Trekking in Nepal in November: Weather, Best Treks and Travel Guide

Trekking in Nepal in November is like witnessing the Himalayan mountain ranges in their best form. The rain from monsoon season cleans the air impurities which provides clear visibility by the time November arrives. The skies become crystal clear, and the snow peaks look magnificent under the backdrop of dark blue sky. Wake up early morning, pull back the curtains, and you will see the snow peaks in all their glory.

This is the reason why trekkers prefer this particular month. Trekking in Nepal in November remains dry and steady most of the time of the routes. You can make plans in advance, and this becomes crucial because the trip lasts for a long time and you need to plan it ahead of time.

It is pleasantly warm in the daytime. At lower and medium altitudes, trekking in the morning sun in a thin jacket feels good. Once the sun sets, it becomes freezing cold. At elevations above 3,000 meters, nights are quite cold, and there will be frost.

The beauty of autumn helps the destination’s beauty. The terraces of fields glow golden, the woods appear fluffy because of the soft light, and the villages are bustling, hosting different festivals. On clear days, the mountain are visible morning, afternoon and evening, making Nepal trekking in November popular.

You can run into many people in teahouses and among the trail, which always creates a very friendly atmosphere there. The teahouses work, guides know their way very well and other trekkers share their trekking experience while having dal bhat every evening.

Where to go? The best treks in Nepal in November are: Everest Base Camp Trek, Annapurna Circuit, Annapurna Base Camp, and Manaslu Circuit. Langtang Valley is less crowded alternative for the mentioned place. For inexperienced trekkers and people who have less time there are such routes as Poon Hill and Mardi Himal.

In this travel guide you will find information about the weather, trekking routes, packing list, and organizing trips to Nepal. After reading the information you will be ready for trekking in Nepal in November.

Nepal Weather in November

Nepal weather in November remains dry and steady perfect for trekking in Nepal. As the monsoon season comes to an end in September, the weather becomes dry again. Most of the days start sunny and remain clear until afternoon.

Temperatures vary depending on the altitude. At an altitude of 2,500 meters, daytime temperature is about 18–25-degree Celsius. At an altitude from 3,500 to 4,500 meters, temperature under the sun can shift from 8 to 15 degrees. However, the situation changes dramatically at night, as temperatures drop to around zeros at altitudes of 3,000 meters and can decrease even more at higher altitudes.

Here is a simple overview of what to expect in each region:

Trekking region	Daytime conditions	Nighttime conditions
Kathmandu Valley	Mild to warm	Cool
Annapurna region	Mild at lower elevations	Cold at higher elevations
Everest region	Cool to mild	Very cold at high elevations
Langtang region	Mild at lower elevations	Cold at higher elevations
Mustang region	Generally dry	Cold, especially at night

Rainfall is usually not a problem. Occasionally, it is possible to experience rain showers in the valleys, but continuous rans last more than one day rarely. Snowfall is uncommon but can appear as light snowfall on such high-altitude passes as Thorong La and Cho La.

This is one moment when you can take a peek at some stunning views in the year. In the morning, you will see clear views of the mountains including Everest, Annapurna and Manaslu. There may be clouds that move into the valleys during the afternoon, so make sure you do not wait too long before heading out.

Altitude in more important to you than the date. The low altitudes trails like Poon Hill will be pleasant all through the day. High altitude routes will be winter like after the sun goes behind the ridge.

Also, you will notice changes in the month. The weather in the beginning of November will be warm and visibility great. As the month moves on, it will become cooler and nights will become cold with snow falling above 4500 meters.

Is Nepal a Good Time to Trek in Nepal?

Certainly, trekking in Nepal in November is one of the best choices. The weather is stable and the monsoon season has come to an end. Trails will be dry and therefore less slippery and there will be no leeches. Therefore, it is easy to see why November trekking in Nepal a good time to trek in Nepal.

The amazing mountain scenery is definitely the best part of this month. During clear mornings, you can see Mount Everest, Ama Dablam, Annapurna, and Manaslu with no clouds blocking the view.

On the whole, you feel satisfied with the walking during the day in any height as in the morning you first wear a fleece and then take off all layers until wearing only the base layer.

However, it does come with its disadvantages. Because November is a popular season, main trails become overcrowded and teahouses get fully very quickly, especially on famous trails like Everest Base Camp or Annapurna Base Camp. Make sure you book in advance to save your time at four in the evening.

Another problem with trekking in Nepal in November is the freezing cold above 3,000 meters. It is so cold that your water bottle will freeze overnight. The early snowfall may close passes like Thorong La or Cho La for one or two days, particularly in the second half of the month.

So, does that mean that all trekking routes are open in November? No, this is not the case with high-altitude trekking. In general, trekking requires a certain level of fitness and appropriate clothing for the weather. Many guides are good at understanding weather conditions and will change your trip accordingly.

Best Treks in Nepal in November

The best treks in Nepal in November are characterized by stable weather conditions on mountains. The trek varies in duration, altitude and difficulty level. Each treks have their own speciality , making it easier to determine what route suits their fitness and interest.

Everest Base Camp Trek

• Duration: 12-14 Days
• Heighest point: 5,364 m
• Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging

You will begin this trek with a flight to Lukla and trek along Dudh Koshi River passing through Sherpa village. Then, pass through Namche Bazaar and Tengboche Monastery and trek up to Khumbu Glacier along the way to Everest Base Camp.

It is ideal for trekking in Nepal in November due to clear skies and open views. At the same time, the weather on the heights above 4000 meters is quite cold at night.

Annapurna Circuit Trek

• Duration: 12-16 Days
• Heighest point: 5,416 m
• Difficulty: Challenging

November weather in Thorong La is cold and windy. There will be unexpected change in landscape every day. From the green valleys and settlements to pine forest and finally reaching the barren highland with Annapurna and Dhaulagiri visible. The snow covers the pass late in the month, which make it suitable for only fit and flexible travelers.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek

• Duration: 7-10 Days
• Heighest point: 4,130 m
• Difficulty: Moderate

This trek leads you to Annapurna Sanctuary which is a valley surrounded by tall mountains. The path leads you Machhapuchhre directly above it and Gurung villages and rhododendron forests above the trail seen in the lower altitude.

In November, there will be sunny mornings, although the night will be cold at higher altitudes. This is suitable for walkers who wish to see the surroundings up close, but don’t need any technical crossing.

Langtang Valley Trek

• Duration: 7-10 Days
• Heighest point: 3,870 m
• Difficulty: Moderate

In this trek, you drive from Kathmandu to Syabrubesi only to hike through Tamang villages, forests, and pastures. Langtang village was rebuilt after 2015 earthquake and Kyanjin Gompa is situated under a snow-covered peak. This month has less people and dry trails as compared to the month of March in Everest.

Mardi Himal Trek

• Duration: 5-7 Days
• Heighest point: 4,500 m
• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

The mornings in November trekking in Nepal are clear, but nights can be quite cold in the upper areas. The trek is ideal if you are short on time but wish to enjoy the mountain climbing sensation. You will climb through the rhododendron and oak forests of Mardi Himal and then on to an expansive hillslope overlooking Machhapuchhre and Annapurna South.

Manaslu Circuit Trek

• Duration: 12-16 Days
• Heighest point: Larkya La Pass at 5160 meters
• Difficulty: Difficult

Manaslu trek is one of the most remote trekking routes in the Himalayas as the areas around the route are not well accessible, except for the important Buddhist settlements like Samagaun and Samdo. Be ready for heavy snowfall in November. In addition, you need a Restricted Area Permit and a licensed guide for this trek.

Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

• Duration: 4-5 Days
• Heighest point: 3,210 m
• Difficulty: Easy

Nepal has chilly but clear mornings in November which offer great views from the summit. This trek is an excellent option for beginner trekkers. You will trek through rural towns and into wooded areas to climb Poon Hill to see the sunrise over Dhaulagiri and Annapurna.

Upper Mustang Trek

• Duration: 10-14 Days
• Heighest point: 3,840 m
• Difficulty: Moderate

The trekking route is filled with wind-carved cliffs, red gorges, and caves reflecting ancient culture. Lo Manthang is a city behind brick walls that has preserved Tibetan traditions.

Lo Manthang is located in a rain shadow area, making it a dry place. It can be windy and cold in November, so do not forget to take a windproof jacket and a special trekking permit. This trek is advisable for cultural enthusiasts.

Early November vs Mid November vs Late November

There is a huge difference in the month of November from its beginning till its end. The same trail feels totally different when you take it in different periods of the month. Here’s a brief summary to start with the details.

Period	Trekking conditions	Recommendation
Early November	Generally favorable autumn conditions	Suitable for most classic trekking routes
Mid-November	Colder mornings and nights	Good, with proper clothing and planning
Late November	Increasing winter conditions at high elevations	Consider lower and mid-altitude routes

The firsts weeks of November are considered ideal for most trekkers. Days are warm, the sky is clear, and the autumn are very colorful. You can choose any trek including Everest Base Camp, Annapurna Circuit, or Manaslu. Be sure to book in advance as many tourists will be trekking during this time.

The weather in the second half of the months offers chilly morning and night that first week. Be prepared for frosty mornings and chilly nights and do not forget to pack a good sleeping bag if you are going trekking in Nepal in November.

The late November at high elevation experience cold environment. It gets dark earlier and night become colder and colder as the altitude increases. Lowland trails such as Poon Hill, Mardi Himal, Annapurna Base Camp and Langtang Valley make more sense to hike. Also trails become quiet and that’s another advantage for many trekkers.

Keep in mind that there will be autumn first snowfall on high passes. Thorong La, Cho La, and Larkya La are some of the famous places for the early snowfall. Be prepared that such natural events may cause some delays.

Get as much information as possible about the weather prior to departure and during the trek in the mornings. Ask your guide, locals, and other trekkers whether they faced any serious weather changes during their hike. Moreover, leave yourself an extra day or two in case of high mountain passes itinerary.

Accommodation and Food During November trekking in Nepal

The accommodation for your trekking in Nepal in November will be in teahouses and mountain lodges. The rooms are basic, and accommodation is mostly twin sharing, which means two separate single beds on one thin mattress. The doors have locks, but the walls are thin, so earplugs may help to reduce noise.

Things change in November. During the first half of the month, teahouses become busy, and booking your accommodation in advance through the trekking agency like Epic Trek Nepal will save you the headache of looking for a place to sleep in the afternoon.

While blankets are provided, they won’t be enough to overcome cold of November. If you are above 3,000m, you should carry a sleeping bag that is designed for extremely low temperatures. There is no heating inside your room, so the room feels cold at night.

Your dining area will probably be warmer. Almost all the lodges put on their stoves during the evening hours, burning wood and yak dung to keep warm. The dining area is where people come together after dark and where you should charge your mobile phone, dry out your socks, and share stories about the trekking experience with other trekkers.

Food keeps you going, and what months you travel Dal Bhat is the main source of energy while trekking in Nepal. It is the classic traditional Nepali food which consists of rice, lentil soup and vegetables, and refills are usually free. Many guides say it gives you the best energy for a long day.

There are other options as well like Noodle soup, fried rice, Tibetan Bread, Momo, Thukpa which are easily accessible and very satisfying. Breakfast might be porridge or pancakes when it’s cold outside. As November progresses, drinks will become more relevant. You will have to adjust yourself to drinking ginger tea, black tea and coffee as well as hot lemon beverages. Drink a lot of it as the dry chilly weather dehydrates you faster.

One thing to remember is that the higher up you go, the more expensive and simple accommodation and food becomes. So, don’t complain if the price is higher than you expected.

What are the Advantages of Trekking in November?

Trekking in Nepal in November comes with real benefits. Here are the main ones.

Great visibility of mountains. The time after the monsoons in fall provides clearer views of the Himalayan ranges. The mornings are especially good for this, and you can see peak like Everest, Annapurna and Manaslu in full visibility.

Dry terrain. There is less rain, which means that you have firm ground underfoot. It makes hiking easier, and your footwear will be drier.

Mild weather. Temperatures are pleasant along many lowland and midland trails, so you will be able to hike in light clothing and put your jacket on only in the evenings.

Beautiful surroundings. In autumn, transform the landscape into yellow meadows and forests and aged and beautiful mountain villages.

Cultural immersion. The pace of life in the villages is still busy after the harvest, and you may even witness some local festivals. Locals are usually hospitable towards tourists.

Opportunities to go trekking. Plenty of trails remain open throughout November in Nepal.

Are There Any Disadvantages of Trekking in Nepal in November?

November has its own downsides too and you should be aware of them before so that you know what to expect when booking your trek.

Cold temperature at higher altitude. Temperature start getting really cold at nighttime above 3,000 meters of elevation. This means you could experience freezing air and cold water.

Snowfall at high passes. There might be an early snowfall which would affect the passes Throng La, Cho La and Larkya La.

Crowded trails in the beginning of the month. Even though it’s not the peak season like October, popular destination like Everest or Annapurna will still be crowded, so you will be sharing the teahouses, route and viewpoint with many other trekkers.

Limited accommodation. Teahouses in popular areas might be fully booked, so better reserve your place or expect some changes in your plans.

Less daylight hours at the end of the month. The days become shorter, which means you have to start very early and spend less time for trek.

More luggage to carry. You need to have warm clothes and appropriate sleeping bag, which increases the weight of your backpack.

Safety Tips for Trekking in Nepal in November

November offers great condition, but you must not neglect the cold and the altitude. Here are the habits that will help you stay safe in the mountain.

Acclimatize properly. Add rest days at places like Namche Bazaar or Manang. Your body needs time to adjust, so don’t skip them even when you feel strong.

Avoid rushing to high altitudes. Climb slowly, especially above 3,000 meters. Headaches, nausea and poor sleep are warning signs. Tell your guide early and descend if symptoms get worse.

Monitor the weather and conditions on the route. Nepal weather in November stays mostly stable, but mountain conditions change fast. Ask your guide, lodge owners and returning trekkers about snow near high passes.

Start walking early. Mornings give you clear views and calm winds. Clouds and cold gusts often arrive after lunch, and daylight shrinks late in the month.

Dress warmly. Bring along a down jacket, thermal clothing, gloves, and a warm hat. As soon as the sun sets on the trails, the temperature plummets.

Drink plenty of water. Due to colder and dryer air, your body gets dehydrated more quickly. This is why it is advisable to drink at least 3 or 4 liters of water/tea every day.

Get proper insurance. Go for a plan that will cover high-altitude treks and evacuation via helicopter in case of an emergency. Note the highest altitude coverage before purchasing it.

Hire a guide where necessary. Areas such as Manaslu and Upper Mustang require a guide. This is because guides are able to tell you the Nepal weather in November and signs of altitude sickness.

Conclusion

Trekking in Nepal in November allows you to enjoy a perfect weather with clear sky, dry paths, and magnificent mountain views. At the same time, it requires some preparations since cold nights, early snowfall on the high passes, and crowded teahouses are just a part of the package.

Trekkers just need to select the route according to their fitness level and dates. Dress warmly, allow extra days, and keep checking the weather along the way. Follow these steps, and trekking in Nepal in November will bring you enjoyment throughout the way.

If you are planning to visit the Himalayas in November? Epic Trek Nepal will be glad to help you select the right route for you, prepare an itinerary, and make necessary arrangements.

Frequently Asked Question

Is November a good time for trekking in Nepal?

Yes. November is among the best months. The weather is very dry, skies are clear, and days are pleasant. It may get very cold at night in high altitudes and also teahouses will be crowded due to these factors. It all makes November trekking in Nepal among the favorites for both first-time and experienced trekkers.

What is the weather in Trekking in Nepal in November?

The weather in Nepal in November is very stable with dry trail and clear skies. Mild to hot weather will be observed in the valleys in the daytime. Cold at night weather is expected in the high areas.

Is it cold to trek in Nepal in November?

It is depending on where you trek. Day time weather will be very pleasant in the lower and middle altitudes. While nighttime weather will be very cold in the altitude higher than 3,000 meters.

Is it possible to reach Everest Base Camp in November?

Yes, early and middle November is one of the most preferred months for the Everest trek. There will be a lot of sunshine in mornings, but it will be very cold at nights after 4,000 meters altitude.

Are there any treks for beginners in November in Nepal?

Yes, Ghorepani Poon Hill and Mardi Himal would be ideal ones for the beginners. Annapurna Base Camp is possible to do in case of your consistent physical fitness level.

Does it snow in Nepal in November?

This rarely happens in low lying areas, but some light snow may fall near higher mountain passes, such as Thorong La, Cho La, and Larkya La.

Can you trek Annapurna Circuit in late November?

Yes, but the probability of delays on Thorong La due to the presence of snow increases. Late October and early November would be better. If you travel in late November, make some extra time and ask the guide to check the pass on a regular basis.

What clothes do I need to pack for trekking in Nepal in November?

You need to pack layered clothes: thermal underwear, a fleece, a down jacket, and a raincoat. In addition, wear a pair of gloves, a warm hat, a good pair of shoes, and a cold weather sleeping bag.