Annapurna Circuit Trek Cost: Complete Budget Guide for 2026
Trip Overview
If you are planning for the Annapurna Circuit Trek, one critical question obviously comes on your mind. That is how much will it actually cost? The Annapurna Circuit trek cost depends on several factors from accommodation choices and meal preferences to whether you hire a guide or go solo.
Excellent Himalaya Trek have organized guided Annapurna Circuit trek for hundreds of trekkers. Thus we have learned that transparent, accurate budget information is essential for a stress-free experience. This guide breaks down every expense you will encounter on the trail, from permit fees and teahouse stays to hidden costs like phone charging and hot showers that catch many trekkers off guard.
Whether you are backpacking on a shoestring budget or prefer a more comfortable experience with our guided services, you will know exactly what to expect and how to plan your budget accordingly. Our local expertise helps you avoid overpaying while ensuring you don’t compromise on safety, comfort, or the quality of your trek.
By the end of this guide, you will have a clear picture of your total expenses, insider money-saving tips from our experienced Nepali guides, and the confidence to budget properly.
Detailed Cost Breakdown
By understanding where your money goes helps you budget accurately and make smart decisions on the trail. Here is a comprehensive breakdown of every expense category you will encounter on the Annapurna Circuit.
Permits and Entry Fees
Before you set foot on the trail, you’ll need two essential permits:
TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System): USD 20
– Required for all trekkers
– Helps with safety and rescue coordination
– Valid for the duration of your trek
– Will obtain in Kathmandu through authorized trekking company
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): USD 30 USD
– Mandatory for entering the Annapurna conservation region
– Funds support environmental conservation and local communities
– One-time fee, valid for your entire circuit
– Will obtain in Kathmandu through authorized trekking company
Documents needed: Passport copy, Your photo, and trekking itinerary
Total permit cost: USD 50 per person
Accommodation Costs
The Annapurna Circuit is famous for its teahouse network. Tea House mean family-run lodges that provide basic but comfortable accommodation along the entire route.
Typical Teahouse Costs:
- Lower elevations (Besisahar to Chame): From USD 3 to USD 5 per night
- Mid-elevations (Chame to Manang): From USD 5 to USD 8 per night
- High elevations (Manang to Thorong La): From 8 to 15 per night
- Descent (Muktinath to Tatopani): From USD 5 to USD 8 per night
What You Get:
- Room with twin beds
- Shared bathroom (usually squat toilets)
- Blankets (bring your own sleeping bag for warmth)
- Common dining area with heating (for a fee)
Why Prices Increase with Altitude:
All supplies are carried by porters or animals to high-altitude villages. The higher you go, the more expensive everything becomes including your accommodation. At Thorong Phedi (4,450m), you are paying for the effort it takes to bring supplies to one of the highest inhabited places on the circuit.
Peak vs. Off-Season Pricing:
- Peak season (October-November, March-April): Expect a bit prices, book ahead in Tea House to secure room
- Off-season (December-February, June-September): Standard rate you will get.
Budget for accommodation: $5-$10 per night average = USD 150 to USD 200 for 15-day trek.
Food and Drinks
We advise you eating well on the Annapurna Circuit. Teahouses in the route of Annapurna Circuit Trek offers filling meals that fuel your daily hiking.
Meal Costs:
- Breakfast: USD 5 to 8 (Like porridge, eggs, toast, Tibetan bread etc.)
- Lunch: USD 8 to 10 (Like noodles, fried rice, sandwiches etc.)
- Dinner: USD 10 to 12 (Like dal bhat, pasta, pizza, momos etc.)
- Snacks: USD 2 to 5 (Like biscuits, chocolate bars, fruit etc.)
Beverages:
- Tea/coffee: USD 2 to 5 (increases with altitude)
- Bottled water (1 lilter): USD 1 to 3 (increases with altitude)
- Soft drinks: USD 2 to 5
- Beer: USD 5 to 10
Money-Saving Tip: Dal Bhat Power
Order dal bhat (traditional Nepali lentil soup with rice and vegetables). Most teahouses offer unlimited refills. You can eat as much as you need to fuel your trekking for one set price. Trekkers hear the phrase in trek: Dal bhat power, 24 hour!.
Water Strategy:
Don’t buy bottled water at every stop. Bring water purification tablets or a filter and refill from taps/streams. This saves USD 30 to 50 over the trek and reduces plastic waste.
Total food budget: USD 350 to 400 for 15-day trek.
Transportation Costs
Getting to and from the Annapurna Circuit involves several transport legs.
Kathmandu to Besisahar (Trek Start):
- Local bus: USD 10 to 12 (7-8 hours, comfortable and authentic)
- Private jeep: USD 130 to 150 (6-7 hours)
Besisahar to Bhulbhule/Ngadi (Optional):
- Local jeep: USD 5 to per person
- Saves 1-2 days of walking on road sections
Muktinath/Jomsom to Pokhara (Trek End):
- Local bus via Tatopani: USD 15 to 18 (8/9 hours, scenic but long)
- Shared jeep: USD 25 to 35 (7/8 hours, more comfortable)
- Flight Jomsom to Pokhara: USD 150 to 180 (20 minutes, weather-dependent, spectacular views)
Pokhara to Kathmandu:
- Tourist bus: USD 12 to 17 (7/8 hours)
- Flight: USD 100 to 130 (25 minutes)
Total transportation: USD 60 to 80 (ground) or USD 200 to $250 (with flight)
Guide and Porter Costs
Hiring local support enhances your experience and supports local communities.
Guide Costs:
- Daily rate: USD 25 to 30 per day
- What’s included: Their food, accommodation, allowance, insurance
- What they provide: Route navigation, cultural insights, language help, safety support
Porter Costs:
- Daily rate: USD 20 to 25 per day
- Carrying capacity: Up to 25 kg (split between 2 trekkers)
- What’s included: Their food, accommodation, insurance, allowance
Do You Need a Guide?
- The Annapurna Circuit is well-marked and heavily trafficked, so experienced trekkers often go independently. However, a guide offers:
- Cultural context and local knowledge
- Language translation in remote villages
- Help with altitude acclimatization decisions
- Safety support in case of emergency
- Direct support to local families
When to Hire a Porter:
If you’re carrying more than 8-10kg, have knee/back issues, or want to enjoy the scenery without a heavy pack, a porter is worth every rupee.—
Gear and Equipment
You don’t need to buy everything new—Nepal has excellent rental options.
Rent in Kathmandu/Pokhara:
Sleeping bag (minus 20°C rated): $1-$2 per day
Down jacket: $1-$2 per day
Trekking poles: $8-$10 total
Essential Items to Buy:**
- Trekking boots: $80-$150 (buy before arriving, break them in)
- Base layers: $30-$60
- Headlamp:$30-$50
- Sunglasses (UV protection): $20-$50
What Excellent Himalaya Trek Provides:
If you book a guided trek with us, we provide sleeping bags, down jackets, and duffel bags at no extra cost.
Travel Insurance
This is non-negotiable. The Annapurna Circuit crosses Thorong La Pass at 5,416 meters, where altitude sickness can become serious.
What You Need:
- Helicopter evacuation coverage up to 5416 meter
- Medical coverage for altitude-related illness**
- Trip cancellation/interruption coverage
Recommended Providers:
- World Nomads
- True Traveller
- IMG Global
- SafetyWing
Typical Cost: from $50 to $150 depending on your age, trip length, and coverage level
Why It Matters:
Helicopter evacuations from high altitude cost $5,000-$10,000. Last year, we witnessed several rescues from Thorong La due to severe altitude sickness. Insurance isn’t optional—it’s essential.
Hidden and Extra Costs
These surprise expenses add up fast if you’re not prepared:
Hot Showers: $2-$5 per shower
WiFi: $2-$3 per location
Tips for Guide/Porter (if hired): Guide: $150-$200 for guide and $80-$100 total for the porter
Excellent Himalaya Trek and Expedition is the authentic ground operator for the Annapurna Circuit Trek in Nepal. It is managed by local experts and Sherpa. If you are looking for Annapurna Circuit Trek cost for 2026 in package at cheap and reasonable cost for the best experience without any hassles, please find below the Annapurna Circuit Trek itineraries and best deals price.
ANNAPURNA CIRCUIT TREK (15 Days)
| Day 01: Arrival at Kathmandu International Airport. You will be welcomed by our Tour officer at the airport & transfer to the hotel. Overnight at Hotel in Kathmandu. |
| Day 02: Morning drive from Kathmandu to Bhulbhule, 186 km west of Kathmandu by public bus. Driving 7/8 hours. Overnight at Tea House. |
| Day 03: Trek from Bhulbhule to Jagat (1300 m/4265 ft). Walking 6:30 hours. Overnight at Tea House. |
| Day 04: Trek from Jagat to Dharapani (1860 m/6102 ft). Walking 5 hours. Overnight at Tea House. |
| Day 05: Trek from Dharapani to Chame (2725m/8940ft). Walking 6 hours. Overnight at Tea House. |
| Day 06: Trekking from Chame to Pisang (3190m/10466ft). Walking 5 hours. Overnight at Tea House. |
| Day 07: Trekking from Pisang to Manang (3500m/11483ft). Walking 5 hours. Overnight at Tea House. |
| Day 08: Rest Day in Manang for acclimatization. Overnight at Tea House. |
| Day 09: Trekking from Manang to Yak Kharka (4090m/13418ft). Walking 3/4 hours. Overnight at Tea House. |
| Day 10: Trekking from Yak Kharka to Thorang Phedi (4441m/14570ft). Walking 4 hours. Overnight at Tea House. |
| Day 11: Trekking from Thorung Phedi to Muktinath via Thorang-la passes (5416m/17769ft). Walking 8 to 9 hours. Overnight at Tea House. |
| Day 12: Trekking from Muktinath to Jomsom (2743 m/ 8778 ft). Walking 6 hours. Overnight at Tea House. |
| Day 13: Drive from Jomsom to Pokhara (823m/2700ft) by public bus. Distance 158 km. Driving 8/9 hrs. O/n Hotel in Pokhara. |
| Day 14: Drive back from Pokhara to Kathmandu by tourist bus. Driving 7/8 hours Evening farewell dinner with Nepali Cultural show. Overnight Hotel in Kathmandu. |
| Day 15: Departure to your home country. Our tour officer will drop you at Kathmandu International Airport and see you off. End of Service. |
| Short Annapurna Circuit Trek Cost | USD 795 |
ANNAPURNA CIRCUIT TREK INCLUDING POON HILL (18 Days)
| Day 01: Arrival at Kathmandu International Airport. You will be welcomed by our Tour officer at the airport & transfer to the hotel. Overnight at Hotel in Kathmandu. |
| Day 02: Morning drive from Kathmandu to Bhulbhule, 186 km west of Kathmandu by bus. Driving 7/8 hours. Overnight at Tea House. |
| Day 03: Trek from Bhulbhule to Jagat (1300 m/4265 ft). Walking 6:30 hours. Overnight at Tea House. |
| Day 04: Trek from Jagat to Dharapani (1860 m/6102 ft). Walking 5 hours. Overnight at Tea House. |
| Day 05: Trek from Dharapani to Chame (2725m/8940ft). Walking 6 hours. Overnight at Tea House. |
| Day 06: Trekking from Chame to Pisang (3190m/10466ft). Walking 5 hours. Overnight at Tea House. |
| Day 07: Trekking from Pisang to Manang (3500m/11483ft). Walking 5 hours. Overnight at Tea House. |
| Day 08: Rest Day in Manang for acclimatization. Overnight at Tea House. |
| Day 09: Trekking from Manang to Yak Kharka (4090m/13418ft). Walking 4 hours. Overnight at Tea House. |
| Day 10: Trekking from Yak Kharka to Thorang Phedi (4441m/14570ft). Walking 3 to 4 hours. Overnight at Tea House. |
| Day 11: Trekking from Thorung Phedi to Muktinath via Thorang-la passes (5416m/17769ft). Walking 8 to 9 hours. Overnight at Tea House. |
| Day 12: Trekking from Muktinath to Marpha (2670 m/8760 ft). Walking 7 hours. Overnight at Tea House. |
| Day 13: Trekking from Marpha to Kalopani (2530 m/8301 ft). Walking 7 hours. Overnight at Tea House. |
| Day 14: Trekking from Kalopani to Tatopani (1110 m/3636 ft). Walking 7 hours. Overnight at Tea House. |
| Day 15: Trekking from Tatopani to Ghorepani (2834 m/9298 ft). Walking 7 hours. Overnight at Tea House. |
| Day 16: Early morning hiking to Poon Hill then back to Ghorepani. Trekking from Ghorepani to Nayapul. Walking 7 hrs. Drive to Pokhara. Drive for 1:30 hrs. Overnight at Hotel in Pokhara. |
| Day 17: Drive back from Pokhara to Kathmandu by tourist bus. Driving 7/8 hours Evening farewell dinner with Nepali Cultural show. Overnight at Hotel in Kathmandu. |
| Day 18: Departure to your home country. Our tour officer will drop you at Kathmandu International Airport and see you off. End of Service. |
| Annapurna Circuit Trek including Poon Hill Cost | USD 895 |
ANNAPURNA CIRCUIT TREK INCLUDING TILICHO LAKE
| Day 01: Arrival at Kathmandu International Airport. You will be welcomed by our Tour officer at the airport & transfer to the hotel. Overnight at Hotel in Kathmandu. |
| Day 02: Morning drive from Kathmandu to Bhulbhule, 186 km west of Kathmandu by bus. Driving 7/8 hours. Overnight at Tea House. |
| Day 03: Trek from Bhulbhule to Jagat (1300 m/4265 ft). Walking 6:30 hours. Overnight at Tea House. |
| Day 04: Trek from Jagat to Dharapani (1860 m/6102 ft). Walking 5 hours. Overnight at Tea House. |
| Day 05: Trek from Dharapani to Chame (2725m/8940ft). Walking 6 hours. Overnight at Tea House. |
| Day 06: Trekking from Chame to Pisang (3190m/10466ft). Walking 5/6 hours. Overnight at Tea House. |
| Day 07: Trekking from Pisang to Manang (3500m/11483ft). Walking 6 hours. Overnight at Tea House. |
| Day 08: Rest Day in Manang for acclimatization. Overnight at Tea House. |
| Day 09: Trekking from Manang to Shri Kharka (4050m/13284ft). Walking 5 hours. Overnight at Tea House. |
| Day 10: Trekking from Shri Kharka to Tilicho Base Camp (4150m/13615ft). Walking 3 to 4 hours. Overnight at Tea House. |
| Day 11: Trekking from Tilicho Base Camp to Tilicho Lake (4919m/16138ft) and back to Shri Kharka (4050m/13284ft). Walking 7 to 8 hours. Overnight at Tea House. |
| Day 12: Trekking from Shri Kharka to Yak Kharka (4090m/13418ft). Walking 5 to 6 hours. Overnight at Tea House. |
| Day 13: Trekking from Yak Kharka to Thorang Phedi (4441m/14570ft). Walking 3 to 4 hours. Overnight at Tea House. |
| Day 14: Trekking from Thorung Phedi to Muktinath via Thorang-la passes (5416m/17769ft). Walking 8 to 9 hours. Overnight at Tea House. |
| Day 15: Trekking from Muktinath to Jomsom (2743 m/ 8778 ft). Walking 6 hours. Overnight at Tea House. |
| Day 16: Drive from Jomsom to Pokhara (823m/2700ft) by public bus. Distance 158 km. Driving 8/9 hrs. Overnight at Hotel in Pokhara. |
| Day 17: Drive back from Pokhara to Kathmandu by tourist bus. Driving 7/8 hours Evening farewell dinner with Nepali Cultural show. Overnight at Hotel in Kathmandu. |
| Day 18: Departure to your home country. Our tour officer will drop you at Kathmandu International Airport and see you off. End of Service. |
| Annapurna Circuit Trek including Tilicho Lake | USD 895 |
The above Package Cost includes:
• On your arrival day airport pickup service by car.
• 2-night accommodation in Kathmandu at Tourist Standard Hotel with breakfast
• 1-night accommodation in Pokhara at Tourist Standard Hotel with breakfast
• Accommodation in Mountain Lodge/ Tea House during trekking.
• 3 Meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) in a day during the trek.
• Drive from Kathmandu to Bhulbhule by local Bus.
• Drive from Muktinath to Tatopani by local Bus.
• Drive from Tatopani to Pokhara by local Bus.
• Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu by Tourist Bus
• During trekking, one experienced friendly trekking Guide.
• Expenses for food, accommodation, insurance, transport, and the wages of trekking staff.
• Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) fee.
• Trekking Permit (TIMS Card fee.
• Altitude medicines, Oximeter, first aid medicines.
• Seasonable fruits in trek.
• Map of Annapurna Circuit Trekking route.
• Trip Achievement Certificate will be awarded after completion of the trip.
• All government taxes, local taxes, and tourist service charges.
• On your departure day airport drop service by car.
The above Package Cost does not include:
• Airfare for your international flight.
• Nepal Visa Fee (You can easily get Nepal visa at the arrival time at the airport in Kathmandu)
• Your travel insurance (As the Annapurna Circuit trek is high altitude journey it is advised to do travel insurance which covers medical & helicopter evacuation from a high altitude, 5500 meters)
• Alcoholic beverages, hot and cold drinks, hot water, bottled water, dessert.
• All kinds of personal expenses like phone calls, internet use, laundry, battery charge, hot shower during trekking, excess baggage charge, etc.
• Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara except for farewell dinner on the last night of the trip.
• In case of emergency helicopter rescue/ evacuation & its cost.
• Porter
• Tips for Trekking Staff.
• Any expenses arising due to unforeseen situations like flight cancellation, personal sickness, natural calamities, political strikes, etc.
• Cost of any extra services if you use which not mentioned in the above package includes
Start Planning Your Annapurna Circuit Adventure
The Annapurna Circuit offers one of the world’s most rewarding trekking experiences and now you know exactly what it costs.
The Annapurna Circuit isn’t just a trek. It’s a journey through diverse landscapes, ancient cultures, and personal challenge. From subtropical valleys to the snow-covered Thorong La Pass at 5,416 meters, every rupee you spend contributes to an experience you will remember for a lifetime.
Ready to Make Your Trek a Reality?
At Excellent Himalaya Trek and Expediton, we’ve been guiding trekkers through the Annapurna Circuit for years, combining local expertise with transparent pricing and genuine care for our guests. Whether you’re looking for a fully organized group departure or just need permit assistance and route advice, we’re here to help.
Why Annapurna Circuit Trek with Excellent Trek?
- Transparent Pricing- No hidden fees, no surprises, just honest costs upfront
- Experienced Local Guides- Born and raised in the Himalayas, fluent in English
- Small Group Sizes- For personalized attention
- Safety First – Comprehensive emergency protocols and evacuation insurance
- Flexible Itineraries- Customizable routes with proper acclimatization
- Community Support- Fair wages for guides/porters, eco-friendly practices
Still Have Questions?
Our team is here to help you plan the perfect Annapurna Circuit experience within your budget. Get in Touch.
Email: [email protected]
WhatsApp Number: +977 9851203181
What Our Trekkers Say
- Excellent Himalaya Trek made our Annapurna Circuit dream a reality. The transparent pricing meant no surprises, and our guide Pemba’s local knowledge was invaluable. We stayed within our $1,200 budget and had the experience of a lifetime- Sarah & Mike, Australia
- As a solo female traveler, I joined the March group departure and couldn’t be happier. The group became like family, the guide was experienced and safe, and the price was unbeatable for what we got. Highly recommend- Jennifer, USA
- We customized our itinerary with Excellent Trek to add extra acclimatization days. The flexibility and personal attention made all the difference—we summited Thorong La comfortably and never felt rushed- Raj & Priya, India
Ask our experts (Inquiry)
Why travel with us?
- Run by local experts, guide & Sherpa.
- Focus on your needs.
- Good value for money.
- Real cared services.
- Government recognized company.
- Best reasonable rate.
