Visiting Thailand in March

The crowds start to melt away, but it’s still possible to see the sights of Bangkok without melting yourself, as well as the ancient cities of Ayutthaya and Sukhothai, or Kanchanaburi and the River Kwai.

Wildlife

It’s National Elephant Day this month, so why not celebrate with them at one of the national parks and rescue centres around the country? Find wild herds in the Kui Buri National Park near Hua Hin, head south to Elephant Hills at Khao Sok National Park or east to Khao Yai National Park, home to wildcats, porcupines and elephants.

Beaches

And if you’re looking for a chance to sunbathe, you can take your pick of the beaches. It’s the start of the diving season in the Gulf of Thailand, with some fantastic sites around Ko Tao, Ko Phangan and Ko Samui, and the possibility of pink dolphins at Khanom.

West Coast Thailand

On the west coast, it’s one of the best times to visit Ko Phi Phi and Krabi for snorkelling, more great chances to get underwater at Ko Hai, to relax at peaceful Ko Yao Yai or Ko Lanta, or visit the quieter islands in eastern Thailand, such as Ko Kood, Ko Mak, Ko Chang, or Ko Samet.

As peak season comes to an end, you could choose to support local community projects, such as a visit to Khlong Noi, not far from Surat Thani, to learn about village life and enjoy a homestay visit. Or head to the Anurak Community Lodge in Khao Sok National Park, where the staff and guides are from the local community.

It’s not the best month to explore the north. Smoke from agricultural burning makes the air at Chiang Mai feel very polluted until the rain starts, while temperatures are starting to soar at Chiang Rai, reaching the high 30C.

Festivals: Thailand’s National Elephant Day takes place on March 13, with activities arranged to highlight the animals’ importance to Thai life and culture, plus special blessings and meals for the elephants themselves. The traditional Shan festival of Poy Sang Long also celebrated in Myanmar, takes place between March 20 and mid-April in temples in north Thailand, where young boys participate in a rite of passage ceremony before entering a monastery as novice monks, some for only a week or two, others for longer.

Best for: Sunny days, beaches, celebrating elephants, snorkelling and diving, Bangkok and central Thailand