If October is the rockstar of trekking season, November is the soul of the Himalayas—quiet, crisp, glowing with golden light, and deeply rewarding. As the post-monsoon clarity lingers and the crowds begin to thin, the Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek in November offers that rare balance between breathtaking scenery and peaceful trails.
This is the month for those who crave the beauty of the mountains without the bustle, who want their tea house fireside chats to be a little quieter and the trails to feel just a bit more personal.
Let’s walk you through why November might just be your best-kept trekking secret.
Why Trek ABC in November?
✅ Crystal-clear skies: The monsoon has scrubbed the air, and the first hints of winter create near-perfect visibility.
✅ Golden landscapes: Harvested fields, amber forests, and sunlit peaks make this a photographer’s dream.
✅ Fewer crowds: Peak season tapers off mid-November, giving you more space (and choice) at teahouses.
✅ Dry weather: November is reliably dry, and river crossings and muddy trails are minimal.
✅ Starry nights: The dry air makes for incredible night skies—Milky Way views from your lodge? Yes, please.
What’s the Weather Like in November?
| Location | Day Temp | Night Temp | Conditions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pokhara | 20–26°C | 10–15°C | Sunny, low humidity |
| Chhomrong Area | 15–20°C | 5–10°C | Clear and crisp |
| ABC (4,130 m) | 0–8°C | -8 to -3°C | Cold but stable |
Daytime is still warm enough for T-shirts at lower altitudes, but mornings and evenings at higher elevations require layers, down jackets, and beanies.
Route Access and Trail Conditions
November trails are in top form—dry, safe, and well-marked. There are no major weather risks like snowstorms or landslides this early in the winter season.
| Access Route | Notes |
|---|---|
| Pokhara to Siwai/Ghandruk | Open and smooth, daily shared jeep rides run |
| Trail via Chhomrong | Dry, scenic, and busy early in the month |
| ABC to MBC to Bamboo | Cold mornings, but the paths are in excellent condition |
Note: The sooner in November you go, the warmer and busier it is. Trekking in the last two weeks of November offers the best peace-and-quiet ratio.
What to Pack in November
This is where layering is key—you’ll be trekking in warm sun during the day and sipping tea near a stove in freezing temperatures at night.
Essentials:
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Base layers + fleece or wool mid-layers
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Down jacket (lightweight but warm)
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Beanie, gloves, neck gaiter
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Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)
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Insulated water bottle (water may freeze overnight at ABC)
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Crampons not needed, but warm socks and waterproof boots are a must
Typical Costs for November
| Item | Estimated Cost (Per Person) |
|---|---|
| ACAP + TIMS Permits | NPR 4,000 |
| Guide (optional) | $20–25/day |
| Porter (optional) | $18–22/day |
| Meals | NPR 2,000–2,500 per day |
| Lodging (teahouses) | NPR 500–1,000 per night |
| Pokhara–Ghandruk Jeep | NPR 3,000–6,000 (shared ride) |
No major seasonal surcharges. Just remember to carry some cash, as teahouses may not have internet or mobile payment services.
Cultural Vibe: Between Festivals and Fires
By November, Dashain and Tihar are winding down, but villages still carry the afterglow of celebration. You might find locals drying corn, preparing winter food, or inviting you to a warm cup of local raksi.
The trails are quieter, the mountains feel more personal, and there’s an introspective rhythm to life in the Annapurna foothills.
Should You Trek Annapurna Base Camp in November?
Absolutely—especially if you’re a nature lover, introvert, photographer, or someone who prefers a quieter trail experience. November wraps up the fall season beautifully, offering spectacular views with a calm atmosphere.
You get the majesty of October with less foot traffic and more starry nights. If you’re okay with colder mornings and packing an extra layer, this might just be the most underrated month to trek ABC.
Final Thoughts
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek in November is like the golden hour of the trekking calendar—rich, rewarding, and fleeting. It’s a chance to experience Nepal’s mountains at their best before winter settles in.
Whether you’re reflecting by a yak-dung stove or watching the first rays hit Machapuchare from your teahouse window, this month delivers the kind of silence and splendor you came to the Himalayas for.
Plan your ABC trek with TrekHeaven, and we’ll make sure you hit the trail equipped, informed, and inspired. November might be the tail end of trekking season—but it just might be your perfect beginning.
