Head to head
Gokyo Lakes Trek vs Annapurna Circuit
Gokyo Lakes Trek is the more approachable option (Challenging, max 5,357 m), while Annapurna Circuit is the bigger undertaking (Strenuous, max 5,416 m). Pick based on your experience, available days and how high you're comfortable sleeping.
Difficulty
Gokyo: Challenging
vs Annapurna: Strenuous
Max altitude
Gokyo: 5,357 m
vs Annapurna: 5,416 m
Duration
Gokyo: 12 days
vs Annapurna: 14 days
Choose
Gokyo Lakes Trek
if you want…
- Less demanding — Challenging vs Strenuous
- Shorter trip — 12 days vs 14
- Lower max altitude (5,357 m) — gentler on acclimatization
- Explores the Everest region
Choose
Annapurna Circuit
if you want…
- Higher summit point (5,416 m) for bigger mountain views
- More time on the trail — 14 days to immerse
- Explores the Annapurna region
Full comparison
| Gokyo Lakes Trek | Annapurna Circuit | |
|---|---|---|
| Difficulty | Challenging | Strenuous |
| Duration | 12 days | 14 days |
| Max altitude | 5,357 m | 5,416 m |
| Total distance | 100 km | 160 km |
| Elevation gain | 5,200 m | 8,500 m |
| Best season | Mar–May, Sep–Nov | Mar–May, Oct–Nov |
| Est. budget | USD 700-1,500 | USD 900-2,200 |
| Permits | Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit, Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit | Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), TIMS Card |
| Accommodation | Teahouses, lodges, and camping where required | Teahouses, lodges, and camping where required |
| Mobile network | Patchy in upper sections | Patchy in upper sections |
| Safety level | High | High |
Planning aid only. GPX and route pages are not live trail authority. Map packs need download on Wi‑Fi; weather and SMS need connectivity when used.
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