Mongolia Weather in March

Mongolia weather in March remains cold, but bearable and not freezing. It is during this month that snow in most areas, especially in Southern Mongolia, begins to melt away and the grassland gradually emerges from snow cover, but still barren. March is also the peak period of sandstorms. Generally speaking, it is not suggested to travel to Mongolia in March since vast snow scenery and vibrant grassland are both unavailable. 

Rising Temperature

Average High Temperature: 1℃ (34℉)
Average Low Temperature: -13℃ (9℉)

The overall temperature trend in March sees a slight rise, with low temperature normally fluctuating between -10 degrees Celsius (14 degrees Fahrenheit) and -18℃ (1℉), and high temperature ranging from -3 - 9℃ (27-48℉). There are approximately 15 days when the high temperature going above 0℃ (32℉), with the highest ones even reaching over 10 ℃ (50℉). In other words, visitors will not feel bitterly cold outside in the daytime anymore. 

Sandstorm Season

During March when the Gobi Deserts in Southern Mongolia begin to thaw, earlier than other areas, large-scale sandstorms and dusty days caused by blowing sand are frequently seen. The terrible weather condition must be a big challenge for visitors since the transport system will stop service, electricity be cut off and scenic spots closed when encountering a severe sandstorm. Even if it is not very strong, staying outside is dangerous and harmful as well. You might find sand in your mouth when you talking and speaking with others and it will aggravate your respiratory diseases including asthma. On sandstorm days, low visibility will make everything in sight seemingly “dirty” and yellowish brown. Therefore, the sandstorm weather of Mongolia in March is not suitable for outdoor activities.

What to Wear in March in Mongolia?

Upper body: Knitwear with a thick down jacket or heavy sweater with a wool coat will be a good match. As Mongolia climate in March is not severely cold outdoors and the heating system functions efficiently, thermal underwear is less necessary because you may feel hot and sweat if you wear it. But you can choose to pack it in case of temperature drop or if you plan to conduct long-time outdoor activities.

Lower body: You can choose to wear thick jeans with long johns for the lower body. If you are not used to long johns, padded sweatpants or fleece-lined trousers will be good alternatives too, but the bottoms should be tight to prevent the cold air from creeping into your trousers.

Shoes: Considering the rising temperature, it is suggested to prepare walking boots with thick socks or non-slip padded sneakers. Snow boots might be too warm and thick to wear, but if you are going to play winter games on the frozen lake, they remain essential. 

Others: To protect yourself against the sand, headscarves or hats should be worn, even if you are just going to walk outside for several minutes. Glasses are also necessary to protect your eyes and be sure to wear masks to avoid breathing in dust. 

Local Festivals in March

If your trip is in March 2026 and free from sandstorm warning, some interesting festivals of local characteristics are recommended for visitors to engage in.

Falcon Festival in Ulaanbaatar 

To attract tourists and preserve the cultural heritage, Falcon Festival is usually held in early March, normally in the second week, and lasts for two days. Visitors are able to appreciate the stunning performances about how the eagles cooperate with their trainers to capture the prey. There are also colorful exhibitions to display and sell the eagle trainers’ attire, traditional ethnic handicrafts and local food. Local people will invite you to dance together with them to their traditional music, thus creating such a lively atmosphere.

Ice Festival in Khovsgol

Though the general temperature in March in Mongolia rises, Lake Khovsgol, located in Northern Mongolia where temperature is lower, remains in icy period and its ice is still thick enough to conduct activities on. According to history records, the Ice Festival is predicted to be held in the first week of March 2026. Vivid ice sculptures of diverse shapes will be displayed and fun games will also be accessible to visitors, such as tug of war, archery and skating. It must be unforgettable to take a sleigh ride and play games on the frozen Lake Khovsgol. 

Tips for Visiting Mongolia in March

1. If you encounter a sudden sandstorm when you are outdoor, keep yourself far away from trees and advertising billboards which might be blown down by strong winds. 
2. On dust sand stormy days, if you need to go outside, wearing clothes of bright colors is important to avoid the possible accidents caused by low invisibility. Respiratory diseases might deteriorate and be sure to prepare some related medicine if you suffer from asthma.
3. Power banks are necessary in case that your phones are out of electricity and you lose contact with others, because sandstorm may cause the electricity interruption.
4. For visitors appealed by specific activities in March, they should pay close attention to weather forecast and related warning information, and make prompt adjustments on their travel plans.

5. Please check the specific dates and site of festivals so as to schedule your itinerary appropriately in advance since some host places might be far from Ulaanbaatar, such as Lake Khovsgol, more than 700 km (435 mi) away. It might take over 10 hours to arrive there by car or you may book air tickets in advance. 

March Weather of Major Mongolia Cities