Everest Base Camp Trek in November
Most people do the Everest Base Camp hike in October, but November can be an even better time to embark on this trek. This is despite the fact that by November-end, it gets fairly cold. A trek to Everest Base Camp in November has some distinct advantages over almost every other month: it is one of the driest months of the year; the air is clear, offering splendid views all around; and you are not going to encounter as much snowfall as the peak winter months.
- Palsang Sherpa
- From Swaziland
Everest Base Camp Weather in November
November is a transition period between autumn and winter. The weather will vary depending on when you do the Everest Base Camp Trek in November, with the temperatures dropping as the month progresses. Humidity is low and there are little chances of rain.
In Lukla (2,860m), the starting point of the trek, the average temperature in November ranges from a maximum of 0.9°C to a minimum of -9.5°C. The effect of the approaching winter is apparent in Lobuche (4,950m). Here, the November temperatures fluctuate between -6.4°C and -17°C.
For a seasonal overview, check our guide on the best time for trekking to Everest Base Camp.
Why Trek Everest Base Camp in November
Traveling to Everest Base Camp in November is a great idea for many reasons. Here are the top ones:
- Pre-winter conditions: Even though it gets colder towards the end of November, full-blown winter is still a few weeks away. This means you will avoid the intense cold and heavy snowfall that are common in the Everest region from December to February.
- Dry weather: November is as dry as it gets in this part of the Himalayas. Rainfall is rare, humidity remains low and you will get some good days of sunshine too during your trek.
- Dreamy views: The post-monsoon lush that envelopes the mountain landscape, especially at lower altitudes, is still around in November. Besides, low humidity and clear sky mean that you will get to see peaks like Mount Everest in all their pristine glory.
Recommended Routes
November is a month of changing seasons, so you have to be a little careful while choosing the route to Everest Base Camp. The tougher routes like the Three Passes trek are best avoided if you are new to trekking.
- Gokyo Lakes trek: The trek through Gokyo Lakes will take you towards the west of Dudh Koshi River. You will get to see the Gokyo lakes and Gokyo Ri peak before the trail converges with the main route at Gorak Shep. Besides the views, this alternative trail is also appealing, as you will get to be away from the trekking crowds taking the classic route.
- Everest Base Camp via Jiri: If you want to explore the region’s culture and see additional peaks, you can start the trek from a town called Jiri. Between Jiri and Lukla, you will get some fascinating glimpses into the lives and traditions of the local communities. After Lukla, continue on the traditional route.
- Tumlingtar trek: This trek starts from the small town of Tumlingtar. It takes about 9-12 days to reach Lukla. The teashops on the way are fewer and more basic but you’ll get to experience a different side of the Everest region. After Lukla, you can join the classic trek. Since Tumlingtar is at an altitude of barely 400 meters, the weather in November should not pose a problem.
The Everest Base Camp trek in November is one of the most stunning outdoor adventures on earth accessible to anyone with basic fitness levels. To avoid the crowd during peak trekking month of October, plan your journey in November. Reach out to our travel experts in Nepal if you need assistance in finding the ideal trek in November.
