How much does Annapurna Circuit Trek Cost?

The Annapurna Circuit Trek costs typically around $800 to $1600 per person, depending on how you plan your entire journey. For this amazing price, you will be rewarded with varied landscapes, scenic views from the Thorung La Pass, witnessing diverse flora and fauna, and spiritual richness from the sacred Muktinath temple.

If you ask, ‘Is the Annapurna Circuit trek expensive?’, then considering the amazing experience of trekking in Nepal you get from this journey, it is actually quite affordable. So, whether you are a budget backpacker or a luxury traveler, understanding the expense and the Annapurna Circuit trek price will help you plan your trek more efficiently. 

How much does it cost for Annapurna Circuit trek?

Annapurna Circuit Trekking cost is one of the first things that comes to the mind of trekkers while planning for the rewarding trek. So, here's a quick cost breakdown of what kind of expenses you will spend your money on.

1. Trekking Permits for Annapurna Circuit – $20 to $40

Nepal Permits are important documents that trekkers need to enter protected or restricted areas. Since you will be entering the Annapurna Conservation Area, you will need an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) to enter and trek around this region. The price for ACAP will cost NRs 1000 per person(around $10) for SAARC nationals. The cost of ACAP for trekkers other than SAARC Nationals will be around NRs 3000 per person(around $30). You will need to bring your passport and passport-size photos to obtain a permit. However, a child under the age of 10 does not require a permit. You have to carry your permit with you since ACAP will be checked at various points like Muktinath, Manang, Dharapani, etc.

Since you are trekking to one of the protected areas in Nepal, you will need to obtain a Trekkers’ Information Management System(TIMS) card. This card will cost you NRS 1000 per person (around $10) if you are SAARC nationals. However, you have to pay NRs 2000 per person(around $20) if you are a national of any country other than SAARC countries.

2. Accommodation during Annapurna Circuit Trek – $5 to $10 per day

Like the Everest Base Camp trek and Manaslu Circuit Trek, you will find many tea houses and lodges that can provide you with accommodation during the Annapurna Circuit Trek. These teahouses will charge you approximately $5 to $10 per day for a well-equipped room on a twin-sharing basis.

Since spring and autumn are considered the best time for trekking in Nepal, most of the teahouses are fully packed during these peak seasons. Hence, it is always better to book in advance rather than search for last-minute accommodation during the trek.

3. Meal During the Annapurna Circuit Trek - $4 to $10 per meal

Teahouses and lodges have extensive menus to suit the taste palate of all the trekkers. They offer you traditional Nepali foods, local delicacies, and some foreign cuisines. Moreover, some teahouses can even offer you their regional foods like Gundruk dhido, yak meat, yak cheese, etc. So, don't miss out on trying the regional food of the Annapurna region during the trek.

A good, fulfilling meal with basic ingredients can cost you around  $4 to $10. However, if you order food with a great variety, then the meal cost can be more than the average price.

4. Guide and Porter on Annapurna Circuit – $25 to $50 per day

As per the revised provision, trekking to specific protected areas of Nepal requires you to be accompanied by a licensed trekking guide. These guides know in and out about the region, so they will help in traversing the trails. Likewise, they will help you provide first aid in case of emergency, ensuring safe trekking in Nepal.

Likewise, hiring a porter is not compulsory as the trekking guide; however, a porter can be a great help in your Annapurna Circuit Trek. Porters will help you carry luggage and equipment, making your trek lighter and smoother. Hiring a licensed trekking guide shall cost you around $25 to $35 per day. Likewise, you can hire a porter for $15 to $20 per day. Hence, the Annapurna Circuit cost with a guide and porter will include your safety and comfort.

5. Transportation on Annapurna Circuit Trek – $20 to $200

Your Annapurna Circuit Trek starts with a road drive from Kathmandu to Chame. You can either take a direct jeep drive to Chame, or you can take a bus from Kathmandu to Besisahar and then take a jeep from Besisahar to Chame. The cost of hiring a jeep from Kathmandu to Chame can cost you around $350 to $400. So, you can try sharing a jeep, and the transportation cost will be around $70 to $80.

Likewise, if you are traveling by bus from Kathmandu to Besisahar, it will cost you around $9 to $15. From there on, a Jeep ride on a sharing basis can cost you approximately $30 to $40 per person. Likewise, if you want to end your trek from Jomsom to Pokhara with a scenic flight, it will cost you around $165 per person.

6. Gear and Equipment Cost on Annapurna Circuit Trek - $50 to $150

You can either have the option of renting or buying the gear and equipment in Nepal. It will cost you $1 to $10 per day to rent gear and equipment. However, buying gear and equipment may cost around $150 to $500. The buying price can vary depending on what equipment and gear you buy.

7. Travel Insurance while Trekking the Annapurna Circuit- $50 to $150 per person

Getting travel insurance before starting the Annapurna Circuit Trek is strongly advised. The approximate cost of travel insurance for the Annapurna Circuit Trek ranges from $50 to $150 per person. However, you have to make sure your travel insurance covers all of your medical expenses, hospital bills, evacuation costs, etc., before purchasing any.

8. Nepal Visa Costs for Trekking- $30 to $125

If you don't want to spend time obtaining a visa from Nepalese Diplomatic Missions stationed abroad before your arrival, you can apply for an on-arrival visa at the international airport. It will cost you 30 USD for 15 days, 50 USD for 30 days, and 125 USD for 90 days.

9. Tipping and Extras – $30 to $100

The teahouses will charge you an additional $2-$5 for extra services like hot water, WiFi, and charging electronic devices. Likewise, you will have to buy an NTC or NCELL SIM card and recharge cards for data services. Similarly, you can separate $10 to $20 for some miscellaneous expenses. Moreover, with people tipping culture gradually in Nepal, you can tip around 10% of the total fee to the guide and porter.

What’s the Total Annapurna Circuit Trek Cost?

Here’s a quick summary of the Annapurna Circuit trek price:

Budget vs Luxury Annapurna Circuit Trek

The cost of the Annapurna Circuit trek can be flexible. Whether you want a budget-friendly Annapurna Circuit Trek price or you want to go for luxury, it's all on you. 

• If you are opting for the economic Annapurna Circuit Trek price, you can travel by bus to Besisahar and take a jeep from there on. However, if you want luxury, you can take a jeep ride to Chame and a flight back to Pokhara from Jomsom.
• If you want to make a one-time investment in gear and equipment, you can buy it. Otherwise, renting gear and equipment is an affordable medium to decrease your cost.
• If you want the Annapurna Circuit on a budget, you can stay at tea houses and lodges. If you are looking for luxury, you can stay at luxurious hotels and resorts.

Tips to Save on Your Annapurna Circuit Trek Cost

Annapurna trekking costs can be low if you follow some of the tips to save your money.

• Instead of buying bottled water, you can bring reusable water bottles and fill water at the teahouses and lodges.
• Do not travel solo, but try trekking in a group. Group trekking to the Annapurna Circuit can decrease the cost
• If you want the cheapest way to do the Annapurna Circuit, you can trek during off off-season.
• Buy your snacks and protein bars from Kathmandu or Pokhara. As you ascend higher, the cost of everything increases.

Which is better: Annapurna Base Camp Trek or Annapurna Circuit Trek?

Both the Annapurna Base Camp trek and the Annapurna Circuit are equally rewarding; however, the preference can differ with each trekker. 

• If you are someone who wants a long and more detailed exploration of natural beauty and cultural richness, the Annapurna Circuit may be better for you. However, if you prefer short treks with a close-up view of the panoramic Himalayas, then the ABC trek shall be perfect for you.
• If you have a basic level of physical fitness and mental endurance, the ABC trek may be perfect for you. If you have a good level of physical fitness and mental resilience, then the Annapurna Circuit Trek may be perfect for you.
• If you want to escape to the Himalayas at a lower cost, the Annapurna Base Camp Trek may be feasible for you. If you are ready to spend a little more and explore more of the diverse landscapes, then Annapurna Circuit Trek may be suitable for you.

Why is the Annapurna Circuit Trek Worth the Price?

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is a great deal for the money you spend. With the combination of breathtaking natural beauty and unique cultural encounters, this adventure genuinely provides outstanding value for the money.

Whether you choose a budget-friendly trek or a more comfortable guided option, this adventure promises to be unforgettable. If you’re ready to start planning your trek or want expert guidance to make the most of your experience, contact us at Mountain Adventure Trekking. We’re here to help you create the perfect adventure with our Annapurna Circuit package. Reach out to us.