Afghanistan in November

November weather, activities, events & insider tips

November Weather in Afghanistan

25°C (77°F) High Temp

20°C (68°F) Low Temp

51 mm (2.0 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is November Right for You?

Advantages

Ideal trekking temperatures in Hindu Kush - daytime highs of 25°C (77°F) perfect for 6-8 hour mountain walks without overheating
Pomegranate and persimmon harvest season - local bazaars overflow with fresh produce at 60% lower prices than summer months
Clear mountain visibility - November's low humidity means 40+ km (25+ mile) views from Kabul's surrounding peaks on most days
Shoulder season pricing - accommodation costs drop 30-40% compared to peak autumn months while weather remains excellent

Considerations

Unpredictable afternoon rain showers on 10+ days - can disrupt mountain treks and require flexible daily planning
Rapidly changing mountain weather - temperatures can drop 10°C (18°F) in 2 hours when clouds roll in from Pakistan border
Shortened daylight to 10.5 hours - outdoor activities must finish by 5:30 PM, limiting photography and sightseeing time

Best Activities in November

Panjshir Valley Cultural Tours

November's moderate temperatures make the 150 km (93 mile) drive to Panjshir Valley comfortable, with local guides sharing stories of Ahmad Shah Massoud while walnut and apple harvests create impressive autumn landscapes. Cooler weather allows for extended walking tours through traditional villages without summer's exhausting heat.

Booking Tip: Book 14-21 days ahead through registered cultural organizations. Tours typically cost $120-180 per day including transport and guide. Ensure operators provide warm vehicle heating as mountain roads can be chilly. Reference booking widget below for current licensed operators.

Kabul Historical Walking Tours

Perfect weather for exploring Kabul's old city on foot - 25°C (77°F) highs allow 4-5 hour walking tours through Chicken Street, Shah-Do Shamshira Mosque, and Babur Gardens without summer's oppressive heat. November's clearer air improves visibility of Hindu Kush backdrop from historical sites.

Booking Tip: Half-day tours range $40-65 per person. Book through established cultural centers 7-10 days ahead. Request morning starts (9 AM) to maximize daylight hours and avoid potential afternoon showers. See current tour options in booking section below.

Band-e-Amir Lakes Photography Expeditions

November offers crystal-clear reflection photography as summer's tourist disruption ends and autumn light creates dramatic contrasts on the six deep blue lakes. Moderate temperatures allow comfortable overnight camping at 2,900 m (9,514 ft) altitude without extreme cold or heat.

Booking Tip: 2-3 day expeditions cost $200-350 including camping gear and meals. Book 3-4 weeks ahead as specialized high-altitude operators are limited. Verify operators provide proper cold-weather sleeping equipment rated for 5°C (41°F) nights. Check current expeditions in booking widget below.

Herat Carpet Workshop Experiences

November coincides with winter carpet production season when master weavers begin their most intricate pieces. Comfortable indoor temperatures make 6-8 hour workshop sessions enjoyable, while harvest festivals provide cultural context for traditional patterns and techniques being demonstrated.

Booking Tip: Full-day workshops range $80-140 per person including materials and lunch. Book 10-14 days ahead directly with workshop cooperatives. Morning sessions (8 AM start) recommended to complete projects before potential afternoon weather changes. Current workshop options available in booking section.

Bamiyan Valley Archaeological Tours

Cool, dry November weather perfect for extensive walking tours of Buddha statue sites and Shahr-e Gholghola ruins. Clear autumn air provides excellent photography conditions, while comfortable temperatures allow full-day explorations of cave networks and archaeological sites at 2,500 m (8,202 ft) elevation.

Booking Tip: Day tours typically $90-130 including transport from Kabul and guide services. Book 2-3 weeks ahead as road conditions require specialized vehicles. Request early departures (6 AM) for maximum site exploration time. See current archaeological tours in booking widget below.

November Events & Festivals

Early to Mid November

Pomegranate Festival in Kandahar Province

Celebrates Afghanistan's world-famous pomegranate harvest with traditional music, poetry readings, and fruit competitions. Local farmers showcase varieties unique to the region while visitors can participate in traditional harvest techniques and taste testing.

Late November (varies with lunar calendar)

Jashn-e Eid Milad un Nabi

Prophet Muhammad's birthday celebration featuring special prayers at major mosques, traditional sweets distribution, and community gatherings. Particularly beautiful observances at Kabul's largest mosques with decorative lighting and communal iftar meals.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight merino wool layers - temperature swings of 10°C (18°F) require easy layering system for comfort throughout day

Waterproof hiking boots - November's 10 rainy days create muddy conditions on unpaved streets and mountain trails

Compact umbrella rated for wind - afternoon showers often accompanied by 25+ km/h (15+ mph) mountain gusts

SPF 50+ sunscreen - UV index of 8 combined with 2,500+ m (8,202+ ft) altitude creates intense sun exposure

Power bank capacity 20,000+ mAh - shorter daylight hours mean more indoor device usage and limited charging opportunities

Warm sleeping bag liner - accommodation heating inconsistent, nighttime lows of 20°C (68°F) feel colder at altitude

Polarized sunglasses - November's clear mountain air creates intense glare from snow-capped peaks and bright limestone

Cash in small denominations - $1, $5, $10 USD bills preferred as credit cards not widely accepted outside major hotels

Modest clothing covering arms and legs - cultural expectations remain year-round, lightweight cotton best for November temperatures

Altitude sickness medication - many attractions above 2,000 m (6,562 ft) where November's lower oxygen levels more noticeable

Insider Knowledge

Local buses run most frequently 7-10 AM and 2-4 PM - plan sightseeing around these schedules as private transport costs 3x more during off-peak hours

Friday prayer time (11:30 AM - 1:30 PM) closes most businesses and tourist sites - schedule major sightseeing for Saturday through Thursday

November pomegranate juice costs 70% less than imported drinks and provides natural energy for high-altitude activities while supporting local farmers

Mountain weather changes rapidly after 3 PM in November - complete outdoor activities by 2 PM or carry full rain and warm weather gear

Avoid These Mistakes

Assuming 25°C (77°F) means summer clothing - mountain elevations and wind chill require warm layers even on sunny November days

Planning tight schedules without buffer time - November's 10 rainy days and mountain weather delays require flexible itineraries

Bringing only sandals or light shoes - November terrain requires sturdy footwear for cobblestone streets and muddy mountain paths