After the decidedly chilly start to the year, the weather in Uzbekistan in March makes a welcome improvement. Spring begins to take hold, bringing milder temperatures between 50 and 60°F (10 and 15°C), melting away the snow, which gives way to blossoming trees. Days tend to be sunny, with minimal rainfall to get in the way of sightseeing. Cities like Samarkand come alive with the celebration of Navruz, the Persian New Year and it’s this festive atmosphere, combined with comfortable weather, that makes March an exciting time to visit. Nights can still be chilly, but daytime is ideal for walking through historical sites, markets and parks, where you’ll be joining locals who almost seem to come out of hibernation as the mercury rises.
March marks the shift into spring, with rising temps and the first flowers starting to bloom. Navruz, the Persian New Year, is celebrated all over the country and brings color, music and traditional feasts.
March is when things start turning a corner weather-wise in Uzbekistan. The days warm up, with cities like Tashkent and Samarkand averaging around 54°F (12°C), though nights can still feel a bit wintry. In the valleys and lowlands, the snow melts away and hints of green start popping up. The mountains, on the other hand, keep their frosty grip a little longer.
What really makes March special is Nowruz (also spelled Navruz), the Persian New Year celebrated on March 21. The whole country gets in the spirit with dancing, traditional music, markets, and mountains of food. It’s one of the best times to experience Uzbek hospitality and culture up close.
As the weather improves, getting around the country gets easier too. Snow and ice clear from most roads, making travel between cities smoother. While March is still considered part of the shoulder season, tourists start trickling in for the vacation, so it’s smart to book accommodations in advance.
If you're after a mix of culture, good weather, and historical exploration, March hits the sweet spot. From the energy of Nowruz to the emerging spring landscapes, it’s one of the top reasons to visit Uzbekistan. Just pack a warm jacket for the evenings, when the winter chill can still sneak back in.
The weather in Uzbekistan in March is all about change. In Tashkent, you’ll get highs around 57°F (14°C) and lows near 39°F (4°C). Samarkand and Bukhara stay pretty similar, with days reaching 54°F (12°C) and nighttime temperatures dropping to 36°F (2°C).
The Fergana Valley warms up a little faster, often reaching 59°F (15°C) during the day and dipping to 41°F (5°C) at night. Out in the desert regions like Khiva and the Kyzylkum, mornings are still cold, around 30°F (-1°C), but afternoons become more comfortable at about 50°F (10°C).
The mountains are slower to thaw. In places like Chimgan, daytime highs are usually around 42°F (6°C), while nights can still drop to 28°F (-2°C).
You might catch a spring shower here or there, but most days are clear and sunny. With the extra daylight and milder conditions, it’s a great time to sightsee without needing to duck indoors every half hour. Even so, you’ll still want a jacket once the sun goes down.
Bukhara, Uzbekistan @ Shutterstock
March draws more visitors than the quieter winter months, especially as Nowruz approaches. The vacation, which lands on March 21, brings lively parades, open-air concerts and busy markets filled with candy, crafts and festival foods. Cities like Samarkand and Tashkent start to buzz with activity.
With that uptick in interest, some hotels and tours begin raising their prices, particularly in the week around Nowruz. Even so, costs are still lower than what you’d find during peak summer. If you’re planning to be there during the festivities, it’s worth reservation your stay ahead of time.
March is a nice balance. You’ll see more energy and excitement compared to winter, but it’s not too crowded or pricey yet. Ideal if you’re hoping to catch a bit of culture without breaking the bank.
March is when the country starts to bloom again, both literally and culturally. With the chill fading and the festivals starting, it’s a great time to explore, celebrate and take in the scenery.
Spring gives new life to the yards and parks around Samarkand. Places like Gur-e-Amir and Shah-i-Zinda are surrounded by trees starting to flower and the mix of blossoms with ancient turquoise domes is a photographer’s dream.
The high-speed Afrosiyob train connects the capital and Samarkand in under two hours. The ride is comfy, efficient and offers views of Uzbekistan’s changing landscape, from the last bits of winter to the early signs of spring.
With the snow melting, the Nuratau Mountains become perfect for light hiking. You can stay in eco-lodges, walk through scenic valleys and visit remote villages where local families offer warm hospitality and home-cooked meals.
Gur-E Amir Mausoleum, the tomb of the Asian conqueror Tamerlane, Samarkand, Uzbekistan © NICOLA MESSANA PHOTOS/Shutterstock
Historic roadside inns like Rabati Malik, near Bukhara, are great to visit when the weather’s not too hot or cold. You can wander through these stone structures and imagine what it must have been like for traders traveling the Silk Road centuries ago. It’s a glimpse into the grit and grind of ancient commerce — camels, spices, and all.
As spring approaches, local carpet makers in Bukhara start showcasing new collections. Drop into a workshop to watch artisans knotting rugs by hand and browse beautiful pieces with traditional designs and rich natural dyes.
March is packed with colorful events that welcome the arrival of spring and showcase the country’s culture.
