Side by side
| Upper Mustang Trek | Upper Dolpo Circuit Trek | |
|---|---|---|
| Days | 12 | 22 |
| Highest point | 4,010 m | 5,350 m |
| Difficulty | Moderate | Extreme |
| Total distance | 155 km | 220 km |
| Best months | March to October | May to October |
| Typical cost | $2,500 to $4,500 | $2,800 to $4,400 |
| Starts from | Jomsom (2,720 m) via flight from Pokhara or drive from Pokhara | Juphal (via Nepalgunj flight) |
| Permits | 2 | 2 |
Choose the Upper Mustang Trek if
The Upper Mustang trek is a 10 to 14 day restricted-area trek through the former Kingdom of Lo, a culturally Tibetan enclave north of the Annapurna range. The arid, wind-sculpted landscape of red and white cliffs contains ancient cave monasteries and the walled city of Lo Manthang. Because it lies in the rain shadow north of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri, it is one of the few Nepal treks accessible during the monsoon season.
The altitude is not extreme by Himalayan standards. The terrain is mostly good trail with some exposed rocky sections. The challenge is the remoteness, wind, and the bureaucratic requirements.
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.
