Best Countries To Visit In November

November is the month of awaited celebrations, one that straddles autumn and winter and becomes the gateway into the Christmas month of December. With dry skies and cool, pleasant climes in most of the northern hemisphere and onset of summers in the southern hemisphere, this month does make for a good travel month to places like Ireland, Thailand, Hungary, Oman, Dubai, Hong Kong, Nepal, Australia etc. The night markets and Christmas markets in Hungary are already set up and Ireland celebrates story telling festivals, while Thailand releases illuminated floats to commemorate the festival of Loy Krathong, all in the month of November. Some of the best countries to visit in November are listed below, each detailed with its special offering for this beautiful autumn month.

Hungary

Hungary is a landlocked destination in the middle of Europe, a rich historical country that brings its own baggage from World War I. With the Danube River cutting its way through the capital Budapest, Hungary becomes a beautiful sight for sore eyes and home to some exceptional medieval castles, gothic palaces and grand forts. In November, the temperature in Hungary is anywhere between 3-7°C, with opera and theatre seasons in full bloom, not to forget the night markets that set shop because it gets dark way before 5 in the evening. These early Christmas markets are a real treat, as are the many festivals like All Saint’s Day and St. Martin’s Day.

Things to Do:

The capital city of Hungary is Budapest, where you must start all your touring. Followed by other beautiful towns like Lake Balaton, Szentendre (a stunning lakeside town), Eger, Visegrad, Pecs, Heviz etc. Explore their palaces, museums, lakes, sceneries and much more. Some major tourist attractions in Hungary are the Andrassy Avenue, Buda Castle (with the National Gallery, the Szechenyi Library and Budapest History Museum inside its complex), Budapest Zoo and Botanical Garden, the gothic style Castle of Diosgyor, Castle of Egri and the Szechenyi Chain Bridge, which is a 1230 foot suspension bridge constructed across river Danube. Also famous for its sights and tranquil walks is the Danube Promenade in Budapest. For history buffs, a visit to the Fisherman's Bastion and Hungary’s Parliament Building in Budapest is a must. Hortobagy National Park is a also a great place for nature enthusiasts.

How to Reach:

Hungary has two major international airports, namely Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport in Budapest and Airport Debrecen in Debrecen. Airlines like Lufthansa, Aeroflot, Turkish, Air India, Jet Airways and Emirates fly from Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai. Kolkata and Bangalore to Hungary (one-stop). You can also reach Hungary by rail from any of the European countries like Austria, Slovakia, Croatia, Germany, Czech Republic, Romania, Russia etc. Driving down is also an option if you have your International Licence, power of attorney for the vehicle you hired and your travel documents.

Ireland

Ireland is known to the world as the birthplace of W. B. Yeats, Oscar Wilde, Guinness beer and oh, elves! Among many things, this place is also called  the emerald Isle for its dark green stretches of meadows, and makes for a surreal November holiday. As winter approaches, temperature continues to fall here in November, with the month average between 9-12°C. The rains are frequent and give you the full feel of the quintessential ‘cold-and-rainy’ Ireland with stunning landscapes and thrilling wind. There are also some festivals to look forward to, like the Yarn Storytelling festival (11th-9th Nov) held in Bray Town near Dublin and the Belfast Christmas Market that sets shop much earlier on 18th Nov with delicious food stalls, wines, knick-knacks, gifts and more.

Things to Do:

Some amazing cities to explore here are Dublin, Cork, and Galway. Do not miss the Dublin Castle while you are at it. Belfast is also worth your time, especially as Christmas markets are set up by the second week of November. Explore ancient castles like Cahir Castle, Kilkenny Castle, Slane Castle etc. Head to visit the cute seals that are said to be good omens of faeries, swimming down river Shannon. Cruising on Shannon is also an option. Hop up to the Cliff of Moher in County Clare when the rains are pounding to experience the winds talking to you. Also take a tour of County Kerry, Dingle Peninsula, Skelling Islands and the Guinness Storehouse for some patent Irish beer. See how it is brewed and guzzle some more. You can also drive down the Ring of Kerry to explore some fo the best historical landmarks and sceneries of Ireland. 

How to Reach:

Dublin, Shannon, Cork and Ireland West form the main International Airports of Ireland. Direct flights from Delhi are available, or you can take one via Dubai/ Abu Dhabi. Mumbai also plies frequent flights with Etihad, Lufthansa, Jet Airways, Air India, and Turkish Airlines. You can also travel by road from England or any other European country. Bus Eireann, Ulsterbus and Eurolines are renowned for bus services, as well as Irish Rail and Northern Ireland Railways for train services. Ferries from France, Great Britain and Wales are also feasible, as is driving by yourself or with a chauffeur.

Thailand

Home to Bangkok and Pattaya, Thailand is the massage destination, shopping destination, as well as the quintessential ‘bachelor’ destination of the world. It is renowned world over for its tropical stretches of beach lines, Buddhist temples, shopping paradises and night markets. In November, the season is much drier and cooler here, in fact, one of the coolest months, with temperature between 13-29°C. The tourist season is just picking up so good deals and discounts aren’t over yet. Also, Thailand celebrates the festival of Loy Krathong in November, where the whole country releases illuminated floats on waterways. 

Things to Do:

Thailand and temples become synonymous because of some stunning ones like Wat Arun, Emerald Buddha Temple (Wat Phra Kaew) and Wat Pho. Explore the capital city Bangkok for amazing shopping in malls as well as on streets, from the weekend Chatuchak market to bustling night markets. There are also amazing road-side food stalls and roll ice-cream stalls here. Visit the Grand Palace, the Golden Triangle (confluence of Mekong River and Ruak River and where Myanmar, Laos and Thailand landscapes meet). There is the Elephant Nature Park too for animal lovers. Thailand’s islands are also great getaways, including Phang Nga Bay (for its limestone rocks), Phuket (for its beaches, water sports and nightlife) and Krabi. If you are interested in the history and culture of Thailand, do take time out to visit some tribes (Akha, Lisu, Karen etc) with your tour guide in the northern reaches of Thailand.

How to Reach: 

Bangkok, being a coveted tourist spot, especially for Indians, is very well connected by flights from India. Suvarnabhumi Airport and Don Mueang International Airport of Bangkok receive regular direct flights from Indian cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Kolkata, Chennai etc. You can also drive to Thailand from India via the India-Myanmar-Thailand trilateral highway. It is a long drive, 3200 km long; and starts from Manipur in India.

Dubai

Dubai is the perfect holiday destination, from limitless shopping to sightseeing and tours, desert safaris to luxury yatch cruises; the place brims with tourism and electric energy. And what better way to explore it than in the best month with the best weather to aid your travel? In November, temperatures in Dubai are cooler, around 18-31°C, which is really the coldest for this desert city. With little humidity, you are sure to be blessed with amazing time out shopping or desert surfing. Besides, Dubai also hosts the DP World Tour Championship this time of the year, inviting golf enthusiasts from all over the world. For the creative lot, Dubai’s Design Week is also something you will enjoy in November, down the JBR Walk.

Things to Do:

Start with the Bhurj Khalifa, one of the tallest structures world over, doubling over for business complexes as well as restaurants for your pleasure. Not faraway is the the Dubai Fountain, the world's largest choreographed system of fountains that puts on grand shows every night for the tourists. For shoppers, malls here are just endlessly ready, as is the great Dubai Mall. You could also take a trip to Palm Jumeirah island for posh high-end hotels, shopping and relaxation. Other experiences in Dubai are the Dubai Creek, JBR beach, Kite Beach (for water sports) and Dubai Marina. You should also spare a day for the desert safari in the Arabian desert, along with quad biking, sand-boarding, barbeques, henna and camel rides.

How to Reach:

The Dubai International Airport is the only airport of Dubai, the busiest in all of UAE. Frequent and direct flights from Mumbai, Delhi, Jaipur, Goa etc fly to Dubai with aircraft carriers like Etihad, Jet Airways, Air India, Emirates etc. You can also avail coach services into Dubai from other UAE cities like Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajmah etc. If you wish to drive up, you can only go from Oman. While in Dubai, you can take cabs or metros for getting around.

Australia

November in Australia is the end of spring and the shoulder season, which means you are in for some warm temperature ranges, less crowds and all the fun of a peak tourist season - all on some good discounts. In this land down under, which is a continent nation known for its kangaroos, coral reefs and great tourism, you are sure to find yourself sightseeing, indulging in water sports, swimming through the Great Barrier Reef and wining and dining your way through some of the most amazing restaurants. 

Things to Do:

Explore awesome ultra-uber cities like Melbourne, Sydney, Perth, Gold Coast and Brisbane. The Great Barrier Reef is one place that you must swim/ scuba dive/ snorkel to explore the beautiful corals, marine life and rock formations under the sea. Chill and explore surfing at Bondi Beach. The Sydney Opera House is another great stop for opera shows and a tour of Australia’s architectural marvels. Other great places to visit are the Twelve Apostles, Warner Bros Movie World, Philip Island and Whitsunday Islands. If you are the kind that sniffs wine from a mile away, head to Hunter Valley to tour the vineyards and sample great wine. For animal lovers, especially those that are going to Australia for the cutesy kangaroos, head to Murramarang National Park for that treat. Kangaroo Island and Lucky Bay are also home to these hopping delights of nature. Uluru and Great Ocean Road are also to be explored for a complete tour of this continent. 

How to Reach:

Australia’s major International airports are stationed in Sydney, Perth, Brisbane, Adelaide and Melbourne. Regular direct and connecting flights take off from Indian cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai etc to Australia. Cruises from New Zealand can also be boarded if you wish to travel by sea. There is no rail connectivity from outside the country as this is a continent we are talking about, but Australia has good rail network internally.

Mauritius

Mauritius is a beautiful beach getaway, a small island nation in the middle of the Indian Ocean, renowned for its sandy beaches, clear blue seas and luxury beach resorts. November marks the beginning of summer in Mauritius and is characterised by gradual rise of temperatures, with an average of 24°C. This is a good time for shopping, beach hopping, going for spas and meditations as well as indulging in water sports; all without the onslaught of rains or too much heat wearing you down. Since Mauritius celebrates most of the Hindu festivals with great pomp, Diwali is also big here at this time of the year.

Things to Do:

Explore Bois Cheri Tea Plantations, suffused with its heady scents of tea and mud in the air. The tour also includes tasting some tea and picking leaves, as well as giving you a chance to shop for small packs in souvenir wraps. Go scuba diving and kite surfing in the heaven that is Belle Mare or snorkel in the Blue Bay Marine Park. Cave sea kayaking is offered in Albion Caves. For those who are luxury babies, head to Riambel Beach for horse riding and luxury cruises. Also worth your while are Mauritius National Botanical Garden, Earth Tamarin Bay, Chamarel Village and underwater sea walk at Grand Bay. You can take seaplane rides from Albatross and catch the breathtaking bird’s eye view of the beauty that is Mauritius. Last but definitely not the least, explore the many white-sand beaches and shores of this country, bask in the sun and lay down for some quiet relaxation with a chilled drink in hand. That is what beach holidays are for, after all!

How to Reach:

Mauritius’a Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport in Plaisance is 50 km away from Port Louis (capital city). International flights land here, including those from Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kochi, Bangalore, Chennai etc. Air India, Jet, Emirates, Singapore Airlines among others run regular flights between the two countries. You can also choose the sea route, and book yourself in one of the luxurious International cruise liners sailing across the Indian Ocean. To get by in Mauritius, there are cars/vans on hire, as well as boats.

Bhutan

Bhutan is a tranquil land of mountains and monks, Buddhist Gompas and trekking bases, suffused with happiness that the country considers higher than its GDP. A South East Asian country and neighbour of India, Bhutan is close by and ideal for a November holiday as the months from October to December are some of the best to visit here. With average pleasant temperature of 15°C, Bhutan sees a dry, winter time that is ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, sightseeing, monastery-hopping and meditation. Also famous at this time is the Black-Necked Cranes Festival held on 11th November every year.

Things to Do: 

November is the month of winter here when it is not freezing or snowing but pleasant. Start with one of the best places, the Paro Taktsang Monastery, also known as the Tiger’s Nest. The Paro valley that houses this monastery is also filled with breathtaking views, hiking trails and beautiful flora and fauna. If you are a trekker at heart, some great routes around this area are Snowman Trek, Nabji Korphu Trek, Druk Path Trek and Jomolhari Trek. Kayaking can be availed at Trongsa, Punakha Valley and Paro Valley. Draw your adrenaline through river rafting in Po Chu River and rock climbing in Thimphu. You can also choose some leisure relaxation by exploring a line of hot springs like Gelephu Tshachu, Gasa Tshachus and Duenmang Tshachu. Bird watching is renowned in Bumthang, Bomdeling, Trongsa, Tingtibi, Phobjikha Valley and Punakha. You are also welcome to meditate here, either through guided sessions offered by hotels and resorts or by yourself, up somewhere in the hills.

How to Reach:

Paro International Airport of Bhutan is where you will land if you travel here by air from another country. Indian cities like Kolkata, Guwahati, New Delhi and Bagdora ply direct flights here. One stop flights from Mumbai, Bangalore and Kochi are common. There is no direct rail connection from India to Bhutan but you can take the train to New Jalpaiguri or Bagdora Station and then take a cab across the border.

Seychelles

Seychelles is a collection of 115 tropical islands in the midst of the Indian Ocean, off East Africa. The country is renowned for its beaches, coral reefs and natural reserves, with rare animals, eg. Giant Aldabra tortoises. Seychelles is also home to mountainous rainforests and the Seychellois National Park. November in Seychelles is warm, sunny as well as quite wet. With an average high of 30°C and low of 23°C, days here are humid and perfect for a beach holiday. Rainfall may be a little more persistent than your liking but it makes the islands come alive with such beauty.

Things to Do:

Seychelles is home to a few islands and area that is almost devoid of infrastructure. Instead of a setback, this becomes an added incentive here as you get to be a part of nature as its was supposed to be, unlike other islands and beach resorts elsewhere in the world. Head to La Digue island, one of these few places preserved in time. It barely has vehicles or paved roads. But the untouched, virgin beaches are the most beautiful and tranquil. The Curieuse Island is known for its share of giant tortoises, while Praslin Island is home to Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve (a UNESCO World Heritage Site). You can go island hopping and explore so much more, from North Island to Frégate and Félicité Islands. The Seychelles National Botanical Gardens (Mahé) is also a great way to spend your time amidst nature. You can go snorkelling in Anse Lazio, wow yourself with the palm forests of Vallée de Mai and romance nature and rock formations at Anse Source d’Argent.

How to Reach:

Victoria is home to the major International Airport of Seychelles, i.e. Seychelles International. Indian cities of Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai and Bengaluru ply regular direct flights to Victoria with aircraft carriers like Emirates, British Airways, Jet Airways and Sri Lankan Airlines. For getting around in Seychelles itself, you can opt for local bus services (on Mahe and Praslin) or you can hire bicycles or use ox-cart (on La Digue). Cabs can be used for internal commute, as well as ferries and domestic flights for island hopping.

Malaysia

Malaysia is an island country offering some great tourism, situated in the Malay Peninsula. It shares its borders with Singapore and Thailand. Boasting of a wild mix of tropical beaches and futuristic cities like Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia is a dream destination, especially during the month of November. The average temperature on the west coast of Malaysia is 27°C, warm and amiable for outdoor activities. Kuala Lumpur also emulates this weather usually, with 260mm of expected rainfall. The country also hosts Malaysia International Jewellery Festival in this month in Kuala Lumpur, showcasing jewellery, camera bags, accessories and other digital gear in the trade fair. There is also the 1Malaysia Year End Sale across almost all cities, starting 1st November; and shopaholics, THIS IS YOUR CHANCE.

Things to Do:

Tour the ‘futuristic’ city that is Kuala Lumpur. It should make your first and longest stop, with its breathtaking sights, sky scrapers like the Petronas, long man-made marvels like bridges, shopping paradises and yummy street as well as gourmet food. Langkawi is a beautiful beach getaway, a collection of islands just off the coast of Malaysia. It makes for a beach baby’s wet dream, with scrumptious seafood, beach walks, water sports and sunbathing. You should also plan your time to accommodate the Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park, to satiate your love for the wild and all things nature. The safari is great here. For some history and architecture love, head to the historic town of Malacca, home to the beautiful homes, buildings and architecture left behind by Portuguese colonisers. 

How to Reach:

Kuala Lumpur International Airport is the major International Airport in Malaysia for incoming flights from abroad. From India, you have the Malaysian Airlines, Jet Airways, and Sri Lankan Airlines operating regular flights to Malaysia. You can also driven into Malaysia from Singapore. Internally in the country, the old International Airport of Malaysia, Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah (Kuala Lumpur) caters to domestic flights now. There is also Malaysian railways or KTM for domestic rail travel. Buses and cars can also be taken.

Oman

Oman is a country in the Arabian Peninsula, boasting of deserts, riverbed oases and long business-worthy coastlines lining the Persian Gulf, Arabian Sea and Gulf of Oman. The country is officially called the Sultanate of Oman, teleporting you into a time of Sinbad the sailor and times of treasure-hunter Arabs. But Oman is a modern, marvellous country today, a wonderful tourist destination too with its canyons, beaches, rich history and monuments. November in Oman is very comfortable, weather wise, as the temperature is in the 30s and air is dry. This is relatively cooler for this desert-influenced land and makes for a busy time.

Things to Do:  

Muscat is the capital city and filled with mosques, opera houses and monuments. The Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque here is an especially heavenly piece of human marvel, with gardens and minarets glorifying its charm. You can also choose to explore the Nizwa Fort and shop in the souk or bazars. The people in this country believe in siestas and hence everything is shut in the afternoons. So it would be pointless to venture out at this time. You can also go exploring nature’s bounty in Oman, from Sur, Nizwa, Al Hajar Mountains to Mussanah. Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve is a great animal retreat with other activities like snorkelling on Daymaniyat islands. The Necropolises of Bat and Al-Ayn make for a UNESCO World Heritage site, built by nomads that apparently date back to the Bronze Age in the Omani region. If you want to explore beaches, head to Al-Sawadi beach for its delicate shells and the Sawadi Fort. Also a great spot is Oman’s Grand Canyon. For shopping, we suggest you pick up Omani khajoor (dates), silverware, wool scarves and frankincense. 

How to Reach:

Seeb International Airport (Muscat) is the major International airport in Oman. It is directly connected to India (Mumbai, Jaipur, Ahmedabad, Delhi etc) via flights from Jet, Spicejet, Air India, Oman Air etc. For internal travel, there are domestic airports in Salalah, Sohar, Duqm and Khasab. The country doesn't have railways; and buses will only get you to certain points. You will have to use flights and hire cars.

Hong Kong

Hong Kong is a place that stills time and yet travels faster than even New York sometimes. It pulses with a raw, electric energy that makes you head spin. Hong Kong is an autonomous part of China that has, in recent years, developed as a coveted business and tourist hub, not to forget how it is Mecca for shopaholics. November in Hong Kong is 24°/19° high-low, one of the best weathers with the ongoing typhoon season. Humidity is at its lowest and clear blue skies make this a beautiful autumn here. Also, Hong Kong hosts its very own version of Rio’s parade at the Lan Kwai Fong Carnival at this time of the year.

Things to Do: 

Shop, shop, shop! When in Hong Kong, blow your wallet away at some of the best malls and streets. From Hong Kong’s Ladies’ Market for accessories and beautiful clothes to the Temple Street Night Market, from Cat Street selling antiques to Apliu Street Market selling gadgets, you will be spent out of your mind. Budget shoppers and those looking for cheap thrills, head to Causeway Bay.

Next comes sight seeing, that without doubt includes places like the Victoria Peak, Happy Valley Racecourse, Big Buddha, Man Mo Temple and Ten Thousand Buddhas Monastery in the New Territories. For beach getaways, run to Repulse Bay, Shek O beach, Stanley or Tai Long Wan. Adventure junkies are welcome to charter junk boats and sail them up and down or take themselves hiking up the Dragon’s Back. Hong Kong also boasts of amusement parks like the Ocean Park Hong Kong and the most coveted - Disneyland. You can chill at Lantau, Lamma Island and enjoy the nightlife of Tsim Sha Tsui.

How to Reach:

The Hong Kong International airport in Chek Lap Kok is only 31 km away from the city centre and makes for your landing spot when flying in from abroad. Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore etc run daily flights with aircraft carriers like Jet, Emirates, Air India and British Airways. Bullet trains from China are also available, as are buses from Guangdong or Beijing. High-speed Turbojets and boats also run from Macau to Hong Kong.

Nepal

Nepal is a landlocked country in the upper reaches of the Himalayas, home to Mt. Everest and suffused with an air of peace, spirituality and adventure. This Hindu nation shares its borders with India and can be reached easily for adventure as well as peace seeking alike. The average temperature in November here is 15°C, with a clear blue sky and lots of long days for hikes, treks and other mountaineering. The Kukur Tihar Nepal Dog festival and Nepal International Beer Festival are some of the highlights of this month. 

Things to Do:

People come to Nepal to conquer Everest, but you may have different goals. While trekking and hiking here are sure some of the best things to do, you may also like walking up trails with a small backpack and sooting music. There are a number of trails for novices as well as seasoned trekkers. Poonhill Trek, Everest Base Camp Trek and Manaslu are for seasoned trekkers. For those who are learning, there is Mera Peak. A luxury flight over the white frosting peaks of Himalays can also be arranged for you. Another must-visit is Bardia National Park, as well as Chitwan National Park. There are great fishing, boating and mountain climbing opportunities in Pokhara town. You can also go mountain biking in Kathmandu Valley, and see Pashupatinath Temple, Temple of Kumari, Swayambhunath Stupa, Boudhanath Stupa and Durbar Square in Kathmandu. Patan, the second largest town of Nepal is also a tourist attraction with its stupas dating back to BC.

How to Reach:

Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport is Nepal’s major International airport. Mumbai, Delhi, Lucknow etc ply regular flights to Kathmandu. Or you can drive from Sunauli-Bhairawa border of Varanasi or Raxaul-Birganj crossing from Patna or Siliguri-Kakarbhitta crossing from Darjeeling. Trains from Raxaul can be boarded to Sirsiya in Nepal. Once in Kathmandu, you can hire cabs or take their local buses for internal commute.