March is a good time to visit Yunnan for increasingly warm weather and stunning natural scenery. If you are considering a trip to Yunnan in March, you can get prepared with expected weather details and our travel tips below.
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Yunnan Weather in March
In March, the average temperature in Yunnan ranges from 9°C to 22°C (48– 72°F). Yunnan begins to enter spring. Most of the time, it is still dry and sunny, and the probability of rain is very small.
Northern Yunnan (Lijiang and Shangri-La)
Lijiang: In March, Lijiang begins to experience the warmth of spring but mornings and evenings are still quite cold. Daily average temperatures range from 3°C to 19°C (37–66°F). The sun is strong with high UV levels, although occasional light rain is possible. Mountainous areas may still have some lingering snow.
Shangri-La: In March, Shangri-La remains cold with average daily temperatures of about -2°C to 11°C (28–52°F). Daytime temperatures rise quickly through the month, but nights are still cold and occasional snowfall is possible.
Clothing suggestions: Take some warm clothes, such as heavy coats and sweaters.
Central Yunnan (Dali and Kunming)
Dali: March in Dali is pleasant, with daily average temperatures ranging from 6°C to 20°C (43–68°F). The days are sunny, making it perfect for outdoor activities.
Kunming: Kunming in March enjoys warm and comfortable temperatures, with a daily average of 8°C to 21°C (46–70°F). The days are bright and sunny with little rainfall.
Clothing suggestions: Nights are cooler, so it's wise to dress in layers. Dali is known for its strong winds, especially in the evenings.
Southern Yunnan (Xishuangbanna)
By March, Xishuangbanna is nearing the end of its dry season, with higher temperatures ranging from 17°C to 33°C (63–91°F). The days are hot, but mornings and evenings are milder with humid air.
Clothing suggestions: Prepare summer clothing, such as short-sleeved, thin shirts. Precautions against sun exposure and insects are advised.
The Top 5 Places to Visit in Yunnan in March
Most areas in Yunnan welcome spring by March, making it the perfect time for outdoor activities, such as hiking and enjoying natural scenery.
1. Kunming
Yuantong TempleMarch in Kunming is warm with little rain, making it ideal for outdoor activities and viewing flowers.
In the morning, you could visit Green Lake Park to experience the lively atmosphere of locals exercising or go to Dianchi Lake to watch seagulls.
In the evening, head to Laoyu River Wetland Park to enjoy a sunset.
Cherry blossoms on Yuantong Mountain are in full bloom and you could also visit nearby Yuantong Temple to feel the tranquility and peace in Kunming's oldest Buddhist temple.
If you are a nature lover, consider visiting Luoping. March is the best time to view its seas of rapeseed flowers, which have been recognized by Guinness World Records as "the world's largest natural flower garden".
You could take a sightseeing train or climb the observation deck for a panoramic view of the vast fields of flowers.
Check out our 5-Day Kunming, Luoping, and Wanfenglin Tour.
2. Dali
Dali Old TownMarch is one of the best times to visit Dali, with pleasant weather and fewer tourists. It's an ideal month to tour around Er Lake.
You could choose to cycle, drive, walk, or take a boat around the lake, while also exploring Bai villages and towns nearby.
March is also the cherry blossom season in Dali. Cang'er Avenue is lined with cherry blossoms from the intersection of Hongsheng Road, and it leads directly towards Erhai Lake. Scattered cherry trees can also be enjoyed in and around Dali Old Town in March.
You could also visit Cang Mountain to enjoy the beauty of spring as nature comes back to life.
3. Tiger Leaping Gorge
Tiger Leaping GorgeAs the weather warms up and the rainy season has not yet begun, March is one of the perfect times for hiking in Tiger Leaping Gorge.
Vegetation along the trail starts to revive, creating a lush green landscape, and there's still some snow on the distant mountains. Since it's the off-season, you could enjoy quieter times on the trails.
The recommended hiking trail is from Tea Horse Guesthouse to Halfway Guesthouse, offering the most stunning scenery and a relatively easy hike.
4. Lugu Lake
Lugu LakeLugu Lake in March offers a beauty that is distinct from the bright charm of summer. During this time, you could feel the serene tranquility of late winter while also sensing the vibrant vitality of early spring.
Flowers and grasses along the shore begin to sprout, and the air is filled with a refreshing crispness. The lake's water is a mirror-like blue and is both peaceful and stunning.
You could take a traditional pig trough boat ride to explore the tranquil waters of Lugu Lake, walk along the lake's shore to enjoy a peaceful moment and beautiful sunset, hike to explore surrounding hills and Mosuo villages to learn about their matriarchal society, or just relax in lakeside resorts to enjoy the calm, either by reading a book, sipping tea, or simply admiring the view from your balcony.
See more on our 3-Day Lugu Lake Tour.
5. Pu'er
Pu'erPu'er is located in southwest Yunnan. In March, the temperature in Pu'er begins to warm up, but it hasn't yet reached the heat of summer, making the weather pleasant with little rainfall and ideal for outdoor activities.
March is also the season for spring tea picking, offering a perfect opportunity to visit tea plantations, learn about the process of making Pu'er tea, and enjoy the experience of picking tea leaves yourself.
You could also meet lovely animals, such as red pandas and deer, in a forest park and relax in a tree-house-like hotel room.
Check out our 6-Day Xishuangbanna and Pu'er Tour.
Crowds and Costs
Compared to peak travel seasons in Yunnan (such as the National Day holidays), the number of tourists in March is generally lower.
In terms of costs, March is not a peak season, so flight tickets, hotels, and travel services are generally more affordable.
If you're looking for a month with fewer tourists, beautiful scenery, and reasonable prices, March could be a good option.
Recommended Yunnan Tours
- 7-Day Kunming, Dali, and Lijiang Tour
- 8-Day 'Meet Yourself' Yunnan Tour
- 12-Day Yunnan and Xinjiang Scenic Tour
If you have any questions, want to make some adjustments, or want to tailor an itinerary based on your requirements and interests, just contact us.