Annapurna Circuit Trek in November

November trekking experience on the Annapurna Circuit

Whenever you go for the Annapurna Circuit Trek, it has something to offer you every time. You can get some unique and amazing experiences during the month of November. It has the best clear skies with captivating views of mountain ranges, including some of the world’s highest mountain peaks such as Annapurna I (8,091 m), Dhaulagiri (8,167 m), and Machhapuchhre (6,993 m). 

You will be walking through trekking trails that pass through the small yet pretty traditional villages, dense forests, terraced fields, and snowy mountain scenery. The trails have vibrant surroundings with the colorful bloom of wildflowers. It is also known as the month of the festivals, as the great festivals of Nepal, Dashain, and Tihar lie in this month. This month is also considered the best month for photography, as you can have the best views with clear skies and weather.

Weather conditions on the Annapurna Circuit Trek in November

November is considered one of the best months to go on a trek in Annapurna Circuit. The weather conditions are usually good and stable, with mild temperatures, clear skies, and fewer chances of rain, due to which this month provides you with a safe and fun experience during the trek. When talking about temperatures, they totally depend on the altitude or elevation.

At lower elevations of around 800 to 2000 meters during this month, the temperature varies from 10°C to 15°C during the day and from 5°C to 10°C during the night. The weather at this place remains mild, with clear skies. At the mid-elevations of 2000 to 3500 meters, the temperature ranges from 5°C to 10°C during the day, and at night it gets colder, which ranges from -5°C to 5°C.

Above 3000 meters, especially at Thorong La Pass, it is the highest pass in the world, having an altitude of 5,416 meters. This pass offers more cold and chill weather, with temperatures around 5°C and dropping to -10°C during the night in this season.

The weather conditions during the Annapurna Circuit in November are mostly clear, with very occasional rain or clouds. Usually, the morning is clear over there, so you should start your trek early and be prepared for the cold nighttime temperatures at higher elevations.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Trekking in Annapurna Circuit during November

There are always pros and cons to trekking in the Himalayas. Let’s discuss further the advantages and disadvantages of trekking on the Annapurna Circuit during November.

Advantages

• November is one of the months with the clearest skies and the most unobstructed views of the gorgeous Himalaya.
• This month has better weather conditions as compared to other months of the year, with fewer chances of having snowfall and rainfall.
• October has a larger crowd than November; this month has a smaller crowd as compared to the other months of the autumn season it lies in, with its lively atmosphere.
• November is the time of festivals all over Nepal and in this region. You will get a chance to celebrate the festivals together and learn deeply about the cultures over there and their way of life.
• As the Annapurna region is rich in flora and fauna, you might get a chance to spot the various wildlife in the Annapurna Conservation Area.
• The condition of the trekking trail is good when compared to other months of this season.

Disadvantages

• The weather is cold, especially at the higher elevations, as December, the month of snow, is on its way. Be prepared with full gear and essentials during the Annapurna Circuit Trek in November.
• It is the start of the winter days, so nights can be longer and days can be shorter, so start walking early in the morning and reach the trekking stop in the daylight, and carry headlamps for such cases.
• November usually has stable weather, but after this month, the snowfall starts, so sometimes there is a chance of having early snowfall in high-altitude places.

Food and Accommodation during the Annapurna Circuit Trek in November

Food and accommodation services while trekking in Annapurna Circuit during November are well managed and mostly focused on the trekkers. You can say it is the best time to trek Annapurna Circuit in November, as it provides good weather and a clear view, so there is a certain flow of trekkers. It is recommended to do early booking to keep yourself free from the hassle, especially at the famous trekking points.

You can get to stay at the teahouses, and you are provided with basic but comfortable rooms. It is hard to transport goods and provide facilities from lower elevation to higher elevation, so teahouses are the primary form of accommodation over there. You can get a room with a twin bed and shared bathroom, so you should consider carrying a sleeping bag, which can be needed at higher altitudes. WiFi and hot showers are available in a very few teahouses. Teahouses are basically a place to rest overnight and eat at higher altitudes.

The tea houses on the trekking trail offer a variety of dishes, including traditional Nepali dishes like DalBhat (rice and lentils) and international cuisines such as pasta, momo, chowmein, pizza, and pancakes. Green leafy and fresh vegetables, boiled eggs, and bread toast are also options for food. The foods are simple at higher-altitude trekking stops, and you have to pay a bit more as you ascend. Remember to eat light food with more carbs, which helps provide energy during the trek.

Difficulties during the Annapurna Circuit Trek in November

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is a difficult and challenging trek, as it has the highest elevation of 5,416 meters above sea level. Let’s dive into some challenges and trekking difficulties in November.

Altitude

This trek gains altitude greater than 5000 meters, due to which altitude sickness can be a serious concern. As we know, Thorong La Pass, standing at 5,416 meters, is the highest point of this trek, and acclimatization is an important factor in minimizing this risk. While passing Thorong La Pass, or above 3,500 meters, there is a chance of having altitude sickness problems like headaches, nausea, fatigue, and dizziness. Keep in mind to inform the person nearby if you ever feel like having these symptoms.

For this, we suggest you spend a few days acclimatizing during this trek. You should remember to ascend slowly and gradually, as there is a saying, “climb high, sleep low,"  and don't ascend more than 500 to 700 meters a day. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, and consult about your health with your doctor. Do not forget to prepare three months early before going on the trek.

Cold Weather

Although the weather is stable during November, the temperature still fluctuates during the day and night. It can drop to -10 °C during the night while the daytime temperature remains mild. As this is the winter season, you can feel a bit more cold during the night, so prepare yourself accordingly and take the necessary clothing and gear during the Annapurna Circuit Trek.

Early Snowfall

There is a chance of early snowfall during November, especially at high altitudes. It is important to stay attentive and trek with proper precautions, whatever the weather is. The trails become slippery and difficult to navigate, so walk carefully and gradually, or your trekking guide will help you throughout your trek.

Physical Fitness

This trek has a maximum elevation of 5,416 meters at Thorong La Pass. It is challenging to cross Thorong La Pass with a basic level of fitness. You should start preparing physically three months prior to this trek. It is equally important to be mentally and physically fit. Focus on physical exercises, including cardiovascular exercises and leg strength. It is required to take proper training and preparation before trekking because you have to walk for 5 to 7 hours for 12 to 21 days, depending on your itinerary.

How cold does it get while trekking in Annapurna Circuit during November?

As we discussed before, the temperature in Annapurna Circuit during November drops to -10°C during this month at night and remains at 5°C during the day, but the weather over here is unpredictable while you are in the high altitude places. Like in Thorong La Pass, you can’t predict the weather, so you need to prepare accordingly during November as well.

During the day, wind blows at the high elevations, especially at Thorong La Pass, and you might feel cold. Due to the cold wind at high altitudes, your skin and lips can crack, so you can carry a light scarf for your protection and lip balm. The cold temperature is usually in the early morning before sunrise and during the evening, particularly at high altitudes. So be well prepared with proper clothes and trekking boots.

Annapurna Circuit Trek packing list for November

You should be well prepared with all your packing when it comes to Annapurna Circuit trekking in November or any suitable months. Packing the necessary gear and equipment is necessary before you go on any trek. Let’s list out the required things.

Clothing:

• Base layers (thermal tops and bottoms)
• Insulating mid-layers (fleece or wool sweaters)
• Waterproof and windproof outer layers (jacket and pants)
• Down jacket
• Trekking pants and shirts (quick-drying)
• Thermal gloves and socks
• Hat or scarf for warmth and wind protection

Footwear:

• Waterproof trekking boots
• Gaiters for snow protection
• Comfortable socks 

Gear:

• Sleeping bag rated for -15 °C or lower
• Trekking poles for stability
• Headlamp with extra batteries
• Water purification tablets or filters
• Backpack with a rain cover
• Sunglasses with UV protection

Personal Items:

• Sunscreen and lip balm with SPF
• A first-aid kit with altitude sickness medication
• Snacks and energy bars
• Power bank for charging 
• Personal hygiene items (toilet paper, hand sanitizer)

Conclusion

Trekking the Annapurna Circuit in November is a thrilling experience full of life. Once you reach there and see the beauty of nature and culturally rich villages with terraced fields, dense forests, and majestic snowy mountain views, you will know why this trek is famous. The weather conditions during November are also favorable, which makes November the best time to trek the Annapurna Circuit. It is important to be well prepared in every aspect, despite any season, so prepare yourself mentally and physically.

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Happy Trekking!