Everest Base Camp vs Upper Mustang
Pick Everest Base Camp for
adventure, a real challenge
Pick Upper Mustang for
peace and quiet, nature, culture and heritage, fewer people, an easier walk, fewer days
| Everest Base Camp | Upper Mustang | |
|---|---|---|
| Region | Nepal, Solukhumbu | Nepal, Mustang |
| Highest point | 5,364 m | 4,200 m |
| Difficulty | Difficult | Easy–moderate |
| Trek distance | about 130 km | about 60 km |
| Days on the ground | 13–15 | 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 ₹5,000 | about ₹4,500 |
| Gateway | Kathmandu (Lukla flight) | Pokhara / Jomsom |
| With kids | Not advised | Not advised |
| With seniors | Not advised | Possible |
| Permits | Sagarmatha National Park entry + Khumbu local area fee. Check current guide rules. | Restricted Area Permit (USD ~500/10 days) + ACAP. Must go with a registered agency. |
Everest 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