Chennai Weather in March

March weather

March feels hot in Chennai, with afternoons reaching 34°C and nights staying warm around 24°C. It's hotter than February, and April gets hotter still. Humidity can make a walk feel tiring, even though rain is limited to a couple of days on average.

You'll enjoy indoor stops such as the Government Museum, or a shorter visit to Kapaleeshwarar Temple in Mylapore. Save Marina Beach for the evening, when the sun is lower and locals come out for a stroll. The long, sunny days are good for sightseeing, but avoid spending hours outdoors in the middle of the day.

Events and local life

Holi sometimes falls in March, though it isn't as central to Chennai's calendar as it is in parts of northern India. Its date changes each year, and celebrations tend to be smaller and more local.

Panguni Uthiram, a Tamil Hindu festival, may also fall in March, depending on the lunar calendar. If it does, temples such as Kapaleeshwarar can draw worshippers and visitors. Expect extra activity around the temple, not a citywide festival atmosphere.

Crowds and practical tips

March is generally quieter than January, one of Chennai's best months to visit. You're less likely to face peak-season crowds, and accommodation may cost less than in January, though prices vary. It's a useful month for a city break if you can work around the heat.

If you hate crowds, visit Kapaleeshwarar Temple on an ordinary weekday rather than during Panguni Uthiram. For Marina Beach, take an auto-rickshaw or cab and ask to be dropped near the promenade; the beach is long, so a nearby landmark helps you avoid a tiring walk in the heat.