Trekking in Nepal in November: Best Trips, Weather and Guide

Every Himalayan journey is built on the dream of seeing the world’s highest peaks in their full glory. The biggest concern for anyone planning to go trekking in Nepal in November is that unpredictable weather could hide these views behind a blanket of clouds. This uncertainty can undermine months of planning and turn anticipation into worry.

A trip of a lifetime deserves the best possible conditions. November offers just that, arriving after the monsoon rains have washed the atmosphere clean. This month provides a golden window of stable weather and exceptionally clear skies, ensuring the magnificent panoramas you came for are brilliantly visible. Choosing to go trekking in Nepal in November replaces the gamble of weather with the promise of a truly unforgettable adventure.

Is November the Best Trekking Month in Nepal?

Yes, November is widely considered as the best month for trekking in Nepal. It offers a perfect blend of stable weather, comfortable temperatures, and the clearest mountain views you can imagine.

The monsoon season has washed all the dust from the atmosphere. This leaves the air crisp, clean, and incredibly transparent. The trails are in prime condition, and the festive energy of autumn still lingers in the villages. 

Whether you are a seasoned trekker or a first-timer, November provides the ideal setting for an unforgettable Himalayan journey. The conditions are as close to perfect as you can get.

You May Also Read: Best Time to Trek in Nepal

Which Trek is Best for November in Nepal?

The best trek for November really depends on what you are looking for. Your ideal trip depends on your fitness, available time, and desired experience.

Luckily, November’s excellent weather opens up almost every trail in the country. For a classic, high-altitude challenge with iconic views, the Everest Base Camp or Annapurna Circuit treks are unbeatable. 

If you seek solitude on a remote path, the Manaslu or Kanchenjunga circuits are incredible choices. For those short on time, the Poon Hill or Mardi Himal treks offer huge rewards in just a few days.

Best Treks to Do in November

For those with more time, a long trek in November is the ultimate way to experience the Himalayas. These journeys take you deep into the high mountains, over challenging passes, and through remote cultures.

The stable weather of the month makes it the safest and most rewarding time to tackle these demanding routes. You will have the highest chance of clear skies for those epic panoramic views you have dreamed of. Here are the top long-distance adventures to consider.

Everest Base Camp Trek – The Classic Himalayan Adventure

Everest Base Camp Trek is the most famous trek in the world for a good reason. It is a journey to the foot of the mighty Mount Everest.

The path takes you through the heart of the Sherpa homeland. You will visit ancient monasteries, cross high suspension bridges, and be surrounded by some of the tallest peaks on Earth. In November, the views of Everest, Lhotse, and the stunning Ama Dablam are guaranteed to be breathtaking.

• Duration: 12-14 days
• Difficulty: Challenging
• Max Elevation: 5,545m (Kala Patthar)

Annapurna Circuit Trek – Scenic High Pass and Cultural Wonders

Annapurna Circuit Trek is a journey of incredible diversity. You will see everything from lush green valleys to an arid, high-altitude desert.

The trail circles the entire Annapurna massif, offering ever-changing landscapes and cultures. The main challenge is crossing the Thorong La Pass, which is typically snow-free and in its best condition in November. You will witness stunning views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges and explore the world’s deepest gorge.

• Duration: 15-18 days
• Difficulty: Challenging
• Max Elevation: 5,416m (Thorong La Pass)

Gokyo Ri Trek – Lakes, Glaciers, and Epic Views

The Gokyo Ri trek is a stunning alternative to the main Everest Base Camp route. It takes you through a series of turquoise glacial lakes and along the Ngozumpa Glacier, offering peaceful trails and grand scenery.

One of the biggest advantages of the Gokyo route is its flexibility. You can trek it as a standalone journey, or combine it with the classic Everest Base Camp trek via the Cho La Pass, creating a 17-day circuit that covers both Kala Patthar and Gokyo Ri viewpoints. This extended route offers the ultimate Everest region experience, visiting EBC, crossing a high pass, and exploring the sacred Gokyo Lakes in one itinerary.

The highlight is the climb to Gokyo Ri. From the top, you can see Everest, Lhotse, Makalu and Cho Oyu. Many trekkers say this viewpoint is even more rewarding than Kala Patthar.

• Duration: 11-13 days (Gokyo only) / 17-19 days (Combined with EBC)
• Difficulty: Challenging to Strenuous
• Max Elevation: 5,545m (Kala Patthar on the combined route)

Manaslu Circuit Trek – Remote, Peaceful, and Rewarding

Manaslu Circuit Trek offers a true off-the-beaten-path experience. You will circle the world’s eighth-highest mountain, Manaslu.

Because it is a restricted area, the number of trekkers is limited, which preserves its wild and remote feel. The trek offers a beautiful mix of cultural immersion and dramatic mountain scenery. Crossing the Larkya La Pass in November is a tough but incredibly rewarding challenge with stunning Himalayan vistas.

• Duration: 14-16 days
• Difficulty: Challenging
• Max Elevation: 5,106m (Larkya La Pass)

Kanchenjunga Trek – The Remote Gem of Eastern Nepal

Kanchenjunga Trek is one of Nepal’s most remote and challenging trekking adventures. It explores the region around the world’s third-highest peak.

This trek takes you through pristine forests and isolated communities in the far east of Nepal. It is a true expedition for seasoned trekkers seeking solitude and untouched wilderness. November offers cold but exceptionally clear weather, providing stunning views of Kanchenjunga’s massive peaks.

• Duration: 20-25 days
• Difficulty: Strenuous
• Max Elevation: 5,143m (Pangpema – North Base Camp)

Best Short Treks in Nepal in November

You do not need weeks to experience the magic of the Himalayas. Nepal has many incredible short treks that deliver stunning mountain views.

These treks are perfect for travellers with limited time, families, or those wanting a gentler introduction to trekking. They are typically at lower altitudes, meaning fewer acclimatization concerns, but they still provide the postcard-perfect scenery that makes the Nepal trekking season so famous.

Poon Hill Trek

Poon Hill Trek is one of the most popular short treks in Nepal. It is famous for its incredible sunrise view over the Himalayas.

The journey takes you through charming villages and beautiful rhododendron forests. The main event is an early morning hike to the viewpoint at Poon Hill. From there, you will watch the sun light up a panoramic wall of mountains, including the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.

• Duration: 3-5 days
• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
• Max Elevation: 3,210m

Mardi Himal Trek 

Mardi Himal Trek is a newer trek that offers some of the best close-up mountain views. The trail follows a ridge directly toward the Annapurna range.

It is a fantastic option if you want a high-altitude feel without the long duration of other treks. You get incredibly close to the iconic Machapuchare (Fishtail) peak. The route is less crowded, taking you through pristine forests for a more peaceful experience.

• Duration: 5-7 days
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Max Elevation: 4,500m

Langtang Valley Trek

The Langtang Valley trek is one of the most accessible from Kathmandu. It provides a perfect mix of stunning scenery and rich Tamang culture.

The trail takes you up a beautiful valley with magnificent glaciers and peaks. In November, the views of Langtang Lirung are exceptionally clear. The optional day hike to Tserko Ri offers a 360-degree mountain panorama that rivals any of the more famous treks.

• Duration: 7-9 days
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Max Elevation: 4,984m (Tserko Ri)

Tamang Heritage Trail

The Tamang Heritage Trail trek offers a deep dive into the unique culture of the Tamang people. It is a journey focused on cultural immersion and community interaction.

You will walk through traditional villages, stay in local homestays, and experience a way of life that has remained unchanged for centuries. The trail connects with the Langtang Valley and still provides beautiful mountain views. It is a heartwarming and less crowded alternative.

• Duration: 7-9 days
• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
• Max Elevation: 2,607m

Upper Mustang Trek

Upper Mustang Trek takes you to the ancient, forbidden kingdom of Lo. It is a unique journey into a landscape and culture that feels like Tibet.

Upper Mustang lies in a rain shadow, making it a popular monsoon trek. However, November offers fantastically clear skies, though it will be very cold and windy. You will explore ancient monasteries, mysterious caves, and a windswept desert landscape unlike anywhere else in Nepal.

• Duration: 12-14 days
• Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
• Max Elevation: 3,850m

Weather and Temperature in Nepal During November

To prepare effectively, a clear grasp of Nepal’s November weather is essential. The climate is generally dry, stable, and sunny across the country. Kathmandu Valley enjoys mild days with temperatures around 20°C. The nights are cool and pleasant. In the trekking regions, the conditions are perfect for walking.

• Lower Elevations (Below 2,500m): Daytime temperatures are very comfortable, often between 10°C and 20°C. Nights can be chilly, dropping to around 5°C.

• Higher Elevations (3,500m – 5,000m): Days are still pleasant for hiking, typically between 5°C and 15°C. Nights are cold, often falling below freezing. Mornings will be frosty.

• Above 5,000m: Daytime temperatures hover around 0°C. Nights are very cold, potentially reaching -10°C or lower.

Rain is extremely rare in Nepal during November. The sky conditions are consistently excellent. Mornings often begin with a few wisps of cloud. These usually burn off by mid-morning. You are left with deep blue, cloudless skies. This pattern repeats throughout the month.

Tips for Trekking in November

A little extra planning will make your November trek smoother and more enjoyable. This is the peak season, so being prepared is essential.

These tips will help you navigate the busy trails and make the most of the perfect conditions. From booking early to staying healthy at altitude, this advice will ensure you have a safe and memorable adventure.

• Book Everything in Advance: November is the most popular month. Book your international and domestic flights (such as to Lukla) well in advance. Also, reserve guides, porters, and accommodations early to avoid disappointment.
• Acclimatise Properly: Altitude sickness is a serious risk. Always include rest days in your itinerary to let your body adjust to the thinner air. Walk slowly, drink plenty of water, and listen to your guide.
• Layer Your Clothing: Prepare for a wide range of temperatures. Wear layers that you can easily add or remove as you trek. A warm down jacket and a four-season sleeping bag are essential for cold nights.
• Start Your Days Early: The sun rises early and sets around 5:30 PM. Starting your trek early in the morning ensures you reach your teahouse for the day with plenty of daylight to spare.
• Be Prepared for Crowds: The main trails will be busy. Be patient, courteous to other trekkers and porters, and enjoy the social atmosphere in the teahouses.
• Carry Cash: There are no ATMs on most trekking routes. Estimate your daily expenses and carry enough Nepali Rupees to last your entire trek.

Local Travel Guide in November: Things to Do and Other Travel Place

Nepal offers more than just trekking, especially in November. The country is full of cultural festivals and other beautiful places to explore in the pleasant weather.

After your trek, consider extending your stay to experience more of what Nepal has to offer. The stable climate makes it a great time for wildlife viewing, city tours, and cultural immersion.

• Experience Tihar: Depending on the lunar calendar, you might catch Tihar, the festival of lights. This vibrant five-day festival illuminates the entire country with candles, lanterns, and colourful decorations, honouring animals and family bonds.
• Visit Chitwan National Park: November is a prime time for a jungle safari. The weather is dry and pleasant, and the tall elephant grass has been cut back, making it easier to spot rhinos, deer, monkeys, and even the elusive Bengal tiger.
• Explore Pokhara: This beautiful lakeside city is the gateway to the Annapurnas. In November, the views of the mountains from the city itself are spectacular. You can go boating on Phewa Lake, visit the peace pagodas, and relax after your trek.
• Discover Lumbini: As the birthplace of Lord Buddha, Lumbini is a major pilgrimage site. The pleasant November weather is perfect for exploring the vast Sacred Garden, which is filled with beautiful monasteries built by Buddhist nations from around the world.

Experience Nepal in Its Finest Season with Mountain Routes

November in Nepal is a magical time. The mountains are at their most magnificent, the skies are endlessly blue, and the trails invite you on an adventure of a lifetime.

Planning such a trip can feel complex, but it does not have to be. At Mountain Routes, we handle all the details so you can focus on the experience. We secure the best guides, book the most reliable flights, and ensure your journey is safe, seamless, and unforgettable. Let us help you create your perfect Himalayan adventure.