Head to head
Manaslu Circuit vs Upper Dolpo Trek
Manaslu Circuit is the more approachable option (Strenuous, max 5,106 m), while Upper Dolpo Trek is the bigger undertaking (Strenuous, max 5,190 m). Pick based on your experience, available days and how high you're comfortable sleeping.
Difficulty
Manaslu: Strenuous
vs Upper: Strenuous
Max altitude
Manaslu: 5,106 m
vs Upper: 5,190 m
Duration
Manaslu: 14 days
vs Upper: 20 days
Choose
Manaslu Circuit
if you want…
- Shorter trip — 14 days vs 20
- Lower max altitude (5,106 m) — gentler on acclimatization
- More popular and better supported with teahouses
- Explores the Manaslu region
Choose
Upper Dolpo Trek
if you want…
- Higher summit point (5,190 m) for bigger mountain views
- More time on the trail — 20 days to immerse
- Quieter, more remote region
- Explores the Dolpo region
Full comparison
| Manaslu Circuit | Upper Dolpo Trek | |
|---|---|---|
| Difficulty | Strenuous | Strenuous |
| Duration | 14 days | 20 days |
| Max altitude | 5,106 m | 5,190 m |
| Total distance | 160 km | 180 km |
| Elevation gain | 8,200 m | 9,000 m |
| Best season | Mar–May, Sep–Nov | May–Oct |
| Est. budget | USD 900-2,200 | USD 900-2,200 |
| Permits | Manaslu Conservation Area Permit, Manaslu Restricted Area Permit, TIMS Card | Upper Dolpo Restricted Area Permit, Shey Phoksundo National Park Entry Permit |
| Accommodation | Teahouses and local lodges | Teahouses and local lodges |
| 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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