Head to head
Mardi Himal Trek vs Annapurna Circuit
Mardi Himal Trek is the more approachable option (Moderate, max 4,500 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
Mardi: Moderate
vs Annapurna: Strenuous
Max altitude
Mardi: 4,500 m
vs Annapurna: 5,416 m
Duration
Mardi: 5 days
vs Annapurna: 14 days
Choose
Mardi Himal Trek
if you want…
- Less demanding — Moderate vs Strenuous
- Shorter trip — 5 days vs 14
- Lower max altitude (4,500 m) — gentler on acclimatization
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
Full comparison
| Mardi Himal Trek | Annapurna Circuit | |
|---|---|---|
| Difficulty | Moderate | Strenuous |
| Duration | 5 days | 14 days |
| Max altitude | 4,500 m | 5,416 m |
| Total distance | 50 km | 160 km |
| Elevation gain | 3,300 m | 8,500 m |
| Best season | Mar–May, Sep–Nov | Mar–May, Oct–Nov |
| Est. budget | USD 350-900 | USD 900-2,200 |
| Permits | Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), TIMS Card | Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), TIMS Card |
| Accommodation | Teahouses and local lodges | Teahouses, lodges, and camping where required |
| Mobile network | Patchy in upper sections | Patchy in upper sections |
| Safety level | Medium | 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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