaram is the Madurai Airport (about 180 km away).
By Train: Rameswaram Railway Station is well connected to major cities in the South and a few cities in the North like Bhubaneswar.
By Road: Tamil Nadu Road Transport Corporation (TNRTC) connects Rameswaram to major cities like Chennai, Kanyakumari, Madurai, and others.
Havelock Island, Andaman & Nicobar Islands
If you want to head somewhere close to the waters for a quick vacation before it gets scorching hot, Havelock Island in Andaman is your best bet. The southern coast of the island has the charming Radhanagar Beach, while the azure appeal of Vijayanagar Beach is situated in the east of the island.
Sunsets at Elephant Beach and sunrises at Kalapather Beach are absolutely divine while the underwater world is a haven if you’re into scuba diving or snorkeling. Even if you’re not, it’s recommended that you try scuba diving at least once to explore the rich marine life and vibrant coral formations. You can also visit nearby Neil Island for a delightful day trip which houses attractions like Bharatpur and Laxmanpur Beaches.
How To Reach Havelock Island:
By Air: You can fly to Veer Savarkar International Airport in Port Blair after which you’ll have to travel by cruise to Havelock Island.
Jaipur, Rajasthan
The capital of Rajasthan, Jaipur is like the glittery gem in the trio of the Golden Triangle, along with Delhi and Agra. They call it the “Pink City” because of a bunch of its buildings that are coated in the terracotta-pink hue. It’s almost like the whole place got a memo on color coordination.
Now let’s talk about sightseeing in Jaipur. It boasts of the Hawa Mahal, where the royal ladies of Rajasthan observed the goings-on on the streets below without being seen themselves. The Amber Fort is a real stunner showcasing Rajput architecture at its grandest. You can’t leave your trip unfinished without visiting UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Jantar Mantar and the City Palace. And oh, the markets! Johari and Bapu Bazaar are where you can shop all the Rajasthani crafts and purchase souvenirs. To grab a bite, there’s nothing better than the local foods – Ghewar, Pyaaz Kachori, and Dal Baati Churma will certainly throw your fitness regime out of the window.
How To Reach Jaipur:
By Air: You can fly directly to Jaipur International Airport as it’s well connected to most states in India and abroad.
By Train: The Jaipur Junction Railway Station is connected to most cities across the country and within Rajasthan.
By Road: RSRTC connects Jaipur to major Rajasthan cities like New Delhi, Kota, Mumbai, Ahmedabad, and other cities.
Wayanad, Kerala
Wayanad, nestled snugly in the Western Ghats of Kerala, is like nature’s own playground with its spice gardens, wildlife, and breathtaking scenery. The name Wayanad comes from Vayal Nadu which means Land of Paddy Fields, and you’ll see why when you’re here. It’s replete with fertile valleys and terraced fields that keep the place buzzing with life. This hill station in Kerala is a one-stop destination with nature, history, and adventure to explore. From ancient temples to tribal villages, there’s a story waiting at every turn.
Your first pitstop should be at the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary if you’re a nature lover. It’s part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, and almost feels like stepping into a whole new world with Indian bison, elephants, and even leopards roaming around. If you want to simply unwind amidst nature, you should head to spots like Banasura Sagar Dam and Soochipara Falls but if you like exploration and trekking, destinations like Edakkal Caves and Chembra Peak are best for you.
Oh, and let’s not forget the spice plantations and the food! Take a guided tour, learn about spices, and dive into Kerala’s culinary delights like Malabar biryani and fish curry.
A fun tip? If you’re from Bengaluru or nearby, take a road trip for the best experience, as you will drive through national parks, making the journey tranquil.
How To Reach Wayanad:
By Air: Calicut International Airport is the closest airport to Wayanad (about 91 km away). From here you can take buses or private transport that’ll take you to Wayanad.
By Train: To reach Wayanad by train, you’ll need to travel to Kozhikode Railway Station and hop on a bus. The distance between the two is 84 kilometers.
By Road: The Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) offers buses that ply regularly to and from major cities in the south.
Mathura, Uttar Pradesh
Mathura, one of Hinduism’s seven holy cities, is where Lord Krishna was born. Nestled in Uttar Pradesh, it’s practically twins with Vrindavan. You’ll find temples galore here, drawing pilgrims from all corners of the globe. The Yamuna River divides Mathura into ghats where people flock for a holy dip at dawn and to witness the mesmerizing diya-lit aarti at dusk. This crazy Lathmar Holi celebration happens in the nearby Barsana, and men needn’t worry as they’ll have shields to protect themselves.
Shri Krishna Janmabhumi temple complex steals the spotlight, believed to be the exact spot of Krishna’s birth. Mythologically a prison, it’s now a place of worship. Temples, big and small scattered in the city are dedicated to the Makhan Chor. You should also visit Govardhan Hill to learn the tales associated with it, and while doing so, you can partake in the small pilgrimage trek atop the hill.
But to truly soak in Mathura’s essence, you must wander its streets. And let’s not forget the street food scene! Kachodis, aloo-puri, and chaat will tantalize your taste buds. And don’t kid yourself, you know you can’t resist the jalebis and gulab-jamuns. Mathura isn’t just a place, it’s a delicious slice of history and spirituality rolled into one.
How To Reach Mathura:
By Air: The closest airport to Mathura is the Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi (about 158 km away). From here, you can take buses or trains to Mathura.
By Train: Mathura Junction is well-connected to major rail routes of the country.
By Road: Mathura is easily accessible via NH19 and 44.
Gangtok, Sikkim
Perched at 1650 meters above sea level, this charming hill station is a hotspot in India. On clear days, you’ll be lucky enough to see jaw-dropping views of Mt. Kanchenjunga. Adventure junkies flock here for treks like Dzongri, Varsey, and Nathula Pass while paragliding and hang-gliding enthusiasts find their thrills nearby. From March to May, the hills burst into a riot of colors with wild rhododendrons in full bloom, a sight to behold! You may imagine it to be similar to the Pink Trumpets Bloom in Bengaluru.
Nature lovers will certainly have a fun day exploring Tsomgo Lake, Ban Jhakri Falls, and Tashi Viewpoint while the spiritually inclined can visit Enchey Monastery, Ganesh Tok, and Rumtek Monastery. And for the adrenaline junkies, the Teesta River offers thrilling white water rafting. The city ensures that there’s something to enjoy for every mood swing you have!
How To Reach Gangtok:
By Air: Bagdogra Airport is the closest airport to Gangtok (about 123 km away). You’ll have to pre-book taxis or opt for shared ones for a 4-hour ride to Gangtok from Bagdogra.
By Train: The nearest railway station is New Jalpaiguri in Siliguri. Taxis that are well-connected to major cities are available.
By Road: NH10 links Gangtok to Siliguri.
Mount Abu, Rajasthan
The sole hill station in Rajasthan, Mount Abu, nestles within the Aravali Range and offers a refreshing escape. You’ll even find water in the Nakki Lake here where you can take a leisurely boat ride or catch the sunset from one of the vista points for some serene moments. To satisfy the tummy grumbles, you can eat at any of the eateries dotted around the lake that serves up delicious local fare.
What’ll make your March Mount Abu trip worth it are the Dilwara temples that steal the show with their interesting architecture. While you marvel at the intricate detailing of the Dilwara temples, what might fascinate you more is how they’ve stood the test of time for almost a millennium.
Don’t miss out on trekking to Guru Shikhar, the highest peak in the Aravali Range, while you’re here. The Mount Abu Forest Sanctuary teems with diverse flora and fauna, promising a delightful encounter for all nature and wildlife enthusiasts.
How To Reach Mount Abu:
By Air: Maharana Pratap Airport in Udaipur (about 177 km away) is the closest to Mount Abu
By Train: Abu Road Railway Station is the closest station that connects other cities to Mount Abu.
By Road: Mount Abu is well-connected to most cities in Rajasthan and other states via NH 14.
Darjeeling, West Bengal
At the Queen of West Bengal, you’ll find refuge from the summer heat as winter chills linger a little longer. The air is crisp, carrying the aroma of freshly brewed tea from the nearby estates.
When you’re at a hill station, you know you’re in for some jaw-dropping mountain views, probably with snow-capped peaks. One such spot is the Tiger Hill Sunrise Observatory, where you’ll catch the most breathtaking glimpse of the Kanchenjunga. And then there’s the Batasia Loop, more than just a garden – it’s this massive loop that got its name from its shape. There’s even a cute toy train chugging along the loop, making a tricky 140-foot descent.
The tea estates of Darjeeling make the tea lovers happy like no other. You’ve got to swing by them here if tea runs in your veins. It’s not just about sipping tea; it’s about understanding how those magical leaves come to life, turning stress into serenity and moods into moments of bliss. Darjeeling’s got something to enchant every mood of yours so don’t miss out on these gems when you’re around.
How To Reach Darjeeling:
By Air: Bagdogra Airport, 68 km from Darjeeling, connects major Indian cities like Delhi, Kolkata, and Guwahati. You can then take a taxi to Darjeeling that’ll take 2-3 hours.
By Train: The nearest railhead to Darjeeling is New Jalpaiguri (NJP) Railway Station which is well-connected to major cities. Taxis or shared jeeps are also available for onward journeys.
By Road: NH110 links Siliguri and Darjeeling. The town is also accessible from West Bengal and nearby states.
Coonoor, Tamil Nadu
If you’re dreaming of a scene straight out of a movie – think of tea gardens, mountains that scream peace, and rivers flowing serenely. That’s Coonoor for you. Tucked away in the Nilgiri Hills of Tamil Nadu, this hill station is like the laid-back cousin of bustling Ooty and an offbeat destination to choose from if you’re bored of hill stations that are now getting crowded.
For the travel enthusiast tired of the same old tourist traps, Coonoor offers a refreshing escape. From its lush tea plantations to its tranquil mountain vistas, this place has a unique allure that’s sure to captivate any traveler seeking respite from the ordinary.
Dolphin’s Nose must be on your list of places to visit in Coonoor. It’s a hill that resembles the nose of a dolphin. For some added thrill or wonder (choose after you visit there), go to the Tiger Hill Cemetery. You must visit this place for the unforgettable views you’ll get from here and we’re not talking about the departed, but the scenic landscapes! After that, you can head to Sim’s Park that’s a park/botanical garden. So you’ll leave Connoor with pleasant memories of nature and peacefulness.
How To Reach Coonoor:
By Air: Coimbatore International Airport is the closest airport to Coonoor (about 69 km away).
By Train: The nearest railway station is Mettupalayam which is 45 kilometers away.
By Road: There are government and privately owned transport buses to all neighboring major cities.
Jodhpur, Rajasthan
Beyond the fort is when you step into the modern side of Jodhpur. The royal city isn’t just about its stunning architecture and vibrant streets. It’s a foodie paradise! Thinking of some mouthwatering treats like Pyaaj Kachori, Mirchi Bada, and Mawa Kachori? You’ll hog on them here like never before.
You can learn the history of Jodhpur through its forts. One such fort is the much-spoken Mehrangarh Fort, a representation of Marwar history. Its grandeur attracted even Christopher Nolan to visit. Jaswant Thada honors the bravery of Marwar soldiers. Umaid Bhawan Palace blends luxury and history, while Shandar Sweet House serves authentic Jodhpuri cuisine.
How To Reach Jodhpur:
By Air: Jodhpur has an airport that is connected to major Indian cities.
By Train: The city is well connected By Train. Several trains run from Jodhpur Junction to major cities.
By Road: A drive to Jodhpur is a great idea as the city has a decent road network and connects to cities like Delhi and Udaipur in a span of 12 and 8 hours respectively.
Summing Up
There’s a sweet period between when the winters begin to fade but the summers haven’t peaked yet. And that time (March and early April) calls for a vacation to fully soak in this weather. So here’s your list of the best places to be in March, right before the sun sucks away all your travel energy.
