Annapurna Base Camp Trek Cost: Guide
Annapurna Base Camp
📷
Annapurna Base Camp Trek is a stunning Himalayan trek near Pokhara. Moreover, it brings you to the base of Mt. Annapurna I (8,091m). On the way, you also will have the beautiful glimpses of Machapuchare (6,993m), Hiunchuli (6,441m), and Annapurna South (7,219m).
Actually, the ABC hike starts at Nayapul, just near Pokhara. You walk through Tikhedhunga, Ghorepani, and Chhomrong village. You hike through rhododendron forests, stone trails, and river beds. Besides, you hike through Bamboo, Deurali, and reach ABC at 4,130m. Since this path stays below 4,500m, altitude issues are not likely to occur. However, you may have minor issues of altitude sickness while ascending from Machhapuchhre Base Camp to Annapurna Base Camp. Local tea houses provide meals and lodging. Actually, there is no need for camping.
How difficult is Annapurna Base Camp Trek? The right Answer to this question is: Actually, the Annapurna Base Camp trek is not physically demanding. You trek 5–7 hours every day. It is a moderate adventure trekking to the highest elevation 4130m. The trail is steep in some places. But every step offers wonderful scenery. Similarly, you see local Gurung culture as well. A wonderful stop at hot springs at Jhinu Danda. Thus, the trail is chosen by many trekkers as their choice for a first high-altitude trek in Nepal.
📷
Briefly, Annapurna Base Camp Trek has mountains, nature, and culture to enjoy all in one trip. It is safe and well-traveled. Everyone does it between 7 to 12 days. The ABC trek in general is perfect for beginners and experienced hikers.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek | 8 days
(12 reviews)5.0
Trekking in Nepal
View TripFrom US$ 780US$ 585 Save US$ 195
📷
Annapurna Base Camp Trek does not cost much for most trekkers. The total cost could be anywhere from $400 to $900. It depends on your traveling style, group size, and services.
Moreover, Permit fees for Annapurna Base Camp Trek are fixed. You need two permits: ACAP and TIMS. Together they cost approximately $45. Also, the food and room cost per day is $20 to $30. The more you ascend, the more the prices increase. Similarly, transportation from Pokhara or Kathmandu is another $90 to $100 if you go with Private jeep. In fact, local buses are cheaper like USD 6. And the Luxury Tourist Bus from Kathmandu to Pokhara cost USD 15-20, Private jeeps or domestic flights are costly.
Actually, hiring a guide or porter increases the cost. Guides are $25 to $35 per day. Porters are $15 to $25 per day. In practice, the majority of trekkers share one porter between them. Package treks are also available. They include all aspects like permits, food, and personnel. The cost of Annapurna Base Camp Trek usually cost $600 to $800 from Pokhara. However, luxury Annapurna Base Camp treks with private rooms and transport can cost more than $1,000.
In short, the cost for Annapurna Base Camp Trek is flexible. You can trek on a low or high budget. Just organize your expenses beforehand. So, plan to spend at least $500 for a safe and successful ABC trek. Overall, the Annapurna Base Camp Trek offers great value for money.
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek Cost depends on how you trek. On average, the cost of Annapurna Base Camp Trek Cost ranges from $400 to $900. This cost includes permits, food, accommodation, transport, and guide and porter service.
Actually, if you do Annapurna Base Camp trek solo, you spend less on Annapurna Base Camp Trek. But you must do everything yourself. Your daily cost is $25 to $35. That covers food, tea houses, and small extras. On top of this, permits for Annapurna Base Camp Trek are around $45 for all citizens. Local bus travel is cheap. But jeeps or flights add to the cost. Similarly, rentals or purchases of equipment add more. The rental for equipment for Annapurna Base Camp Trek is available in Kathmandu as well as in Pokhara.
Moreover, with guide and porter, your cost increases. Guides charge $30 a day for Annapurna Base Camp Trek. Porters cost approximately $20 a day. Likewise, you have to also pay for their accommodation and food. This is different from solo trekking but much safer and more convenient. In fact, group trekkers share the cost for Annapurna Base Camp Trek. A full Annapurna Base Camp Trek package from Pokhara can be $600 to $800. It includes permit, transport, food, and guide and porter.
📷
Finally, your cost for Annapurna Base Camp Trek depends on your choices. Budget trekkers can do Annapurna Base Camp Trek for under $500. Luxury trekkers can spend more than $700 for Annapurna Base Camp. Prioritize before planning, therefore. Overall, the Annapurna Base Camp trek suits all budgets if properly planned beforehand.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek From Pokhara | 5 days
(4 reviews)5.0
Trekking in Nepal
View TripFrom US$ 545US$ 435 Save US$ 110
📷
You need two permits for Annapurna Base Camp Trek. They are TIMS cards and ACAP. Both are necessary for all foreign and SAARC trekkers.
Actually, ACAP stands for Annapurna Conservation Area Permit. It is NPR 3,000 (around $22) for non-Nepalis. SAARC nationals pay NPR 1,000 (around $7). TIMS stands for Trekkers' Information Management System. For single foreigners, it is NPR 2,000 (around $15). Similarly, group trekkers pay NPR 1,000 per head. TIMS for SAARC nationals is NPR 600. Nepali citizens do not need these permits for Annapurna Base Camp Trek.
In fact, both permits are available in Pokhara or Kathmandu. The process is simple. You will require a photocopy of your passport and a few snaps. In fact, most trekking agencies will do it on your behalf. Also, the fees of the permits are utilized for trail up-keep and local defense. Likewise, you will have to show them at several entry points along the ABC trail.
📷
In conclusion, the overall cost of permits for Annapurna Base Camp Trek stands around $45 for the foreign trekker. SAARC citizens pay under $15. So, use Nepali currency when purchasing permits. Generally, these permits keep the trail intact and safe for your arrival.
The expense of food on the Annapurna Base Camp Trek differs based on the location. On average, the food on Annapurna Base Camp Trek costs between $20 and $30 per day. As you ascend higher, the prices also rise.
Likewise, at lower altitudes like Tikhedhunga or Chhomrong, food is cheaper. Dal bhat costs $4 to $5 for a set. Noodles or fried rice cost $3 to $4. At Machapuchare Base Camp (3,700m) or ABC (4,130m), however, the same food can cost $7 to $10. This is due to the fact that porters carry everything up the mountain.
📷
Actually, food menus offer several choices along the ABC Trail. The local lodges have their own food menu. You can have porridge, pancakes, momos, chowmein, and pasta. Tea, coffee, and bottled water are extras. For example, you can pay $1 for a cup of tea at lower altitudes. But it will be $3 at higher altitudes like at Durali, Machhapuchhre Base Camp and Annapurna Base Camp. Likewise, snacks like chocolate bars or chips cost more. Actually, it is cost-saving to bring your own snacks.
Finally, budget around $25 per day for food on Annapurna Base Camp Trek. Eat locally to save money. Therefore, carry cash to accommodate rising expenses as you ascend. Overall, the food on ABC Trek is simple, clean, and provides enough energy for the trek.
Accommodation on the Annapurna Base Camp Trek is basic and affordable. Tea houses and lodges provide rooms throughout the Annapurna Base Camp Trek route. Accommodation cost on Annapruan Base Camp varies according to altitude and season.
Likewise, in lower villages like Nayapul and Tikhedhunga, the rooms cost $5 to $7 per night. They usually have plain beds and blankets. Similarly, in Chhomrong and Bamboo, rates rise up to $7 to $10. In higher points like Deurali, Machapuchare Base Camp, and ABC, the rooms are $10 to $15. Private rooms and hot water come at higher costs like USD 12-20. Shared rooms are the primary rules among the trekkers less private but cheaper.
📷
Really, tea houses provide simple accommodation but comfortable enough. Bathrooms might be shared and showers are cold. However, some lodges have solar-heated or gas-heated water. Reservations are not generally necessary, but during high seasons ( Spring and Autumn) rooms get booked quickly. In reality, it is best to begin early in order to arrive at your stop for the night early.
In total, spend $7 to $12 per night on average for Accommodation on Annapurna Base Camp Trek. Pay in cash because few places accept cards after Jhino Danda. Therefore, accommodation is adding a significant amount to your daily budget. On average, accommodation during ABC Trek is easy but comfortable and suits all the trekkers well.
Transportation cost for Annapurna Base Camp Trek depends on your starting point. Most trekkers commence from Kathmandu or Pokhara.
Actually, tourist Buses running from Kathmandu to Pokhara charge $10 to $15. Tourist buses are faster but cost more. Private jeeps from Kathmandu to Pokhara charge $70 to $100. Flights from Kathmandu to Pokhara take about 30 minutes. They charge $100 to $130 one way. Flights, however, depend on the weather and get delayed sometimes.
Moreover, you travel by local bus or jeep from Pokhara to Nayapul or Bhulbhule. Local buses cost $2 to $5. Jeeps cost $10 to $15. You trek from Nayapul onwards on foot. But, these days, people can take a jeep ride from Pokhara to Ghandruk/Jhino Danda or Ulleri directly. Right after there, they can begin their Annapurna Base Camp Trek.
The private jeep for Jhino Danda cost USD 90, sharing costs USD 10. Likewise, private jeep from Pokhara to Ghandruk costs USD 80, sharing costs USD 7. Moreover, private jeep from Pokahra to Ulleri costs USD 100 and sharing costs USD 12.
📷
Actually, transportation option is a question of budget and time. Some fly to Pokhara to save time. Others prefer local buses for the experience. Private jeeps are convenient but expensive.
Overall, budget $15 to $150 for transportation on your Annapurna Base Camp hike. Plan ahead and reserve flights if you want to fly. Therefore, good transportation options make your ABC hike easier. Generally, transportation cost during Annapurna Base Camp Trek is affordable and fits most budgets.
It is customary to take a guide and porter on the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. In fact, it adds to safety and comfort.
Actually, guides cost $25 to $35 a day for Annapurna Base Camp Trek. Guides know the trail and help you to settle all logistics. They help with navigation, language, and emergencies. Similarly, Porters cost $15 to $25 a day. Porters carry your heavy backpack. This helps you to walk more comfortably and enjoy the ABC trek more. You also have to pay for their food and lodging which is included in the cost you pay.
Actually, the majority of trekkers hire only a guide or porter for Annapurna Base Camp Trek. However, both are more hassle-free for a relaxed trek. There are also package guide and porter agencies. It is costly but hassle-free with less concern. Similarly, guide or porter sharing with a group lessens the cost per person.
Finally, budget $40 to $60 per day for hiring guide and porter for Annapurna Base Camp Trek. Carry some additional money for tips. Thus, hiring guide and porter enhances your ABC trekking adventure. Mostly, it is worth it to pay for assistance and safety.
6 Days Annapurna Base Camp Trek | 6 days
(6 reviews)5.0
Trekking in Nepal
View TripFrom US$ 620US$ 465 Save US$ 155
📷
You would have extra money besides everyday expenses on your Annapurna Base Camp Trek. This covers emergencies, tips, and small personal expenses on the trek.
Actually, everyday expenses on Annapurna Base Camp Trek consist of meals, accommodation, permits, and travel costs. You may spend extra for hot showers, snacks, or charging devices. These are $1 to $5 per session for hot shower and WI- Fi. Internet and souvenirs also add to the extra cost during Annapurna Base Camp Trek. Emergency medical services or evacuation can be expensive, so having extra money comes in handy.
In fact, it is a practical thing to tip guides and porters at the end of Annapurna Base Camp Trek. Budget them separately as well. Adverse weather conditions may force you to wait on the trail for extra days. This will be at your own cost. So, plan at least 15-20% more money than budgeted.
In summary, having some extra $100 to $200 on your Annapurna Base Camp Trek makes sense. Spend cash in Nepali rupees for the straightforward transactions. Therefore, extra money ensures security and convenience during your ABC Trek. Overall, being prepared earlier off anxiety during your ABC trek.
Actually, tipping is the standard and appreciated practice on the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. It shows respect and gratitude.
Actually, guides normally receive 10-15% of their total cost. For example, if a guide takes $30 per day for 10 days, tip between $30 to $45. Porters typically get a little less, about $15 to $25 in total. You can also tip extra for top-notch service or in harsh conditions.
Actually, tipping depends on your level of satisfaction and budget. If your porter or guide does a lot for you, give a generous tip. Some trekkers also leave presents or clothing. Tips, however, should be respectful and reasonable. Never overtip or under-tip.
Finally, spend around $50 to $70 in total on tips for Annapurna Base Camp Trek. Take little US dollars or Nepali rupees notes for tipping. Therefore, tipping improves your trekking experience. As a rule, it supports the livelihood of local support staff and shows compassion.
Starting Annapurna Base Camp Trek from Kathmandu does involve some extra cost. You initially need to go to Pokhara, the entry point of the trek.
By local bus, it's between $6 and $10 Pokhara to Kathmandu. The trip is approximately 6 to 8 hours. Tourist buses are faster and more comfortable but cost a bit more between USD 10-15. If time is of the essence, then a flight is the choice. Flights from Kathmandu to Pokhara are between 25 and 30 minutes and range from $100 to $130 each way. But flights are weather-related and can be postponed.
Once in Pokhara, you’ll pay for transport to Nayapul or Bhulbhule. Local buses cost just a few dollars, around $2 to $5. Jeeps are faster and cost about $10 to $15. From Nayapul, the trek begins on foot.
Also, trekkers can directly drive to Jhino Danda/ Ghandruk or Ulleri by bus or jeep. The cost of jeep ride ( sharing) from Pokhara to Jhino Danda is USD 8 and private USD 80. Likewise, the cost of private jeep from Pokhara to Ulleri is USD 100 and the sharing is USD 15. Moreover, the jeep ride from Pokhara to Ghandruk ( private) costs USD 70 and the sharing costs USD 8.
In short, transportation cost from Kathmandu to Pokhara may be anything between $15 to $150. If you go by flight and private jeep, it will be expensive. But buses are affordable. Advance thinking about transport saves money and your trip becomes hassle-free.
7 Days Annapurna Base Camp Trek | 7 days
(7 reviews)5.0
Trekking in Nepal
View TripFrom US$ 727US$ 545 Save US$ 182
📷
Beginning the Annapurna Base Camp trek from Pokhara is both popular and economical. Pokhara is the gateway town prior to the start of the trek.
Actually, the transport from Pokhara to Nayapul or Bhulbhule costs between $2 and $15. The cheapest are the local buses, which cost between $2 and $5. They take longer but offer a real local experience. More costly are the jeeps at around $10 to $15. They are faster and more comfortable, especially if you have a lot of equipment.
Also, trekkers can directly drive to Jhino Danda/ Ghandruk or Ulleri by bus or jeep. The cost of jeep ride ( sharing) from Pokhara to Jhino Danda is USD 8 and private USD 80. Likewise, the cost of private jeep from Pokhara to Ulleri is USD 100 and the sharing is USD 15. Moreover, the jeep ride from Pokhara to Ghandruk ( private) costs USD 70 and the sharing costs USD 8.
Once you start trekking, the average daily expense of food and accommodation is $20 to $30. ACAP and TIMS permit fees are a one-time charge, about $45 total. Guides and porters are an added cost, about $40 to $60 a day if you hire both.
In short, starting ABC Trek from Pokhara lowers your transport cost. It also offers you access to good hotels and supplies before you trek. Arranging your transport and permits from Pokhara can save you money as well as time. Overall, it is the most accessible and popular place to start the trek.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek From Pokhara | 5 days
(4 reviews)5.0
Trekking in Nepal
View TripFrom US$ 545US$ 435 Save US$ 110
📷
The hike to Annapurna Base Camp via Jhinu Danda is a regular route. It also offers natural hot springs to relax after an exhausting day. This route can be a bit pricier than the standard route.
Transportation from Jhinu Danda is a bit pricier because it is off the beaten track. You will pay $5 to $10 extra for jeeps or bus transport from Pokhara. Accommodation in Jhinu Danda is usually $7 to $12 per night. Food costs are the same as for towns along the trek, about $5 to $10 per meal.
Thanks to the hot springs, a majority of trekkers spend an extra day here resting. This adds to food and accommodation costs. On top of that, you still have ACAP and TIMS permits, which are about $45 in total. Having a guide or porter will cost you about standard rates of $25 to $35 per day for guides and $15 to $25 per day for porters.
In short, ABC Trek from Jhinu Danda is a bit pricier but has special moments. It's worth extra money if you want to feel the hot springs. All things equal, budget a bit more for this trail.
The Nepali people have fewer costs on the Annapurna Base Camp Trek compared to foreign trekkers. This is mainly due to subsidized or exempted fees and permits.
For instance, ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit) is just NPR 300 ($2.5 equivalent) for Nepali trekkers. Similarly, the TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) card is generally free for locals. But foreign trekkers spend about $45 on permits alone. So, Nepali trekkers save significantly just on permits.
Accommodation in lodges and tea houses is also cheaper for Nepalis. Locals spend NPR 300 to 500 ($2.5 to $4) per night in most destinations. This is less than the $5 to $10 that foreign trekkers are asked to pay. However, food prices are equal for everyone, usually $4 to $7 for a meal. Transport costs, such as buses and jeeps, also make no distinction.
📷
Hiring a guide or porter is the norm for all trekkers. Their fees, usually $25 to $35 per day for guides and $15 to $25 per day for porters, are the same for all nationalities. The majority of Nepali trekkers choose to hire help to assist in providing local jobs.
Briefly, Nepali trekkers pay far less in permits and accommodation. Day-to-day expenses of food and staff are the same for foreigners, though. Overall, this makes the Annapurna Base Camp Trek far cheaper for Nepali citizens. It also encourages locals to go and visit their amazing mountains.
Indian citizens get some discounts but not as large as Nepalis for their Annapurna Base Camp Trek. Trekking costs vary by permits, transport, food, and accommodation.
For example, the ACAP permit is NPR 2000 (around $16) for Indian trekkers. The TIMS card also costs around NPR 2000. These are less compared to other foreign citizens, for whom these cost around $45 total. So, Indians save on permits compared to most others.
Transportation from India to Kathmandu or Pokhara is extra. The flight price varies with the city and season. Local transport within Nepal, bus and jeep fares are the same for everyone. Food and hotel expenses are not very different for people of different nationalities. Meals cost between $5 and $8, and hotels are $7 to $15 per night.
It is customary to employ guides and porters. Their charges are the same for all trekkers. Guides may charge $25 to $35 per day, and porters $15 to $25 per day. Indians also tip as much as others, i.e., $50 to $70 overall.
Briefly, Indian trekkers save on permits but incur the same transport, food, and accommodation costs. Budgeting $700 to $1000 covers a full Annapurna Base Camp trek from Pokhara. Indians in general find the Annapurna Base Camp trek economical and satisfying.
ABC Trek with Poonhill 11 Days | 11 days
(10 reviews)5.0
Trekking in Nepal
View TripFrom US$ 873US$ 655 Save US$ 218
📷
Annapurna Base Camp Trek via Poon Hill adds beauty as well as some cost. Indeed, the trekking trail offers a beautiful sunrise from Poon Hill. So, trekkers use this route to enjoy both ABC and Ghorepani. Because of the longer route, the expense increases a little. The whole trek takes 10–13 days. Therefore, food, lodge, and guide costs increase.
Similarly, transport from Pokhara to Nayapul and back also costs money. You can also travel to Ulleri by jeep. Jeep treks are faster but cost more. Permits also remain the same as the regular ABC trek. So, you'll need to possess both TIMS and ACAP permits. Also, Poon Hill does not need any other permits. Budget travelers can complete the whole ABC Via Poon Hill trail for under $600. Guided ABC via Poon Hill treks cost more, from $800 to $1100.
In brief, this longer route offers greater experience at an affordable price. This ABC via Poon Hill route is more spectacular than the ABC direct route. You have rhododendron forests, cultural villages, and Himalayan vistas to witness. So, the additional cost is worth it. For the majority of trekkers, it is worth the extra cost. Because of the scenic route, the ABC via Poon Hill trek is still popular. So, it is a balanced and rewarding trek option.
1. Poonhill Ghorepani jeep ride
2. Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek in October
4. Annapurna Base Camp Jeep Ride
6. Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek: A Complete Trekkers' Guide
12. How long does it take to trek Poon Hill?
13. How much does it cost to trek to Poon Hill?
14. Best Time for Poon Hill Trek
15. Poon Hill trek in November
16. How difficult is Annapurna Base Camp Trek?
17. Where is the best view of Annapurna range?
18. Annapurna Base Camp Trek vs Everest Base Camp Trek
19. Annapurna Base Camp Trek in Winter
21. Annapurna Base Camp Trek in Spring
22. Annapurna Base Camp Trek in April
24. 50 Facts about Annapurna Base Camp Trek
25. Annapurna Base Camp Trek in May
26. Annapurna Base Camp Trek in November
27. Annapurna Base Camp Trek in October
28. Annapurna Base Camp Trek in April from Kathmandu
29. Annapurna Base Camp Trek in September
30. Annapurna Base Camp Trek in Autumn
31. Manaslu Circuit Trek vs Annapurna Circuit Trek
32. Best Time for Annapurna Circuit Trek
33. Annapurna Base Camp Trek from Pokhara
34. How to Prevent Altitude Sickness on Annapurna Base Camp Trek?
35. How do I go to Annapurna Base Camp from Pokhara?
36. How long is the trek to Annapurna Base Camp?
37. Foods on Annapurna Base Camp Trek: What's On the Menu?
38. Accommodation on Annapurna Base Camp Trek
39. Annapurna Circuit Trek in Autumn
40. Poon Hill Trek in September
42. Best Time for Annapurna Circuit Trek
44. Mardi Himal Trek in November
45. Poon Hill Trek Itinerary: 3, 4 and 5 Days
Annapurna Base Camp Trek offers great adventure at a low cost. Indeed, it's budget-friendly for Nepal. You can go independent or guided. Budget travelers can do Annapurna Base Camp Trek for less than $500. Similarly, guided group ABC treks with agencies can be done for $800–$1000. Based on the season and comfort level, prices vary.
Moreover, the Annapurna Base Camp trek is flexible. You can stay in basic tea houses or better lodges. Likewise, food is from $4 to $8 per meal. Unlike certain other treks, ABC is open all year round. So, the expense of flights is not necessary. That brings down the overall expense. Permits, gear, and tips are extra but affordable.
Briefly, the Annapurna Base Camp trek is low-cost and fulfilling. You walk along forests, rivers, and villages. Because of easy accessibility, ABC is the initial Himalayan trek for most trekkers. Thus, it offers real value for money. Alone or with a group, it is ideal for most travelers. Annapurna Base Camp is scenic and affordable.
📷
Krishna Thapa
Author
"This content is originally from Haven Holidays Pvt. Ltd. (https://www.havenholidaysnepal.com)”
Source: https://www.havenholidaysnepal.com/blogs/annapurna-base-camp-trek-cost-guide
This article originally appeared on the Haven Holidays Nepal Blog and has been republished here with permission
About Haven Holidays Nepal: Haven Holidays is a Kathmandu-based trekking and tour company offering tailor-made trekking packages in Nepal including Langtang Valley, Annapurna Base Camp, Manaslu Circuit, and Everest Base Camp. Visit www.havenholidaysnepal.com to start planning your next trek.
Leave a comment