Cost of Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Annapurna region is a famous trekking destination in Nepal. The adventurous and challenging trails make it an ideal option for thrill enthusiasts. One of the highlighted and popular worldwide places in the Annapurna region is Annapurna Base Camp Trek. But what is the cost of Annapurna Base Camp Trek? Let’s find out if it’s cheaper or expensive.

The gorgeous surroundings, crystal white mountains, nature, culture, and Sherpa people are the main beauty of the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. Trekking to Annapurna is the dream of many climbers and trekkers because it shows the authentic beauty of nature. Every step in this region takes you closer to nature and gives you the best view. This trek takes you to the core of village life where you will see the traditional lifestyle of Sherpa people. The journey is very peaceful as you will walk through the trails which is surrounded by terraced fields, rhododendrons, green forests, and traditional villages. The fresh view and the beautiful surroundings balance the nature and human life of this place.

However, to enjoy this beautiful and thrilling trek, don’t forget the crucial part of the trip. It’s very important to know the total cost of Annapurna Base Camp Trek. It’s critical to understand the expenses of traveling to avoid any issues and problems during the trip. Likewise, the cost of the Annapurna Base Camp Trek is not constant because they are hugely influenced by other factors like food, accommodation, guides, transportation, and other personal expenses. No need to panic because the cost of the Annapurna Base Camp Trek is not a problem. There are many price ranges suitable for budget backpackers or luxury seekers.

In the blog, we will talk in detail about the cost of the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. So that, you can easily plan packages that are affordable and suitable to your preferences. After understanding the prices, you can easily paln an Annapurna Base Camp Trek within your budget. Don’t miss these tips to avoid hidden expenses and smooth travel.

What is the Cost of the Annapurna Base Camp Trek?

Traveling is not easy, especially if you are going on a trip for long days and in a remote location. The Annapurna Base Camp trek is the trekking destination located in the Annapurna region. This place is situated in the remote place, Himalayan region of Nepal. Likewise, traveling to this type of destination requires thorough planning of the budget to avoid any bad circumstances.

The cost of the Annapurna Base Camp trek is variable. It is hugely influenced by the trekker’s way of traveling, peak seasons, accommodation, transportation, food, guides, porters, comfort level, and many more. How the trek is organized affects the cost of Annapurna Base Camp Trek.

However, you don’t have to worry when it comes to the cost of Annapurna Base Camp Trek. There are a large number of packages and options ranging from small amounts of money to large amounts of money.

The Cost of Annapurna Base Camp Trek for Economical Travel:

If you are looking for an economical trip and you are on a tight budget, buying packages is the best option. If you via packages, it will be more helpful because they will cover every aspect of the trek. Though some travel agencies do not provide everything, Access Nepal provides good package deals.

At Access Nepal Tours and Trekking, the cost of Annapurna Base Camp Trek is $890 US dollars per person. If you are in more number of people, it also provides a group discount. This package will cover the cost of everything like accommodation, food, transportation, guides, basic first-aid, porters, and many more.

Furthermore, if you are on a tight budget, there are also other packages available ranging from $500 to $800 US dollars per person. These typically cover the cost of basic teahouse accommodations, simple meals, permits, guides, and porters. But the thing is, you have to compromise the comfort level. You have to pay for the stay in Kathmandu, travel in local buses, and other things.

Another point to note is that all the packages don’t cover the expenses of your personal items, such as snacks, drinks, travel insurance, or trekking equipment, such as trekking boots.

The Cost of Annapurna Base Camp Trek for Standard Travel:

For people, who are looking for packages on a standard level that provides basic comfort and luxury are also available. This type of mid-range package is also comfortable enough and provides standard services. They are also not that much expensive and are affordable.

The standard cost of Annapurna Base Camp Trek typically ranges from $800 to $1,500 US dollars per person. If you buy a package costing this amount of money then you can enjoy the trip at a comfortable level. The accommodation you will get can be on a sharing basis or private rooms along with attached toilets and bathrooms in certain locations. It will also have various food options.

Most importantly, the transportation from Pokhara to Kathmandu will be on private vehicles. This range of packages covers the cost of guides and porters who will be experienced and government-licensed. The permit fees of the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) card are also included in the package. You will also have additional options with extra charges for charging, Wi-Fi, or Heli flight.

Access Nepal provides a standard trek package to ABC for less than $900 US dollars per person. With customizable options for accommodation and others, we provide meals along with seasonal fruits, and tea/coffee throughout the trek. The accommodation at Kathmandu and Pokhara will be 3-star to 4-star including the deluxe transportation services.

The Cost of Annapurna Base Camp Trek for Luxurious Travel:

Some trekkers and travelers prefer to travel in comfort and luxury. Deluxe packages are mostly suitable for people who easily get tired and have simple health problems. The cost of Annapurna Base Camp Trek in luxury ranges from $2,000 US dollars to $3,000 US dollars per person.

The luxurious package provides the best of the best comfort throughout the trek. With that much comfort, you won’t even feel the tiredness of trekking or the feeling of traveling in remoteness. The deluxe Annapurna Base Camp Trek package gives premium services. With upgraded facilities in every aspect like cozy teahouses, high-quality meals along with variety of dietary preferences.

Similarly, throughout the trip, you will get private transportation. Some packages also include a helicopter return from Annapurna Base Camp. The extra perks of deluxe packages are they also provide some personalized services. It is perfect for a trekker who wants to enjoy the trek in comfort and luxury.

The cost of Annapurna Base Camp Trek for BackPack Travelers:

The trek to Annapurna Base Camp is also possible for Backpack trekkers. If you are visiting ABC as an independent traveler, the cost of Annapurna Base Camp Trek will be low but if you love spending money spontaneously, the cost might increase. While traveling without a package, you have to allocate the money considering every aspect like accommodation, food, transportation, permits, and other miscellaneous expenses.

For permits in the Annapurna region, you will need money for two permits: an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and a TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) card. For ACAP it will cost you from $20 to $30 US dollars and for TIMS cards it will be around $15 US dollars.  For entry and trekking in the region legally, these permits are mandatory.

Another thing to consider is the transportation fare as you have to travel between Pokhara and Kathmandu. If you take a local bus from Kathmandu to Pokhara return back will be cheaper costing around $10 to $15 US dollars. However, traveling in a local bus is quite a hassle, tiring, and time-consuming. Another option is booking a private vehicle from Kathmandu to Pokhara which will cost around $100 to $200 US dollars.

Furthermore, if you are short in time then you can go via flights too. The Pokhara to Kathmandu flights take around 30 minutes and the flight tickets are available for about $125 US dollars each way. You have to divide the money for necessary trekking equipment like sleeping bags, trekking poles or sticks, down jackets, and duffel bags. But it might not be necessary if you are an experienced trekker, it might be already with you. Those who don’t have one can easily rent for $1 to $10 per day in Kathmandu or Pokhara.

Lastly, other extra expenses you should consider are tipping the guide and porter. Tipping culture is customary in Nepal. However, if you are not willing you don’t have to but if you like the services then you can give tips from $5 to $15 per day. Other things you should think about are mineral water, snacks, and beverages because they are quite expensive due to the remote location. The higher you go, the more expensive it will be.

Cost of Annapurna Circuit Trek

The Annapurna Circuit trek is another trekking package of the Annapurna region. Because of the challenging and adventurous trails, it is one of the most popular trekking destinations of Nepal worldwide. The itinerary and route of Annapurna Base Camp and Annapurna Circuit Trek are slightly different. However, both don’t lack when it comes to the views of Annapurna ranges, landscapes, culture, nature, and the whole trip experience.

Similar, to the cost of the Annapurna Base Camp Trek, for the Circuit trek you also have to plan your budget meticulously. The total cost might not have that much of a gap and the cost for accommodation, transportation, permits, food, guides, porters, and other personal expenses will be somewhat the same.

To help you plan and allocate the cost of the Annapurna Circuit trek effectively, we have listed it in a section:

What permits do I need for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek?

The permit costs for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek and Annapurna Circuit Trek are the same. Trekking in the Annapurna region is mandatory. Therefore, you have to allocate the budget for it first, since it’s a constant. They are not expensive and you can easily get a permit entrance after paying the fees.

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP):

According to the Nepal government, the permit fee of the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit will be different. For SAARC nationals, it will cost NPR 1,ooo around $8 or $10 US dollars. Likewise, for other foreign nationals, it will cost around NPR 3,000 around $25 US dollars. These permit fees are like funds to protect the Annapurna region.

Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) Card:

Another important permit, you should prepare to pay is for a TIMS card. For trekkers who are traveling individually, you have to pay NPR 2,000 around $15 US dollars for a TIMS Card. But if you are trekking with an agency, it will cost you NPR 1,000 around $8 to $10 US dollars. However, you don’t have to worry about these fees if you are going with an agency because the package will cover everything. TIMS cards are important for your safety as they record your details with authorities.

Altogether, the total cost for Annapurna region permits alone will cost you $40 US dollars.

Transportation Cost:

Transportation is the major part of the Annapurna Circuit Trek trek. There are various routes and travel options and you have to prepare the money according to that. The itinerary of the Annapurna Circuit Trek includes the drive from Kathamndu to Besishar and coming back from Pokhara to Kathmandu. You can travel either via local buses or book a private vehicle. Choose the transportation according to your budget, time, and preferences. Below, we have divided the section by route to make you understand the cost and plan accordingly.

Transportation cost from Kathmandu to Besisahar:

Besisahar is the major starting point of the Annapurna region. From Kathmandu to Besisahar, it will cost around $5 to $8 US dollars on a local bus. However, if you want to travel in luxury and comfort, private vehicles will cost around $100 to $150 US dollars. If you are going with an agency, their packages mostly provide private transportation service.

Return from Pokhara to Kathmandu:

After completing the Annapurna Circuit Trek, you have to return back. Since the trek goes around in a circuit, the return back route is different. Instead of coming from Besisahar, you will come back from Pokhara to Kathmandu.

• Tourist Bus: $10 to $20 US dollars
• Flight: $125 US dollars

Accommodation Cost:

Another essential part of traveling is allocating money for accommodation. The trekking to Annapurna Sanctuary Trek involves staying for several nights throughout the trek. The accommodation price will be variable according to the comfort level you choose. Similarly, the cost of accommodation will also increase with altitude and season.

Besisahar to Chame (Low Altitude):

In this place, you will be staying in a teahouse and it won’t cost you that much because it is in a lower area. The basic room charges are $3 to $5 US dollars per night with shared bathrooms and sometimes you might get attached bathrooms.

Manang to Thorong La Pass (High Altitude):

These places are located in the high altitude which are quite remote and difficult to climb. Therefore, accommodation price of teahouses will increase taking $10 to $15 US dollars per night. During the peak seasons of trekking in Nepal, the price might go higher.

Additional Comfort Options:

There will be options of upgrading the accommodation in teahouses. The fees will increase if you choose services like hot showers, battery charging, and Wi-Fi. The price will fall between $1 to $5 US dollars.

Food Cost:

Food is another main influencing factor for the cost of traveling. Since it’s a basic need, you will need enough money for food. Trekking is strenuous especially if you are trekking in remote regions. Due to the difficulty of transportation, the price of food will be higher as you ascend. When it comes to this type of expense going with a travel agency is much easier because the packages provide full board meals and you will also have various options to choose too.

• For: Bread, eggs, and tea/coffee cost around $3 to $5 US dollars.
• Lunch 0and Dinner: Dal Bhat Tarkari (a traditional Nepali dish of rice, lentils, and vegetables) and other meal options include noodles, pasta, and other international dishes which range from $5 and $10 US dollars. Dal bhat are unlimited servings and most of all they are very nutritious which is essential during the trek.
• Snacks and Drinks: Snacks like chocolates, chips and beverages like tea, coffee, bottled water) are available. They cost around $1 to $5 US dollars each at lower altitudes and go upto $2 to $10 US dollars at higher altitudes. Bottled water is expensive due to transport logistics, so consider using a water purification system.

How much does a guide and porter cost at Annapurna Base Camp?

Trekking to Annapurna Circuit requires long hours of walking. The daily hours of walking are 5 to 6 hours on average. You have to carry the trekking bags, gear, and other necessary items which will be quite hard. For comfort and easy travel, you can hire a porter to carry your belongings. Likewise, to guide you around the place, you will need a guide.

• Guide: An experienced and government-licensed guide charges $25 to $30 US dollars per day.
• Porter: A porter will charge you around $20 to $25 US dollars and they can carry up to 20 kg of luggage.

Is there snowfall in Annapurna Base Camp?

Traveling is extremely fun when it comes to the part of planning. It is the crucial first step of traveling. Before the trip, you have to fully prepare for accommodation, food, transportation, and other stuff. Another section, travelers should consider is the weather. For a safe and best experience, it is highly recommended to travel during the best season. There is light snowfall in the Annapurna region.

Moreover, traveling to cold, high-altitude, and remote places like Annapurna Base Camp, the weather is the major part. It is highly suggested to travel during the peak and best season only for the safe and comfortable travel. During winter and monsoon season trekking to Annapurna Base Camp is dangerous, due to the heavy snowfall, rainfall, landslides, trail blockages, slippery, cold, muddy roads, and many more. Then when is the best time to visit Annapurna Base Camp? The best time to visit Annapurna Base Camp is in Autumn (September to November) and Spring (March to May).

Autumn season is the peak season for trekking to Annapurna Base Camp. The temperature during the daytime will be around 12°C to 20°C on average and during the night time it will be around -3°C to -4°C on average. The weather will get stable and trails will be filled with greenery. The clear skies make the view of the mountains more visible. Similarly, it is the festival season in Nepal where they will be celebrating the major Nepalese festivals Dashain and Tihar.

Another best season for trekking in Annapurna Base Camp is in Spring which starts in March and ends in May. The weather will be perfectly warm and comfortable for trekking. The trails will be filled with wildflowers, rhododendrons, and greenery. Every stop brings us close to nature. The views will also be visible and clear.