Chongqing Weather in March: Tips for Travelers

March offers ideal conditions for first-time visitors to Chongqing. The weather is comfortable, spring flowers start to appear, crowds are lighter, and prices are generally lower.

Yes, you'll need to pack for temperature swings and light rain, but that's a small trade-off compared with summer heat, winter fog, and peak-season crowds.

What the Weather is Like in March?

March weather in Chongqing can be unstable. Temperatures may rise or drop suddenly. But it's warmer than February with less fog and more sunshine, and rains less than in April.

March Temperature Overview

Mostly, March temperatures alternate between two patterns in Chongqing:

When it's cool, a coat or wool overcoat layered over a long-sleeve top or sweater, paired with long pants, is usually enough. On warmer days, you can wear a long dress, long-sleeve top, or sweatshirt, or add a light jacket if needed.

But sometimes, it can climb to or close to 30℃ (95℉). You can even wear short sleeves.

And also expect sharp temperature drops. One day it's 25℃ (77℉), the next day drops to 15℃ (59℉). This happens at least once or twice every March. Pack a thicker jacket just in case.

What about the Rain and Weather?

March in Chongqing is still moist, and only sees about 2–5 sunny days. Most days are overcast, cloudy, or rainy. Sometimes on cloudy days, the sun peeks through the clouds, but not for long.

The rainy season hasn't started yet, so March rain is usually light drizzle, about 50 mm (2 in) for the month. You'll often debate whether to use an umbrella. A hat or a cap works just fine.

Even on sunny days, the sky's usually white rather than blue. Clear blue skies are rare in Chongqing this time of year. But don't worry. It won't affect your photos.

In downtown, heavy fog that blocks views decreases significantly compared to winter. You'll see some light mist occasionally. Though it still affects the mountain areas sometimes.

What to Do in Chongqing in March

1. Best for exploring all the city highlights

18 Steps

In downtown Chongqing, many attractions are buildings, shopping streets, and old town alleys. They look the same year-round. What really makes a difference in March is the comfortable weather and lighter crowds. It makes your exploration more enjoyable.

You won't have to squeeze through crowds or struggle to find a good photo spot at Hongya Cave, Ciqikou Ancient Town, or Liziba.

The Yangtze River Cableway? Forget standing in a one-hour queue just for a five-minute ride. In March, it usually takes only 20-30 minutes.

Even in Shancheng Alley or 18 Steps, you don't need to worry about being shoulder-to-shoulder with other visitors on the narrow lanes and steps.

2. Catch the Spring in Chongqing

Even though Chongqing isn't famous for spring flowers, visiting in March still lets you enjoy some blooms. And it makes exploring the city more pleasant.

• The monorail to Spring

The train bound for spring

At Liziba Station, you can take photos of the monorail through the residential buildingat any time of year. But only in March can you catch the train gliding through blooming plum blossoms. That's Metro Line 2 at the Fotuguan section.

The best viewing time is from Late February to early March when the flowers hit peak bloom. You can head to Fotuguan Park or the viewing platform on the hill for the perfect shot.

• Yoshino cherry around Ring Mall

The Cherry Blossoms I captured in late March

If you visit Ring Mall in late March, don't rush straight into the mall's "tropical rainforest". Step outside first! The pale pink Yoshino cherry blossoms on the surrounding streets are in full bloom, and the mall also has spring-themed activities at this time.

The best spots for viewing and photos are the west side street of Ring Mall, and by the southwest entrance's white nautilus-shaped building. But be careful at Entrance 1. There are some fake cherry blossoms for decoration. 

3. Green Views and Outdoor Adventures on the Yangtze

Enjoy your comfortable deck time

During your Yangtze River cruise, you'll notice that in March, both the river and the surrounding mountains are green and stunning, like polished jade (not the yellow water in summer).

The weather and temperature are perfect for your deck time and excursions, not too hot or cold.

Best of all, when you visit scenic stops along the way, like White Emperor City or Three Gorges Summit, the ferry, hiking trails, and cable cars down the mountain usually run smoothly, with little to no waiting.

4. Discover the Natural Beauty of Wulong

In March, there's much less fog at Three Natural Bridges and Longshuixia Gorge. When you take the rotating elevator down into the valley, you're more likely to enjoy clear panoramic views. 

If you plan to visit Fairy Mountain, late March is a better choice. Earlier in the month, most grass and trees are still dry and brown, although light snow is still possible.

Rain usually brings fog and colder temperatures (10℃/ 50℉ or lower), and can seriously affect your visibility.

Remember to dress warmly on Fairy Mountain's rainy days. When it's foggy, you can spend more time in the Grassland area. The mist is usually lighter there.

Crowds and Cost

March is before the peak travel season starts in Chongqing. No public holidays, no school breaks, and no tourist rush. This means better everything.

• Flights and hotels are often 10-30% cheaper
• Hotel rooms and train tickets are generally easier to book, with more choices
• You can save around RMB 600-900 on Yangtze River cruises compared to peak season

Ready to Experience Spring in Chongqing?

All of our tours can be tailored to your interests and pace. Just tell us what you like, and we'll create a custom itinerary for you—no shopping stops, no hassle.

• 8-Day Chengdu, Chongqing, and Jiuzhaigou Tour
• 6-Day Chongqing and Chengdu Tour with Wulong and Dazu

Find more Chongqing Tours on our website, or contact us today to start planning your trip!

Chongqing Weather by Month

• Chongqing Weather in January
• Chongqing Weather in February
• Chongqing Weather in March
• Chongqing Weather in April
• Chongqing Weather in May
• Chongqing Weather in June
• Chongqing Weather in July
• Chongqing Weather in August
• Chongqing Weather in September
• Chongqing Weather in October
• Chongqing Weather in November
• Chongqing Weather in December