Side by side
| Nar Phu Valley Trek | Upper Dolpo Circuit Trek | |
|---|---|---|
| Days | 10 | 22 |
| Highest point | 5,320 m | 5,350 m |
| Difficulty | Strenuous | Extreme |
| Total distance | 115 km | 220 km |
| Best months | March to May and September to November | May to October |
| Typical cost | $1,100 to $1,850 | $2,800 to $4,400 |
| Starts from | Koto (near Chame) | Juphal (via Nepalgunj flight) |
| Permits | 2 | 2 |
Choose the Nar Phu Valley Trek if
The Nar Phu Valley trek is a 10 day restricted route north of the Annapurna Circuit reaching 5,320 m at Kang La Pass. It leads into medieval stone hamlets, ancient monasteries, and dramatic trans-Himalayan gorges near the Tibetan border, requiring special permits and a registered guide.
Remote trails chiseled out of vertical canyon cliffs, sustained altitude in Phu village, and an early morning pass crossing over Kang La at 5,320 m.
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.
