November keeps the clear skies of autumn but gets noticeably colder, especially above 4,500 m. Crowds ease after the first weeks, and days are shorter, so the cold needs proper preparation.
Weather
Skies are often very clear, but nights at Dingboche, Lobuche and Gorak Shep can fall to minus 10 or lower. Days are shorter, and the sun leaves the valleys early. See temperature by month and altitude.
Views
Visibility is often excellent, with crisp air and few clouds.
Crowds
Early November is still busy, but the trail thins as the month goes on. Some higher lodges slow down toward winter, so confirm what is open.
Flights
Weather is generally steady, but delays can still happen and cold mornings can bring fog in the Kathmandu valley. Keep a spare day.
What to pack
A warmer sleeping bag, a down jacket, insulated gloves, a hat and a buff. See how to keep warm at night.
Cold but clear
November is dry and settled, and the skies remain clear for most of the month. Temperatures drop steadily, however, and by late November the nights at Gorak Shep can fall well below minus ten. Water bottles freeze inside tents and lodges may be only partly heated. Pack accordingly and enjoy the quiet.
Fewer people, more space
The crowds thin as the month goes on. Trails are calmer, rooms are easier to find and the villages feel more relaxed. Some high lodges begin to close at the end of the season, so confirm that your planned stops are open before you travel.
Who November suits
Trekkers who want clear skies with fewer people and who handle cold well. Diwali, which falls in October or November depending on the year, can add demand. See Indian holiday dates.
Early month versus late month
Early November is cold but pleasant. By the end of the month, nights are very cold and lodges quieter.
Pack for the cold
Bring a warm down jacket, thermal layers and a good sleeping bag. Frost and ice make footwear grip important.
Cold, clear and quieter
By November the crowds thin, the skies stay clear, and Lukla flights are usually reliable. The cost is cold: daytime temperatures near Dingboche are cool, and nights at Lobuche and Gorak Shep can fall below minus 15 degrees. Bring a warm down jacket, a sleeping bag rated for minus 15 to minus 20 degrees and a hot water bottle for the bed.
Late-season lodge notes
Some lodges higher up begin to close towards the end of the month as owners move down for winter. Your operator should confirm that your planned stops are open. Shorter days mean earlier finishes, so plan walking hours with daylight in mind.
What our guests say
Excerpts from trekker reviews on our reviews page.
“Everything was handled professionally and with great attention to detail, from permits to on-ground support.”
