Where to travel in March.

March transitions: Japan cherry blossom early/mid month, last good month for South-Indian winter escape destinations. Avoid burning-season Northern Thailand entirely.

Top picks for March

1. 1Japan

   Cherry blossom peaks Tokyo Mar 22-Apr 5. Book hotels 2 months ahead.

2. 2Vietnam

   Last cool-dry month. Hue and Hoi An ideal.

3. 3Bhutan

   Spring rhododendrons start blooming. Perfect for trekking.

4. 4Nepal

   Annapurna trekking season opens. Daytime warm, nights cold.

5. 5Turkey

   Istanbul spring 12-18°C, fewer crowds than May.

Avoid in March

• Northern Thailand (Chiang Mai): Burning season — air quality hazardous. AVOID until May.
• Bali: Tail end of wet season — improving but not yet ideal.

Festivals & events

• Holi (Mar 4) — high domestic Indian travel demand
• Japan cherry blossom peak Mar 22-Apr 5