November is the start of winter in most of Tibet. Nights in Lhasa are below freezing, but days are often 10–12°C and sunny. It is the dry season, and a good time for cultural travel, though less suitable for high-altitude treks.
A trip of three to eight days can cover Lhasa, Tsedang, Gyantse and Shigatse. Nyingchi is also lovely in November.
Lhasa — All Major Sites
The Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, Barkhor Street, Drepung and Sera monasteries are all open. Visitor numbers fall sharply after October, so it feels more Tibetan and less crowded.
Tsetang / Shannan
The cradle of Tibetan culture, about two to three hours from Lhasa. Easy to visit in November.
Friendship Highway (Gyantse & Shigatse)
The road to Gyantse and Shigatse is usually fine. High passes may have frost or light snow, so we check road conditions.
Everest Base Camp (5,200m)
November at Everest is clear and dry, with excellent views on sunny days. Nights fall to about −15°C and days reach a few degrees above zero. The tent camp closes for the winter; visitors stay at the Rongbuk Monastery guesthouse or in Tingri.
What to Wear in November
Dress in layers for the cold nights and the changes in altitude: a warm coat, trousers and thermal layers. Wear a sun hat and sunglasses. Many hotels and restaurants have little heating, so keep a warm layer with you. Bring heavier winter gear and gloves for higher places.
A more Tibetan Tibet: after October most tourists leave, and in November many of the people around you are Tibetan pilgrims. It is a great time to see the cultural highlights before the deeper cold of December.
