Visiting Tibet in March

Visiting Tibet in March gives you a vibrant experience of culture and stunning landscapes as winter fades into spring. This time of year is perfect for travelers looking to enjoy cooler weather and fewer tourists. The snow-capped mountains set against bright blue skies offer great opportunities for photographers. You can enjoy the celebrations of two festivals in Tibet during March: The Monlam Prayer Festival and The Butter Lamp Festival, if you deceit to travel to Tibet at the end of March then you will have the opportunity to see the Peach Blossom Festival in Eastern Tibet (Nyingchi Region).

Weather in Tibet in March

March in Tibet is a month of transition from a cold winter to a slightly warmer spring. The temperatures begin to rise, but it is still considerably cold, especially in the early mornings and evenings. Daytime temperatures can vary widely, but generally range from 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F), while nights can still drop below freezing, particularly at higher altitudes. The skies are often clear, offering stunning views of the Himalayan peaks, but the weather can change rapidly in the mountains.

Here you can read our guide for when is the best time to visit Tibet.

What to Pack

Clothing

Layered Clothing: Pack layers that can be easily added or removed as temperatures fluctuate throughout the day. Include thermal underwear, a fleece jacket, and a warm outer coat.

Windproof and Waterproof Jacket: Essential for sudden weather changes, especially if you are trekking or spending extended periods outdoors.

Hat, Gloves, and Scarf: Necessary for early mornings, evenings, and higher altitudes where it can be bitterly cold.

Comfortable Walking Shoes: Durable and waterproof, suitable for varied terrains.

Sunglasses and Sunscreen: The sun is particularly strong in high-altitude areas, making these items crucial to protect against UV rays.

Health Supplies

Altitude Sickness Medication: Consult with a healthcare provider about medications and preventive measures for altitude sickness.

First Aid Kit: Include band-aids, antiseptic, pain relievers, and personal medications.

Lip Balm and Moisturizer: The cold, dry air can be harsh on your skin and lips.

Packing appropriately for the weather and being prepared with essential supplies will make your visit to Tibet in March more comfortable and enjoyable. Always check the latest travel advisories and weather forecasts before your trip to ensure you have the most current information.

What to Visit in Tibet in March

Traveling to Tibet means visiting Potala Palace, Barkhor Street, and Jokhang Temple. All of these attractions are marks of Lhasa and all three attractions make Lhasa a “Holy City”.

Potala Palace

The Potala Palace once was the Dalai Lamas’s winter residence and now is a museum. It is a stunning example of Tibetan architecture and is now a museum. Visitors should book their tickets in advance due to daily visitor limits. Photography inside the palace is restricted, and there is a lot of climbing involved so comfortable shoes are recommended.

Jokhang Temple

Jokhand Temple is considered the most sacred and important temple in Tibet, and it is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience Tibetan Buddhism firsthand. The temple is usually crowded with pilgrims, especially during religious festivals. Modest dress is required to enter, and photography is often restricted inside the temple.

Fun Fact: The Jokhang Temple houses many important Buddhist relics, including a life-sized statue of the Buddha at age twelve, which is believed to be consecrated by the Buddha himself.

Barkhor Street

Barkhor Street is a bustling market street that circles the Jokhang Temple. It’s an excellent place to observe Tibetan culture and shop for local crafts like prayer wheels, thangka paintings, and jewelry. Bargaining is expected, so feel free to haggle to get the best price.

Things to do in Tibet in March

Walk in the Old Town in Lhasa

When you are in Lhasa, walk in the Old Town and you will be amazed by the all temples and nunneries there. 

The Old Town is nestled off Beijing Donglu and is a quiet, tucked-away religious site, including a bustling nunnery and five smaller temples that charm visitors with their intimate settings, contrasting with the more imposing temples elsewhere. These locations offer a personal glimpse into local religious practices.

Trek to Namtso Lake

Trekking to Namtso Lake in Tibet during March is an exciting adventure. Known as the “Heavenly Lake,” Namtso is one of the highest saltwater lakes in the world, located at about 4,718 meters above sea level. In March, the weather starts to warm up a bit, but the lake is still frozen and surrounded by snowy mountains, creating beautiful scenes. The ice melts in late April when the lake transforms into a stunning shade of turquoise, surrounded by breathtaking views of the nearby snow-capped mountains. Namtso is the most popular tourist destination outside of Lhasa. However, many visitors opt for exhausting one-day trips, only experiencing the lake during a few midday hours. Staying overnight at the lake offers a much quieter and more serene experience, allowing you to enjoy the tranquil beauty of the area after the day-trippers have left.

The trek to Namtso is challenging because of the high altitude and rough paths, so it’s important to be ready for cold weather and the possibility of altitude sickness. You’ll need warm clothes and the right gear to handle the conditions. Even though it’s tough, the journey is worth it. The peaceful lake and the quiet, vast landscapes offer a chance to feel a deep connection with nature. 

Witness the Tibetan Festivals

The Monlam Prayer Festival is an important religious celebration in Tibetan Buddhism, taking place shortly after the Tibetan New Year, Losar. The festival started in 1409 by Tsongkhapa, the founder of the Gelug school, Monlam means “wish-path” and it’s a time for prayers and making wishes for peace and prosperity.

During the festival, which lasts several days, monks, nuns, and others come together for prayer, rituals, and religious debates. Highlights include large processions, the making of intricate butter sculptures, and the display of giant thangkas, which are religious paintings, on the walls of monasteries.

The festival is mainly celebrated in Lhasa, especially around the Jokhang Temple, attracting thousands of pilgrims from across Tibet and beyond. It’s a deeply spiritual event that brings the community together in prayer and celebration.

In 2025, the festival will be celebrated from March 3 until March 24th.

The Butter Lamp Festival or Chunga Choepa, is a stunning event in Tibetan Buddhism held on the 15th day of the first Tibetan lunar month. It marks the end of the Monlam Prayer Festival and celebrates the Buddha’s triumph over his non-Buddhist challengers through miraculous deeds.

During the festival, Tibetans lit many butter lamps in monasteries, public areas, and homes to honor the Buddha. These lamps symbolize bringing light to darkness and represent the enlightenment that dispels ignorance. Alongside the lamps, monks create detailed sculptures from butter, shaping them into flowers and figures of gods to show off their artistic talents.

The festival is especially lively in Lhasa, where the whole city lights up with lamps, creating a beautiful and warm atmosphere. It’s a time of happiness and reflection, bringing together both locals and visitors in a festive and meaningful celebration.

The Butter Lamp Festival in 2025 will be celebrated on March 14.

Final words

Visiting Tibet in March is a unique experience that will give you lifetime moments and memories. As the cold winter weather starts to soften, you can enjoy the stunning views of snowy mountains under clear skies. March is also a time for colorful festivals like Monlam, bringing Tibet’s rich culture to life. Whether you’re wandering through the historic streets of Lhasa, marveling at the icy beauty of Namtso Lake, or hiking through quiet landscapes, March is a perfect time to explore Tibet. Make sure to dress warmly, respect the local traditions, and take in the peaceful atmosphere that makes this time of year so special in Tibet.