Trekking to Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) is one of the most popular trekking destination in Nepal. It attracts thousands of trekkers each year. Whether you are an experienced trekker or a beginner, the cost of the trek is one of the important factors to consider. In this blog, we will find out the true cost of the Annapurna Base Camp trek.
The Annapurna Base Camp trek price are affected by some of the variables like permits, transportation, lodging, food, guides, porters, and trekking equipment. The overall trekking cost of Annapurna is also influenced by your preferred trekking style, such as luxury, mid-range, or budget.
Importance of Budget Planning for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek
You can enjoy the journey without worrying about money if you create a proper budget. Since ATMs are not available in Annapurna region, it can be difficult if you run out of money while trekking to Annapurna base camp. You will be responsible for paying for food, accommodation, and permits while trekking. The overall cost may increase if you have to stay longer due to medical emergencies, extra meals, or bad weather.
What are the Main Cost Factors?
The main factors that determine the overall cost for Annapurna Base Camp trek are as follows:
- Permits: All trekkers need special permits to enter the Annapurna Conservation Area and register with the Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS).
- Transportation: It costs money to take a bus, jeep, or even a plane from Kathmandu to Pokhara and to the starting point.
- Accommodation: Trekkers stay in tea houses or lodges along the trail. They charge per night along with extra services like hot showers and Wi-Fi.
- Food and Drinks: Trekkers must buy food along the trail. Since mules or porters carry things to remote areas, costs rise as altitude increases.
- Guide and Porter Fees: Although hiring a guide or porter increases the overall cost, it ensures safety and convenience.
- Trekking Gear: Trekkers can rent or buy essential items like trekking boots, warm clothes, sleeping bags, and backpacks.
- Miscellaneous Expenses: This includes travel insurance, tips for guides/porters, and emergency expenses.
The Annapurna Base Camp trek price is reasonable compared to other high-altitude treks. Plan ahead whether you are trekking on a budget or choosing a luxury experience. This will ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey.
Permits Costs for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek
Trekking in Nepal is a thrilling activity, but you must obtain the necessary permits before starting your journey. A permit is an official document that gives you permission to enter particular areas. This ensures that the trekking route is well-managed and that nature and local communities are protected. There are two primary permits required for the Annapurna Base Camp trek.
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
The Annapurna Conservation Area is a large protected area. It is home to traditional villages, beautiful forests, and traditional villages. All trekkers must have an ACAP. The money collected from the permit helps protect nature and support local communities.
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit Cost
- For Foreigners: NPR 3,000 ($22 USD) per person.
- For SAARC (South Asian) Nationals: NPR 1,000 ($8 USD) per person.
- For Nepali Citizens: Free
Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) Card
The TIMS card is another important permit that keeps track of trekkers for their safety and security. In case of an emergency, like an accident or bad weather, it helps officials find trekkers. Trekkers are less likely to become listed on the trail.
TIMS Card Cost
There are two types of TIMS cards:
- For trekkers in a group with guide: NPR 1,000 ($8 USD) per person
- For solo trekkers without a guide: NPR 2,000 ($15 USD) per person
You can get the ACAP and TIMS card at the Nepal Tourism Board Office (NTB) or Trekking Agencies Association of Nepal (TAAN) in Kathmandu or Pokhara. These permits contribute to protect the natural beauty and wildlife of the Annapurna region. The money collected is used for:
Conservation projects like saving rare animals, rivers and forests.
Building and maintaining skills.
Supporting local communities including, health centers, schools, and lodges.
Trekkers are not allowed to enter the Annapurna region without permits. Those who try to trek without permits risk being sent back or face heavy fines. You need a copy of your passport, two passport-sized pictures, and the permit fees to apply. Carry your permits at all times after you receive them. Officials will ask to see them at checkpoints along the trail.
Transportation Cost to Annapurna Base Camp
While planning the Annapurna Base Camp trek, you should consider the transportation cost. You must travel from Kathmandu to Pokhara, then take another transport to the trek’s starting point. The cost of transportation varies according to your choice of a bus, private jeep or a flight.
Kathmandu to Pokhara
The journey from Kathmandu to Pokhara covers 200km. It can be done in three ways:
Tourist Bus (Budget Option)
A tourist bus is the cheapest option to reach Pokhara. Buses leave early in the morning (6:30-7:00 AM) from Kathmandu. The journey takes around 6-8 hours, depending on traffic and road condition. The cost is around $10-$30 per person. They usually stop for breakfast and lunch along the way.
Private Vehicle:
A private jeep or car is faster and more comfortable. This option is better for groups or families who want flexibility. The drive takes 5-7 hours and costs around $100-$200 per vehicle. It can be stopped anytime for food or sightseeing.
Domestic Flight
The quickest way to get to Pokhara is by domestic flight. The flight takes 25-30 minutes and offers amazing mountain views. Ticket prices range from $80-$150 per person, depending on the season. This option is ideal for those who want to save time and avoid bumpy roads.
Pokhara to Nayapul
After arriving in Pokhara, you must travel to the actual trekking start point. There are two main entry points, Nayapul and Jhinu. You have two options:
Local Bus or Shared Jeep:
This option is the cheapest and costs $5-$10 from Pokhara to Nayapul. The ride takes 2-3 hours and can be bumpy and crowded. Alternative start point Jhinu, costs about $10-$20 per person from Pokhara to Nayapul.
Private Jeep:
A private jeep is more expensive but much more comfortable. It costs around $50-$80 per vehicle to Nayapul. Whereas, it costs $80-$120 to Jhinu. It is the best option for group and a smoother ride.
These costs are for one way travel up to Annapurna Base Camp, the round trip will cost approximately twice the above mentioned costs. Choose transportation that fits your budget while enjoying the beauty of the Annapurna region.
Annapurna Base Camp trek cost with helicopter return
One of the variations of the Annapurna Base Camp Trek is trekking on foot up to the Base Camp and skipping the descent with a helicopter flight. Nepal Trekking Routes offers the Annapurna Base Camp Trek with helicopter return at the price of $1,500. This includes permits, accommodation, meals, guide, porter, and the helicopter ride back to Pokhara.
Accommodation Costs on the Annapurna Base Camp Trek
Think about where you will spend your night when trekking to the Annapurna Base Camp. The trek offers teahouse accommodations, which are small lodges run by local families. These teahouses provide a warm bed, meals, and basic facilities. They make the trek more comfortable. However, prices can change according to the altitude, season, and level of comfort you choose.
There are three main types of tea houses you’ll find on the Annapurna Base Camp trek:
- Basic Tea houses: These are simple rooms with two single beds, a pillow and a blanket. Only the dining area has heating. These are the cheapest options.
- Mid-range Teahouses: These offer slightly better rooms, with thicker blankets and sometimes a private bathroom. These are available in larger villages like Ghorepani and Chhomrong.
- Luxury Lodges: There are few high-lodges in the lower region of the route. They offer private rooms with attached bathrooms, hot showers, and better food options. These cost more but provide extra comfort.
Teahouses Cost
- The price of a room in a teahouse increases as you go higher.
- Lower Altitudes (Pokhara to Chhomrong): $5-$10 per night.
- Mid-Trek (Chhomrong to Deurali): $8-$15 per night.
- Higher Altitudes (Deurali to Annapurna Base Camp): $15-$25 per night
Extra Costs in Teahouses
In addition to the cost of room for basic accommodation, trekkers have to pay for additional services:
- Hot Showers: $2-$5 per use. Available in most tea houses. At higher altitudes, water is heated using solar power or gas.
- Wi-Fi: $2-$5 per hour. Internet is available in some lodges but can be slow and unreliable.
- Charging Electronics: $1-$3 per hour. As electricity is limited, charging electronics is costly.
- Toilets: Basic squat toilets are common but some teahouses have Western-style toilets. Toilet paper is not provided, so trekkers should bring their own.
How to save money on accommodation?
If you travel in groups, sharing a room can reduce costs. Although teahouses provide blankets, you can bring your own sleeping bag. This helps in colder areas where extra blankets cost more. Prices are higher when there is more demand, so avoid peak season for off-season discounts.
Food and Drinks cost on the Annapurna Base Camp Trek
Trying the local food while on the Annapurna Base Camp Trek is one of the most exciting part. The food options are different from what you get in large cities because this trek takes you through small villages in the mountains. Food costs increase with altitude because porters or mules must carry everything up. The price range for food and drink on the Annapurna Base Camp trek is as follows:
Cost of Meals on the ABCTrek
The tea houses along the trails provide food and place to sleep. You can eat the meals at these teahouses. There are no restaurants or supermarkets along the way.
Breakfast costs around $3-$6 per meal and includes options like Tibetan bread with jam or honey, pancakes, porridge, Omelets or boiled eggs, tea or coffee.
Lunch and Dinner cost around $5-$10 per meal. The most common popular dish is Dal Bhat, a Nepali meal that includes rice, lentil soup, vegetables, pickles, and sometimes meat.
One of the best things about Dal Bhat is that you get a refill. This is great if you get hungry while trekking. Other food options include noodles, pasta, fried rice, momo, and chapatti with curry.
The higher you go, the more expensive food becomes. For example, a plate of Dal Bhat might cost $5 in lower villages but $8-$10 near Annapurna Base Camp because carrying food up the mountain is difficult.
Snacks and Extra Food Costs
If you like snacking while trekking, you will need to buy snacks before starting the trek. Buying snacks in Kathmandu or Pokhara is much cheaper than on the trail.
Here is how snack price change as you go higher:
- A chocolate bar costs $1 in Pokhara but $3-$5 at higher altitudes.
- A small pack of biscuits costs $0.50 in Pokhara but $2-$3 on the trek.
- Instant noodles cost $1 in lower areas but $4-$5 near Base Camp.
- If you want to save money, bring your own snacks like energy bars, nuts, and dried fruit from Pokhara!
Drinks and Water Costs
Staying hydrated is very important while trekking. Bottled water is expensive. Instead of buying bottled water, you can bring a water purification system like:
- Water purification tablets: $10 for a pack
- Water filter bottle: $30-$50
Tea and coffee are also common drinks on the trek:
- A cup of tea costs: $1-$3.
- A cup of coffee costs: $2-$5.
Ways to save money on Foods and Drinks
If you want to lower your food and drink costs, here are some tips:
- Eat Dal Bhat for healthy and filling food.
- Bring snacks from Pokhara as it is expensive on the trek.
- Refill water with purification tablets.
- Stick to local food, as western meals like pizza and burger cost more.
Food and drinks on the Annapurna Base Camp trek are more expensive that in cities, but they are necessary for energy and warmth. The best way to enjoy good meals and stay within budget is to eat simple local food and avoid buying bottled water.
Guide and Porter Costs for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek
Trekking to Annapurna Base Camp is an adventure, but can be tiring. It is recommended to hire a guide and porter to make your journey easier and safer.
Who is a Guide?
A guide is a trained professional who leads trekkers along the trail. They ensure your safety, and share knowledge about the mountains, culture, and local traditions. Annapurna Base Camp has many trails, and a guide helps you stay on the right path. They are trained in first aid and know what to do if you get altitude sickness. They help to book teahouses, order food and communicate with locals.
Cost of hiring a guide
A licensed guide costs between $25 to $35 per day. If you trek with Nepal Trekking Routes, the price includes their salary, food, and insurance.
Who is a Porter?
A porter carries your backpack, allowing you to trek with less weight and enjoy the journey. They can carry 15-20 kg of luggage for two trekkers. This is especially helpful on steep sections of the trek.
Cost of hiring a Porter
A porter costs between $18 to $25 per day.
Hiring a Guide or a Porter?
If you are trekking solo and carrying a light backpack, hiring a guide is the best option. However, if you struggle with heavy loads, a porter can make your trek much easier. You can even hire both for a comfortable and stress-free trek.
You can hire them through our agency in Kathmandu. We ensure they are licensed guides, have insurance, and experience.
You can tip the guide and porter at the end of the trek. It shows appreciation for their hard work and dedication. The recommended tip is:
Guide: $5-$10 per day
Porter: $3-$5 per day
Hiring a guide and/or porter adds to your trekking cost, but it makes your journey safer and easier. If you are trekking for the first time, it is recommended to hire at least a guide.
Guided Annapurna Trek Price
Cost of Annapurna Base Camp trek with guide ranges from $500 to $2,500 per person, depending on the level of service and duration. Similarly, cost of an Annapurna trek with a porter and guide ranges from $700 to $2,500 per person.
Annapurna Base Camp trek cost without a guide
The cost of trekking to Annapurna Base Camp without a guide can range from $300 to $600 per person. However, keep in mind that as of April 2023, Nepal requires all trekkers to hire a licensed guide for safety reasons.
Trekking Gear Costs for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek
Having the right gear for the Annapurna Base Camp trek is essential. It ensures a safe and comfortable journey. When preparing for the trek, you have two main options: buying or renting gear. The costs can vary depending on the quality and brand of the equipment. Let’s explore what you need and the costs involved.
Essential Trekking Gear and Costs
Here’s a breakdown of the must-have gear for the Annapurna Base Camp trek:
Clothing and Layers
Since the weather in the Annapurna region changes frequently, wearing layers helps you stay warm and dry.
Base Layer (Thermal Top & Bottom) – $15–$40
Insulating Layer (Fleece or Down Jacket) – $30–$150
Outer Layer (Waterproof Jacket & Pants) – $40–$200
Trekking Pants & Shirts – $20–$60
Gloves & Hat – $10–$50
Footwear
Your feet do all the hard work, so wearing the right shoes is crucial.
Trekking Boots – $50–$250 (A good pair is essential for comfort and ankle support.)
Hiking Socks (Wool or Synthetic) – $5–$20 per pair
Gaiters (for snowy or muddy trails) – $10–$30
Sleeping Gear
While most tea houses provide blankets, they may not always be warm enough at higher altitudes.
Sleeping Bag (Comfortable for -10°C to -15°C) – $50–$200 (Can also be rented for $1–$3 per day.)
Sleeping Bag Liner – $10–$30 (Adds extra warmth.)
Backpacks and Accessories
Trekking Backpack (40–60L) – $50–$200
Daypack (for daily essentials) – $20–$80
Trekking Poles – $10–$50 (Helpful for steep and uneven trails.)
Sunglasses & Sunscreen – $10–$40
Other Essentials
Headlamp with Extra Batteries – $10–$50
Water Bottle & Purification Tablets – $5–$20
First Aid Kit (Bandages, painkillers, altitude sickness medicine) – $10–$50
Buying vs. Renting Gear
When you buy, you can get high-quality, durable gear. It can provide personal comfort and proper fit. It is useful for future treks. Buying can be expensive and extra luggage if you don’t plan to trek again.
Renting is cheaper than buying. Renting a sleeping bag, trekking poles, and down jacket costs around $2-$5 per item per day. You do not need to carry extra weight when traveling home. The quality of gear can vary. Some items may be worn out, limited size or styles.
If you are trekking once, rent expensive items like sleeping bags and jackets. Invest in good trekking boots for comfort and preventing blisters. You can buy small essentials like socks, gloves, headlamp etc. check the quality of gear before renting to ensure durability.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek cost in 2025
The total cost of Annapurna Base Camp trek can vary based on your trekking style. Some people like to trek on a budget, while others prefer a comfortable or luxurious experience. We can do the Annapurna Trek cost breakdown into three main categories: budget, mid-range, and luxury treks.
Annapurna trek budget options
Budget Annapurna trek Cost: $400-$600 per person
A budget trek is the cheapest way to do the Annapurna Base Camp trek. It is suitable for those who want to save money and are comfortable with basic accommodations and services. It includes basic accommodations, meals, public transport, no guide or porter and basic rental gear.
Mid-Range Trek Cost: $800-$1,200 per person
A mid-range trek is the most popular option, offering comfort and affordability. Nepal Trekking Routes offers a budget-friendly Annapurna Base Camp trek package at $955. It includes better accommodation, food options, private transport, renting gear, guide and porter.
Luxury Annapurna Base Camp trek Cost: $1,500+ per person
Luxury Annapurna Base Camp trek is for those who want the best services and comfort while trekking. It includes luxury lodges, gourmet food, private transport, personal guide and porter and helicopter return option.
Annapurna Base Camp trek cost breakdown (permits, guide, food, accommodation)
Permits – Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) ($30) and TIMS Card ($20).
Guide & Porter – A licensed guide costs $25–$40 per day, and a porter costs $15–$25 per day.
Food – Meals cost $5–$10 per meal, with dal bhat offering unlimited refills. Expect to spend $20–$30 per day.
Accommodation – Tea houses cost $5–$15 per night, with higher prices at higher altitudes.
Overall, expect to spend $500–$1,200, depending on services and trekking style.
Annapurna trekking cost for solo travelers vs group
The cost of the Annapurna trek varies for solo travelers and groups due to differences in shared expenses and services:
Annapurna trek cost for solo travelers
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek cost for solo travelers range from $700 to $1,500, depending on trek’s duration and services. Solo trekkers often pay more for guides, porters, and accommodations since these costs aren’t shared.
Annapurna Base Camp trek cost for group tours
The Annapurna trek cost per person can range from $500 to $1,200, as expenses like guides, porters, and transportation are divided among the group members.
Annapurna Base Camp trek cost vs. Everest Base Camp trek cost
The Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) trek is more affordable than the Everest Base Camp (EBC) trek due to lower permit fees, transportation, and accommodation costs. Here is the price comparison:
- Permits: ABC costs $50 (ACAP + TIMS), while EBC costs $70 (Sagarmatha + Khumbu permits).
- Transport: ABC starts from Pokhara ($10–$200), while EBC requires a Lukla flight ($200–$250 one way).
- Accommodation & Food: ABC is cheaper ($5–$15 per night), while EBC costs more ($10–$30 per night).
Overall, the total Annapurna Base Camp trek costs $500–$1,200, while Everest Base Camp trek costs $1,200–$2,500. Annapurna Base Camp has the more budget-friendly option.
Annapurna Base Camp trek cost in peak season vs. off-season
The Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) trek cost varies between peak season (spring & autumn) and off-season (summer & winter).
- Accommodation: Prices rise in peak season ($10–$20 per night) due to high demand, while off-season rates drop to $5–$15.
- Food: Costs remain similar ($20–$30 per day) but can increase in remote areas during peak months.
- Guides & Porters: Higher demand in peak season means slight price increases ($30–$40/day for guides, $20–$30/day for porters).
Overall, trekking in the off-season can be 15–25% cheaper, but weather conditions may be challenging.
Conclusion: Annapurna base camp trekking cost
The total cost of the Annapurna Base Camp trek depends on your choices. The duration of the trek also determines the cost of the trek. A 7-day Annapurna Base Camp trek cost is less than a 10-day Annapurna Base Camp trek. Whether you choose a budget-friendly or luxurious option, the trek offers breathtaking landscapes and a rewarding experience worth every penny.
Plan wisely and book your trip with Nepal Trekking Routes for an affordable and comfortable journey.
Frequently Asked Questions about Annapurna Base Camp Trek Cost (FAQs)
What is Annapurna Base Camp trek cost including permits and accommodation?
The Annapurna Base Camp trek costs $500-$1,200, including permits ($50) and accommodation ($5-$10 per night), depending on duration and preferences.
What is Annapurna Base Camp trek cost for Indian citizens?
The Annapurna Base Camp trek cost for Indian citizens ranges from INR 40,000-90,000 ($500-$1,100), depending on services.
How to save money on Annapurna Base Camp trek?
To save money on Annapurna Base Camp trek, travel in a group, rent gear, and eat local meals.
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