March marks the transition between the scorching summer heat and the chilly winter, providing a pleasant break. In India, this month marks the start of a lively resurgence after the harvest festivals of February. As nature comes back to life, travellers exploring the country are welcomed with a variety of special festivals and exhibitions. Whether you find yourself in the lush Amrit Udyan gardens of Delhi or the grand celebration of the Elephant Festival in Jaipur, you'll witness the cultural richness of India in all its glory during this enchanting month. So take out your planners and delve into the best places you can travel to in the pleasantness of March.
Varanasi, renowned as India's Hindu capital, is one of the top destinations for travellers in March. It attracts people from all over the world who seek spirituality. However, even those who are not interested in spiritual pursuits will be captivated by the city's ethereal beauty along the ghats. As one of the oldest inhabited cities in the world, Varanasi retains its ancient charm. March may be a quieter time, but it holds a special allure for those who are fascinated by serene boat rides amidst illuminated earthen pots adorning the river. Furthermore, the mesmerising Ganga Aarti ceremony promises to stir the soul with its spiritual resonance.
Things to do: On your journey to Varanasi, you must not miss the spectacles at the Dashashwamedh Ghat for the Ganga Aarti ceremony. Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Sarnath and the Bharat Kala Bhavan museum at Banaras Hindu University. Do not forget to include a boat ride on the Ganges River to witness the city's beauty.
How to reach: Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport, or Varanasi Airport, is linked to prime Indian cities like Mumbai and Delhi. The Varanasi railway junction and Kashi railway station are the two main railheads in Varanasi. The city is always well connected to cities like Prayagraj, Lucknow, Patna, Gorakhpur and Ranchi through highways.
March in Jaipur is renowned for the Elephant Festival, which is marked by captivating elephant dances and exhilarating polo matches. In 2024, the festival is slated to set off on March 25. Apart from the festival, the city offers a plethora of attractions. You can ascend to the heights of Jantar Mantar to revel in the clear March skies, which are perfect for capturing stunning photographs. Jaipur's vibrant markets are a must-visit, allowing you to indulge in delightful street shopping experiences and immerse yourself in all things desi. Whether you're drawn to cultural festivities or seeking urban adventures, Jaipur promises an unforgettable journey.
Things to do: In the Pink City, you must make sure to pay a visit to the historic Amber Fort for stunning architecture and views. You can explore history at the City Palace or marvel at the Hawa Mahal's intricate designs. Furthermore, you can revel in the early astronomic genius at the Jantar Mantar or wander the bazaars for vibrant shopping and culinary delights.
How to reach: Jaipur International Airport is well connected to the major cities of India as well as the globe while several trains connect the old city to major cities in the country. Jaipur also enjoys an intricate network of roadways, including National Highway 8, 11 and 12 connecting it to nearby cities.
March is the perfect time to visit Goa, especially if you enjoy pleasant weather. Additionally, this month marks the celebration of Shigmo, a significant Hindu folk festival in Goa. During this festival, you can witness lively parades across the state where locals perform traditional dances, such as Folk, Rommel and Chitrarath. If you are not interested in the festival, you can still enjoy Goa's numerous beaches and exciting beach parties, which offer endless opportunities for exploration and entertainment.
Things to do: While in Goa, you must spend time at its pristine beaches, explore colourful architecture and dive deep into its natural beauty; there are other attractions that you also must not miss out on. For panoramic views, head to Aguada Fort; find spiritual tranquillity at Basilica of Bom Jesus; discover a rich heritage in Fontainhas; experience the vibrant atmosphere of Anjuna Beach; and witness picturesque nature at Dudhsagar Waterfalls.
How to reach: Goa enjoys two airports, Dabolim Airport at Dabolim and the new Manohar International Airport built at Mopa, North Goa, which connect it to major cities. It also has two major railway stations and is also well connected to other cities through highways like NH4A, NH17 and NH17A.
March is a great time to visit Lakshadweep. The weather is mild, with low rainfall, making it perfect for outdoor activities. It's the end of the peak tourist season, so there are fewer crowds, and the excellent visibility for underwater activities allows you to witness the vibrant marine life and stunning coral formations that Lakshadweep is famous for. Overall, it's an ideal time to experience the natural beauty and tranquillity of Lakshadweep without the hustle and bustle of the peak season.
Things to do: Lakshadweep Islands in the Arabian Sea offer a treasure trove of natural wonders to explore. You can visit the breathtaking beaches of Agatti Island, dive into the vibrant underwater world at Kadmat Island, glimpse into local culture at Kavaratti Island and take a serene cruise to the secluded beaches of Bangaram Island. Whether you seek relaxation or adventure, Lakshadweep's diverse attractions promise an unforgettable island getaway.
How to reach: To reach Lakshadweep, you can take a 1.5-hour Air India flight from Cochin International Airport, which operates six days a week. Alternatively, you can travel by sea on one of the seven available ships, which offer various accommodations, entertainment options, and health services. The journey takes around 14-20 hours, and cruises are also available from Mumbai, Chennai, Visakhapatnam, and Cochin.
Nestled in the beautiful landscapes of Kerala, often referred to as "God's Own Country," Munnar is a perfect embodiment of the state's natural beauty. Despite its small size, this popular hill station offers plenty of exotic and engaging activities that you can enjoy throughout the year. March, in particular, is an ideal month to visit Munnar and experience its charms. You can indulge in outdoor adventures that are more alluring than indoor pursuits. Explore the vibrant wildlife sanctuary and lush tea plantations, both teeming with life and splendour during this season, which promises a memorable encounter with nature's bounty.
Things to do: Nestled amidst the Western Ghats, Munnar hides many attractions for you to uncover. It offers places including sprawling tea estates and majestic vistas at Echo Point. Eravikulam National Park is home to endangered species, while Attukal Waterfalls provide a tranquil retreat.
How to reach: The nearest airport to Munnar is the Cochin International Airport. You can also take trains to the Ernakulam Junction railway station in Cochin, about 130 km away from Munnar. The hill station also has regular bus services from Coimbatore, Kozhikode, Cochin, Wayanad and Madurai.
