Things to Do in Bangladesh in March

March weather, activities, events & insider tips

March Weather in Bangladesh

High Temp

Low Temp

Rainfall

% Humidity

Is March Right for You?

Advantages

March marks the end of winter with comfortable 20-25°C (68-77°F) temperatures - ideal for exploring historical sites without the scorching heat of April-May that can reach 40°C (104°F)
Pre-monsoon season means only 51mm (2.0 inches) of rain spread across 10 days, with brief afternoon showers that actually provide relief from humidity rather than disrupting plans
Pohela Falgun celebration brings spring festivals with marigold decorations citywide, while mango season begins with the sweetest Himsagar and Langra varieties appearing in local markets
Tourist crowds are at their lowest before April heat drives locals to hill stations - you'll have major attractions like the Sundarbans and Cox's Bazar virtually to yourself while weather remains pleasant for wildlife viewing

Considerations

Humidity stays around 70% making it feel 3-5°C warmer than actual temperature, especially in Dhaka where concrete amplifies the muggy conditions by midday
Occasional dust storms from pre-monsoon wind patterns can reduce visibility and affect those with respiratory sensitivities, particularly in northern districts
Some rural ferry services begin irregular schedules preparing for monsoon maintenance, potentially disrupting travel plans to remote areas like Barisal division

Best Activities in March

Sundarbans Mangrove Wildlife Tours

March offers the perfect balance for Sundarbans exploration - dry enough for comfortable boat journeys but not yet hot enough to stress wildlife. Tigers are more active in cooler morning temperatures, and migratory birds haven't yet departed for summer breeding grounds. The 70% humidity actually benefits mangrove ecosystems, creating ideal viewing conditions.

Booking Tip: Book 2-3 weeks ahead through registered tour operators with Forest Department permits. Tours typically cost ৳8,000-15,000 ($75-140) for 2-day packages. Look for operators with experienced naturalist guides and covered boats with fans. See current tour options in the booking section below.

Old Dhaka Heritage Walking Tours

March temperatures make walking through narrow lanes of Puran Dhaka comfortable from 7am-11am and after 4pm. This timing coincides perfectly with morning prayers at Lalbagh Mosque and evening activities at Sadarghat River Port. The pre-monsoon light creates excellent photography conditions for Mughal architecture.

Booking Tip: Early morning tours (starting 7am) cost ৳1,500-3,000 ($15-30) and avoid midday heat. Book through certified heritage guides who speak your language. Tours typically last 4-5 hours with rickshaw transportation included. Check current guided options in the booking section below.

Cox's Bazar Beach and Island Excursions

March delivers Cox's Bazar at its finest - sea temperatures reach 26°C (79°F) while beach sand remains walkable even at midday. Pre-monsoon winds create perfect conditions for paragliding and beach sports. Saint Martin's Island day trips offer crystal-clear water before April's intense heat affects marine visibility.

Booking Tip: Beach resorts offer 20-30% lower rates than peak winter season. Island boat trips cost ৳2,000-4,000 ($20-40) per person. Book accommodations at least 10 days ahead as March attracts domestic travelers before summer heat. See current beach and island tours in the booking section below.

Sylhet Tea Garden and Wetland Tours

March marks peak tea picking season when gardens showcase vibrant green terraces and active harvesting. Ratargul Swamp Forest offers boat rides through freshwater mangroves before monsoon flooding changes the ecosystem. Morning mist creates ethereal photography opportunities in Srimangal's rolling hills.

Booking Tip: Tea estate tours with tastings cost ৳1,000-2,500 ($10-25) and include transportation between gardens. Wetland boat tours run ৳800-1,500 per person. Book through eco-tourism operators who support local communities. Current nature tour options are available in the booking section below.

Chittagong Hill Tracts Cultural Experiences

March weather makes trekking comfortable in Bandarban and Rangamati while indigenous communities prepare for spring festivals. Boat rides on Kaptai Lake offer cool breezes, and tribal markets showcase seasonal handicrafts. Hills provide natural air conditioning with temperatures 3-5°C cooler than plains.

Booking Tip: Permits required 7-10 days advance through registered tour operators. Multi-day treks cost ৳5,000-12,000 ($50-120) including permits, guides, and village homestays. Book early as March attracts adventure travelers before monsoon restrictions. See current Hill Tracts tours in the booking section below.

Dhaka Food and Market Tours

March brings seasonal specialties like fresh mango preparations and traditional spring sweets during Pohela Falgun celebrations. Comfortable evening temperatures make street food exploration enjoyable from 6pm-10pm. New Market and Kawran Bazar showcase peak vegetable varieties before summer heat affects produce quality.

Booking Tip: Evening food tours cost ৳2,000-4,000 ($20-40) and include 8-10 tastings with cultural context. Morning market tours start at 6am to avoid crowds and heat. Look for guides familiar with dietary restrictions and food safety. Current food tour options are available in the booking section below.

March Events & Festivals

Mid March

Pohela Falgun Spring Festival

Bengali spring celebration featuring marigold decorations, traditional music, and seasonal sweets like gur sandesh. Universities and cultural centers host programs with folk dance performances and poetry recitations. Streets fill with yellow flowers and spring-themed art installations.

Late March

Mango Season Opening Festivals

Northern districts like Rajshahi and Chapainawabganj celebrate early mango harvests with tasting festivals and cultural programs. Local markets offer first-of-season Himsagar and Langra varieties. Agricultural fairs showcase mango cultivation techniques and processing methods.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight cotton or linen clothing in light colors - avoid synthetic fabrics which trap moisture in 70% humidity and become uncomfortable by 11am

SPF 50+ sunscreen and wide-brimmed hat - UV index reaches 8 making sunburn possible within 15-20 minutes of exposure

Light rain jacket or compact umbrella - afternoon showers last 20-30 minutes but can be heavy, occurring on roughly 10 days throughout the month

Comfortable walking shoes with good grip - March's occasional moisture makes mosque marble floors and boat decks slippery

Insect repellent with DEET - pre-monsoon humidity increases mosquito activity, especially near wetlands and rivers

Portable fan or cooling towels - humidity makes temperatures feel 3-5°C (5-9°F) warmer than actual readings, especially in crowded areas

Conservative long-sleeve shirts for mosque visits - required for religious sites and provides sun protection during midday sightseeing

Quick-dry shorts and pants - March's variable weather means you might encounter unexpected moisture from boat spray or brief showers

Electrolyte supplements or oral rehydration salts - warm humid conditions increase fluid loss even without intense exercise

Waterproof phone case and camera protection - essential for boat trips and protection against sudden rain showers

Insider Knowledge

Local trains run special spring schedules in March with additional routes to mango-growing regions - tickets cost 50-70% less than tourist buses and offer authentic cultural experiences

March is when Bangladeshi families take domestic trips before April heat, so book Friday-Saturday accommodations 2 weeks ahead but weekday rates drop 20-30% with better availability

Traditional healers in Old Dhaka prepare special spring tonics using seasonal herbs during March - these community health practices offer insights into local wellness traditions

River ferry schedules shift in late March preparing for monsoon season - confirm departure times day-of-travel as operators sometimes consolidate routes without advance notice