Lanzhou Weather in March

Cool spring days

March feels like the start of spring in Lanzhou, but mornings and evenings stay chilly. Afternoons reach about 14°C, while nights can fall close to freezing. Rain is limited, so you'll usually have plenty of dry time for city sightseeing.

Walk the Yellow River waterfront or visit Zhongshan Bridge when the sun is out. The Gansu Provincial Museum also makes a good stop if the day feels cold. Save longer outings for the brighter part of the day, and don't count on warm evenings outside.

What's on in March

March doesn't have a major fixed festival in Lanzhou. Chinese holidays move with the lunar calendar, but the Spring Festival usually falls earlier, and Qingming is in April. You're unlikely to find a citywide holiday crowd in March.

If you hate crowds, this can be a comfortable month to see the city at a quieter pace. April and May are among Lanzhou's best-loved months, so March generally feels less busy. Prices may be gentler than in those popular spring months, though they vary by hotel and travel dates.

A useful local tip

Lanzhou's famous beef noodles are a warming breakfast after a chilly start. At a local noodle shop, you may hear the order "yi qing, er bai, san hong, si lv": clear broth, white radish, red chilli oil and green herbs. Ask for less chilli if you prefer a milder bowl.

Travelling with kids? Pair a short riverside walk with a noodle stop, rather than planning a long outdoor day. The riverfront is pleasant in the sunshine, but the temperature drops quickly once it fades.