Side by side
| Makalu Base Camp Trek | Upper Dolpo Circuit Trek | |
|---|---|---|
| Days | 18 | 22 |
| Highest point | 4,870 m | 5,350 m |
| Difficulty | Strenuous | Extreme |
| Total distance | 145 km | 220 km |
| Best months | March to May and October to November | May to October |
| Typical cost | $1,450 to $2,200 | $2,800 to $4,400 |
| Starts from | Num (via Tumlingtar flight and jeep) | Juphal (via Nepalgunj flight) |
| Permits | 2 | 2 |
Choose the Makalu Base Camp Trek if
The Makalu Base Camp trek is an 18 day wilderness route in eastern Nepal leading into Makalu Barun National Park to the base of Mount Makalu at 4,870 m. Trekkers journey from subtropical cloud forests over rugged Shipton La pass into the dramatic sheer granite amphitheatre of Barun Valley.
Demanding high-altitude crossing of Shipton La at 4,210 m with steep climbs and descents. The upper Barun valley is remote with simple teahouses and unpredictable mountain weather.
Choose the Upper Dolpo Circuit Trek if
The Upper Dolpo Circuit trek is an epic 22 day expedition in western Nepal crossing high passes above 5,000 m including Kang La and Jeng La. The trail explores the deep waters of Shey Phoksundo Lake, 11th century Shey Gompa, and isolated Bon and Tibetan Buddhist communities.
Rugged wilderness expedition crossing multiple 5,000 m mountain passes. Requires full camping logistics, self-sufficiency, and high endurance in remote trans-Himalayan desert country.
