March is a rainy month in Indonesia, and large swaths of the country get pummeled with tropical storms. Although Bali remains less affected, many of the other islands are susceptible to flooding and washed-out roads. That said, the rain usually comes in short, intense bursts followed by sunshine and blue skies. Plus, the crowd sizes are small so if you don’t mind a little bit of rain, it can actually be a great time of year for a visit.
Indonesia in March: A Comprehensive Travel Guide
Planning a trip to Indonesia in March requires careful consideration of the weather. While escaping rain entirely might be challenging, the rewards of traveling during this off-season—fewer crowds and lower prices—can make it worthwhile. Precipitation is prevalent across many islands, with the southern central region encompassing Nusa Tenggara, Lombok, and Flores experiencing particularly intense rainfall. However, these storms are often short-lived, typically arriving for a few hours, causing temporary disruptions, before giving way to sunny skies and pleasant temperatures perfect for enjoying classic tropical vacation activities.
Temperature variations exist across the Indonesian archipelago. In Bali, daytime temperatures hover between 85°F and 90°F, with a slight dip to 71°F to 77°F at night. East Java, specifically in the region of Lumpur, tends to be hotter, with daytime highs ranging from 88°F to 97°F, cooling down to a more consistent 75°F in the evenings. Sumatra offers a slightly cooler climate, with average temperatures ranging from 75°F to 80°F.
The upside of the rainy season is the significant reduction in crowds and travel expenses. March offers a welcome contrast to the peak months of June and July, when popular beaches and jungle tours teem with visitors. During March, these destinations are often delightfully uncrowded. Bali, while still attracting a considerable number of tourists due to its relatively milder weather conditions, experiences significantly fewer visitors compared to peak season. Moreover, hotels and airlines typically offer attractive low-season rates, with lodging prices sometimes dropping to half of their summertime levels.
Choosing the right destination is key to maximizing your Indonesian experience in March. Bali remains a strong contender, benefiting from slightly less rainfall compared to other islands and boasting a well-developed tourism infrastructure. This translates to fewer flooded roads and a more reliable power supply, minimizing potential disruptions to your travel plans. Furthermore, local businesses are well-prepared for the off-season, offering a range of special promotions, including discounted activities, meals, and entertainment, to entice visitors even on rainy days.
Java presents another viable option, although visitors should be prepared for a higher likelihood of encountering rain. The eastern part of the island generally experiences drier conditions, making cities like Surabaya and Lumpur attractive alternatives. It’s important to note that Java tends to be hotter than Bali, with typical daytime temperatures ranging from 90°F to 97°F.
For travelers seeking adventure and a taste of the exotic, the Moluccas Islands, also known as the Spice Islands, offer a unique experience. This archipelago, encompassing destinations such as Seram, Halmahera, Ternate, and Tidore, provides ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking and bird-watching. However, it’s worth noting that the amenities on these islands might not be as luxurious as those found in more established tourist destinations.
It’s generally advisable to avoid the islands of Sumatra, Nusa Tenggara, Lombok, and Flores during March due to the heavy rainfall. While the northern part of Sumatra, particularly around Medan, might experience slightly drier conditions, the other islands tend to be consistently wet throughout the month.
Planning your activities in Bali should take into account the rainfall patterns. The southern regions are more prone to storms, so it’s recommended to concentrate your activities in the northern and central parts of the island. Ubud, for instance, offers a tranquil escape where you can unwind at the Yoga Barn or explore the enchanting Monkey Forest (Mandala Suci Wenara Wana), home to playful Balinese long-tailed monkeys. Venture outside Ubud to discover traditional silversmiths in the Celuk village or stroll through the vibrant green rice paddies, which are particularly lush during this time of year.
A journey further north to Bedugul will lead you to the sacred Ulun Danu Temple, a picturesque site located on Baratan Lake dedicated to the goddess of the lake. The wet season can be a beautiful time to witness the sunrise from this iconic temple. For adrenaline enthusiasts, the Bali Treetop Adventure Park offers thrilling activities, while those seeking serenity can wander through the tranquil landscapes of the Bali Botanic Garden.
If you decide to venture south, Kuta Beach offers excellent surfing opportunities, along with a lively nightlife and a vibrant party atmosphere. However, be prepared for potential rainfall, which might require you to seek temporary shelter or engage in indoor activities.
While the mountains of Java experience significant rainfall, making it unsuitable for climbing Mount Bromo, the eastern part of the island offers a range of attractions with less rainfall. Explore Surabaya, the second-largest city in the archipelago, known for its culinary delights, nightlife, and entertainment options. For those interested in history and culture, the magnificent Borobudur Temple complex is located near Yogyakarta, while the impressive Candi Prambanan complex is situated close to Borobudur.
Keep an eye out for exciting events happening in Indonesia during March:
Holi Hindu Festival: This ancient Hindu festival, also known as the “Festival of Colors” and the “Festival of Love,” involves a night of prayers and rituals around a bonfire, followed by a vibrant festival the next day. During this celebration, called “Rangwali Holi,” participants playfully douse each other in colorful paint using water guns, balloons, and other creative methods, accompanied by music, food, and joyous festivities.
Ascension Of The Prophet Muhammad: This significant holiday, observed annually on the 27th day of the month of Rajab (the seventh month of the Islamic calendar), typically falls in late March. It is a public holiday, with most schools and workplaces closed for parades, ceremonies, and other celebratory events.
Consider this itinerary for those travelling to Indonesia in March:
Highlights of Bali – 8 Days: Instead of trying to visit numerous islands with wet and unpredictable conditions, this eight day holiday itinerary focuses on the one island of Bali, where the weather can be kinder and more predictable and the tourist infrastructure is more robust, especially when considering off-season travel. The itinerary begins in the southern tourist destination of Tanah Lot before heading north to Ubud. In Ubud you will learn how to cook traditional Balinese cuisine, and then take a bike tour through the countryside. Other exciting and memorable highlights of this amazing itinerary include a tour of Sidemen and a visit to the stunning Uluwatu temple.
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