March in Delhi is a total mood swing. Honestly, if you’re planning a trip or just trying to survive the season, you’ve probably heard it’s "pleasant." That’s a bit of a half-truth. While the official average high sits around 30°C, the reality on the ground is way more chaotic. One day you’re wearing a light linen shirt, and the next, you’re sweating through a T-shirt because the mercury decided to hit 36°C without warning.
Basically, March is the month where Delhi stops pretending to be winter and starts its aggressive sprint toward summer.
Why the temperature in Delhi in March is so unpredictable
The transition is real. You’ve got this tug-of-war between the fading "Western Disturbances"—those cool winds from the Mediterranean that bring random rain—and the incoming heat from the Rajasthan deserts. In 2024, for instance, we saw minimums dip to a chilly 9°C early in the month. Fast forward to late March 2025, and parts of North India were already staring down the barrel of a 40°C heatwave alert.
It’s inconsistent.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the normal mean maximum is about 29.9°C. But look at the history books. In March 2021, the Safdarjung observatory recorded a staggering 40.1°C. That was the hottest March day since 1945! So, when someone tells you it’s "perfect sightseeing weather," they aren't lying, but they aren't giving you the full picture either.
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Morning chills vs. afternoon sizzle
You’ll wake up to a crisp 15°C or 16°C. It feels amazing. You grab a coffee, walk through Lodhi Garden, and think, "I love this city." Then 2:00 PM hits. The sun in a cloudless Delhi sky is different; it bites. The temperature in Delhi in March can easily swing 15 to 20 degrees in a single twelve-hour cycle.
If you aren't layering, you're doing it wrong.
What's actually happening with the climate?
We can't ignore the "Urban Heat Island" effect. Delhi is a concrete jungle, and all that asphalt soaks up the sun during the day. This is why the nights aren't cooling down as fast as they used to. Recent data from the Council on Energy, Environment and Water (CEEW) suggests that "warm nights" are increasing faster than "hot days."
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It means the relief we used to get after sunset is shrinking.
Rainfall and the Dust Factor
Rain in March? It’s rare, but it happens. Usually, we get maybe one or two days of light showers, totaling about 15-20mm. When it rains, the dust settles, and the air feels incredible. When it doesn't? The wind starts picking up. By late March, the "Loo"—those hot, dusty winds from the west—begins to whisper. It’s not the full-blown furnace of May yet, but the air definitely gets a bit "gritty."
Interestingly, the air quality (AQI) is actually somewhat decent in March compared to the toxic soup of November. You’re likely to see AQI levels in the "Moderate" range (100-200), which is about as good as it gets for the capital.
Packing for the Delhi heat (and the leftover cold)
Don't bring a heavy coat. You’ll look ridiculous and feel worse.
Instead, think like a local:
- Cotton is king: Stick to breathable fabrics.
- The "Emergency" Hoodie: Keep a very light jacket or pashmina for early morning starts or late-night auto-rickshaw rides.
- Sunscreen is non-negotiable: The March sun is sneaky. You won't feel the burn because of the breeze, but you'll definitely see it in the mirror later.
Surprising facts about March weather
Most people think May is the only dangerous month for heat, but March is when the body is least acclimated. A sudden jump to 35°C in mid-March feels way more exhausting than 35°C in July when you're used to the heat.
Also, humidity is quite low, usually hovering between 30% and 50%. This makes the heat "dry." You won't feel sticky, but you will get dehydrated faster than you realize. Drink more water than you think you need.
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The Verdict on Visiting
Is it a good time to go? Yes. It’s arguably the best time before the city turns into a literal oven. You get about 12 hours of daylight, which is perfect for hitting the Red Fort or wandering through Humayun's Tomb. Just don't expect a constant "spring" vibe. Expect a preview of summer with a side of cool mornings.
To get the most out of your trip, schedule your outdoor monuments for before 11:00 AM or after 4:30 PM. Use the mid-afternoon slot for air-conditioned museums or long, lazy lunches in Khan Market. Keep an eye on the IMD's daily bulletins, as they are surprisingly accurate with short-term heat spike warnings. If you see a "Yellow Alert" for heat, stay hydrated and plan for a slower day.