Nepal weather in November is one of the most pleasant times of the year for traveling. The monsoon is over and the winter is yet to step foot during this time. As a result, the sky is clear and the vegetation is lively all across the country. Similarly, the festive season also coincides with the month, making it one of the most suitable times for traveling and trekking across Nepal.
Nepal is rich in culture, nature, mountains, and biodiversity. Thousands of tourists from across the world flock to Nepal every year to observe this richness. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are the peak season when most of the tourists visit Nepal. The popular trekking routes are also quite crowded during these times. Most of the tourist attractions are also crowded during these peak seasons.
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Among them, November is the most ideal time for exploring Nepal. At the end of November month, the trekking routes and tourist attractions are comparatively less crowded. The pleasant weather, sunny days, and well-defined trails add to the pleasant exploring experience. Let us explore more about traveling and trekking in Nepal in November.
Temperature and Weather in Nepal in November
The temperature and weather in November are warm and dry with clear skies. There is a low chance of rainfall and the average rainfall at this time is 8mm. In early November, the temperature remains warm in the lowlands and is cool at high elevations. But as the month progresses, the temperature at higher elevations starts to get slightly colder. Overall the temperature during November ranges between 23 degrees Celsius to 7 degrees Celsius.
While November is a great time for trekking and witnessing spectacular mountain views, it is also a great time for sightseeing and jungle safaris. The vegetation is luscious and relatively sparse. Therefore, during November, the wildlife is easily spottable and the migratory birds return to Nepal for winter. Overall, November has the best weather and warm temperature to travel in Nepal.
On Arrival Visa and Travel Insurance
Foreigners cannot travel to Nepal without a visa. They can get the visa before arriving at the Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu, or on arrival at the airport. The foreigners can apply for a visa at the Nepal Embassy in their respective country. The on-arrival visa can be obtained at the Tribhuvan International Airport. However, your passport will need to have at least 6 months remaining before the expiry date. The on-arrival visa costs differ depending on the number of days you will be spending in Nepal.
- USD 30 for 15 days (single-entry)
- USD 50 for 30 days (single-entry)
- USD 120 for 90 days (single-entry)
It is also best for travelers to get travel insurance and is especially necessary for trekkers. The travel insurance should cover the emergency and medical expenses. Similarly, for trekkers, the insurance should also cover emergency helicopter rescue, altitude sickness, and medical treatments at higher altitudes. It is also advisable that you get insurance that also covers incidents such as loss of baggage, loss or damage of electronic devices, trip postponement, or cancellation. Ensure that you understand the terms and conditions of the insurance while getting one.
Is November the Best Time to Visit Nepal?
The short answer to this is yes. The favorable weather conditions and moderate temperature make November the best time to visit Nepal. The trails are well-defined and in good condition. The clear sky provides excellent visibility to witness the mountain views and the surroundings. It is also a great time for sightseeing, trekking, and cultural and wildlife exploration. It is also a vibrant time to travel across Nepal while enjoying the festive air. You can experience the joyous and colorful celebration and get insight into the rituals and cultures of different ethnic groups in Nepal.
Benefits of Visiting Nepal in November
November is the best time to experience the country’s nature, culture, wildlife, and more. Here are a few of the benefits of visiting Nepal in November:
- It is the most suitable time with perfect weather and comfortable temperature. The views of the surroundings and mountains are at their best. Likewise, the trails are safe with minimum risk of rainfall except for occasional rainfall.
- November is also the ideal month for participating in outdoor activities like trekking, mountain biking, paragliding, rafting, canoeing, and many more. It is the month in Nepal to take up adventurous challenges.
- In addition to the luscious vegetation, the wildlife is active during November. You can go on a jungle safari and get an opportunity to get a close view of elephants, rhinoceros, tigers, and many more. You can also go birdwatching as migratory birds return to Nepal for winter.
- Be part of the festive celebrations of Nepal. Some of the biggest festivals like Tihar fall in November. You can witness the culture, local customs, and rituals performed during the festival.
- November is also the best time for sightseeing across Nepal. The clear blue sky and brilliant surrounding views provide the perfect backdrop for photo opportunities. Take photos while trekking on the remote route of Everest Base Camp, or close photos of wildlife, or while visiting the sacred site, the Pashupatinath Temple. November is the best time for all activities.
Festivals And Events In Nepal In November
The biggest festivals and events in Nepal that fall in November are Tihar and Chhath Puja. Let us get a little information about these festivals and their cultural significance to the Nepalese people.
Tihar (Deepawali)
Tihar also known as Deepawali or Festival of Lights is the second biggest festival in Nepal. It is a five-day festival which falls in November. The majority of Nepalese practice the Hindu religion and Tihar is one of the important festivals for them.
The first day is Kaag Tihar where crows are worshipped. The crows are considered the informant of Yama, the God of Death. The second day is followed by Kukur Tihar where dogs are worshipped as Yama’s agents. On the third day, people worship cows in the morning and the Goddess of Wealth, Laxmi. This day is known as Gai Tihar and Laxmi Puja. The fourth day is for worshipping oxen. People from the Newari ethnic community celebrate Mha Puja by worshipping themselves. On the final day, sisters put tika on their brothers’ foreheads while wishing for their long and healthy lives.
During the festival, Nepalese decorate their homes with colorful lights, oil lamps (diyos), and colorful rangolis. Temples are crowded with worshippers and the shops and eateries may remain closed during the festival.
Chhath Puja
Chhath Puja is especially celebrated in the Terai region of Nepal. During the four-day festival, devotees worship the Sun God, Surya Dev, and the Goddess of Shashthi, Chhathi Maiya. The festival comes right after the Tihar festival. The devotees perform various rituals on the river or pond’s banks. They offer their prayers and express their gratitude to the Sun God.
The four days of the festival include Nahay Khay, Lohanda/Kharna, Chhath, and Usha Arghya. During this time, people do ritual bathing, fast and pray, offer to the Sun God, and do community gatherings. There is a sense of strong community bonding. People put colorful decorations on their homes by lighting diyos and making rangoli. Similarly, there are also cultural performances showcasing the Terai region’s culture, dance, and folklore.
Trekking, Hiking, and Tour Destination in November
There are many activities you can do during your visit to Nepal in November. You can go on sightseeing tours to famous tourist attractions and jungle safari. If you feel like taking up an adventurous challenge, you can also opt for trekking in remote areas of Nepal. There are many options. Here are a few ideas on what you can do in Nepal in November:
Annapurna Region
The Annapurna region is a popular trekking destination in Nepal. The region has stunning landscapes, diverse culture, flora and fauna, and majestic mountain views. During the trek in the Annapurna region, trekkers can get an up-close view of Mount Annapurna, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Dhaulagiri, Himchuili, and several other mountains.
Similarly, the trekking routes are filled with natural beauty and go from subtropical lowlands to alpine highlands. There are options for short treks to the Annapurna Base Camp trek and Mardi Himal. Similarly, you can also choose for a longer trek like Annapurna Circuit Trek.
Everest Region
The Everest region is the most popular trekking route in Nepal. It lies in the Khumbu region and gives the trekkers a closer look at the world’s highest mountain, Mount Everest. In addition to trekking through the Sagarmatha National Park, trekkers can experience the Sherpa culture and visit ancient monasteries like the Tengoche monastery. Likewise, trekkers are treated to stunning views of other mountains like Lhotse, Nuptse, Cho Oyu, and many more.
There are options for classic Everest Base Camp, Gokyo Valley Trek, Jiri to Everest Base Camp, and Island Peak climbing along with base camp trek. Furthermore, there are luxury options Everest Luxury Trek and helicopter tours.
Langtang Region
Langtang region is a less commercialized and quieter trekking route than the Annapurna and Everest regions. It is situated in the central part of Nepal, bordering Tibet to the north. The Langtang region is famous for its pristine nature, landscapes, and picturesque villages. Trekkers can witness the mountain, which is like Langtang Lirung, Ganesh Himal, and several other peaks. Similarly, trek through the Langtang National Park and observe the diverse flora and fauna of the region.
To explore the Langtang region, you can join the Langtang-Helambu-Gosaikunda Trek, the Tamang Heritage Trail, and the Gosaikunda Spiritual Trek.
Kathmandu Food and Sightseeing Tour
For those with limited time in Nepal and who do not have the luxury to take a long tour, the Kathmandu Food and sightseeing tour will be a great solution. The tour covers the three prominent destinations, enlisted in the UNESCO World Heritage Sites. You will tour Patan Durbar Square, Bhaktapur Durbar Square, and Boudhanath Stupa.
Similarly, you will also enjoy Nepali culinary delight on this tour. The breakfast will consist of bara made with a paste of black lentils and local spices. You can select egg, chicken, or buff bara that will be served with spicy tomato pickle. The lunch will be an authentic Newari Khaja set (samaya baji). You will also get to taste the popular Nepalese street food, momo. And Thakali Khana will conclude the tour. The Thakali Khana is a staple Nepali food made of rice, lentils, curries, and pickles.
Pokhara Tour
Pokhara is one of the popular destinations for tourists in Nepal. The city is a perfect blend of nature, culture, and adventure. It is also the gateway for Annapurna region trekking and is surrounded by hills and mountains. During the Pokhara tour, you can take a stroll around Phewa Lake, see a spectacular sunrise from Sarangkot, and visit tourist attractions like World Peace Pagoda, Davis Falls, and more.
Similarly, trekkers can also participate in activities like paragliding, bungee jumping, ultralight flights, etc. Pokhara is among the must-visit places in Nepal. You can go sightseeing during the day and relax by the Phewa Lake in the evening.
Nagarkot Tour
Nagarkot Tour offers an escape from the bustling streets of Kathmandu to nature’s lap. It takes only an hour and a half scenic drive to reach Nagarkot. You are greeted with picturesque views of traditional villages and terraced fields. Similarly, you can get a beautiful view of the Himalayas and you can take a leisure hike around the surrounding forests. You can also witness one of the beautiful sunrises from the Nagarkot View Tower.
Lumbini Tour
Lumbini is the birthplace of Lord Gautam Buddha and this tour is perfect for those looking for spiritual experience. The tour takes you to the sacred and holy pilgrimage site for Buddhists all across the world. Spend your day visiting the monastic zone which has monasteries representing different countries. Likewise, you can visit the Lumbini Museum, and Peace Pagoda along with several pilgrimage sites.
Chitwan Safari Tour
The Chitwan Safari Tour is perfect for nature enthusiasts. You will get to explore the Chitwan National Park which is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The tour will provide you with a wildlife experience unlike any other. You will get a chance to go jeep safari and get a glimpse of wildfires like Rhinoceros, Royal Bengal Tiger, deers, and many more. Similarly, the national park is home to more than 500 bird species. The tour offers you the chance to witness the biodiversity and pristine wilderness of Nepal.
Final Say
Traveling to Nepal in November is the best time to explore and experience Nepal. The clear and sunny skies with warm weather make your journey comfortable and more pleasing. Nepal’s weather in November is the best time for traveling. Moreover, there are less-travelers in this month so you can enjoy quieter and less crowded tours and trekking experiences. So, if you are wondering whether November is a good time to travel to Nepal, then wonder no more!
