Top 15 Best Trekking in November You Shouldn’t Miss

November is a magical month for trekkers in India. The monsoons have washed the land clean, leaving behind lush green landscapes and crystal-clear skies. The air is crisp, the weather is pleasant, and the festive spirit of Diwali often lingers. This unique combination makes trekking in November an unforgettable experience.

The post-monsoon clarity offers stunning, unobstructed views of the mighty Himalayan peaks, while the moderate temperatures mean you can trek comfortably without facing extreme cold or scorching heat. It’s the perfect time to explore everything from gentle meadows to challenging mountain passes before the heavy winter snows arrive.

This guide will walk you through the top 15 treks that are perfect for this glorious month. Whether you’re a first-timer looking for an easy trail or a seasoned adventurer seeking a new challenge, you’ll find the perfect journey here.

We’ll cover everything from the snowy slopes of Kedarkantha to the golden meadows of Dayara Bugyal, ensuring your trekking in November is safe, enjoyable, and truly memorable.

The 15 Best Treks for November in India

1. Kedarkantha Trek

The Kedarkantha trek is a classic winter wonderland, and November is the ideal time to catch the first magical snowfall. It’s renowned for its beautiful campsites and a summit climb that offers a 360-degree view of Himalayan giants.

• Overview: A quintessential Himalayan trek that takes you through dense pine forests, frozen lakes, and snowy clearings.
• Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate.
• Altitude: 12,500 ft.
• Trail Highlights: Juda-ka-Talab (a frozen lake), stunning campsites, and a rewarding summit view of peaks like Swargarohini, Bandarpoonch, and Kalanag.
• Weather in November: Days are sunny and pleasant, while nights become cold. You can expect the first spells of snow towards the end of the month.
• Permits: A forest permit is required, which is usually arranged by your trek operator.
• Ideal Duration: 6 Days (including travel to and from Dehradun).
• How to Reach: The trek starts from Sankri village, which is about a 10-hour drive from Dehradun.
• Safety Tips: Acclimatise properly at Sankri and carry at least three warm layers.

Also Read: Top 5 Hill Stations in South India You Must Visit

2. Sandakphu-Phalut Trek

Often called a “trekker’s paradise,” Sandakphu offers breathtaking views of four of the world’s five highest peaks: Everest, Kanchenjunga, Lhotse, and Makalu.

• Overview: This ridge trek along the India-Nepal border offers unparalleled panoramic views of the entire Kanchenjunga range, famously known as the ‘Sleeping Buddha’.
• Difficulty Level: Moderate.
• Altitude: 11,930 ft.
• Trail Highlights: The panoramic view of the ‘Sleeping Buddha’, rhododendron forests, and quaint villages along the trail.
• Weather in November: The skies are exceptionally clear, offering the best mountain views of the year. It gets very cold and windy, especially at the top.
• Permits: A permit for Singalila National Park is required.
• Ideal Duration: 7 Days (including travel from NJP).
• How to Reach: The trek starts from Manebhanjan, which is accessible from New Jalpaiguri (NJP) or Darjeeling.
• Safety Tips: Carry windproof and waterproof jackets. The cold can be intense, so pack warm thermals and gloves.

3. Har Ki Dun Trek

Known as the ‘Valley of Gods’, this cradle-shaped valley is steeped in mythology and natural beauty. This is a wonderful option for trekking in November, showcasing autumn colours.

• Overview: A journey through ancient villages, dense forests, and alongside the Supin river, leading to a valley believed to have been visited by the Pandavas.
• Difficulty Level: Moderate.
• Altitude: 11,700 ft.
• Trail Highlights: The 2,000-year-old village of Osla, alpine meadows, and views of Swargarohini and Jaundhar Glacier.
• Weather in November: Expect cool, sunny days and cold nights. The valley is painted in beautiful shades of brown and gold.
• Permits: A forest permit is mandatory.
• Ideal Duration: 7-8 Days.
• How to Reach: The trek base camp is Sankri, reachable from Dehradun.
• Safety Tips: The trail has some long days, so maintain a steady pace. Keep your electronics charged in Sankri.

Also Read: Top 15 Best Trekking Places in North India for Adventure Lovers

4. Dayara Bugyal Trek

Dayara Bugyal is one of India’s most beautiful high-altitude meadows. In November, these vast grasslands turn a stunning golden-brown, set against a backdrop of snow-capped peaks.

• Overview: A relatively easy trek that rewards you with expansive meadows and breathtaking views of the Gangotri range.
• Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate.
• Altitude: 12,000 ft.
• Trail Highlights: The vast bugyals (meadows), Barnala Tal, and panoramic views of Bandarpoonch and other peaks.
• Weather in November: Days are pleasant for walking, but temperatures drop significantly at night. You might see some frost in the mornings.
• Permits: Forest entry permits are required.
• Ideal Duration: 4-6 Days.
• How to Reach: The trek starts from the village of Raithal or Barsu, both accessible from Uttarkashi.
• Safety Tips: The meadows are vast, so stay with your group to avoid getting lost.

5. Brahmatal Trek

Brahmatal offers a classic snow trek experience with views that rival many tougher climbs. It’s one of the few Himalayan treks accessible in late November.

• Overview: This trek takes you to the frozen Brahmatal and Bekaltal lakes, with stunning views of Mt. Trishul and Nanda Ghunti.
• Difficulty Level: Moderate.
• Altitude: 12,250 ft.
• Trail Highlights: Walking through rhododendron and oak forests, camping beside frozen lakes, and the 360-degree summit view.
• Weather in November: The month begins with autumn colours and ends with a good amount of snow, making it a perfect winter transition trek.
• Permits: Forest permits are needed.
• Ideal Duration: 6 Days.
• How to Reach: The base camp is Lohajung, which is an 8-10 hour drive from Kathgodam.
• Safety Tips: Snow can make the trail slippery. Good trekking shoes with microspikes are recommended.

6. Kuari Pass Trek

Curated by Lord Curzon, the Kuari Pass trek is famed for its majestic views of the Nanda Devi massif and other towering peaks. November offers the clearest possible views.

• Overview: A journey through pristine forests, meadows, and a high-altitude pass offering a front-row seat to some of India’s most celebrated mountains.
• Difficulty Level: Moderate.
• Altitude: 12,516 ft.
• Trail Highlights: The grand view from Kuari Pass, walking through the Nanda Devi Sanctuary’s outer rim, and campsites at Chitrakantha and Tali.
• Weather in November: The weather is stable and clear, providing perfect conditions for photography and sightseeing. It’s cold, but manageable.
• Permits: Permits are required and usually arranged by trek agencies.
• Ideal Duration: 6 Days.
• How to Reach: The trek starts from Joshimath, which can be reached from Rishikesh or Haridwar.
• Safety Tips: The pass can be very windy. Ensure you have adequate protection for your face and ears.

7. Nag Tibba Trek

The ‘Serpent’s Peak’ trek is a perfect weekend getaway from Delhi. It’s an accessible and rewarding trek that can be done with minimal preparation, making it great for beginners.

• Overview: A short trek that offers fantastic views of the Garhwal Himalayas, including Swargarohini, Bandarpoonch, and Kedarnath peaks.
• Difficulty Level: Easy.
• Altitude: 9,915 ft.
• Trail Highlights: A quick ascent, a temple dedicated to the serpent god, and panoramic Himalayan views from the summit.
• Weather in November: The weather is cool and pleasant, ideal for a comfortable climb. The trail is free of snow.
• Permits: No permits are required.
• Ideal Duration: 2 Days.
• How to Reach: The trek starts from Pantwari village, a 3-hour drive from Dehradun.
• Safety Tips: Even on an easy trek, carry a basic first-aid kit and enough water.

8. Goechala Trek (Lower Camps)

While the pass itself might be closed, trekking in November to the lower camps of Goechala is an incredible experience. You get up close to the Kanchenjunga range.

• Overview: This trek takes you into the heart of the Kanchenjunga National Park, offering the closest possible views of the third-highest peak in the world.
• Difficulty Level: Difficult (up to the viewpoint).
• Altitude: Up to 15,100 ft (Viewpoint 1).
• Trail Highlights: The sunrise view on Kanchenjunga from Dzongri Top, Samiti Lake, and dense rhododendron forests.
• Weather in November: Exceptionally clear but extremely cold. Expect sub-zero temperatures at night. The high passes might have snow.
• Permits: A permit for Kanchenjunga National Park is mandatory, along with a certified guide.
• Ideal Duration: 10-11 Days.
• How to Reach: The trek starts from Yuksom in West Sikkim, reachable from NJP.
• Safety Tips: This is a high-altitude trek. Acclimatisation is critical to avoid AMS.

Also Read: Top 10 Hill Stations in South India You Must Visit

9. Tarsar Marsar Trek

November is the shoulder season for this Kashmir trek. While the primary season is over, early November can still offer a starkly beautiful, crowd-free experience before heavy snow closes the route.

• Overview: A trek to two stunning alpine lakes, Tarsar and Marsar, set in the pristine valleys of Kashmir.
• Difficulty Level: Moderate.
• Altitude: 13,201 ft.
• Trail Highlights: The twin alpine lakes of Tarsar and Marsar, lush meadows of Lidderwat, and the beautiful Aru valley.
• Weather in November: It will be very cold, and the lakes might start to freeze. The landscape turns a rustic brown. Check conditions before going, as early snowfall can close the pass.
• Permits: Permits are needed, arranged in Srinagar.
• Ideal Duration: 7 Days.
• How to Reach: The trek starts from Aru Valley, near Pahalgam.
• Safety Tips: This is for experienced trekkers in November. Go with a very reliable local operator who knows the conditions well.

10. Deoriatal–Chandrashila Trek

This trek combines the beauty of a serene lake with a summit climb that offers a 360-degree Himalayan panorama. It is an excellent choice for trekking in November.

• Overview: A journey to the beautiful Deoriatal lake, the holy Tungnath temple (the world’s highest Shiva temple), and the Chandrashila summit.
• Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate.
• Altitude: 12,083 ft.
• Trail Highlights: Reflections of Chaukhamba peak in Deoriatal, Tungnath temple, and a stunning sunrise view from Chandrashila.
• Weather in November: Clear skies and pleasant days. Nights are cold, and you might find light snow near the summit.
• Permits: An entry fee for the sanctuary is required.
• Ideal Duration: 4-6 Days.
• How to Reach: The trek starts from Sari village, accessible from Rishikesh.
• Safety Tips: The final ascent to Chandrashila is steep. Start early to be back before dark.

11. Phulara Ridge Trek

A unique trek in the Himalayas, where you walk on a ridge for an entire day, offering uninterrupted views. It’s a less-crowded alternative to other popular trails.

• Overview: Famous for its ridge walk, this trek offers a continuous panorama of the Garhwal Himalayas.
• Difficulty Level: Moderate.
• Altitude: 12,150 ft.
• Trail Highlights: The exhilarating ridge walk, dense forests, and views of Swargarohini and Bandarpoonch.
• Weather in November: Cold and windy on the ridge, but the views are spectacular. Expect frosty mornings.
• Permits: Forest permits are needed.
• Ideal Duration: 6 Days.
• How to Reach: The base camp is Sankri, near Dehradun.
• Safety Tips: The ridge is exposed, so a windproof jacket is essential. Walk carefully and follow your guide.

12. Chopta–Tungnath Trek

This is a shorter version of the Deoriatal-Chandrashila trek, focusing on the pilgrimage to Tungnath temple. It’s perfect for those with limited time.

• Overview: A short but steep climb to the ancient Tungnath temple, set against a magnificent Himalayan backdrop.
• Difficulty Level: Easy.
• Altitude: 12,073 ft.
• Trail Highlights: The spiritual aura of Tungnath, lush meadows of Chopta (the ‘Mini Switzerland of India’), and amazing mountain views.
• Weather in November: Cool and pleasant. The trail is usually clear of snow, making for an easy walk.
• Permits: A nominal entry fee is charged.
• Ideal Duration: 3-4 Days.
• How to Reach: Chopta is well-connected by road from Rishikesh.
• Safety Tips: The trail is well-paved but can be steep. Take your time and stay hydrated.

Also Read: Top 12 Bird Sanctuaries in Uttar Pradesh You Must Visit

13. Beas Kund Trek

A popular trek near Manali that takes you to the source of the Beas river, a glacial lake surrounded by towering peaks. This is a top-notch choice for trekking in November.

• Overview: A short trek that offers a mix of everything—meadows, river crossings, and a close-up view of major peaks like Hanuman Tibba.
• Difficulty Level: Moderate.
• Altitude: 12,772 ft.
• Trail Highlights: The emerald Beas Kund lake, walking along the Beas river, and stunning views of the Pir Panjal and Dhauladhar ranges.
• Weather in November: The beginning of the month is ideal. It gets cold, and there’s a chance of light snow, but the landscape is beautiful.
• Permits: Not required, but it’s good to inform the local authorities.
• Ideal Duration: 3-4 Days.
• How to Reach: The trek starts from Dhundi, a short drive from Manali.
• Safety Tips: The trail involves some river crossings and a bit of scrambling over boulders. Wear shoes with good grip.

14. Triund–Laka Glacier Trek

Triund is one of the most popular weekend treks in India. Extending it to the Laka Glacier adds a bit more adventure and brings you closer to the Dhauladhar range.

• Overview: A trek that takes you from the grassy ridge of Triund to the moraine-covered Laka Glacier.
• Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate.
• Altitude: 10,600 ft (Laka Glacier).
• Trail Highlights: The stunning view of the Dhauladhar range from Triund, camping on the ridge, and the icy terrain near the glacier.
• Weather in November: Clear and sunny days, but very cold nights. The trail is usually snow-free up to Triund.
• Permits: Checkpoints are there, but no formal permit is needed. Camping at Triund might be restricted, so check locally.
• Ideal Duration: 3 Days.
• How to Reach: The trek starts from McLeodGanj or Dharamkot, near Dharamshala.
• Safety Tips: Triund gets very crowded. The extension to Laka Glacier is quieter but requires more careful footing.

15. Kheerganga Trek

Famous for its natural hot water springs, Kheerganga is a spiritual and rejuvenating trek in the Parvati Valley. It’s a great trek for beginners.

• Overview: A walk through the mystical Parvati Valley to a meadow where you can relax in natural hot springs.
• Difficulty Level: Easy.
• Altitude: 9,700 ft.
• Trail Highlights: The therapeutic hot springs, stunning valley views, and the vibrant culture of the Parvati Valley.
• Weather in November: The weather is cool, making the hot springs even more enjoyable. The trail is mostly clear.
• Permits: No permits are required.
• Ideal Duration: 2-3 Days.
• How to Reach: The trek starts from Barshaini, reachable from Kasol or Bhuntar.
  Safety Tips: The trail can be slippery in patches. Be mindful of the local culture and customs in Parvati Valley. This trekking in November is perfect for a relaxed yet rewarding experience.

Essential Planning Tips for Trekking in November

A successful trek depends on good planning. Trekking in November has its own set of requirements. Here are some key tips:

Gear Checklist

• Warm Layers: Three-layer clothing is essential (base layer, fleece, and a down/synthetic jacket).
• Outerwear: A windproof and waterproof jacket and pants.
• Footwear: Waterproof trekking shoes with good grip and ankle support.
• Accessories: Woollen socks, gloves, a warm cap (balaclava), and sunglasses.
• Essentials: Headlamp, water bottle/hydration pack, basic first-aid kit, and a daypack.

Fitness Preparation

Even for easy treks, basic fitness is important. Start a routine of jogging, cycling, or climbing stairs at least a month before your trek. Focus on building cardiovascular endurance and leg strength.

Permits and Regulations

Most Himalayan treks require forest permits. It is best to go through a registered trek operator who can handle these formalities. Always carry a valid photo ID and a few passport-sized photos.

Altitude Mountain Sickness (AMS)

AMS is a real risk on any high-altitude trek.

• Acclimatise: Ascend slowly and give your body time to adjust.
• Hydrate: Drink at least 4-5 litres of water daily.
• Medication: Consult your doctor about carrying acetazolamide (Diamox).
• Recognise Symptoms: Headaches, nausea, and dizziness are early signs. Inform your guide immediately.

Weather and Safety

November weather can be unpredictable. Be prepared for sudden temperature drops and even snowfall on high-altitude treks. Always trek with a certified guide and a reliable operator.

Leave-No-Trace Ethics

The mountains are pristine. Follow Leave-No-Trace principles: carry all your plastic waste back, do not disturb wildlife, and respect local cultures.

Insurance

Get travel insurance that covers trekking and emergency medical evacuation. It is a small investment for your safety and peace of mind.

Guided vs. DIY

For beginners, a guided trek is highly recommended. The operator takes care of logistics, safety, food, and accommodation. Experienced trekkers might opt for a DIY trek on well-marked trails like Nag Tibba, but for most Himalayan treks, a guide is mandatory and safer. Going with a group is always a good idea.

Conclusion

November is truly a golden month for trekking in India. The clear skies, pleasant temperatures, and the stark beauty of the autumn-to-winter transition create a perfect canvas for adventure. From the easy weekend escape of Nag Tibba to the challenging heights of Goechala, there is a trail for every kind of adventurer. This month offers a unique window to witness the grandeur of the Himalayas in all their glory before the harsh winter sets in. Proper planning and respect for the mountains will ensure your experience of trekking in November is not just an adventure, but a collection of lifelong memories.

Are you ready to witness the Himalayas in their post-monsoon splendour? Don’t let this perfect window pass you by. The trails are calling, and the views are waiting. Book your November trek today to secure your spot on one of these incredible journeys. Download our free Ultimate Trekking Checklist to make sure you are fully prepared for your adventure. Subscribe to our newsletter for more trekking guides, tips, and exclusive offers delivered straight to your inbox!

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