Annapurna Base Camp Trek Cost: Budget Guide for 2025 and 2026

  • Barsha Thapa
  • Last Updated on Dec 28, 2024

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek cost is a major factor for anyone who wants to make this unforgettable journey to the base camp of Mt. Annapurna, which is the world's 10th highest peak at 8,091 meters. The Annapurna Base Camp trek is famous for its breathtaking landscapes and cultural experiences, attracting trekkers from across the world. The ABC Trek is one of the most popular short trekking routes in Nepal and offers spectacular views of the Annapurna range, including peaks like Annapurna I, Machapuchare (Fishtail), Hiunchuli, and Gangapurna.

Above all, it is an affordable and budget-friendly trekking options in Nepal and offers some of the best mountain views in the world. The journey usually lasts from 7 to 12 days, depending on the route taken and your walking pace; hence, it is considered a relatively short yet satisfactory adventure suitable for every type of trekker.

The ABC Trek cost needs to be well planned considering expenses like permits, accommodation, food, transportation, and optional services that include guides or porters. Some trekkers may want to limit themselves just to the basic requirements, which are associated with a very low price, while others may look for comfort and additional services, which will increase their budget.

Below, we have provided a chart with an overall idea of how much the popular 7-10 days Annapurna Base Camp Trek might cost for 2025/2026, along with tentative estimates.

Expenses Category

Details

Estimated cost per person (USD)

Trekking Permits

TIMS card and ACAP

8$-15$ for TIMS card

23$ for ACAP

Food and Drinks

Local meals, tea, water, snacks

$15 - $25 per day

Guide and Porters

Optional but recommended. Guide costs more than porter

$20 - $35 per day

Accommodation

Teahouses and lodges, prices vary by location.

$5 - $15 per night

Transportation

Jeep/Tourist bus from Kathmandu to Pokhara to Sauli Bazaar

$100-$150 (one way)

Gear Rental/Purchase

Can rent it in Kathmandu or Pokhara.

$250-$500

Insurance

Covers emergency evacuation, medical treatment, and altitude-related risks

$100-$300

Miscellaneous Expenses

Emergency funds, personal expenses

$50 - $100

Total

For 7- 10 days trek

$799 - $1,200 per person

In this blog, we will break down all the key expenses that contribute toward the cost of the Annapurna Base Camp Trek, including permits, accommodation, meals, transportation, and gear. Whether trekking solo or in a group, this guide will assist you in budgeting appropriately. Let's go into the details so that you may plan your trip with confidence.

Himalayan Recreation team at ABC
Himalayan Recreation team at ABC

 

Annapurna Base Camp Trek Cost Based on Packages

Basic Package Cost

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek cost for the basic package usually starts from $600 to $1,200 USD. This is a pretty affordable and economical package that includes licensed trek guides, basic tea houses for accommodations, standard meals, permits, and ground transportation starting from Pokhara. If you are thinking of how much Annapurna Base Camp hike costs, then this could be your answer in case you are seeking a budget friendly option. Be prepared for shared rooms, simple meals, and few extras. Prices vary depending on the trekking season, number of participants, and services offered. Solo travelers may pay higher prices per person than group treks, so it changes the cost of ABC.

Helicopter Return and Heli Tour Cost

One exciting and practical way to avoid the lengthy return trek is to take a helicopter back from Annapurna Base Camp. This option significantly adds to the Annapurna Base camp cost can anywhere between $550 and $950 per person, depending on the time of year, the size of the group, and the travel arrangements made.

The price for the heli tour to Annapurna Base Camp varies between $1,200 and $2,000 per person. The tour offers stunning views of Annapurna I, Machapuchare, and the surrounding peaks. It’s a great way to experience the beauty of the mountains up close, with professional pilots, safety briefings, and plenty of opportunities for incredible photos.

Budget Package Cost (Guide and Porter service)

if you are on a budget and willing to pay for your food and accommodation yourself then can hire a Guide and porter through the registered company. This option helps you to save a lot of your Annapurna Basse camp trek cost as well as will be free to choose where to stay and what to eat from the menu. the permits, transport and other required things will be handled by the company and they will also help you to book the tea house accommodation in advance. allocate about 300-500 USD for your budget package for the ABC trek.
Greenery view around chhomrong
Greenery view around Chhomrong

Annapurna Base Camp Trek Cost Based on Operators

International Operators price

The International Operators offer high-class trekking services with full-service packages that range from $1,200 to $2,500. They provide professional guides, the best safety measures, and smooth management of your trip from airport transfers to meal plans. Ideal for those seeking an adventurous, hassle-free holiday fully cared for by professionals in safety and comfort.

Local Operators fees or services charges

Local Nepalese trekking companies offer economical yet authentic treks. These operators offer budget-friendly ABC packages that range from $600 to $900, emphasizing local expertise and authentic cultural interactions. They provide very basic but reliable services, including local guides knowledgeable about the areas they are guiding in, comfortable teahouse accommodations, and necessary permit arrangements. These operators make use of deep local connections and intimate regional knowledge to craft cost-effective treks that provide an authentic Himalayan experience

Why Trek with a Local Travel Agent in Nepal?

Trekking with a local agent in Nepal can be much easier, cheaper and far more informative about the terrain, culture, and logistics. They will handle all the permits, arrangements for overnight stays, and transportation, while you can simply enjoy the adventure. Booking with local travel agents further helps in contributing towards the local economy and supports responsible tourism.

Online Travel Agents fees

Digital platforms have revolutionized booking the ABC Trek, making it easier for travelers to compare packages, read reviews, and instantly book. Through these platforms, one will get flexibility, convenience, transparency in pricing, and elaborated itineraries. While planning for the ABC hike through these platforms may be easy, it sometimes gets a bit pricey compared to direct bookings.

How to Choose the Right Operator for your ABC Trek?

Choosing the right trekking operator is very important for a safe and enjoyable ABC trek experience. Here's how to make the best choice:

  • Experience and Expertise: A company should have prior experience leading treks in Nepal, and more specifically, ABC treks.
  • Guides and Support: They should provide licensed, experienced guides and reliable porters.
  • Safety Standards: Their policy on safety should be taken into consideration, including their protocols on altitude sickness management and evacuation plans.
  • What's Included in the Package: Compare what is included in the price, such as permits, meals, accommodation, etc.
  • Flexibility: Choose operators who offer customizable itineraries to match your pace and preferences.
  • Value for Money: Balance cost with the services offered for the best experience.

Book your trip with Himalayan Recreation for an incomparable price, including all services with a success rate of 99%. Our team of expert guides and porters will focus on safety, enjoyment, and making the trek truly unforgettable.

Tea House on ABC Trek
Tea House on ABC Trek

Complete ABC Trek Cost Breakdown for 2025 and 2026

Accommodation Cost

The average accommodation price in ABC trek ranges from $5 to $15 per night for a simple room. The price depends upon many factors, such as altitude, remoteness, and season of trekking.

Here we have included a tentative cost on how much does the Accommodation in Annapurna base Camp might cost:

Lower Altitudes (below 2,000m): $5–$8/night

  • Shared rooms with basic bedding and facilities.

Mid-Altitudes (2,000m–3,500m): $8–$12/night

  • Similar shared rooms with basic amenities.

High Altitudes (3,500m–4,130m): $12–$15/night

  • Minimal amenities, communal dining.

Food and Drink Cost

Food and drinks costs in Annapurna Base Camp Trek varies on the basis of altitude. On average, budget $200 to $300 USD for meals for the entire trek, depending on your choices and appetite. Here's a quick breakdown:

  • Lower Elevations: Meals cost $5 to $10 each.

  • Higher Elevations: Meals cost $8 to $15 each.

Daily Food Budget: $15 to $25 USD, with dal bhat being a budget-friendly and filling option.

For hydration, drink 3-4 liters of water daily to prevent dehydration and altitude sickness. Drink costs in abc trek include:

  • Bottled Water: $1 to $3 per bottle.

  • Hot Drinks (Tea/Coffee): $2 to $4 each.

Equipment Cost for ABC Trek

The equipment cost for the ABC Trek depends on whether you will rent or buy gear. The essentials are trekking boots, warm clothes, sleeping bags, backpacks, and trekking poles. The rental could be around $50 to $100 USD for the whole trek, while buying all can be over $300 USD. Plan your gear with quality and budget for a comfortable trek.

Guide, Porter or Sherpa Cost

It is compulsory to hire a guide for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek in Nepal as the Nepal government has prohibited solo trekking in the country due to safety and security factors among the travelers. The guide cost for Annapurna Base Camp hike typically costs between $25 to $40 per day.

If you want porter assistance to carry your luggage, the porter cost for ABC hike will cost you $15 to $25 per day. They can also carry up to 20–25 kg so that you are light and can enjoy the trek without carrying a heavy pack in your back.

You can also hire a guide-porter-a person who guides you and at the same time carries your luggage. This is very cost-effective and practical, too, as the guiding porters' rate varies from $20 to $30 per day.

Permit Cost for Annapurna Base Camp Trek

The permit cost for Annapurna Base Camp Trek includes two essential permits: here are them:

  • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), which costs $30, and
  • Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) card, priced at $20

Together, the total comes to $50 USD. These permits can be obtained in Kathmandu or Pokhara.

View from Annapurna Base Camp
View from Annapurna Base Camp

Annapurna Base Camp Trek Price for Solo Travelers vs. Group Treks

The prices of group ABC treks are around 20% less costly than solo treks. That's because solo trekkers tend to pay more for guides and porters, accommodation, and food, whereas groups share costs and may get discounts on services related to transportation and permits.

For instance, guide and porter fees are considerably cheaper in group treks, and accommodation and meal discounts reduce the cost even further. Groups save on administrative costs and transportation, thus making it all relatively more affordable.

Group price for Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Group prices for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek generally lie in the range of $600 to $800 per head, depending on the trek length, operator, group size, and inclusions like guides, permits, meals, and accommodation. Solo travelers usually pay between $1,000 and $1,200 because the costs of guides, permits, and logistics are not shared with anyone else. here is the tentive 10 days Annapurna Base camp trek cost for 2025 and 2026:

Group Size

Starting Price (Price per person)

Remarks

1

USD 999

Send Inquiry

2-3

USD 899

Send Inquiry

4-6

USD 849

Send Inquiry

7-10

USD 799

Send Inquiry

11-15

USD 599

Send Inquiry

15-20

USD 499

Send Inquiry

Annapurna Base Camp Trek Cost for Nepali

Annapurna Base Camp trek cost for Nepali citizens is comparatively less than foreigner. This is an affordable and rewarding adventure for Nepali citizens, with much lower costs compared to foreign trekkers. Among the biggest expenses, transportation includes public buses or jeeps available from Kathmandu to Pokhara for around NPR 2000-2,500 one way. Further transportation from Pokhara onward to the starting point (like Nayapul or Ghandruk) will cost around NPR 1000-1500 for local buses.

For Nepali trekkers, permits are pretty cheap, and all they need is a local entry permit, which costs around NPR 500–1000. Accommodation on the route is relatively affordable, with tea houses charging around NPR 300–1,000 per night for a basic room.

Other than that, food is a significant expense. Meals can cost anywhere from NPR 300-600 per meal, depending on the location and type of food. Other expenses can be anything from snacks to bottled water, hot showers, or charging devices, and range from NPR 1,000-2,000 on the trek.

The total cost of the trek for Nepali trekkers is estimated to be around NPR 40,000–50,000 on average, thus making it one of the most economically viable ways to experience one of Nepal's most famous trekking routes. Traveling in groups and avoiding extra expenses can help reduce the overall cost even further.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek cost for Indian citizens

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek cost for Indian citizens is highly affordable, making it a top choice for adventure seekers from India. Expenses depend on permits, accommodation, meals, transportation, and whether you choose a guided package or trek independently. Indian travelers benefit from reduced permit fees and favourable exchange rates, ensuring a budget-friendly yet enriching experience in the stunning Annapurna region.

Indian trekkers require the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the TIMS card. The ACAP costs around INR 800, and the TIMS card is approximately INR 1,000, significantly cheaper than for international travellers. Accommodation in teahouses ranges from INR 500–800 per night, while meals like dal bhat and noodles cost INR 700–1,100 per meal. Daily expenses for food and lodging average INR 2,000–2,500.

Guided trekking packages for 2025 or 2026 are convenient options, costing INR 35,000–50,000 per person. These include transportation, guides, porters, and permits, ensuring a hassle-free journey. Whether trekking independently or with a group, the Annapurna Base Camp Trek promises an unforgettable experience tailored to Indian travellers budgets.

Mountain view in snowy day
Mountain view in snowy day

Additional ABC Trek Costs

This Additional item also contributes to the Annapurna Base camp trek cost, here are them:

Travel Insurance price

Travel insurance is mandatory for the hike to Annapurna Base Camp for any unforeseen incidents, which may include injuries, altitude sickness, or emergency evacuation. The insurance should cover all activities concerning the trekking at altitudes above 4,000 meters and covering helicopter rescue. Cost varies upon time and coverage; generally varies from $50 to $150.

Tips

Tipping in Nepal is a common practice, showing that guides and porters are appreciated. While not required, it is suggested to tip around 10% of the total cost for a trek or about $5-10 per day for guides, and $3-7 per day for porters. Amounts vary based on the group size and service quality.

Internet

In most tea houses on the trail, the internet is available but costs some money. Access through Wi-Fi ranges from NPR 200–500 ($2–$5) per session, depending on the altitude. Or else, a local SIM card with a data pack may be purchased for wider access.

Transportation Cost

Transportation costs depend on how trekkers travel to and from the trail . A local bus from Pokhara to Nayapul costs about NPR 300–500 ($3–$5); private vehicles cost NPR 2,500–3,500 ($20–$30).

Visa fees

Most of the international visitors need to have a Nepal tourist visa, which costs $30 for 15 days, $50 for 30 days, or $125 for 90 days. This can be obtained upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu or through Nepalese embassies. Ensure the visa duration covers the entire trekking period.

Flight Cost

The cost of flight for the Annapurna Base Camp trek will depend on your travel plan and preferences. Here's a breakdown in clear detail:

International Flights

Your main expenses will be your international flights to Kathmandu. Depending on your city of departure, season, and airline, tickets may vary from $400 to $1,200. Keep the cost to a minimum by booking well in advance, traveling during the off-season, or taking budget airlines when available.

Domestic Flights (Kathmandu to Pokhara)

Once in Kathmandu, many trekkers take a domestic flight west to Pokhara-the gateway to the ABC. This 25-minute flight saves much travel time compared to road travel. One-way flights generally run between $80 and $110, depending on airlines and time of booking.

Eary morning view around Base Camp
Eary morning view around Base Camp

ABC Trek Cost-Saving Tips: How to Trek on a Budget

Travel during off- season

You can save money by trekking during off-peak seasons, such as the monsoon (June–August) or winter (December–February). As many tea houses, flights and tour operators offer discounts to attract trekkers during these quieter times. However, be prepared to face challenges like rain or colder weather.

Stay at Tea Houses

Accommodations on the ABC trail are basic tea houses offering very reasonable rates. To save even more, it's worth trying to negotiate a discount, especially if you tell them you will eat all your meals there.

Use Public Transport and tourist bus

Taking a private jeep to the trailhead from Nayapul or Ghandruk will be very expensive. There is a more affordable way-get a local bus, even if this transport is a bit less comfortable and takes more time on the road.

Travel in a Group

The guide or porter costs and transportation costs are shareable if you are trekking with others. Check in Pokhara or search on online forums for other people going on the same trek.

Carry Your Own Gear

Hiring a porter will cost extra money. If physically capable, carrying your own backpack will eliminate this completely. Pack light but make sure that essential materials are included to avoid rentals or purchases during the time of the trek.

Limit Extra Purchases

On the trail, the cost of snacks, bottled water, and other items is hugely inflated due to transportation costs. Bring purification tablets or a refillable filter to treat tap water, and stock up on energy bars and dry snacks before your trek.

Book Locally

Instead of making a reservation with international trekking agencies for higher rates, hire your guides and porters directly through local tour operators from Nepal. This would reduce the cost and simultaneously help in supporting the local business.

Annapurna Base Camp
Annapurna Base Camp

FAQs About Costs

Is the Annapurna Base Camp Trek worth it?

Yes, it's totally worth it! The stunning mountain views, varied landscapes, and possibility to be culturally involved will make it one of the most memorable adventures.

What is included in the Annapurna Base Camp trek cost?

The cost generally covers the trekking permit, accommodations, food, guide, porter, and transportation. Some packages include gear rentals and emergency service access.

Do I need travel insurance when trekking to Annapurna Base Camp?

Yes, travel insurance is requried for this trek. It should cover the risks associated with trekking, including altitude sickness and emergency evacuations.

How much is the Annapurna Base Camp Trek cost from Pokhara?

The cost for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek from Pokhara usually ranges from $500 to $800 per person. This includes trekking permits, accommodation, meals, guide and porter fees, transportation from Pokhara to the trailhead, and other essentials. The exact cost will depend on the length of the trek, your choice of guide and porter, and the type of accommodation you prefer.

How much is the Annapurna Base Camp Trek cost from Kathmandu?

In general, the price of the Annapurna Base Camp Trek from Kathmandu ranges from $600 to $900 per person. This includes all costs discussed in the estimate from Pokhara, with added transportation costs from Kathmandu to Pokhara in a bus or private vehicle before starting the actual trek. The ultimate price will, again, be based on the length of the trek, preferred accommodations, and whether you will use the services of a guide or a porter.

Conclusion

The trekking to Annapurna Base Camp is an awesome Himalayan adventure whose cost includes a wide range of options, from your priorities and trekking style to services. In this regard, the Annapurna Base Camp Trek cost may vary from $499 to $1,999, depending on your budget and travel style. From basic packages to luxurious ones, there is something for everyone. It always includes the bare essentials like permits, accommodation, food, guides, and transportation, making it accessible to all kinds of travelers.

At Himalayan Recreation, we offer a range of packages to suit every need and budget, from budget-friendly options to luxury helicopter tours. Our packages cover the full cost of the Annapurna Base Camp Trek, including expert guides, flexible itineraries, and a focus on safety. Contact us for more information about the Annapurna Base Camp trek cost details and packages.

Barsha Thapa

Barsha Thapa

Barsha Thapa is our competent team member, currently pursuing her studies at Public Youth Campus. Since 2022, she has been a dedicated part of Himalayan Recreation, where she contributes her skills and enthusiasm to promoting the wonders of Nepal.

Inspired by her colleague Jyoti, a travel enthusiast and expert content creator, Barsha has developed a deep passion for sharing the beauty and culture of the majestic Himalayas. Her role at Himalayan Recreation allows her to combine her academic pursuits with her love for travel and nature.

Committed to showcasing Nepal's unique experiences, Barsha assists in content creation and planning unforgettable journeys, ensuring that every traveler experiences the true essence of Nepal.

When she is not immersed in her studies or work, Barsha enjoys exploring new trails, discovering hidden gems, and immersing herself in the serene landscapes of Nepal. The mountains have become a significant part of her life, fueling her passion and drive to connect with nature and inspire others to do the same.

As a part of the Himalayan Recreation family, Barsha is always eager to share her knowledge and help fellow travelers create lasting memories. Feel free to contact her via WhatsApp or email; she is available online 24/7 for any inquiries or travel plans.

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