Annapurna Base Camp vs Upper Mustang
Pick Annapurna Base Camp for
adventure, a real challenge, snow, a smaller budget, fewer days
Pick Upper Mustang for
peace and quiet, nature, culture and heritage, fewer people, an easier walk
| Annapurna Base Camp | Upper Mustang | |
|---|---|---|
| Region | Nepal, Kaski, Gandaki | Nepal, Mustang |
| Highest point | 4,130 m | 4,200 m |
| Difficulty | Moderate | Easy–moderate |
| Trek distance | about 110 km | about 60 km |
| Days on the ground | 8–10 | 10–12 |
| Best months | Mar, Apr, Oct, Nov | Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Sep, Oct, Nov |
| Snow likely | Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar | Dec, Jan |
| Crowds in season | Busy | Quiet |
| Daily spend | about ₹3,500 | about ₹4,500 |
| Gateway | Pokhara | Pokhara / Jomsom |
| With kids | Not advised | Not advised |
| With seniors | Not advised | Possible |
| Permits | ACAP permit. Guide rules for foreign trekkers changed in 2023 — check current rules for Indian nationals with the Nepal Tourism Board. | Restricted Area Permit (USD ~500/10 days) + ACAP. Must go with a registered agency. |
Annapurna Base Camp: when to go
- ❄︎Jan
- ❄︎Feb
- ❄︎Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- ❄︎Dec
BestPossibleNot recommended❄︎Snow likely
Upper Mustang: when to go
- ❄︎Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- ❄︎Dec
BestPossibleNot recommended❄︎Snow likely