If you love to trek, you must have heard of Annapurna Circuit a couple of times. Maybe, you are even planning to go on a circuit trek to Annapurna soon! But, you may be wondering when you should prepare for the tour. Well, in this blog, we talk about November! Why November is a beautiful month to start your circuit trek!
Trekking in the Annapurna circuit region is not for the faint hearts! You will traverse for at least three weeks in the Himalayas! You must also cross a challenging pass, Thorong La, at the altitude of 5416masl. All while trekking in the chilly weather and tyrannical wind, making your journey more complex than ever! Thus, it would be best if you chose a time when these circumstances play by your side. And November is a beautiful month to pack your bags and go for an adventure!
Annapurna circuit is one of the unique destinations in the world! The mesmerizing views of the panoramic Himalayas, the photogenic natural landscapes and the mix of varying cultures and ethnicities make the journey far more than surreal! Circuit trekking in the Annapurna region is a must. It's a dream destination for many!
In addition to the natural splendor, the voyage offers a wealth of cultural diversity. You can see the various ethnicities, customs, traditions, and ways of life of the local people by strolling around several villages and communities. The region is also teeming with fascinating cultures. You will encounter a lot of amiable, energetic locals while on your journey. It will be a unique and memorable experience. On daily hikes throughout the Annapurna Circuit, trekkers will witness a notable change in the climate, vegetation, scenery, and culture! The region has everything a travel enthusiast can ask for!
Now, the real question arises. When would be the best time for you to embark on an Annapurna circuit adventure? This blog specially caters to that part of your concern. Through this blog, you will understand why you can explore November as a trekking month for the Annapurna region. November is among the underrated gems when it comes to trekking in Nepal. The winter has not yet begun in November, and you can comprehend what it's like to belong to the Himalayas truly. The weather is still cozy, and the skies are brighter and sunnier, making your expedition worth it! To top it off, snowfall has only just started, giving your journey a Christmassy experience!
November is the end month of the autumnal season in Nepal. September, October, and November compose autumn in Nepal and are among the most sought months for trekking the Annapurna circuit. However, November stands out on its own.
Let's first explore why autumnal months are the first choice for trekking among travel enthusiasts, and then we get into November:
Autumn and Annapurna Circuit
In autumn, trekkers swarm in the Annapurna region to explore many of the trekking destinations. These trekking destinations include Annapurna Base Camp and Circuit trek encompassing Ghorepani-Poon Hill, among many others. Why is trekking in autumn a number one priority? The autumn days are bright and sunny, and the views of the clear white Himalayas are staggeringly extraordinary.
The nights are the most mesmerizing you can imagine, and the sky is more transparent than ever! Due to the pleasant weather, trekking in the autumn is considerably more straightforward than it is during other seasons. Even the nights are not as cold as in additional months!
In autumn (September, October, and November), you can observe three distinct weather patterns. Post-monsoon weather is what we experience in the first few weeks of autumn. The Annapurna region may have rain during the first few days of September. While trekking, you could still come across muddy trails and humid conditions. There is a probability that it will rain at night during early autumn.
In mid-September and mid-November, the weather is considered stable. It is least likely to rain or snow at this time. The days and nights are both beautiful and clear. Both during the day and at night, the temperature is moderate. Pre-winter weather is what the Annapurna region experiences as the arrival of winter draws nearer. This weather is associated with the end of autumn.
November is the end of autumn; thus, it is inclined a little bit on the wintery side. It has a welcoming mix of autumn and winter. So, the days are still sunny, making the journey comfortable and easy on the eyes.
Annapurna Circuit in November
You will travel across Annapurna's circuit, taking in its stunning locations, with clear skies and no clouds in November. The Annapurna Region is undoubtedly a fantastic place to spend time. You will always be amazed and teased by the Annapurna range of mountains.
The region's lush, luxuriant nature is unmatched; it is as unspoilt as ever and has not yet been affected by urbanization. The most hospitable people you'll ever meet are those who have lived here for a long time. They have a distinct culture and tradition, not to mention a delectable organic food culture. And November is a perfect time to experience all the magnificence of the Annapurna region!
November trekking in the Annapurna region is a photographer's dream come true. Every new route, community, and resting spot is ideal for taking pictures. The forests, landscapes, and mountains make the perfect selfie backgrounds. November is undoubtedly a wonderful trekking month if you genuinely dare for it!
Highlights of trekking in Annapurna Circuit in November
Temperature and Weather in November
In November, the Annapurna Region enjoys consistent, warm, and pleasant weather. The final month of autumn has already disseminated the season's hues throughout the region. Thus, you may expect a sunny day for hiking every morning! When the sun shines on the mountains, they will sparkle like diamonds. The region's lush vegetation will also appear to be covered in makeup. Additionally, in November, you will have a clear view of the entire Annapurna Region. Trekkers seem to trek so freely this month because there is no risk of precipitation or snowfall.
November's temperature is very tolerable, to be honest. The Annapurna Circuit's lower sections tend to be warmer than its higher ones. In the same way, it gets considerably colder at night and in the early morning. The temperature itself is not a problem. November's temperature is manageable for anyone wearing the proper clothes.
In the circuit, the temperature ranges from -7 degrees Celsius to 20 degrees Celsius. As you can see, there is a vast range of temperatures you will experience during your trek. So, you must pack wisely!
Make the most out of the Dry Season
There is no or minimal chance of rainfall in November. You will always benefit from dry weather if you do the trek in November. As a hiker, you would prefer a dry trail to one that is slick and muddy. There is also no hefty snowfall or rainfall this month in the high altitudes. As a result, you'll never have to postpone your walk due to bad weather. Instead, finishing the excursion will be relatively simple.
Pleasant Weather and Vibrant Atmosphere
In Nepal, November is a popular month for trekking. That is only feasible due to the warm and tolerable temperature. The weather is just right—neither it's too cold nor too hot. Additionally, as long as you have some essential trekking attire, you are great to go. You only need a couple of those items for trekking in November; you don't need a ton of heavy equipment or layers of clothing.
Unobstructed Mountain Views
In November, the mountains will never be hidden by clouds. The peaks are visible because of the broad, clear skies! They are not just visual but also incredibly clear. Additionally, you can see every mountain's edge in the Annapurna range. Machhapuchhre, Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Nilgiri will entice you to stay on the journey a bit longer!
November Festivities
If you want to explore the significant festivals in Nepal, November is a pretty good deal! Through Tihar, you can learn about Nepali traditions and culture. For practising Hindus in Nepal, it is one of the most religious festivals. Depending on when Tihar is in the Sanskrit calendar, it usually occurs in October or November. Additionally, you get to sample the special treats made for these celebrations. It's like killing two birds with one stone!
Chhath is another important festival of the Madhesi community in southern Nepal. It brings countless pilgrims to the holy city of Janakpur, where they all assemble to take ceremonial showers in ponds and rivers. The primary goal of the event is purification, both physically and spiritually. You can mark your calendar for a November trek to the Annapurna circuit accordingly.
Some Tips for Trekking the Annapurna Circuit
- Make advance bookings for your lodging
- Do not forget to layer your clothing
- Carry warmer clothes such as a down jacket or insulating jacket
Deciding to embark on a journey to the Annapurna circuit region is undoubtedly sensible. With its wide open arms, November welcomes you and bestows some of the most breathtaking views on earth. The weather also makes the trek worthwhile. November is a pleasant month with days that are great for strolls and gorgeous views of tall, snow-capped mountains in picturesque surroundings. However, it would help if you remembered that it also falls in the peak trekking season in autumn. You must research your lodging options well if you plan to trek solo. We also advise trekking via a tour operator if you want to make your journey as comfortable as possible.
We wish you happy trekking!
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