March sees slowly rising temperatures and longer daylight, but conditions are still cold with possible late snow. Roads and tracks can be wet or icy during thaws. Some travelers begin to arrive for early spring birding and nomadic culture visits.
Average daily low and high (°C) and monthly rainfall. The badge shows how it feels, allowing for humidity.
Average temperature across Mongolia in March.
March opens with a raw, gusty transition: winds from the north sweep down off the steppe and temperatures hover around −5 to +5°C. Snowmelt begins on the hills around Terelj and the ground turns to heavy mud, making off-road drives messy; the city’s coal smoke can still trap in valleys during cold snaps. Packs should include layered clothing, a windproof shell and waterproof boots; it’s a good month for low-season hotel rates and fewer tourists.
Dalanzadgad, Khongoryn Els, Bayanzag
March loosens the grip of winter as daytime temperatures climb toward 0-10°C, but strong spring gales and sand-blowing storms make travel exposed and dusty. Local drivers often delay nonessential trips when the wind whips the steppe; it’s a transitional month when early wildflowers appear and the dunes begin to thaw. Travelers should secure goggles and dust masks; visibility can collapse in a few minutes during a sandstorm.
Bayan-Ölgii, Khovd, Altai Tavan Bogd
March brings an uneven thaw at lower elevations yet high passes remain snowbound; daytime temperatures gradually rise toward −5 to +5°C in southerly valleys. The melting season can make short trekking approaches boggy while glaciers and river crossings are unstable; guides are essential for safe travel. Local markets in Khovd and Altai city start to reopen, offering early-season provisions after the winter closure.
Khatgal, Murun, Khovsgol National Park
March starts the slow break-up with longer daylight and marginal warming-daytime highs creep above freezing in sheltered spots, yet nights stay well below 0°C. Snow becomes patchy on lower trails and thawed rivers may be swollen: spring still feels wintery in the high taiga. Planning must allow for late-season ice hazards and muddy forest roads; spring bird arrivals are early but remain limited by the cold.
Choibalsan, Onon River, Mongol Daguur
March delivers fierce steppe winds and a creaking thaw that makes dust and smoke from early grass fires likely in some years; temperatures edge up toward freezing in the afternoons. Migratory steppe birds can begin to appear, and the Onon-Balj area shows early signs of spring. Road surfaces remain challenging; a 4x4 vehicle and a flexible itinerary are advisable if you’re moving between protected areas.
There are no major festivals or events in Mongolia during March to be aware of.
See how March compares with the rest of the year, then read the full guide.