Is the smoke haze really that bad in Chiang Mai in March?

It can be severe. Agricultural burning across northern Thailand and Myanmar peaks between February and April. In bad years, Chiang Mai has recorded AQI levels exceeding 200 (Very Unhealthy) for weeks at a time. Many long-term expats leave the city during this period. If you must visit, N95 masks help but cannot fully protect against the fine particulates.

What is the Full Moon Party and is it worth going?

The Full Moon Party is a monthly all-night beach party held on the full moon at Haad Rin beach on Koh Phangan. It draws 20,000–30,000 people in peak season. It is worth experiencing once if you enjoy large outdoor music events. Come prepared: bring cash only, wear old clothes, watch your belongings, and avoid buckets if you are not accustomed to Thai whiskey.

Monthly Travel Guide

Thailand in March

March marks the transition toward hot season. Temperatures climb sharply across Central and Northern Thailand, and haze from agricultural burning peaks in the North. The Andaman coast remains excellent, and the Gulf coast is still largely clear. It is the last comfortable month for trekking in the North before the heat becomes oppressive. Koh Tao and Koh Phangan offer great diving and party conditions.

Weather by Region

North (Chiang Mai)

Hot and hazy. Chiang Mai temperatures reach 35–38°C by mid-month. Smoke haze from burning is at its worst — AQI regularly exceeds unhealthy levels. Avoid if you have respiratory issues.

Central (Bangkok)

Hot and increasingly humid. Bangkok sees 25–36°C. Still mostly dry but afternoons become uncomfortable.

South — Gulf Coast

Warm and mostly dry. Koh Samui and Koh Phangan enjoy good conditions. Water temperature around 29°C.

South — Andaman Coast

Still in dry season but winds begin to pick up toward the end of March. Good conditions continue for Phuket, Krabi, and the Similans.

Best Destinations in March

Koh Phangan

Gulf coast beach weather at its best; Full Moon Party takes place monthly.

Koh Tao

Excellent diving visibility and warm water. One of the cheapest PADI certification destinations globally.

Krabi

Rock climbing season continues and limestone karst scenery is spectacular in clear weather.

Where to Avoid in March

Chiang Mai

Smoke haze from agricultural burning peaks in March — air quality can be hazardous. Not recommended for hikers, cyclists, or anyone with asthma.

Sukhothai / Northern inland towns

Extreme heat and haze make outdoor sightseeing uncomfortable.

Festivals & Events

Full Moon Party

Monthly (full moon night)

Koh Phangan's famous all-night beach party at Haad Rin draws tens of thousands of international visitors each month. March parties benefit from good weather.