How much does Annapurna Circuit Trek Cost?

Planning your dream adventure around the Annapurna range? Whether you’re trekking solo on a shoestring or opting for a guided comfort experience, knowing the true Annapurna Circuit Trek costs is key to stress-free planning.

From permits and porters to food, lodging and transport, this guide breaks down every expense so you can set a realistic budget without sacrificing the experience. Find out how much you need for a 12 to 18 day trek, what’s worth the extra and how to save without skimping on the essentials.

As long as you have a good fitness level, you know you can make it!  Take our advice on acclimatizing and resting before going high (over 4,000m), keep yourself hydrated and well-fed, and you will love this adventure!

But what you might be unsure about is how much will this adventure cost you.  Here we provide you with a breakdown of prices for food and accommodation, transport, hiring a guide or a porter and the main difference between going it alone (with a guide and/or porter) or going through a trekking company.

Why Cost Planning Is Essential for Trekkers

Knowing how much to budget for the trek can save you from unexpected financial stress. Costs vary based on travel style (guided vs. independent), time of year, duration of the trek, and level of comfort you desire. Budgeting also helps determine what kind of support you may need, whether hiring a guide and porter, choosing public transport or flights, or staying in basic teahouses versus upgraded lodges. A well-planned budget lets you focus on enjoying the experience rather than worrying about expenses.

Key Factors Affecting the Cost

Trek Duration (Short vs. Full Circuit)

The total cost of your trek is directly linked to the number of trekking days. A short version may skip some portions via road or flight (e.g., driving to Chame or flying from Jomsom), reducing food, lodging, and guide/porter costs. A full 18–21 day trek allows you to experience the route fully but comes with a higher budget.

Season (High vs. Off-Season)

• High Season: Spring (March–May) and Autumn (September–November) bring stable weather and clear views but higher prices for accommodation and flights.
• Off-Season: Summer monsoon (June–August) and winter (December–February) see fewer trekkers and lower costs, though with challenges like slippery trails or snow-blocked passes.

Independent vs. Guided Trek

• Independent: Cheaper but requires self-management of logistics, permits, and safety. Ideal for experienced trekkers.
• Guided: More expensive but offers better safety, cultural context, and logistical support. Often chosen by first-time trekkers or those looking for peace of mind.

Mode of Transport and Accommodation Style

• Transport: Buses and jeeps cost less but take longer and may be less comfortable. Flights are quick but expensive.
• Accommodation: Ranges from basic teahouses ($5–$7) to upgraded lodges ($15–$30), especially in Manang or Muktinath.

Annapurna Circuit Cost – Visas

Tourist visas are required for most foreign visitors to Nepal, with the exception of Indian citizens. Chinese passport holders may also be eligible for free entry under certain diplomatic agreements. All other nationalities must obtain a visa, which can be secured either online before departure via the official Nepal Immigration website or upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu.

 

Where and How to Get the Visa

• On Arrival: Head to the Visa-on-Arrival desk at Kathmandu Airport. Fill out the application form (available electronically at the kiosk or beforehand online) and proceed to the payment counter.
• Payment: Must be made in a major convertible currency. US dollars are preferred. No change is given, so carry the exact amount.
• Documents Required: A valid passport with at least 6 months of validity and one passport-sized photo.

Visa Fees (As of 2025)

• 15 days (multiple entry): $30 USD
• 30 days (multiple entry): $50 USD
• 90 days (multiple entry): $125 USD

Visa Extension Options

Visas can be extended up to 120 days per calendar year at the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu or Pokhara. Extensions are granted for:

• $30 for a 15-day extension
• $2 per additional day thereafter
• An additional fifth month may be allowed with proof of onward travel (flight ticket)

Tips for Smooth Visa Processing

• Complete your online visa form in advance at Nepali Immigration Website.
• Keep local currency or exact USD amounts ready for payment.
• Avoid visa queues by arriving early or using the online application system.

Additional Notes

Overstaying your visa without valid extension can result in fines or entry bans, so make sure to track your visa expiry carefully.

Visas can be extended up to 4 months at the Immigration Department in Kathmandu.  A fifth month (in a calendar year) may be granted if you show a flight ticket out of the country.

Permit and Documentation Costs for Annapurna Circuit Trek

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)

For anyone trekking the Annapurna Circuit, an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) is mandatory. This permit is required to enter and trek in the protected Annapurna Conservation Area. It supports environmental conservation, maintenance of trekking trails and development of local infrastructure in the region.

Cost: $30 USD per person (flat rate for all foreign nationals)

The ACAP is single entry and non-transferable. It’s valid as long as the trek continues within the Annapurna region.

Where and How to Obtain the Permit

The ACAP is single entry and non-transferable. It’s valid as long as the trek continues within the Annapurna region.

Where and How to Get the Permit

Trekkers can get the ACAP from the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) offices in Kathmandu or Pokhara. The process is easy and can be done in an hour. You need:

• A valid passport
• Two recent passport-sized photographs
• The applicable fee in USD or equivalent convertible currency

It’s advisable to collect your permit 1–2 days before your trek to avoid any last-minute delays, especially during peak trekking seasons.

Updated TIMS Card Information

As of 2023, the TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System) is no longer required for foreign trekkers on the Annapurna Circuit if they are trekking with a licensed guide through a registered trekking agency. This change reflects new safety protocols in Nepal that emphasize trekking with experienced, certified guides.

Independent solo trekking in the Annapurna region is now discouraged, and in many restricted areas, it is prohibited altogether.

Cost of Transport for Annapurna Circuit Trek

Transportation plays a crucial role in your Annapurna Circuit Trek budget. While the trail itself is remote and mountainous, getting to and from the starting and ending points involves several transit options. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

Getting from Kathmandu to the Trailhead

The most common starting points for the Annapurna Circuit are Besisahar or Bhulbhule. Your journey from Kathmandu to these trailheads can be managed in two primary ways:

Tourist or Local Bus (Budget Option)

• Cost: ~$10–$20 USD per person
• Duration: 6 to 8 hours depending on road conditions and traffic
• Departure Point: Gongabu Bus Park (Kathmandu)
• Comfort Level: Basic to moderate; some buses are overcrowded and may not have air conditioning

This is the most budget-friendly option. However, be prepared for a bumpy ride due to winding mountain roads. It’s best suited for budget-conscious travelers.

Private Jeep (Comfort Option)

• Cost: $100–$180 USD (can be shared among 5–7 people)
• Duration: 6 to 7 hours depending on road conditions
• Departure: Flexible
• Comfort Level: High; better seating, stops on request, and fewer delays

A private jeep is ideal if you prefer a comfortable and hassle-free experience or are traveling in a group. It’s also a better choice if you’re carrying a lot of gear or traveling during off-season when buses are limited.

If you want to do this trek clockwise (starting from Pokhara and ending in Besisahar) then you can fly to Pokhara from Kathmandu.

Total Transportation Cost Estimate

Depending on your choices, here’s an approximate range:

• Budget Traveler: ~$45–$90 USD total (buses and shared jeeps)
• Comfort-Seeking Traveler: ~$200–$350 USD total (private jeep and domestic flights)

Carefully selecting your transport options based on comfort, budget, and schedule can make your Annapurna experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Food and Accommodation

On average, you will spend USD 30 to 40 per day on (basic) accommodation, breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

By basic accommodation, we mean a twin room with a shared common bathroom. Few lodges/ teahouses on treks have attached bathroom. The exception to this is on the lower trail from Jomson to Pokhara.

And within this price do not expect to be able to buy desserts or drinks.  And remember that cold drinks and alcohol will be increasingly more expensive as the altitude increases.

We would suggest, that, if possible, you allocate USD 30-40 per person per day for food and accommodation.

Additional Costs

Be prepared for additional costs on the trek:

1. Hot shower: USD2-3 per shower.  Why? They are using gas to heat the water, which is expensive to bring to villages on the trek.
2. Electricity (to charge phone etc): USD 1-2
3. Local Sim card.  Useful to call ahead to reserve accommodation and in emergencies. This can be easily bought at the airport or in Kathmandu.  Rates for data packages, calls and texts are relatively cheap.   US5 to US10 is enough for your trek unless you want to make a lot of international calls!

• Drinking-Water: USD1 per liter.
• Alcohol, soft drinks, and snacks: as per menu price.
• Tips for guides and porters.
• Equipment  See below.

Cost of Equipment

Logically you know you are not setting off on your trek in the same clothes you wear to the office or around the house.  But this is an added expense that many people do not take into consideration when budging for their trip.

If you are not intending to do much trekking in the future, then you can rent equipment in Kathmandu.  You can also buy equipment here (good for people who are on a larger travel plan).

The following are things we recommend you to buy or rent for your trek:

•  Four season sleeping bag*
•  Sleeping pad/ mattress*
•  Warm jacket*
•  Waterproof jacket*
• Trekking boots (if possible buy and wear these ahead of time to reduce the change of blisters!)
• Trekking poles*
• Trekking trousers
• Trekking shirts and/or t-shirts
• Warm gloves and thermal socks
• Day pack and main pack*  (remember to pack light)
•  Sunglasses, sunscreen, hat

The cost will be around $500 upwards depending on the quality.  To rent trekking gear such as sleeping bags, down jackets or trekking poles in Kathmandu or Pokhara usually costs between $1 to $5 USD per day, depending on the quality and type of gear. We do not recommend renting trekking gear on the trail, as it’s often more expensive and limited in availability and quality. Always rent or buy what you need before the trek for safety, comfort and cost effectiveness.

Travel Insurance Costs

Travel insurance is strongly recommended for trekking in Nepal, especially for high-altitude treks like the Annapurna Circuit. It should include emergency evacuation up to 6,000 meters, medical coverage, trip cancellations, and gear theft.

Average Cost

$50–$150 USD for 2–4 weeks of coverage
Premiums vary by provider and level of coverage.

Annapurna Circuit Trek Cost with International Tour Operator

Opting for an international tour operator often means booking your trek before you arrive in Nepal. These companies provide a complete package, including international airport pickup, domestic travel, permits, accommodation, meals, guides, porters, and sometimes even gear.

What’s Included?

• International customer support before departure
  
• Premium accommodations and meals
  
• Licensed local guides and porters
  
• Emergency evacuation arrangements
  
• Domestic transport and flights
  

Cost Estimate

• $2,000–$3,500 USD+ per person
  • These packages prioritize comfort and convenience, making them suitable for first-time travelers or those looking for a hassle-free experience.
    

Annapurna Circuit Trek Cost with Local Operator

Local Nepali trekking companies offer more affordable packages with similar inclusions. They’re often more flexible and allow you to customize your trek based on your needs and budget.

What’s Included?

• Permits, accommodation, meals
  
• Local English-speaking guides and porters
  
• Ground transportation and domestic flights
  
• Pre-trek briefing and post-trek support
  

Cost Estimate

• $8,00–$1,500 USD per person
  • You’ll often get better value for money and more authentic local experiences. Plus, your spending directly supports the Nepali economy.

Trekking Costs

What is the cost of doing this Trek Through a Trekking Company?

Most of the trekking companies operate this trek in the $800 to $1500 per person price range.  With Magical Nepal expect to pay from $986 per person using buses.

You can upgrade the transport to private vehicles for an additional $110 per person.  If you require a porter, it will cost you an additional $70 per person.

If you are choosing a trek operator with a lower price range, make sure to check their reviews!

How Much Do I Have to Pay for a Guide?

If you want to take a guide (as opposed to going with a trekking company on a regular trip) it will cost you around US 22-US 30 per day.

If you are hiring a guide do check he has a valid license issued by the Government of Nepal.  Check his background and the reviews from past clients. An experienced guide will charge USD 30 plus per day.

How Much Do I Have to Pay for a Porter?

Similarly, if you are hiring a porter, ensure he has the correct gear and is insured.  Makes sure to hire your porter in Kathmandu or in Pokhara.

If you decide on the trail to hire someone, the cost will be much higher.  Expect to pay USD 20 per day in Kathmandu or Pokhara.

Which Form of Transport Should I Choose?

If you are starting the Annapurna Circuit Trek from Besisahar, there is no choice – you have to go by road. If you are 2 or 3 people then private transport is a good option as it allows you more flexibility (where to stop etc).

For those alone or on a budget, local transport is much cheaper.  There are no tourist buses on this route.

If you are starting the Annapurna Circuit Trek from Pokhara then there are two flights available to you.  From Kathmandu to Pokhara and/or from Pokhara to Jomson.   You can also utilize these flights on the return journey if you are starting from Besisahar and ending in Pokhara.

Please be aware that if you start your trek in Pokhara, there is less time to acclimatize to the altitude.  And particularly if you are flying into Jomson you should be very careful as you will be hiking higher faster.

For further information on the Annapurna Circuit Trek, or any other trek in Nepal, contact Magical Nepal.

The FAQ of Annapurna Circuit Trek Cost