
Annapurna Base Camp Trek Cost: Full Budget Breakdown 2025/26
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek cost is quite affordable, ranging from approximately $600 to $1500. The cost in itself depends on various factors like itinerary, route, duration, inclusion of service, etc. Annapurna Base Camp is a stunning spot high up in the Himalayas of Nepal. It sits at about 4,130 meters (13,550 feet) above sea level, right below the mighty Annapurna I, one of the world’s tallest mountains. The base camp is surrounded by snowy peaks, peaceful trails, and quiet villages, making it one of the most beautiful and popular trekking spots in the world
This mainstream trekking route offers you everything-panoramic views high up in the Himalayas, scenic views of lush greenery and diverse flora and fauna, but most of all, it goes easy on your wallet.
If you are wondering how, then let us walk you through a complete guide to annapurna base camp trek, from actual expenses to tips on saving money. So, stay with us till the end to know more about the ABC trek cost.
How Much Does the Annapurna Base Camp Trek Cost?
The Annapurna Base Camp trek cost in 2025/26 can vary based on how you choose to travel. On average, for a comfortable 7–14 day trip with Mountain Adventure Nepal, you can expect to pay between $600 to $1,500. Here's a simple breakdown of where your money goes:
1. Trekking Permits – $20 to $40
As a trekker, you will require two permits in nepal - the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) card to complete the Annapurna Base Camp trek. TIMS cards usually have the details of the trekkers like name, nationality, emergency contact information, etc, which will help to track trekkers and rescue them in case of emergency.
Since solo trekking is banned in some areas in Nepal, especially in national parks and other restricted areas, foreign trekkers must hire a licensed guide or porter or join a group. Moreover, as per the updated provision, trekkers should carry a trekking agency-issued TIMS Card.
Price of Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) Card
For SAARC nationals = NRS 1000 per person (around $10)
For nationals other than SAARC countries=NRS 2000 per person(around $20)
Similarly, you will be entering the Annapurna Conservation Area, so you will require an ACAP. The main purpose of ACAP is to preserve the biodiversity of the region and foster sustainable tourism. These permits will be checked at different checkposts, so you will need to carry these permits at all times. Moreover, these permits are single-use only, non-transferable, and non-refundable. You can obtain ACAP from the office of the National Tourism Board in Kathmandu and Pokhara. However, if you are a child under the age of 10 years old, you do not require a permit. You do have to carry any document that shows you are under the age of 10.
Price of Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
For SAARC nationals = NRS 1000 per person(around $10)
For nationals other than SAARC countries=NRS 3000 per person(around $30)
Apart from the above cost, you will be required to pay an online Payment Gateway Charge (2.9%) extra.
In case you have to issue permits at checkposts, then you will have to pay double the fees.
If you are travelling with Mountain Adventure, then you do not need to worry about permits. Our complete guide to the Annapurna Base Camp Trek package will include the permits, and we will make your permits available to you.
2. Guide and Porter – $25 to $50 per day
Since solo trekking is banned in some parts of Nepal, it has been essential to hire a guide and a porter while embarking on the ABC trek. A licensed guide will navigate the path, provide you with the necessary information, and provide first aid in case of emergency. Likewise, porters will carry your luggage and equipment, making your trek somewhat easier.
Hiring a guide can cost you about $25 to $35 per day, while hiring a porter can cost you about $15 to $20 per day. Traveling with us will provide you with an English-speaking licensed guide and a porter for every 2 trekkers.
3. Accommodation during Trek – $5 to $10 per day
Being one of the mainstream trekking routes, you can find many lodges and tea houses dotted along the trails of the ABC trek. You will be provided a well-equipped room on a twin shared basis. The average cost for accommodation during the trek may hover around $5 to $10. Moreover, they can charge you extra for additional services and amenities. Extra services like hot water, WiFi, and charging electronic devices can cost you around $2-$5, respectively.
4. Meal During the Trek - $4 to $10 per meal
Teahouses and lodges offer you a wide variety of food options. They have best Nepalese food, Daal bhaat tarkari, momo chowmin, thukpa, paratha, congee, porridge, and many more. During the trek, you have to eat something that replenishes your energy and gives you energy for the trek.
It will cost you around $4 to $7 for a hearty meal. Moreover, these teahouses offer you different drinks like cold drinks, tea, coffee, and even alcoholic drinks. However, it is not recommended to drink hard drinks during the trek since it will obstruct the acclimatization process.
If you opt for 14 day Annapurna Base Camp trek or 12 day Annapurna Base Camp trek, your package will include all 3 meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner).
5. Transport – $20 to $100
Usually, the ABC trek starts with a drive towards Nayapul, passing Pokhara. So, another expense to be added to your Annapurna base camp trek cost is transportation back and forth to Kathmandu from Nayapul and Pokhara.
You will take a scenic bus ride from Kathmandu to Pokhara, which will cost you about $12 to $25. If you do not want to take this long-hour road drive, then you can opt for a domestic flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara. It will cost approximately $100 to $200.
6. Gear and Equipment Cost on Annapurna Base Camp Trek - $50 to $150
Gears and equipment are an important part of the Annapurna Base Camp trek. However, you do not need to bring gear and equipment from your home country. You can easily buy or even rent gear and equipment here in Kathmandu at places like Thamel.
Costs of Renting vs. Buying Trekking Gear- Which is Effective?
While trekking, you may be in a dilemma whether you should rent gear and equipment or buy them. If you want cost cost-effective option, then renting can be a good option. Renting gear and equipment can cost you around $1 to $10 per day.
If you trek often and want to make an investment in gear and equipment, then buying can be an effective solution. Purchasing gear and equipment may cost around $150 to $400, depending on what you buy.
7. Travel Insurance - $50 to $150 per person
One of the major parts of trekking in Nepal is to be insured against potential accidents and mishaps. So, it is highly recommended to get travel insurance prior to embarking on the ABC trek. Travel insurance for the Annapurna base camp trek can cost you approximately between $50- $150 per person. However, before buying any travel insurance, you have to make sure it covers all your medical fees, hospital bills, evacuation costs, etc.
Remember that our package of Annapurna trekking cost does not include the travel insurance. So, you will have to cover travel insurance on your own.
8. Nepal Visa Costs - $30 to $125
All countries other than India need to obtain a visa to enter Nepal. You can get a visa in two ways: either you apply for getting Visa from Nepalese Diplomatic Missions stationed abroad before your arrival, or you can opt for an on-arrival visa. You will need to fill arrival card and tourist visa form, and make necessary payments, and the Immigration Desk will grant you an on-arrival visa if all the requirements are satisfied.
The cost of an on-arrival visa is
- For 15 Days – 30 USD
- For 30 Days – 50 USD
- For 90 Days – 125 USD
9. Tipping and Extras – $30 to $100
Usually, tipping culture is new in Nepal, so tipping might not be compulsory. However, guides and porters will openly accept your tip for their services. Generally, it depends on you how much you want to tip. But if you are confused about how much to tip, you can tip around 10% of the total fee to the guide and porter.
Once you land in Nepal, you can buy an NTC or NCELL SIM. This may cost you around $1. However, you have to bring some necessary documents and a passport-size photo. Moreover, WiFi may not be available high up in the mountains. So, you will need to use cellular data, for which you have to do a mobile recharge. You can top up or use a recharge card as per your cellular use. Moreover, for extra miscellaneous expenses like snacks, charging electronics, etc, you can keep around $10 to $20.
What’s the Total Cost of the Annapurna Base Camp Trek?
Here’s a quick summary of the ABC trek price for 2025/26:
Item | Estimated Cost (USD) |
Permits | $20 – $40 |
Guide & Porter | $25 – $50 |
Food & Lodging | $20 – $30 |
Transport | $20 – $100 |
Gear | $50 – $150 |
Tips & Extras | $30 – $100 |
Total | $600 – $1,200 |
While the Nepal trekking cost may vary, the Annapurna trekking cost remains one of the best-value adventures in Asia.
Tips to Save on Your Trek Cost
- Try embarking on the ABC trek during the off season, i.e., Summer(June to August) and winter(December to February)
- Bring reusable water bottles so that you don't have to use bottled water.
- Rather than bringing gears and equipment from your country, rent them here in Nepal to save on the Nepal trekking cost.
- Try booking in advance rather than making a booking last minute.
- Try to become more adaptable and flexible in terms of foods and accommodations.
Why is the Annapurna Base Camp Trek worth every penny?
Although some travelers compare the ABC trek cost to other destinations, few offer the same mix of nature, culture, and challenge. You can also trek for 12 days to Annapurna Base Camp, which will cost you less. The scenery changes each day. You’ll pass through rhododendron forests, stone villages, and high-altitude viewpoints like Machapuchare Base Camp.
When Should You Go to Annapurna Base Camp Trek?
The best time to trek is in spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During these seasons, the skies are clear, the weather is pleasant, and the mountains shine bright in the sunlight. Booking early helps you get better deals and more choices.
The Annapurna Base Camp trek isn’t just a walk. It’s a journey through one of the most beautiful regions in the world. With the cost of Annapurna Base Camp now clear, nothing is holding you back. Whether you're a student, solo traveler, or part of a group, this is an adventure you can afford and enjoy.
Contact us today and turn your Himalayan dream into a real-life story.