Head to head
Mardi Himal Trek vs Gokyo Lakes Trek
Mardi Himal Trek is the more approachable option (Moderate, max 4,500 m), while Gokyo Lakes Trek is the bigger undertaking (Challenging, max 5,357 m). Pick based on your experience, available days and how high you're comfortable sleeping.
Difficulty
Mardi: Moderate
vs Gokyo: Challenging
Max altitude
Mardi: 4,500 m
vs Gokyo: 5,357 m
Duration
Mardi: 5 days
vs Gokyo: 12 days
Choose
Mardi Himal Trek
if you want…
- Less demanding — Moderate vs Challenging
- Shorter trip — 5 days vs 12
- Lower max altitude (4,500 m) — gentler on acclimatization
- Explores the Annapurna region
Choose
Gokyo Lakes Trek
if you want…
- Higher summit point (5,357 m) for bigger mountain views
- More time on the trail — 12 days to immerse
- Explores the Everest region
Full comparison
| Mardi Himal Trek | Gokyo Lakes Trek | |
|---|---|---|
| Difficulty | Moderate | Challenging |
| Duration | 5 days | 12 days |
| Max altitude | 4,500 m | 5,357 m |
| Total distance | 50 km | 100 km |
| Elevation gain | 3,300 m | 5,200 m |
| Best season | Mar–May, Sep–Nov | Mar–May, Sep–Nov |
| Est. budget | USD 350-900 | USD 700-1,500 |
| Permits | Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), TIMS Card | Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit, Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit |
| 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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