Annapurna Circuit vs Upper Mustang
Pick Annapurna Circuit for
adventure, a real challenge, a smaller budget
Pick Upper Mustang for
peace and quiet, culture and heritage, road trips, fewer people, an easier walk, fewer days
| Annapurna Circuit | Upper Mustang | |
|---|---|---|
| Region | Nepal, Lamjung–Manang–Mustang, Gandaki | Nepal, Mustang |
| Highest point | 5,416 m | 4,200 m |
| Difficulty | Difficult | Easy–moderate |
| Trek distance | about 160 km | about 60 km |
| Days on the ground | 12–14 | 10–12 |
| Best months | Mar, Apr, May, 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 / Kathmandu | Pokhara / Jomsom |
| With kids | Not advised | Not advised |
| With seniors | Not advised | Possible |
| Permits | ACAP + TIMS. Check current guide rules for your nationality. | Restricted Area Permit (USD ~500/10 days) + ACAP. Must go with a registered agency. |
Annapurna Circuit: 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