Side by side
| Manaslu Circuit Trek | Upper Dolpo Circuit Trek | |
|---|---|---|
| Days | 16 | 22 |
| Highest point | 5,106 m | 5,350 m |
| Difficulty | Challenging | Extreme |
| Total distance | 177 km | 220 km |
| Best months | March to April and October to November | May to October |
| Typical cost | $1,400 to $2,800 | $2,800 to $4,400 |
| Starts from | Soti Khola (700 m) or Machha Khola | Juphal (via Nepalgunj flight) |
| Permits | 3 | 2 |
Choose the Manaslu Circuit Trek if
The Manaslu Circuit is a 14 to 18 day restricted-area trek in the Gorkha District of western Nepal, circumnavigating Manaslu (8,163 m), the world's eighth highest mountain. The route crosses the Larkya La Pass at 5,106 m and offers a rawer, less-crowded alternative to the Annapurna Circuit with comparable cultural depth and mountain scale.
The route is long and the Larkya La crossing demands proper acclimatisation. The trail is well-worn but involves some exposed rocky sections and glacier moraines near the pass. A restricted area permit and mandatory guide are required.
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.
