Head to head
Upper Dolpo Trek vs Annapurna Circuit
Upper Dolpo Trek is the more approachable option (Strenuous, max 5,190 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
Upper: Strenuous
vs Annapurna: Strenuous
Max altitude
Upper: 5,190 m
vs Annapurna: 5,416 m
Duration
Upper: 20 days
vs Annapurna: 14 days
Choose
Upper Dolpo Trek
if you want…
- Lower max altitude (5,190 m) — gentler on acclimatization
- More time on the trail — 20 days to immerse
- Quieter, more remote region
- Explores the Dolpo region
Choose
Annapurna Circuit
if you want…
- Shorter trip — 14 days vs 20
- Higher summit point (5,416 m) for bigger mountain views
- More popular and better supported with teahouses
- Explores the Annapurna region
Full comparison
| Upper Dolpo Trek | Annapurna Circuit | |
|---|---|---|
| Difficulty | Strenuous | Strenuous |
| Duration | 20 days | 14 days |
| Max altitude | 5,190 m | 5,416 m |
| Total distance | 180 km | 160 km |
| Elevation gain | 9,000 m | 8,500 m |
| Best season | May–Oct | Mar–May, Oct–Nov |
| Est. budget | USD 900-2,200 | USD 900-2,200 |
| Permits | Upper Dolpo Restricted Area Permit, Shey Phoksundo National Park Entry Permit | 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 | 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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