Annapurna Base Camp Trek Cost

About Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Annapurna Base Camp Trek is one of the popular destinations in Nepal to trek on. Because of its less difficulty in trekking with pocket-friendly cost, ABC trek is popular among different trekkers around the world. The Annapurna Base Camp Trek Cost varies according to the routes, accommodations, time you trek, and food.

Other than the Everest Base Camp Trek, the Annapurna Base Camp is less costly and easy to hike on. In the peak seasons of the trek, the teahouse and the accommodation can cost you more than other seasons.

If you are planning on trekking to Annapurna Base Camp, then proper planning and budgeting is crucial. You need to be aware of the cost of different things that are necessary during the trek, whether it is transportation, guides, or accommodation.

In this comprehensive guide, we will break down the cost of trekking to Annapurna Base Camp Trek to make your trek effective and cost-efficient. You will get the cost of everything possible to have during the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. Also, find the complete guide for trekking in Annapurna Base Camp Trek here.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek Cost: Breakdown

The cost of the Annapurna Base Camp is based on what services you prefer. Normally, the cost varies between US $800 to US $1500 per person. The cost is flexible based on the services you choose, if you want some of the basic facilities, then it can cost you around US $1000, but if you want to try everything during the trek, it can cost you more.

Permits and Entry Fees

Permits and entry fees are mandatory before embarking on the journey to Annapurna Base Camp Trek. Without permits and entry fees, you won’t be allowed to get entry to the Annapurna Base Camp.

For ABC Trek, you need to have a Trekker’s Information Management System (TIMS) Card and an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). You can get the permits from the Nepal Tourism Board located in Kathmandu and Pokhara.

To get permit and entry fees from NTB of Kathmandu and Pokhara, you need to have two passport-sized photos and a copy of your passport.

Trekker’s Information Management System Card

Trekker’s Information Management System Card is important for every foreigner who wants to trek in Nepal. Not just ABC Trek but every trekking destination in Nepal. You can easily get the TIMS Card from the Nepal Tourism Board of Kathmandu or Pokhara.

TIMS Card costs NPR 2,000 (US $15.26) for foreign nations and NPR 400 (US $3.05) for SAARC Nationals. The TIMS Card is important because it helps to keep records of the trekkers in Nepal so that it can be used for safety purposes if any incident occurs.

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit is essential for every trekker entering the Annapurna conservation area, including Annapurna Base Camp. Since ABC lies inside the territory of Annapurna Conservation Area, it is mandatory to have this permit for trekking to ABC.

The cost of ACAP differs according to nationals, while foreign nations cost more than SAARC nations. It is because ACAP is important as a source to develop and protect the conservation area.

The cost of the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit for foreign nationals is NPR 3,000 (US $22.89) whereas NPR 1,500 (US $11.45) for SAARC nationals.

Annapurna National Park Permit Fee

Unlike the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit and Trekkers’ Information Management System Card, the Annapurna National Park Permit is not mandatory. It is because you can skip the Annapurna National Park if you wish to.

Annapurna National Park offers a home to different wildlife, including snow leopards, red pandas, and Himalayan tahr. Annapurna National Park will be a worthwhile visit to explore the wildlife, bird species, and lush forest.

The entry fee for Annapurna Base Camp is NPR 3,390 (US $25.87) for foreign nationals and NPR 1,695 (US $12.93) for SAARC nationals.

If you wish to have Annapurna Base Camp Trek without over-spending, you can skip the national park. Still, if you want to explore everything in the Annapurna region, then it is recommended to visit the national park too.

Transportation Cost to reach Pokhara

However, the transportation cost may not be the same as provided because the cost can vary according to the mode of transportation you choose and the starting and ending points.

Also, during the peak seasons of spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), prices are higher.

Flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara

If you are traveling from Kathmandu or an international destination, having a flight to Pokhara is effective in saving time. Several travel agencies in Kathmandu can manage a flight ticket to Pokhara. As Pokhara is the gateway to the Annapurna Region, you need to reach Pokhara before starting ABC Trek.

You can save a lot of time by taking a flight to Pokhara because it takes around 25-30 minutes to reach Pokhara. Whereas the cost of the flight can be expensive if you are looking for a budget-friendly trek. The one-way flight ticket to Pokhara can cost you around US $100 – $150.

Flight to Pokhara from Kathmandu is way more convenient and faster than other transportation means but it costs you more in comparison to others.

Drive to Pokhara from Kathmandu

You can reach Pokhara from Kathmandu with a road trip too. Road trips are less convenient but are definitely budget-friendly if you are looking for one. The road trip is adventurous because you can experience the roadside view of Nepal, but at the same time, they are exhausting and time-consuming.

A road trip to Pokhara can take you around 6-8 hours if you hire a private vehicle, but the tourist bus can take you longer.

Traveling in a tourist bus is cheaper in comparison to hiring a private vehicle, especially with a driver. They can cost you around US $120, whereas US $12 in tourist buses.

Alternative routes

If you are already in Nepal, then you can have alternative routes from cities like Chitwan or Lumbini to reach Pokhara. You can easily get different buses and private vehicles, and the cost is dependent on the distance you travel.

Transportation Cost within Pokhara

After reaching Pokhara, you can hire either a private car or taxi to reach Nayapul, which is the starting point of Annapurna Base Camp Trek.

Taxi or Private Car

You can easily hire a private car or taxi to reach Nayapul from Pokhara. If you are a foreigner, most of the drivers will rate the cost higher, so the cost is dependent on your negotiation skills and distance covered.

In general, hiring a private car or taxi to Nayapul can cost you around US $40 to US $60 which is a fair rate. If they charge you more than that, you can always negotiate to minimize the cost fee.

Public Buses

Alternatively, you can choose public buses which are more economical to reach Nayapul. Taking a public bus can cost you around US $2 to US $3, which is effective for a budget-friendly trek.

Traveling in public buses can cause difficulties because of the crowd. Because it is a local bus, it is likely to get crowded within the route to Nayapul. If you are comfortable traveling with a crowd then public buses can be a better option for you.

Guide and Porter Cost

If you are trekking solo, then having a guide and a porter can be more helpful. Trekking to Annapurna Base Camp without a guide and porter can cause several difficulties. But, if you have already been to Annapurna Base Camp and are familiar with the routes, then you can hire a porter to minimize your travel expenses.

The cost for the guide and porter can vary on the basis of their experiences, time in the year, and number of days. In the peak seasons of spring and autumn, guides and porters can cost you more than in other seasons.

• Guide Cost: US $25-30 per day
• The guide comes Porter Cost: US $25-30 per day
• Porter Cost: US $22-24 per day

 The guides and porter’s daily life runs on the guiding expenses they earn daily, so we recommend not to negotiate within the price range. The price range above is fair but you can always offer a tip to the guide and porter after the end of the trek as a gratitude.

Accommodation Cost

Accommodation is crucial during the trek to Annapurna Base Camp Trek. During the trek, you can have accommodation in different teahouses and lodges. Accommodation in teahouses is less costly than in lodges because of limited facilities.

Whereas lodges are prior to providing different services like private bathrooms, hot showers, etc. Although the teahouses have fewer facilities than the lodges, the staff provides services with proper hospitality which is definitely worth staying in.

Teahouses and Guesthouses

Teahouses and guesthouses are common accommodation facilities during Annapurna Base Camp Trek. They provide quality services in the Himalayan region like private warm rooms, shared bathrooms, local Nepali cuisine, etc.

Because they are commonly found during the trek, they are inexpensive in comparison to lodges. The accommodation cost in a teahouse can range from US $5 to US $20 per night.

The cost of the accommodation varies according to the time you visit, the services you choose, etc. Mostly, the teahouses offer private rooms but you can have a shared room with a companion if you are comfortable.

Lodges

Lodges are another accommodation facility during the Annapurna Base Camp Trek which offers additional facilities like hot showers, heaters, sleeping bags, etc. The amenities lodges provide are superior to that of teahouses but expensive.

You can enjoy comfortable and warm nights on the lodges while enjoying hot showers in between the mountain peaks. If you aren’t on a budget and can manage nights in lodges, you definitely need to try lodges for better amenities and services.

Mostly, every lodge during the ABC trek charges around USD $20 to $50 per night, which can be a bit expensive if you are looking for a more budget-friendly trek.

Camping

Other than teahouses and lodges, you can also enjoy camping in the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. Camping can be one of your best experiences but it can be difficult during the nights of Annapurna region.

They are comparatively cheap but you have to have your own tent. If you have enough warm clothes to protect you from the cold then camping can be ideal for you. But with excitement comes risk, too. You have to go through colder nights of the Himalayas which can be tougher than it looks.

Also, because of the unpredictable weather, you can have several difficulties if you face sudden weather changes during the night.

Foods and Meals Cost

Food, meals, and water are basic needs during ABC Trek. Before embarking on the journey you have to make essential plans for meals and understand the food options available during the trek.

The cost of the foods and meals can cost you more so it is better to plan ahead so that you can save more of the expenses to make it budget-friendly. For that, you can get your snacks packed to have them during hiking on the trail. Also, you can carry a water bottle to fill water from the taps you see while walking on the trek. It can save your expenses from buying water.

Make sure you have water-purifying tablets so that you avoid any consequences from drinking tap water. Prevention is always better than care.

During the ABC Trek, you can have different foods including Dal Bhaat, Momos, Tandoori Chicken, Rotis, Coffee, Tea, etc. They will provide you with enough energy to trek to Annapurna Base Camp.

For the cost, you can check the menus available in the hotels. The prices in the menus are fair price considering the location. Tips are generous if you wish to give on for the services.

The cost of food in the Annapurna region is different than that of Kathmandu and Pokhara, so check out the menus before getting the food.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is important while trekking to Annapurna Base Camp. Since it lies at a higher altitude, you can’t predict the sudden accidents that can happen during the trek. So, it is important to have travel insurance to be a responsible trekker.

Why travel insurance are crucial? Travel insurance is crucial because while trekking to places like Annapurna Base Camp, you can foresee what could happen. Travel insurance provides financial protection and peace of mind in case of unforeseen events, medical emergencies, or trip cancellations.

The cost of travel insurance varies with the level of coverage, days of trek, age group, and medical history. Generally, travel insurance with basic coverage costs around NPR 500 – 1000 (US $5 – US $10) per day, whereas comprehensive coverage costs around NPR 1000 – 2000 (US $10 – US $20).

Tourist Visa Cost

For most international travelers, the on-arrival tourist visa is the most common option. You can obtain this visa upon arrival at Tribhuvan Airport in Kathmandu or at various land border crossings.

The cost of the on-arrival tourist visa varies based on the duration of your stay in Nepal. You can extend your visa period for 90 days, which is generally enough time to trek to Annapurna Base Camp and other destinations.

You can extend your visa for 30 days for the cost of US $41, 90 days for the cost of US $82, and US $123 for 120 days.

For SAARC nationals, the visa fee cost for 30 days is US $12 and for 90 days, it costs US $25.

It is important to remember that if you travel out of Nepal during the duration, then you have to pay the on-arrival visa fee at the airport and extend it again to stay in Nepal.

How can you minimize the Annapurna Base Camp Cost?

Solo-trekking to Annapurna Base Camp can cost you more than getting it with a travel agency. It is because while trekking solo, you have to manage everything on your own. If you are cautious of the cost during the Annapurna Base Camp Trek you can minimize it with these ideas:

• Group Trek: If you aren’t trekking independently then joining a group is more effective than arranging a private trek. Trekking agencies like Blue Lake Adventure can organize group treks for you that pool resources and reduce individual expenses.
• Avoid Peak Season: During the peak trekking seasons, spring and autumn the cost of transportation, guides, accommodation, food, etc. increases. Avoid peak seasons to minimize your cost, and you can have the Annapurna Base Camp trek during off-peak seasons (monsoon and winter).
• Bring your own gear: Renting gear can cost you more, so if you have any gear of your own like a backpack, trekking poles, hiking shoes, etc.
• Bring Snacks and Water Purifications: Buying snacks and water along the trail can cost you more. It reduces the cost during the trek; you can bring some snacks from a city like Pokhara and use water purification tablets instead of purchasing bottled water.
• Travel Insurances: While it doesn’t directly reduce the cost for ABC Trek having travel insurance can protect you from unexpected expenses related to health issues, flight cancellation, or lost belongings.
• Use Local Transportation: You can avoid excessive waste of expenses in transportation by using local transportation. The local transportation will charge you local fare which is way less than getting a taxi/car hired.
• Negotiate Prices: Though it is not ideal to negotiate with guides or porter you can negotiate accommodation and meals if you are comfortable. Practice negotiating in off-peak seasons if you are part of a smaller group.

Final Say on Annapurna Base Camp Cost

If you are planning to trek to Annapurna Base Camp then planning ahead on expenses, and itineraries can save you a lot. Also, you can book a package of Annapurna Base Camp Trek with Blue Lake Travels & Tours Pvt Ltd which can cost you less than trekking alone.

With a package, you can get several inclusions like permit fees, meals, accommodation, and transportation for free. You don’t have to worry about the cost while trekking to ABC and enjoy your best experience of trekking.

By reading the comprehensive guide on the Annapurna Base Camp Cost, you may have got the cost expenses during the trek. You can always book our Annapurna Base Camp Trek package or join a group managed by us. For that, you can contact us on WhatsApp at +977 9851076943 or contact us through our contact page.