November is a lovely month to travel in Nepal, and not as busy with travelers as October. Most trails are still available to trekkers, temperatures are comfortable, and there are important cultural festivals to enjoy. Read on for more about traveling to Nepal in the last month of autumn.

Weather

Nepal sees enormous climatic variation between the plains of the Terai, the mid-hills of Kathmandu and Pokhara, and the high Himalaya. November days remain quite warm in many parts of Nepal, though temperatures can be cold at night, especially towards the end of the month. Expect daytime temperatures in the low 70s Fahrenheit in Kathmandu and Pokhara. Temperatures become more comfortable in the Terai in November, and there is usually no rainfall throughout the country.

Crowds & Costs

November is still a popular time to come to Nepal, though it's not as busy as October. The most popular trekking trails in the Everest and Annapurna regions remain busy, with good accommodation booking up fast. Peak-season rates still apply in many hotels.

As the Tihar festival—one of the most important festivals in the Hindu calendar—usually falls in November (see more on this below), domestic transport costs around this time can be higher. You'll want to book your tickets as far in advance as possible.

Trekking Trails

While temperatures at high altitudes drop significantly as November progresses, this is still a great month to hit both lower and higher-altitude trekking trails in Nepal. Humidity is low at this time, giving you a good chance of experiencing crystal-clear mountain views. If you plan to visit Nepal at the end of November, consider one of these winter-friendly treks. And see Everest Base Camp in November for more about trekking in the Everest Region this month.

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Where to Go

November is a popular time for trekking in Nepal, and travelers who want to avoid the crowds can head out to Far Western or Far Eastern Nepal. These regions offer a variety of different treks, from the very challenging Kanchenjunga Circuit trek to a homestay trek in Humla. See below for more details.

November is a perfect time to thoroughly explore the cultural riches of Kathmandu, as the temperatures are comfortable for meandering between temples and shops.

What to Do

Beyond trekking, white-water rafting and kayaking are still possible in November, as long as you're prepared for waters (and nights at the camp) to be a bit cool. The clear skies of autumn make November a great time to try paragliding in Pokhara or Bandipur—and both cities have plenty of great cultural sightseeing available when you're back on the ground (see here and here for more). 

Mountain biking trails are also in good condition in November—check out this article for more on the best biking trails in Nepal.

November Events

Traditional Nepali festivals (whether Hindu or Buddhist) usually follow a lunar calendar. This means that some festivals that fall in November one year may be in October or December the next. Some festivals that sometimes occur in November are:

Dashain is the most important festival for Nepali Hindus, and while it usually starts in October, it lasts for 15 days so often runs into November.

Tihar, the festival of lights also called Deepawali in the Terai, is second in importance for Nepali Hindus. Tihar is celebrated weeks after Dashain, often falling in November.

Film Southasia, a documentary film festival held every two years, takes place in either October or November—the next edition is planned for November 2019. 

Photo Kathmandu, a festival showcasing Nepali and international photography, is held in October or November each year.

Traveling to Nepal in November? Check out these great itineraries. 

Kanchenjunga Circuit. One of Nepal’s most rewarding treks, Mt. Kanchenjunga lies on the eastern border of Nepal and is perfect for those who have the time to travel here. Previously camping only, there are now more affordable teahouse routes that take you past stunning Himalayan vistas, ancient forests, prime wildlife habitat, and into the heart of traditional cultures and communities.

Sun Kosi Rafting and Kayaking. Taking you through the heart of Nepal, this river trip is rated one of the top ten river journeys in the world by National Geographic. Well off the beaten track, you'll spend your days enjoying great whitewater, warm weather and the evenings camping on pristine, white sandy beaches.

More Helpful Information

Nepal in October
Nepal in December
Best Time to Visit Nepal
Nepal Itinerary Ideas