Sichuan Weather in March

Sichuan weather in March turns increasingly mild and less rainy, marking the transition from winter to spring. By late March, Sichuan Basin and the northwestern area begin to show the traces of spring: peach blossoms begin to bloom. The southwestern valleys remain warm and dry, offering pleasant conditions for easy outdoor explorations.  

Early Peach Blossoms

In early March, places like Daocheng still experience a cold plateau climate, with highs of 14-20°C (57-68°F) and lows of -11 to -8°C (12-18°F). In Jiuzhaigou, you may even spot a thin layer of frost on the land in the early morning. As temperature gradually rises as time proceeds, the bright sunlight makes it surprisingly mild, and many visitors find it comfortable walking under the clear blue sky. 

Sunny Day in Jiuzhaigou

Chengdu in this month experiences a transitional period from winter to spring. In general, the temperature rises up a bit, with the highest temperature up to 18 degrees Celsius (64 degrees Fahrenheit). By late March, the daytime highest temperature, especially on a sunny day, can even soar up to 31 degrees Celsius (88 degrees Fahrenheit). But sunny days here in this month is quite rare. Based on the meteorological data in 2025, there were only 4 sunny days in March. In addition, you need to be aware that at night, the temperature still drops noticeably, with lows between 4-9°C (40-48°F) only. 
 

Southwestern valleys stay warm in March, and it’s very common to see daily highs above 30 degrees Celsius (86 degrees Fahrenheit), making it like early summer. 

See more about: 
Chengdu Weather in March
Jiuzhaigou Weather in March
 

Chengdu: 20 mm over 11 days 

Jiuzhaigou: 58 mm over 13 days 

Daocheng: 28 mm over 6 days 

Panzhihua: 26 mm over 3 days 
 

In general, Sichuan doesn’t receive much rainfall in March and the total precipitation rarely exceeds 60 mm, which is good for outings. 
 

Eastern Sichuan Basin, for instance Chengdu, witnesses occasional light showers, followed by foggy weather sometimes. 
 

Apart from occasional rainfall, light snow is possible in Jiuzhaigou and other northwestern plateau in March, adding a touch of romance. 
 

The weather of southeastern Sichuan remains quite dry this month, with mostly clear skies and stable sunny weather. 

Crystal-clear Water

Chengdu: 73 %

Jiuzhaigou: 62 %

Daocheng: 53 %

Panzhihua: 51 %
 

Chengdu Plain is shrouded in gloom for nearly the entire March. So although the rainfall is low, it’s not difficult to find the climate here highly humid, which may make perceived temperatures lower. 
 

In contrast, most other parts of Sichuan stays relatively dry, with the average humidity level around 50 %. The dry climate and gradually increasing temperatures create ideal conditions for outdoor adventures, in places like Jiuzhaigou Valley National Park. 
 

Sunrise Time: 6:53-7:29

Sunset Time: 19:02-19:21
 

As the month proceeds, Sichuan enjoys a longer daytime period, around 12 hours. It’s beneficial for a relaxed travel here. If you intend to catch a sunrise or sunset view, remember to check the exact time and plan your journey accordingly.  
 

Considering the relatively long sunshine hours and high altitudes of western Sichuan, the UV rays can be strong even on mild days. Thus, it’s essential to prepare sun-protective items. UV rays of Chengdu Plain are much milder because of low altitude and the commonly overcast weather. 

Du Fu Thatched Cottage

Upper Clothing: It’s ok to wear warm sweater paired with a thick overcoat in Chengdu. A light down vest is helpful for cold mornings and evenings. If you plan to explore the northwestern area, a thick 3-in-1 windbreaker would be a practical option. For southwestern Sichuan, a long-sleeve shirt plus a thin jacket would be enough. 
 

Down Clothing: Thermal leggings and jeans are perfect matches. Girls can choose a dress layered upon warm tights to keep warm and stylish at the same time. 
 

Footwear: A pair of comfortable sneakers is suitable for various travel activities. Short boots are good to go with dress. 
 

Accessories: 

Scarves, gloves and a hat are in good need for northwestern plateau. 

Don’t forget to pack an umbrella because of occasional rainfall. 

Strong UV rays in high-altitude area require sunscreen, sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat. 

It’s also necessary to take supplemental oxygen and altitude sickness medicine when going to the northwestern high-altitude area. 
 

1. Compared with early time in the month, the end of March is a better time to climb Mount Qingcheng or Mount Emei, as the weather becomes warmer and the possible mist adds a touch of mystery. 

2. You need to know that due to the scarcity of precipitation and limited snowmelt in Jiuzhaigou, the lake scenery in March is less spectacular than usual. But in late March, the peach blossoms begin to bloom, somehow compensating for this shortcoming. 

3. March is usually the last month of off-peak travel season. During this period, flights and hotels are more affordable, and even some scenic spots adopt low-season admission fees. For example, visitors can enjoy up to 50 % off Jiuzhaigou Valley National Park admission tickets. 

4. It’s always helpful to check the weather forecast in advance and plan your trip accordingly. Try to stay in downtown and don’t go to mountainous areas if there is rain.