Upper Mustang vs Annapurna Circuit
Pick Upper Mustang for
peace and quiet, culture and heritage, road trips, fewer people, an easier walk, fewer days
Pick Annapurna Circuit for
adventure, a real challenge, a smaller budget
| Upper Mustang | Annapurna Circuit | |
|---|---|---|
| Region | Nepal, Mustang | Nepal, Lamjung–Manang–Mustang, Gandaki |
| Highest point | 4,200 m | 5,416 m |
| Difficulty | Easy–moderate | Difficult |
| Trek distance | about 60 km | about 160 km |
| Days on the ground | 10–12 | 12–14 |
| Best months | Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Sep, Oct, Nov | Mar, Apr, May, Oct, Nov |
| Snow likely | Dec, Jan | Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar |
| Crowds in season | Quiet | Busy |
| Daily spend | about ₹4,500 | about ₹3,500 |
| Gateway | Pokhara / Jomsom | Pokhara / Kathmandu |
| With kids | Not advised | Not advised |
| With seniors | Possible | Not advised |
| Permits | Restricted Area Permit (USD ~500/10 days) + ACAP. Must go with a registered agency. | ACAP + TIMS. Check current guide rules for your nationality. |
Upper Mustang: when to go
- ❄︎Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- ❄︎Dec
BestPossibleNot recommended❄︎Snow likely
Annapurna Circuit: when to go
- ❄︎Jan
- ❄︎Feb
- ❄︎Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- ❄︎Dec
BestPossibleNot recommended❄︎Snow likely