Side by side
| Mardi Himal Trek | Upper Dolpo Circuit Trek | |
|---|---|---|
| Days | 6 | 22 |
| Highest point | 4,500 m | 5,350 m |
| Difficulty | Moderate | Extreme |
| Total distance | 55 km | 220 km |
| Best months | March to April and October to December | May to October |
| Typical cost | $400 to $700 | $2,800 to $4,400 |
| Starts from | Kande (1,750 m) or Forest Camp via taxi from Pokhara | Juphal (via Nepalgunj flight) |
| Permits | 2 | 2 |
Choose the Mardi Himal Trek if
The Mardi Himal trek is a 5 to 7 day moderate trek in the Annapurna Conservation Area that follows a ridge high above the Modi Khola valley to a high camp at 4,500 m with extraordinary close-range views of Machhapuchhre (the Fishtail) and Mardi Himal. Opened to trekkers in 2012, it remains significantly less crowded than the nearby Annapurna Base Camp and Poon Hill routes.
The High Camp altitude of 4,500 m requires good acclimatisation and cold-weather preparation. The trails are well-marked but steeper than Poon Hill.
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.
