If you’re looking for epic views, a cozy teahouse, and fewer people in your mountain selfie, then this is your month. Everest Base Camp trek in November offers unhindered views and scenery, favorable weather, bearable temperature, better accommodation availability, and normal trekking costs compared to peak season. The skies are clear, the air is fresh and crisp, and the crowds become thinner after October. Giving you more peaceful and clear views of the mountains like Kongde Ri (6,187 m), Thamserku (6,623 m), Ama Dablam (6,812 m), Lhotse (8,516 m), Nuptse (7,861 m), Mount Everest (8,848.86 m), Taboche (6,495 m), Taboche (6,495 m) and Pumori (7,161 m) on the trail.
November is the time when the Himalayas reveal their full, raw beauty. The nights are perfect for stargazing with crystal clear views of the skies that sometimes reveal meteor showers or even a full moon rising over Everest. Monasteries like Tengboche offer spiritual significance in November, as it is a festive month for the people living there. You might also witness the seasonal yak migration or chat with locals during this month. November isn’t just about good trekking conditions- it’s about connecting with the people, the land, and the mountains.
Exceptional team, seamless organization — Highland Expeditions made my Everest Base Camp trek unforgettable.
Exceptional team, seamless organization — Highland Expeditions made my Everest Base Camp trek unforgettable.
Incredible experience with Highland Expeditions on my Everest Base Camp trek. The company owner (Passang), our guides — Passang, Pemba, and the porters — were knowledgeable, patient, and genuinely cared about each trekker’s well-being. Every detail was handled smoothly from the moment we landed in Kathmandu and finished the trek and returned back safely.
Couldn’t have asked for a better team to walk this journey with. Highly recommend!
A Challenging and Rewarding Trek with Incredible Support
A Challenging and Rewarding Trek with Incredible Support
Passang, thank you for being my one point of contact throughout the booking process and the long lead-up to our Everest trek. We both experienced the challenges that we were looking for. And although a little beaten up and tired, had a wonderful time. I wish you and Highland Expeditions the best of luck in the future. To Sonam our guide and new friend, I don’t think you realise how in awe we are of your own mountain climbing career. Thanks for looking after us. We’ll see you all again I’m sure.
Why Choose Everest Base Camp Trekking in November?
Trekking during a lunar eclipse or shooting stars
November is a special time for stargazers trekking to Everest Base Camp. The skies are clear after the monsoon, making it perfect for viewing night skies at high altitudes. In many years, November brings the Leonid meteor shower, which falls around mid-November and can produce up to 10-15 meteors per hour in dark skies, lighting up the Himalayas. Some years, you may also witness a lunar eclipse or a bright full moon, glowing over snow-capped mountains like Everest and Nuptse. These rare moments make your trekking nights unforgettable.
Fresh Layer of Snow Covering the Glacier
One of the best views in November is the fresh layer of snow covering the Khumbu Glacier. This light snowfall usually begins in mid to late November and adds a clean, white blanket over the glacier surface. The Everest Base Camp area, which is surrounded by tall peaks, looks almost freshly created, like nature pressed the reset button. The difference between the bright snow and dark rocks of the glacier makes the place perfect for photography. The snow is not heavy enough to block the trails but just enough to make the entire region beautiful, pure, and clean.
Yak Herd Migration to Lower Pastures
Late November is a unique time to witness a centuries-old Himalayan tradition – the yak herders guiding their animals down from high-altitude summer pastures to warmer, lower valleys. This seasonal movement, known as transhumance, happens when the temperature drops and snowfall increases in the upper regions. Along the trail, especially near Dingboche, Pheriche, or Lobuche, you may see long lines of yaks carrying loads or ascending with their herders. It’s a cultural movement that shows how local communities live together with the changing seasons of the Everest region. Watching this natural migration adds more beauty during the trek.
Favourable Weather Conditions
November offers some of the most reliable and perfect weather for trekking to Everest Base Camp. The monsoon will be gone by the end of October, and the skies will remain mostly clear, providing excellent views of the peaks like Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam. Rainfall is very low or not, and snowfall is light and rare in early November, which means the trails are often dry and less risk of weather-related delays. It’s one of the best times to enjoy the full beauty of the Himalayas without worrying about rain or slippery trails.
Bearable Temperature
The temperature in November is a bit cold, but it can be managed, especially with the proper clothing. During the day, the temperature ranges from 5°C to 12 °C in lower areas like Namche Bazaar and drops to around -5°C to -10°C at higher places like Gorakshep or Everest Base Camp. Nights are colder, but teahouses provide hot meals and thick blankets, and a good sleeping bag that keeps you warm and comfortable. It’s cold enough to feel the adventure of the Himalayas, but not as freezing as the deep winter months.
Better Accommodation and Lodging Facilities
In November, with the less number of trekkers as compared to the October season, you’ll have a good chance of getting clean, quiet, and comfortable rooms in teahouses along the EBC route. Popular villages like Namche, Dingboche, and Lobuche offer more space, private rooms, and sometimes even extra blankets or hot showers without waiting for a long time. Lodge owners are more welcoming, often providing better services since there are no crowds of guests. This means a more comfortable stay, warm dining areas, and a chance to rest well after a long trekking day. For a more luxurious option, you can take a look at our luxury Everest Base Camp trek package, which provides you with enough comfort and ease so that you don’t have to worry about shelter, facilities, and food.
Encounter Rich Culture and Festivals
Trekking to Everest Base Camp in November also gives you a chance to experience the culture and traditions of the Sherpa people. One of the main festivals that may fall during this time is Mani Rimdu, a Buddhist festival celebrated at Tengboche Monastery, usually in late October or early November, depending on the Tibetan Lunar calendar. In lower regions, you may also witness the final days of Tihar (the festival of lights), celebrated with candles, songs, and decorated homes. These moments offer a rare chance to see local life rather than trekking only.
Normal Costs and Expenses
One of the best advantages of trekking to EBC in November is that costs and expenses remain normal and stable compared to other busy seasons. Prices for lodging, food, and guide services don’t increase, and usually easier to negotiate. A basic teahouse room can cost around $5 to $10 per night, while meals like dal bhat or noodles range from $5 to $8, depending on the altitude. Overall, November allows you to enjoy the full EBC experience without facing the price problems like during the peak seasons.
Itinerary Outline for EBC trek in November
| Day | Activity | Altitude |
| 01 | Arrival in Kathmandu | 1,400 m |
| 02 | Preparation in Kathmandu | 1,400 m |
| 03 | Fly to Lukla from Kathmandu, and Trek to Phakding | 2,860 m (Lukla) / 2,610 m (Phakding) |
| 04 | Trek to Namche Bazaar from Phakding | 3,440 m |
| 05 | Acclimatization day at Namche Bazaar | 3,440 m |
| 06 | Trek to Phortse from Namche | 3,810 m |
| 07 | Trek to Dingboche from Phortse | 4,410 m |
| 08 | Acclimatization at Dingboche | 4,410 m |
| 09 | Trek to Lobuche from Dingboche | 4,910 m |
| 10 | Trek to Everest Base Camp and back to Gorakhshep | 5,364 m (EBC) / 5,164 m(Gorakshep) |
| 11 | Hike to Kala Patthar and trek to Pheriche | 5,545 m (Kala Patthar) / 4,240 m (Pheriche) |
| 12 | Trek to Kyanjuma from Pheriche | 3,600 m |
| 13 | Trek to Monjo | 2,835 m |
| 14 | Trek to Lukla from Monjo | 2,860 m |
| 15 | Fly to Kathmandu or Ramechhap and drive to Kathmandu | 1,400 m (Kathmandu) / 1,218 m (Ramechhap) |
| 16 | Rest and Exploration day in Kathmandu | 1,400 m |
| 17 | Journey finally ends | – |
Weather and Temperature during the Everest Base Camp Trek in November
| Place Name | Day Temperature (°C / °F) | Night Temperature (°C / °F) | Weather Highlights |
| Lukla | 10 to 15°C / 50 to 59°F | 0 to 5°C / 32 to 41°F | Clear skies, dry air, smooth flight conditions |
| Phakding | 10 to 14°C / 50 to 57°F | 0 to 4°C / 32 to 39°F | Mild and dry, great visibility, light morning mist possible |
| Namche Bazaar | 6 to 12°C / 43 to 54°F | -5 to 0°C / 23 to 32°F | Fresh air, sunny afternoons, perfect for acclimatization walks |
| Tengboche | 4 to 10°C / 39 to 50°F | -5 to -8°C / 23 to 17°F | Clear mountain and sunrise views, chillier nights |
| Dingboche | 2 to 8°C / 36 to 46°F | -8 to -10°C / 17 to 14°F | Windy afternoons, dry paths, possible morning frost |
| Lobuche | 0 to 5°C / 32 to 41°F | -10 to -12°C / 14 to 10°F | Dry and cold, chance of light snow late in the month |
| Gorkak Shep | -2 to 4°C / 28 to 39°F | -12 to -15°C / 10 to 5°F | Frozen ground, crystal-clear skies, excellent stargazing |
| Everest Base Camp | -2 to 4°C / 28 to 39°F | -12 to -15°C / 10 to 5°F | Bright sunny days, snowy nights, stunning glacier views |
How Different is EBC in November compared to October?
| EBC in October | EBC in November |
| – The weather is stable, dry, and slightly warm during the day. – Trails and teahouses are crowded with peak season trekkers. – Accommodations are often full, with limited choices for rooms. – Food service can be slower due to the large number of guests. – Prices for rooms, guides, and flights can be increased by 20 30% per day due to high demand. – Visibility is excellent, perfect for mountain views and photography. – Trails are dry and easy to walk on with little risk of snow. – Wildlife cannot be seen more often at a lower altitude. – Monasteries are busy with the festival visitors and trekkers. – Stargazing is good, especially during new moon nights | – The weather is clear and dry, but can be slightly colder, especially at night. – Trails are quieter and less crowded due to fewer trekkers. – Easy to find better rooms and more comfortable teahouse stays. – Food service is quicker and more personal due to less number of guests. – Prices remain normal or slightly lower due to less demand. – Visibility is equally clear, with clean skies and pleasant weather. – Trails remain dry, but light snow or frost may appear in late November. – Wildlife like Himalayan monals may be seen more often as they move at a lower altitude. – Monasteries are less packed, offering a cultural, spiritual, and quiet atmosphere. – Stargazing is excellent, with possible meteor showers like the Leonids. |
Challenges of Trekking to Everest Base Camp in November
While November is a great time for clean skies and fewer crowds, trekking to Everest Base Camp still comes with a few challenges. The temperature changes frequently, especially at night, making it important to pack cold-weather gear. In late November, there are also chances of light snowfall at higher altitudes, which can make some trails slippery. Problems like altitude sickness may occur at higher altitudes if you don’t acclimatize properly. So, preparing well before the trek will help you enjoy a safe journey.
Difficult Terrain
The terrain of the Everest Base Camp trek is naturally challenging, and in November, it can become a little difficult due to cold weather and early snow. The trail includes steep uphill climbs, rocky paths, and unmanaged stone steps, especially between Namche Bazaar to Tengboche and Lobuche to Gorakshep. In late November, morning frost and thin layers of ice can make the path slippery, especially on stone trails and bridges. Some paths near Khumbu Glacier can also be rough and unstable, and you may need to walk carefully. You need to be physically fit and walk slowly with proper hiking shoes to avoid such problems. Besides hiking, you can choose the Everest Base Camp Helicopter tour, which costs around $1599 per day, and lets you enjoy the view from the top without tiring your legs.
Altitude Sickness
Altitude sickness is one of the most common challenges on the EBC trek, especially in November when the air is thin and cold. Its effect starts to show on some of the trekkers at altitudes above 3,000 meters, with higher chances from Namche upward, especially around Dingboche, Lobuche, and Gorakshep. Symptoms of altitude sickness include headache, nausea, dizziness, and shortness of breath. The best way to prevent it is by acclimatizing properly, trekking slowly, and drinking plenty of water (3-4 litres). If symptoms get worse, it’s important to descend immediately and look for medical help. Carrying Diamox (a preventive medicine) and traveling with a guide who understands how to handle this situation can help you a lot. Our agency will provide a supplementary oxygen system with a mask and regulator for emergency purposes; however, you should take personal precautions.
Unpredictable Weather Conditions
Although November offers clear mountain views and dry weather, the Himalayan climate can still be unpredictable, mainly at the higher regions above 4,000 meters. Sudden changes in weather, such as strong winds, cloudy afternoons, or light snowfall, can occur unexpectedly, especially in late November. These situations may cause flight delays at Lukla, reduce visibility, or increase the cold at night. If you are short on time and don’t want to face any delays or circumstances, then our Everest Base Camp heli trek is the perfect choice. It saves 3-4 days by flying back from Kala Patthar instead of trekking. Talking about temperature, the daytime temperature can quickly drop if clouds and wind cover the surroundings. So, you should always wear warm clothes, pack waterproof gear, and stay updated on weather forecasts to be safe.
Physically and Mentally Draining Trek
The Everest Base Camp trek in November can be both physically and mentally challenging, even for fit trekkers. You’ll be walking 5 to 7 hours a day for nearly 15-17 days, often on steep, rocky, and harsh trails in cold, thin air. The altitude makes every step harder, especially above 4,000 meters, where the oxygen level drops to around 60% of sea level. Cold morning, tired body, and basic teahouse facilities can test your physical and mental strength. Staying motivated and training before the trek can help you make your mental and physical health strong, so that you can enjoy the expedition fully.
Cash Only Economy
One main challenge during this trek is that the region still runs on a cash-only economy, especially above Namche Bazaar. ATMs are rare and usually don’t work due to power issues or low connectivity, generally in the colder months. All teahouses, food stalls, and shops accept Nepali rupees only, and prices get higher as you move upward. A bottle of water can cost NPR 300 to 500 (USD 2.5 to 4) near Gorakshep. It’s important to carry enough cash from Kathmandu or Lukla to cover your entire trek, including extra money for snacks, charging, hot showers, and tips, because digital payments are not available.
Hear Avalanches at Night? Totally Normal!
Don’t be scared if you hear a loud rumbling sound through a valley while sleeping in a teahouse room. They are most likely to be small avalanches or glacier calving, and yes, it is totally normal in the high Himalayas. Around Pumori, Nuptse, and Thamserku, these snow shifts are common, especially on clear, cold November nights. As temperature drops after sunset, the upper layer of the snow often contracts or cracks, causing natural slides or parts of glacier ice to break off. While the sounds may be scary but these events often occur far from trekking trails and pose no threat to trekkers.
In fact, these avalanches are part of the mountain’s nature, a sign that the landscapes are very alive. The sounds are mostly heard at night due to the thinner, drier air at high altitudes (above 4,500 m), making them hear closer than they are. Many trekkers get distracted at first time they hear one, especially in quiet places like Lobuche or Gorakshep, where the silence makes everything louder. Just a reminder: If you’re hearing it, then you are safe; if you were in it, you wouldn’t be. So zip up, stay warm, and let the mountains breathe.
