Annapurna Base Camp Trek in November
Annapurna Base Camp Trek in November is one of the best times to enjoy this incredible journey. A few factors contribute to the month being the best for ABC Trek. You will enjoy the best weather, views, and trekking experience in November. The Annapurna Base Camp’s moderate trails, beautiful scenery, and stunning mountain panoramas appeal to trekkers worldwide. Lying in the Annapurna region, ABC’s route goes through the Annapurna Conservation Area. You will trek from dense forests of rhododendrons, oaks, and firs to highland meadows.
As you travel trekking trails to the base camp, you will encounter several villages, terrace farms, rivers, valleys, waterfalls, and glaciers. You will also traverse the Annapurna Sanctuary, a high glacial basin at the base camp (4,130 meters). Similarly, you will get grand panoramic views of towering mountains from the base camp. You can witness magnificent views of the Annapurna ranges, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, and more.
The trek also perfectly combines adventure and cultural experience. Most locals belong to the Gurung, Magar, and Thakali ethnic communities and run the accommodations along the trail. En route, you will also pass several old monasteries, stupas, and chortens. November is the perfect time to witness the beauty of the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. The weather and climatic conditions are also among the best. Let’s explore more details about the Annapurna Base Camp Trek in November.
Table of Contents
Highlights of the Trip
- Adventurous trek to one of Nepal’s most popular trekking destinations.
- Visit the serene city of Pokhara and bask in its tranquil atmosphere.
- Trek into the trails of subtropical forests to highland meadows.
- Access the trails inside Nepal’s largest protected area, Annapurna Conservation Area.
- Traverse through charming villages, streams, rivers, waterfalls, and glaciers.
- Visit age-old temples and monasteries.
- Witness a breathtaking sunrise from Poon Hill View Tower.
- Explore the Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130 meters.
- Immerse in the culture of Gurung, Magar, and Thakali ethnic groups.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek Temperature in November
ABC Weather in November
November falls in autumn, so the landscape and vegetation look lush and fresh in November. The weather is also dryer as there is minimal rainfall. The crisp air and mild temperature make trekking more enjoyable and comfortable. Likewise, the visibility is brilliant at this time of the year.
As the weather is stable, there are no weather-related challenges during the trek except occasional rain showers. Thus, November is a perfect season for trekking to Annapurna Base Camp.
Temperature Table of Annapurna Base Camp Trek in November
| Place | Elevation | Minimum Temperature | Maximum Temperature | Average Temperature |
| Pokhara | 820 meters | 20.2°C | 28°C | 18.3°C |
| Chhomrong Village | 2170 meters | 8°C | 24°C | 12°C |
| Annapurna Base Camp | 4130 meters | 0°C | 20°C | 4°C |
| Jhinu Danda | 1780 meters | 14°C | 24°C | 8°C |
Temperature at Pokhara
The temperature at Pokhara ranges from 20.2 to 28 degrees Celsius in November. The average temperature is 18.3 degrees Celsius.
Temperature at Ghandruk
The maximum temperature at Ghandruk is 10 degrees Celsius, while the minimum is 0 degrees Celsius.
Temperature at Deurali
In November, the maximum temperature at Deurali is 18.5 degrees Celsius, and the minimum is around 18 degrees Celsius.
Why Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek in November?
Take a look at some of the reasons why you should take the Annapurna Base Camp Trek in November:
Low Humidity
November’s temperature is pleasant and mild. There is low humidity, and the dry weather makes it comfortable for trekkers. There is also minimal chance of rainfall, except for a few rain showers. The s clear sky offers mesmerizing views of the surroundings and mountains. Although the temperature in the daytime is usually warm, it can drop slightly at nighttime.
Pleasant Weather
The atmosphere has low humidity, so the weather is pleasant and comforting. There is no scorching sun, heavy rainfall, or bitterly cold weather to make your trek to the Annapurna Base Camp arduous. November has the perfect balance of moderate temperature and stable weather. You can trek in regular light clothing. Carrying warm, heavy jackets and trousers is unnecessary while trekking to ABC in November.
Beautiful Scenery
Beautiful landscapes, flora, and fauna are at their best in November. Vegetation, landscape, and autumn foliage are also visually appealing. The best scenery is possible because the clear skies have few obstructions. The surroundings are cloudless and fogless. Similarly, November also offers gorgeous and crystal-clear views of the mountain vistas.
Fewer Crowds
Although November is in autumn, the trails gradually get quieter as it falls at the end of the season. The trails are less crowded than during September and November. Therefore, it is the perfect time for those who want to enjoy the serene atmosphere of the ABC trails.
Availability of Accommodation
Most accommodations are open during November, but there are fewer crowds. So, trekkers are most likely to find accommodations of their choice at this time. In November, they offer a cozy and unique cultural experience for your Annapurna Base Camp Trek.
Cultural Experience
The major residents of the region are Gurungs and Magars. Since the locals run the accommodations, you can get a glimpse of their culture, traditions, and customs and learn about their lifestyles. Nepalese people are well-known for being friendly and warm hosts. You can experience their unique hospitality and taste local delicacies.
Lower Cost
The cost of accommodation varies depending on the season. It is usually higher at peak season. However, since there are fewer crowds during November along the Annapurna Base Camp route, you can find accommodations at lower costs.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek Route
To begin your journey to ABC, you must travel to Pokhara. You can take a roadway or fly to Pokhara from Kathmandu. Driving from Kathmandu takes 6 to 7 hours and 30 minutes to fly to Pokhara.
From Pokhara, you will take another one-and-a-half-hour drive to Nayapul, the starting point of the trek. You will slowly walk past Birethanti and Hile villages and hillside terrace farms. Then, you will reach Tikhedhunga. Upon reaching Tikhedhunga, the trail starts to ascend steeply towards Ulleri. The trail eases from Ulleri and enters the dense forest of rhododendrons.
En route, you will pass several settlements, meadows, waterfalls, and suspension bridges. Then, you will reach the picturesque Magar village, Ghorepani. The Poon Hill View Tower is an hour’s hike from Ghorepani. The view tower offers gorgeous sunrise/ sunset views with snow-capped mountains in the background.
From Ghorepani, you will head towards Tadapani village, which takes around 6 hours to trek. The trail requires you to climb steep uphill and downhill paths. Similarly, you will cross the Deurali and Banthanti villages en route to Tadapani. The trail from Taddapani heads north and downhill through rhododendron forests to Kimrong. You will cross a stream right before reaching Chhomrong.
Then, you will cross the Chhomrong Khola and ascend to Modi River Valley. En route, you will trek past Sinuwa and Bamboo Village to reach the Himalaya Hotel. From here, you will begin your climb to Annapurna Base Camp. The climb is challenging as you must walk on the narrow gorge and cross the Hinku Cave. First, you will reach the Machhapuchhre Base Camp (3712 meters) and finally reach Annapurna Base Camp.
From Annapurna Base Camp, it is a downhill climb to Bamboo Village, which sits amidst the dense bamboo forests. Then, you will descend through dense woodland towards Jhinu Danda and Nayapul. You will take a jeep from Nayapul to Pokhara.
Read More: Annapurna Base Camp Trek In September
Brief Itinerary
| Day | Highlights | Elevation |
| 1 | Arrival in Kathmandu | 1400 meters |
| 2 | Drive to Pokhara | 820 meters |
| 3 | Drive to Nayapul & Hike to Tikhedhunga | 1520 meters |
| 4 | Trek to Ghorepani | 2860 meters |
| 5 | Trek to Tadapani | 2675 meters |
| 6 | Trek to Chhomrong | 2170 meters |
| 7 | Trek to Himalaya Hotel | 2920 meters |
| 8 | Trek to Annapurna Base Camp | 4130 meters |
| 9 | Trek to Bamboo | 2310 meters |
| 10 | Trek to Jhinu Danda | 1780 meters |
| 11 | Trek to Nayapul & drive to Pokhara | 820 meters |
Packaging List for Annapurna Base Camp Trek in November
Clothing & Equipment
- Windproof/ waterproof jacket
- Long-sleeved shirts
- Lightweight trekking pants
- Insulating layers and thermal wears
- Moisture-wicking socks and inner garments
- Hats, gloves, and scarves
- Comfortable hiking shoes
- Backpack (40 to 50 litres)
- Adjustable trekking poles
- Water bottles and water purification tablets
- Sleeping bag
- Flashlight or headlamps
Miscellaneous Items
- Portable charger
- Toiletries
- First-aid kits
- Energy bars and snacks
- Personal hygiene products
- Books or diary
Permits Required for Annapurna Base Camp Trek in November
TIMS Card
You must obtain the TIMS card for your Annapurna Base Camp Trek in November. While applying for the card, you must provide your details, trek itinerary, and emergency contact number. You can get the card through a government-registered trekking agency. The costs of the card are as follows:
- Solo SAARC Residents: NPR 600
- Group SAARC Residents: NPR 300
- Solo Non-SAARC Residents: NPR 1000
- Group Non-SAARC Residents: NPR 2000
ACAP
The Annapurna Base Camp lies in the Annapurna Conservation Area. It is Nepal’s largest protected area and home to diverse flora, fauna, and ecosystem. Hence, you need an entry permit to access the conservation area. The costs of ACAP are as follows:
- SAARC Residents: NPR 1000
- Non-SAARC Residents: NPR 3000
Accommodations and Food on the ABC trek in November
You will mostly find teahouses, lodges, guesthouses, and homestays along the Annapurna Base Camp routes. These accommodations provide basic facilities such as beds, mattresses, pillows, bed sheets, and blankets. The standard rooms are usually on a twin-sharing basis and have limited furniture. Likewise, the bathrooms are also primarily communal.
In addition to the basic facilities, the accommodations charge extra for hot water/ shower, internet, charging devices, phone calls, etc. The facilities and amenities get more basic as you ascend to the higher elevations.
During the ABC Trek, you will find a variety of food options. The most common food is Dal Bhat, a staple Nepalese dish. It consists of rice, lentil soups, curries, and pickles. The other food options consist of Indian, Continental, and Western cuisines. So, you will have multiple food options during the trek.
Some meal options include porridge, oatmeals, cornflakes, eggs, bread (chapati/ Tibetan), noodles, pasta, sandwiches, momo, thukpa, curries, salads, etc. While on trek, you must eat healthy and nutritious diets to energize you. Also, we advise you to avoid meat, dairy products, caffeine, chocolate drinks, and alcoholic beverages.
Difficulties during the Annapurna Base Camp Trek in November
While November is one of the best times to trek to Annapurna Base Camp, there are a few drawbacks to traveling at this time. Some of Annapurna Base Camp Trek difficulties include:
Crowded routes
Autumn is the peak season for trekking in Nepal. November is still autumn so the trails can get crowded. At the beginning of the month, you may still find numerous trekkers along the route. To avoid the crowd, start your trek early in the morning. This way, you can avoid the crowd and enjoy the trail’s tranquility.
Limited Choice of Food & Accommodation
During November, accommodations can remain fully booked or packed, limiting choice. It is best to book the food and accommodations in advance. Once you begin trekking, you may find a few options. The costs can also be higher; you may have to take what they offer.
Altitude sickness
ABC is a high-altitude trek that takes you to a maximum altitude of 4,130 meters. The risk of altitude sickness begins from 2,500 meters as the oxygen level decreases. As a result, it exposes trekkers to various symptoms of altitude sickness. Trekkers can experience symptoms like nausea, vomiting, headache, insomnia, difficulty breathing, and swelling. If you start experiencing the symptoms, you must immediately inform your guide.
Conclusion
Annapurna Base Camp Trek in November is the best time to embark on the journey. You can witness some of the most stunning views and magnificent vistas of mountains this month. Similarly, the trails are comparatively less crowded at the end of November. You can enjoy the serene trails to your heart’s content.
If you wonder which month is best for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek, November is your answer. You can enjoy the dry trails to the base camp and gorgeous views with minimal obstruction. If you like informative blogs like this one, visit our Vacation Trekking website for more!
FAQs
Is the Annapurna Base Camp Trek in November safe?
November is the transition period when summer changes to autumn. The monsoon season, which also coincides with summer, gradually exists in the country. Hence, the weather is pleasant, and the precipitation level also lowers. The vegetation and landscape look fresh and luscious. Thus, the Annapurna Base Camp Trek in November is a safe and delightful experience.
What is the weather like in November in the Annapurna region?
As November begins, the weather is stable and favorable for trekking. The temperature is mild, neither too hot nor too cold. The average temperature in Pokhara is around 18.3 degrees Celsius, while it is around 4 degrees Celsius in Annapurna Base Camp. Therefore, you enjoy a pleasant trekking atmosphere while witnessing thriving flora, fauna, and stunning snow-peaked mountains.
What kind of accommodations are available during Annapurna Base Camp Trek in November?
You will find teahouses, lodges, guesthouses, and homestays along the Annapurna Base Camp Trek route. All these accommodations are open for business in November. Therefore, you can choose the accommodation that suits your preferences. Remember that these accommodations only offer basic facilities. Also, booking your accommodations in advance is best, as the trails can get busy as November progresses.
What permits are necessary for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek in November?
You will need regular permits to trek to the Annapurna Base Camp in November, including a TIMS (Trekkers Information Management System) card and an ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Entry Permit). You can obtain these permits through a government-registered trekking agency.
Is there a risk of altitude sickness during Annapurna Base Camp Trek in November?
The Annapurna Base Camp is at an elevation of 4,130 meters, and the risk of altitude sickness begins at 2,500 meters. Hence, there is some risk. Trekkers must acclimatize adequately and take proper precautions during the Annapurna Base Camp Trek in November. Acclimatization helps them adjust to the elevation, temperature, and humidity.
