Skip to content

Weather Comparison

Penang vs Phuket

Side-by-side weather comparison for March

Penang: 30°CPhuket: 30°C348 km apart

March Weather: Penang vs Phuket

MetricPenangPhuketBetter
Average HighHigher is warmer30°C (86°F)30°C (86°F)Tie
Average LowHigher is milder25°C (77°F)26°C (79°F)Phuket
Rain DaysFewer is drier23 days11 daysPhuket
PrecipitationLess is drier182 mm79 mmPhuket
Sunshine HoursMore is sunnier10h/day11h/dayPhuket
HumidityLower is more comfortable82%82%Tie
UV IndexLower is safer66Tie
Wind SpeedCalmer is better10 km/h20 km/hPenang

Which City is Better in March?

Based on sunshine hours, rain days, comfortable temperatures, and humidity levels, Phuket edges ahead as the better destination in March. Phuket offers 11 hours of daily sunshine with only 11 rain days, while Penang sees 10 sunshine hours and 23 rain days.

Penang can feel quite hot at 30°C, so plan for heat. Phuket runs hot at 30°C.

For travelers who prioritize dry weather, Phuket is the stronger choice in March. Phuket receives 1 more hour of sunshine per day, which matters for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Temperature Comparison in March

Penang reaches an average high of 30°C (86°F) and drops to 25°C (77°F) at night during March. The daily temperature range is 5°C, meaning relatively stable temperatures from day to night.

Phuket averages 30°C (86°F) for the high and 26°C (79°F) for the low, with a daily range of 4°C. The two cities feel quite similar in terms of temperature.

Both cities are in the Northern Hemisphere, so they share the same seasonal pattern in March.

Rainfall Comparison in March

Penang receives approximately 182 mm of rainfall across 23 rain days during March. Rain is frequent, so waterproof gear is essential.

Phuket sees 79 mm over 11 rain days. That makes Phuket the drier option by 12 rain days and 103 mm of total precipitation.

Both cities share similar humidity levels at 82%.

What to Pack: Penang vs Phuket

Packing for Penang in March

Highs of 30°C, lows of 25°C, 23 rain days

  • lightweight breathable clothing
  • sunscreen SPF 50+
  • sunglasses
  • a wide-brimmed hat
  • waterproof jacket
  • compact umbrella
  • waterproof shoes
  • moisture-wicking fabrics

Packing for Phuket in March

Highs of 30°C, lows of 26°C, 11 rain days

  • lightweight breathable clothing
  • sunscreen SPF 50+
  • sunglasses
  • a wide-brimmed hat
  • waterproof jacket
  • compact umbrella
  • waterproof shoes
  • moisture-wicking fabrics

Pack for both: lightweight breathable clothing, sunscreen SPF 50+, sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat, waterproof jacket, compact umbrella, waterproof shoes, moisture-wicking fabrics. These items are useful in either destination during March.

Year-Round Comparison: Penang vs Phuket

The table below shows average high temperatures and rain days for every month of the year, helping you find the best time to visit either city.March is highlighted for quick reference.

MonthPenangPhuket
HighRainHighRain
Jan29°C15d29°C7d
Feb30°C16d29°C4d
Mar30°C23d30°C11d
Apr30°C28d30°C18d
May30°C27d29°C25d
Jun30°C22d29°C23d
Jul30°C21d29°C24d
Aug30°C24d28°C24d
Sep29°C26d28°C25d
Oct29°C29d28°C27d
Nov29°C27d28°C21d
Dec29°C21d28°C12d
30°

Penang Weather in March

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

30°

Phuket Weather in March

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Penang warmer than Phuket in March?
Penang and Phuket have the same average high temperature of 30°C (86°F) in March. The average lows are 25°C and 26°C respectively.
Which city gets more rain in March, Penang or Phuket?
Penang gets more rain in March with 23 rain days and 182 mm of precipitation. Phuket is the drier option with 11 rain days.
Is it better to visit Penang or Phuket in March?
It depends on your preferences. Penang averages 30°C and 10 hours of daily sunshine with 23 rain days. Phuket averages 30°C with 11 sunshine hours and 11 rain days. If you prefer cooler conditions, choose Phuket. For fewer rain days, Phuket is the better pick.
How far apart are Penang and Phuket?
Penang and Phuket are approximately 348 km (216 miles) apart. Penang is located in Malaysia (Asia) while Phuket is in Thailand (Asia).
What is the best month to visit Penang and Phuket?
For Penang, January tends to be the best month with 10 hours of daily sunshine and a high of 29°C. For Phuket, February is typically ideal with 11 sunshine hours and 29°C highs.

Compare Penang and Phuket in Other Months

Climate data sourced from the Open-Meteo Historical Weather API, using ERA5 reanalysis data covering 30-year normals from 1991 to 2020. All temperatures shown in Celsius with Fahrenheit equivalents. Rain days count days with 1 mm or more of precipitation. Sunshine hours represent average daily values. This comparison is generated from long-term climate averages and individual trips may vary.

Penang coordinates: 5.41°N, 100.33°E | Phuket coordinates: 7.88°N, 98.39°E