Budget Guide: Annapurna Base Camp Trek Cost Breakdown

It can be confusing to decide whether to choose a company or commit to the trek independently. While both have their pros and cons, in this blog, we’ll break down the full cost of the trek as a budget guide, from accommodation and permits to food and personal expenses. A useful guide to help you decide which option for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek is best for your budget. 

Highlights of the Annapurna Base Camp Trek 

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is quite popular among the trekkers, and thousands visit it every year. This trek offers some of the most close-up views of the mountains, lush enchanting forested hills, quaint Gurung villages, and so on, making this journey adventurous and unforgettable. 

Here are the key highlights of the Annapurna Base Camp Trek and why it deserves a place on your travel bucket list!

• Unbelievable up-close views of the Annapurna Massif from the Annapurna Base Camp, including Annapurna I (8,091 m), the tenth highest peak in the world, Hiunchuli, Machapuchare (Fishtail), Annapurna South, and more.
• Experience a remarkably diverse landscape within a short elevation range; you can travel from subtropical to alpine landscapes in a short time. 
• Experience authentic culture, warm hospitality, and local livelihood in ethnic Gurung and Magar villages along the trail. 
• This moderately difficult trek is a perfect option for beginner trekkers or those who do not prefer high-difficulty treks. 
• A trek with an affordable price range that can be completed in under 7 days. 
• Enter the Annapurna Conservation Area and witness the rare and endangered species of flora and fauna.
• And after the trek is over, enjoy a relaxing dip in the natural hot spring in Jhinu Dada. 

How much does it cost to do the Annapurna Base Camp Trek? 

As mentioned above, the cost of the Annapurna Base Camp Trek can range from $600 to $1500. Permits, food, lodging, transportation, guides and porters, equipment rentals, and hidden costs like Wi-Fi or hot showers all contribute to the wide range of prices, from the most affordable and cheap to the most luxurious packages.

Average Annapurna Base Camp Trek Cost

This is what the majority of people spend when they choose the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. For the average cost of the Annapurna Base Camp Trek, most local trekking companies will have prices starting at $700 and ranging to $1500. If you buy this package, you will get the standard services where the costs for accommodation, food, transportation, guide, porter, and permits are covered. 

Because choosing this covers most of the cost except personal expenses, an individual can freely enjoy the trek without having to worry about getting permits, booking accommodation and transportation, and having a safe and enjoyable experience. This package comes at a reasonable price with a reasonable service and is completed within 6-7 days.

Luxury Annapurna Base Camp Trek Cost

As the name suggests, Luxury Annapurna Base Camp Trek is a premium experience that comes at a premium price. Much like the standard package, this also covers all the accommodation, logistics, transportation, and other facilities and services, but the price upgrade is for the quality of service provided. This package easily ranges from $1500 to $3000 depending on the scale of luxury services provided. 

From staying in a 3-5 star hotel, round-trip flight, private jeep for road transportation, and even a helicopter return if you have deep pockets, it truly offers the same Annapurna Base Camp Trek on another level. And to top it all off, people often do the traditional route of the Annapurna Base Camp, which includes iconic places like Poon Hill and Ghandruk village. You will also get amenities like Wi-Fi, hot showers, etc. 

Cheap/Affordable Annapurna Base Camp Trek Cost

This one is for those with a really tight budget but who do not want to miss out on the beautiful mountains, landscapes, culture, and trekking experience of the Annapurna Base Camp. If you want to save money, consider going on your adventure with a large group. For instance, a trekking package costs less for a group of 12 than it would for an individual. For further clarity, on many local trekking company websites, the cost for 1 pax will be $699, but the cost for 8–15 pax is $499. It would definitely be cheaper for a group. 

Can cheaper be better? Comparing Costs: Luxury, Standard, and Cheap: Everest Base Camp Treks vs. Annapurna Base Camp

For a clear guide, let us compare two of the most popular treks of Nepal, how the price varies, and why the Annapurna Base Camp Trek is better for people who are looking for a budget-friendly trek. 

The trek's price is affected by many factors, including the number of days, the type of services used, and the level of standard. While many people who are looking to save money might say the cheaper option is right, it doesn’t always mean better. If you can sacrifice some comforts, it may be the right choice. It also does not mean that running your bank account dry to experience luxury is the way to go, but the standard prices are reasonable and come with many services that make your trekking experience a whole lot better than struggling on your own to handle everything.  

In the above table, the comparison between the Annapurna Base Camp Trek and Everest Base Camp Trek shows that the latter one is much pricier in all three categories. This is because Everest is an expensive destination to begin with, even less accessible than Annapurna Base Camp.

But you must weigh the pros and cons before choosing a price range. Here’s a well-dissected table to represent the pros and cons of choosing luxury, standard, and budget/cheap: 

Accordingly, based on the table above, which shows the pros and cons of three different levels of trek to the Annapurna Base Camp, the standard package is most preferred by the vast majority. 

Breakdown of the Annapurna Base Camp Trek cost:

When you pay for a package, your money is divided into multiple portions based on the factors that play an important role in its cost. Here are the different costs broken down so you can have a better understanding of how much your budget should be for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek:

Accommodation Cost

Like most of the trekking destinations, Annapurna Base Camp also offers tea houses and trekking lodges for overnight stays. The services are standard but become more basic, while prices increase with elevation due to limited accessibility. While hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara have more options ranging from cheap to luxury, on the trail itself, options are limited with the same price range. Although bathrooms are typically shared, upgrading accommodations entails having a room with an attached bathroom.

On average, accommodation costs at a local teahouse on the trails of the Annapurna Base Camp range from $15 to $30 per night. Prices for hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara range from $20 to $200 per night. 

Food and Water Cost

Food prices are set in the menu and don't vary much in the same place. And much like accommodation, the cost of food also increases with increasing elevation. This implies that the cost of the same food at Jhinu Dada is significantly less than at the base camp. This is because goods must be carried by mules or people, as transporting them in the mountains is hard. 

The food price ranges from $5 to $7 at Sinwa and $8 to $10. If you are buying mineral water or hot water to drink, it costs $1 to $2 per liter. It is reasonable to budget $20 to $30 per day for food expenses. There are limited options on the menus, but it does cover both local and Western cuisine. Local food like dal bhat is fresher compared to packaged Western food and even comes at a lower price. Kathmandu and Pokhara offer variety for both food and prices. Cities cater to all types of travelers, from those on a tight budget to those willing to splurge.

Transportation Cost

There are multiple options for transportation during the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. The cost varies depending on the mode of transportation you choose, which can include a local bus, shared jeep, private jeep, flight, or helicopter ride. The cost for a local bus will obviously be cheaper than a helicopter ride. 

This trek requires multiple types of transportation, which include: 

Kathmandu to Pokhara (round trip)

A round trip from Pokhara to either Nayapool or Jhinu Danda.

For Kathmandu to Pokhara and vice versa, there are the following options:

Local Bus: $20 per person

Private Jeep: $80 per person

Flight: $200 per person

Helicopter return from Annapurna Base Camp: $2100 per person. 

The best way to reduce transportation expenses is to take a local bus, but this will take longer because local buses are slow and stop frequently. But if you have purchased a package from a company, they will cover your local transportation expenses. However, additional fees should be paid for flights, private jeeps, and helicopter rides. 

Permit Cost

Going to any trekking destination in Nepal requires permits. Some are issued by the protected areas, while others are issued by the tourism board. However, for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek, two permits are required: the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit and the Trekkers' Information Management System card.

Annapurna Conservation Area Entry Permit: $30 per person

Trekker’s Information Management System Card aka TIMS Card: $20 per person

Both of these permits can be obtained either from Kathmandu or Pokhara; all you will need is a photocopy of your passport and passport-size photos. You can rest easy knowing that the trekking package you choose will take care of obtaining the necessary permits and covering their cost. 

Guide and Porter Cost

Having a guide and porter with you on the trek is not only about comfort but also safety. While looking after everything yourself can be something you’d rather do, it can be challenging. From getting permits to reserving a room at a teahouse, having a guide with you will allow you to enjoy the trek without having to worry about any additional problems. Your guide will already have everything covered, and he will even make sure everything you need, from dinner to breakfast, is on time. Similarly, a porter will carry all your belongings, gear, and equipment so that you do not have to carry a heavy load on your back, especially during ascent, because the weight can cause struggle. 

While porters can be optional, guides are mandatory as per the rule set by the Nepal government. As of 1st April, 2023, the Nepal Tourism Board announced any foreign individual trekker must hire a registered trekking guide for their journey. So, the cost of hiring a trekking guide is $35 to $40, whereas for a porter it costs $20–$30. 

Costs for Travel Insurance

You are required to have your travel insurance cover emergency helicopter rescues up to 5000 meters for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. A company in your country must handle your travel insurance, as companies in Nepal do not work with foreigners. For this, you will have to do your research and find an insurance company that is well within your price range but also covers the required medical, accidental, and emergency rescue costs for helicopter services. 

Without travel insurance, no trekking company will offer you their services without presenting a valid document of insurance. No matter if you are a budget trekker or a luxury trekker, having travel insurance is mandatory for any trekking destination in Nepal. 

Clothing, gear, and equipment costs

The weather in the mountains is unpredictable, and temperatures can turn cold and unforgiving, with high-velocity wind blowing, so having the right clothes, gear, and equipment while trekking to the mountains is extremely crucial. Your clothing must be lightweight and quick-drying, whereas your equipment, such as trekking poles, should be sturdy and long-lasting. 

This will come at a personal cost for the majority of the gear and equipment, but companies do provide gear like down jackets, sleeping bags, and trekking poles for the trekkers who buy the package. There are ways to minimize the cost for gear and equipment, as many shops in Thamel, Kathmandu, offer gear for rent. But even buying new ones is relatively cheap if you are not looking for high-end brands. 

Hidden Services Cost

These are the hidden fees you don't know about until you pay. Services such as Wi-Fi and hot water for drinking and showering, charging your electronics, and tips for the guides are the hidden costs you pay during a trek. Even buying souvenirs, such as handicrafts, woolen caps, and gloves that are locally sourced and made, will require money, which often gets overlooked. So, setting aside $10 to $20 per day for miscellaneous costs during the Annapurna Base Camp Trek will be a good decision. 

Delays or Cancellation costs

There are a few things that are out of your and the company’s jurisdiction, such as natural disasters, flight delays, road blockades, or any political influences on traveling. Weather plays a major role in determining if your trek will go smoothly or not. While in many aspects, little weather changes won’t really hamper your schedule, big ones, however, will sometimes cause flight delays or cancellations; road blockades due to landslides, heavy rain, or snowstorms can also add days to your tightly packed itinerary. 

Therefore, it can be very helpful to have an additional budget set aside for one or two days as a buffer. Since you have planned for various contingencies, you won't have to worry about additional fees in the event that something similar occurs.

Tipping Cost

Tipping your guides and porters is to show your gratitude and satisfaction for their work and for making the trek successful and safe. While there isn’t a set price for tipping, it is often expected to tip at least 15–20% of the total tip cost. Tipping generously and a personal thank you to your guide and porter can go a long way and make their day. 

Personal Expenses

Personal costs are like hidden fees, but this is the money you spend on yourself every day. You will most likely want a small snack such as chocolates, fruits, or even drinks like Coca-Cola or maybe a beer. It does cost more in the mountains than in the cities, but indulging in a few snacks and drinks every once in a while isn’t too bad. So, setting aside $15–$20 per day will be more than enough. 

Annapurna Base Camp Trek Cost with Itinerary

Yes, your itinerary also determines how much you will pay for the trek. There are multiple itineraries for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek; some are significantly cheaper than others. So, let’s discuss them and how they make a difference in the cost of the package. 

Comparison of Prices: Annapurna Base Camp Trek vs. Everest Base Camp Trek

It's obvious that the Everest Base Camp Trek costs more than the Annapurna Base Camp. There are various reasons for this, which include the following:

• The Annapurna region is more accessible than the Everest region.
• The standard number of days for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek is 7 days, whereas for the Everest Base Camp Trek it is 14 days. 
• The time and cost taken for road transportation is lower for Annapurna than for the Everest Base Camp Trek.
• The cost of a flight to Pokhara airport is much lower than a flight to Lukla. 
• The accommodation and food cost in Annapurna Base Camp is comparatively lower than in the Everest Base Camp. 

Best time to do the Annapurna Base Camp for a budget trek: Seasonal Prices for ABC Trek

Believe it or not, the time you choose does impact the cost for the trek. When we discuss the best time and best season for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek, it is usually looked at from the perspective of stable weather, moderate temperature, and clear visibility. This is why we recommend spring (March, April, and May) and autumn (September, October, and November) as the best times to embark on the trek. 

But there are downsides as well, because it is the peak time; the trail will be pretty crowded, especially for a popular location like the Annapurna Base Camp. Having a guide with you will be an immense help, as finding a good room can be pretty hard during this time, and the prices also spike due to high demand. 

Summer (June, July, and August) and winter (December, January, and February), which are considered off-seasons, are the best choices if you want a lower-budget trek. Since there are fewer trekkers on the trail, the cost of rooms in teahouses decreases, giving you the freedom to select your preferred accommodations. In addition, many local trekking companies have offers and discounts during this time, especially targeting Christmas and New Year's. So, you can enjoy the same trek with the same services at a much lower price but in different seasons. 

As long as you are willing to compromise on the obstacles that come with the off-season, such as daily rain in summer and extreme cold in winter, then you will definitely enjoy the adventurous trek to the Annapurna Base Camp. 

Other Factors Affecting the Annapurna Base Camp Trek Cost

Apart from different seasons of trekking, there are other factors that affect the money you spend on the trip, from the cost of the trekking packages to basic necessities. They are discussed below:

Independent vs Guided Trekking

Many people have the misconception of doing independent trekking in Nepal, but it is legally not allowed as per the rule set by the government on 1 April 2023. The rule states that you need to hire a licensed trekking guide for any trek you do in Nepal or join a trekking group. It is primarily for ensuring the safety of the trekker, preventing them from going missing, and of course creating job opportunities for more trekking guides. 

So, while people who trekked prior to this rule did save money that would be used to pay the guide, your safety should be the utmost priority. In this regard, however, you cannot go against the government and go solo independently without a guide. 

Group size (solo vs group cost per person)

Yes, there is a difference in the price you pay solo vs. in a group. For example, if you are paying $799 for a standard package for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek as an individual, but if you are joining a group of 10 people, it will cost less, as low as $499! That means you’re saving $300, which is even cheaper if you were to do a budget trek. The bigger the size of the group, the less you will have to pay for the package. 

Duration of trek (4-day vs 7-day vs 12-day itinerary)

Any trekking destination has a standard number of days it requires to complete the trip smoothly. Adding days automatically increases your cost, but even subtracting days can mean more added cost depending on how you approach the itinerary. As we already know, the standard number of days for trekking to the Annapurna Base Camp is 7 days, but if someone wants a longer experience, then the days can be added. 

For instance, the standard package can be swapped for the traditional itinerary, which is 12 days long and is also known as the Annapurna Sanctuary Trek, which includes iconic locations like Poon Hill, Ghandruk Village, and, of course, the Annapurna Base Camp. While people with limited time can deduct days from the trek, budget-conscious trekkers must build their pace quickly to reach the base camp by the third day. And complete the trek in 6 days instead of 7 days, but it comes at the price of pushing your body to the limit. Lack of acclimatization increases the chances of altitude sickness. 

Another option is a luxury package; to complete the trek in 5 days, you will need to book a flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara and arrange for a private jeep to transfer you to Jhinu Danda. After reaching Annapurna Base Camp on the fifth day, you can take a helicopter back to either Pokhara or Kathmandu. 

For further comparison, here is the itinerary listed out: 

Annapurna Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return—4 Days

Day 1: Fly to Pokhara from Kathmandu, drive to Jinu Dada, and trek to Chhomrong/Sinuwa. 

Day 2: Trek to Himalaya  

Day 3: Trek to MBC 

Day 4: Hike to ABC early in the morning, take a helicopter ride to Pokhara, and take a flight back to Kathmandu!

Annapurna Base Camp Trek—Standard 7 days

Day 01: Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara 

Day 02: Drive from Pokhara to Nayapul and trek to Ghandruk

Day 03: Trek from Ghandruk to Chhomrong 

Day 04: Trek from Chhomrong to Dovan/Himalayan Hotel 

Day 05: Trek from Himalaya to Annapurna Base Camp via Machapuchare Base Camp 

Day 06: Trek from ABC to Bamboo or Sinuwa 

Day 07: Trek from Bamboo or Sinuwa to Siwai, then drive to Pokhara

Annapurna Base Camp Trek aka Annapurna Sanctuary Trek—12 Days

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu and transfer to the Hotel

Day 02: Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara 

Day 03: Drive from Pokhara to Nayapul and trek to Tikhedhunga 

Day 04: Trek from Tikhedhunga to Ghorepani 

Day 05: Hike to Ppoon Hill and trek to Tadapani 

Day 06: Trek from Tadapani to Chhomrong 

Day 07: Trek from Chhomrong to Himalaya 

Day 08: Trek from Himalaya to Annapurna Base Camp via Machapuchare Base Camp 

Day 09: Trek from Annapurna Base Camp to Bamboo 

Day 10: Trek from Bamboo to Jinu dada (Hot spring) 

Day 11: Trek to Nayapul and drive to Pokhara 

Day 12: Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu

Tips and tricks for staying on top of your budget for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Here are some budget-friendly tips and tricks on how to maximize your Annapurna Base Camp Trek experience without exceeding your budget: 

• Opt for a local or tourist bus instead of a flight to Pokhara. 
• To save money, choose to trek in a group of at least 4–5 people instead of solo.
• It is cheaper to trek in the off-season (summer and winter) instead of peak trekking season (spring and autumn).
• Rent gear and equipment from a local store in Thamel rather than buying new ones.
• Aside from three square meals a day (breakfast, lunch, and dinner), do not spend money on buying snacks on the trail. It would be more cost-effective to bring your snacks from Kathmandu. 
• Do not buy sealed mineral water; instead, carry your water bottle and thermos to refill them. 
• Go without internet for a few days, and do not spend money on wifi. 
• Pack light and efficiently to avoid porter charges. 
• Stay in affordable-range hotels and not expensive ones. 
• Make a daily budget to prevent overspending. 

Content Summary 

The Annapurna Base Camp is one of the more budget-friendly, affordable, and rewarding trekking destinations in Nepal. From the cheapest to luxury, the cost for the ABC trek ranges from $600 to $3000. So, what is the verdict? What is the best choice for you? If you are on a tight budget, choose the cheaper option; however, if you desire comfort and luxury along with top-notch services, opt for the luxury Annapurna Base Camp Trek. 

And finally, if you want satisfactory services with affordable pricing, then the standard package is the best. For $200–300 more, you can get better services and pleasant experiences, and you won't have to do everything alone, as a company and its staff will handle everything. 

Whether you decide to go as a group or on a solo trek, the Annapurna Base Camp not only offers jaw-dropping views of the tall snow-covered mountains but also gives you the opportunity to experience local culture, tradition, and religion, immersing yourself well in the local communities. Rich and diverse in natural resources, you will also get to enter the Annapurna Conservation Area and even get a glimpse of some rare and endangered species of flora and fauna. 

A beginner-friendly trek with a moderate level of difficulty can be completed within a week, with affordable options for food and accommodations, and with a few smart decisions, the Annapurna Base Camp can be your ultimate trekking destination that fits perfectly within your budget. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Where is Annapurna Base Camp located?

The Annapurna Base Camp is located in the Gandaki Province of central Nepal within the boundary of the Annapurna Conservation Area. 

What is the distance of the Annapurna Base Camp Trek?

The total distance of the Annapurna Base Camp Trek can range from 70 to 115 kilometers (43 to 71 miles) round trip, depending on the route you decide to trek.

Is the Annapurna Base Camp Trek difficult?

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is considered an easy-to-moderate difficulty trek, depending on the fitness of the trekker, which is very suitable for beginners as well. 

What is the altitude of the Annapurna Base Camp Trek?

The highest elevation you reach during the Annapurna Base Camp Trek is the base camp itself, which is 4,130 meters (13,550 feet) above sea level. 

How long is the duration of the Annapurna Base Camp Trek?

A standard ABC trek is 6–8 days long; however, there is also a 12-day trek known as the Annapurna Sanctuary Trek and a 4-day trek with helicopter return. 

How much does the Annapurna Base Camp trek cost on average?

The average cost of a standard Annapurna Base Camp Trek is $700 to $1000. 

Can I trek to Annapurna Base Camp on a budget?

Yes, you can do the Annapurna Base Camp Trek on a budget of $400 to $600, but it comes at the cost of compromising many regular services such as flights, private jeeps, good hotels, and restaurants. 

Does the trek to Annapurna Base Camp cost less than that to Everest Base Camp?

Yes, the Annapurna Base Camp Trek is cheaper compared to the Everest Base Camp. 

What permits are required for the Annapurna Base Camp trek, and how much do they cost?

These are the permits required for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek:

• Annapurna Conservation Area Entry Permit: $30 per person
• Trekker’s Information Management System Card aka TIMS Card: $20 per person

How much do food and accommodation cost on the Annapurna Base Camp trek?

For food and accommodation, it is best to set aside at least $20 to $30 per day, respectively. 

Do I need a guide and porter for the Annapurna Base Camp trek? 

While porters are optional, trekking guides are mandatory, especially if you are a solo trekker. And a guide costs $35–40 per day, while a porter costs $25–30 per day, excluding tips. 

Does the ABC trek cost differ based on the trekking agency?

Yes, the cost of the ABC trek differs based on the trekking agency or companies, as their prices depend on the type of services they provide and their reputation in the industry. 

Is the ABC trek cheaper in the off-season?

Yes, due to fewer trekkers and unfavorable weather, trekking to the Annapurna Base Camp Trek can be cheaper in the off-season than in the peak season. 

Can I find discounts for group bookings?

Yes, you can usually find discounts if your group has 6 or more people.