November is the period when India says goodbye to autumn and embraces the arrival of the winter season. The skies are sapphire blue, offering the clear views of distant peaks and the forests are still cloaked in the golden-orange tones of the autumn.
It is one of the best times to explore the Himalayas. The snow fleeced landscapes and picturesque sights are beyond compare.
Here are some of the best treks in November. So whether you are a novice or a seasoned trekker we have something that has the potential to be your next trekking excursion—
The Kedarkantha trek in Uttarkhand is popular among beginners trekkers. It is the perfect trek to set foot into the trekking world.
The trek begins from Sankri, proceeds past Govind Pashu Vihar National Park and climbs up to 12,500 feet. During the trek, you are always accompanied by mighty peaks of the Himalayas including, Mt. Swargarohini, Mt. Black Peak (Kalanag) and Mt. Bandarpoonch. You may also encounter several fresh-water streams en route.
The climb is tricky with steep slopes yet satisfying making you feel accomplished. The summit climb is the most rewarding part of it all.
In November, you experience mild temperatures in the day (10-15° C ) and colder evenings (below 0°) with no snowfall. Though it might rain a little, the views are mostly crisp and the landscapes are green.
The Kuari Pass trek in Uttarakhand is in the presence of the most celebrated mountains of India. You can witness the striking clear Mt Nanda Devi, Mt. Kamet and Dronagiri amongst others.
The trek to Kuari Pass is a thrilling, yet beginner appropriate trek. It was first explored by Lord Curzon. The trail goes along forests and verdant meadows making it a picture-perfect trek.
The trek does get cold as we move along November. You can feel the incoming winter setting in. The views and the terrain still remain refreshing and captivating.
The Har Ki Dun trek is the most sought-after trek, owing to its vibrant and impressive visuals.
The trek familiarizes you with the culture and life in the cut-off Himalayan villages. Har Ki Dun valley is also bestowed with thriving flora and fauna. Many Langoor families near Puani Garaat, Barasingha, Black bears, and wild boars can be sighted. The trail promises exquisite sights of golden-hued deodar trees.
The valley offers extraordinary visuals of Swargarohini Peak (popularly known as stairways to heaven ), enchanting Ruinsara Tal and Garhwal Himalaya.
The Brahmatal Trek comprises the Bekaltal Lake and the Brahmatal Lake, at an altitude of 10,440 ft.
Some believe that Brahamatal served as a meditation ground for Lord Brahma.
The trek to Brahmatal takes you through the alpine forests of Oak, Fir and Rhododendron. The trek along the ridgeline often gives the thrill of an extended summit. Along the trek, the majestic Mt. Trishul and Mt. Nandaghunti keep you company. At the Tilandi campsite, you get spectacular visuals of the sunset and sunrise with the Himalayan landscape rolling out on either side.
November offers a picture-worthy view of a dark canopy of the rhododendron and oak trees. The trees start shedding their leaves, and you feel a distinct crunch with each step.
The trek begins in the picturesque village of Raithal in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand. The trek slowly gradients up to the colossal height of 12,000 feet and is beginner appropriate.
You walk through a splendid valley, shimmering streams, sprawling grasslands and pastures.
In November, there is no snow but temperatures are dipping. The expansive meadows are blanketed golden-yellow and Maple leaves are fiery red. The pine-scented air is crisp and haze-free, offering beautiful mountain scenery.
Perched at an altitude of 11,950 feet, Sandakphu resides on the Indo-Nepal border. You have the most splendid view of the Everest cluster on your left and Kanchenjunga, on your right along with its family of peaks. This whimsical family of peaks is popularly known as The Sleeping Buddha.
In November, Sandakphu Phalut attracts several trekkers and tourists to the region. It is easier to spot birds on the trail during this time. The haze-free air offers an awe-inspiring view of the distant peaks. Constantly flitting on the Indo-Nepal border makes this excursion a rare cultural experience.
Nag Tibba, popular as the “Serpent’s Peak” is an ideal trek for beginners, families and children. Apart from a few steep slopes, the terrain is gradual.
The Nag Tibba trek leads up to The Nag Mandir situated at an altitude of 9,914 feet. It offers splendid views of the Bandarpuch ranges and Garhwal Himalayas.
In November, you get to see vibrant wildflowers, amber Deodar trees and other wildlife. The trek is a combination of thrilling ridge walks and remarkable views of snow-capped peaks.
Pangarchulla is a highly desirable trek in Garhwal Range. Perched to a modest height of 4,590m, Pangarchulla can give you a peek at high mountain trekking at a conveniently low altitude.
It is a perfect trek to start for anyone aiming for 6000m or higher Himalayan peaks in the future.
The summit day of this trek is notorious for being rough and extreme. Yet, the spectacle en route is worth the gruelling trek. In their full glory, you get to see peaks like Mt. Nanda Devi, Mt. Chaukhamba and Mt. Kamet.
The key to a successful trek in November is to prepare well and dress accordingly.
With proper preparation, you can have a safe and enjoyable trekking experience in November. Just make sure to pick a route that is appropriate for your level of expertise. And most importantly, enjoy the magnificent views!
