The Annapurna Base Camp Trek (ABC Trek) is one of Nepal’s most popular Himalayan adventures. Before lacing up your boots, one big question comes up: How much does the Annapurna Base Camp Trek cost? The cost varies depending on permits, meals, transport, guide/porter services, and whether you book a trekking package or travel independently. This guide provides a detailed cost breakdown so that you can plan your budget with confidence.

How Much Does the Annapurna Base Camp Trek Cost?

On average, the Annapurna Base Camp Trek costs $800–$1,200 per person for 7–12 days.

Independent trekkers: around $30–45 per day (excluding permits and transport).

Package treks with an agency: $800–$1,200, covering permits, guide, porter, meals, and lodging.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek Permits Cost

You’ll need two permits:

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): NPR 3,000 (~$25)

TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System): NPR 2,000 (~$15)

Available in Kathmandu or Pokhara, or arranged by your trekking agency.

Guide and Porter Costs for Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Licensed Trekking Guide: $25–35 per day

Porter: $20–25 per day (can carry 20–25 kg)

Hiring a guide/porter is not mandatory but highly recommended for navigation, safety, and cultural experiences.

Transportation

Most trekkers start from Pokhara (reachable by flight or bus from Kathmandu).

Kathmandu → Pokhara flight: $100–120 (25 minutes)

Tourist Bus (Kathmandu → Pokhara): $10–15 (6–7 hours)

Private Jeep: $150–170 (for group sharing, door-to-door comfort)

From Pokhara, local jeeps or buses take you to trailheads like Nayapul, Siwai, or Ghandruk for $10–40.

Meals on the Trek

Expect $20–30 per person per day for food.

Breakfast: $5–7

Lunch/Dinner: $8–13 each

Tea/coffee/snacks: $2–4

Prices rise with altitude. Budget more once you’re above Chhomrong and Deurali.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek Accommodation Costs

Tea houses are common along the trail.

Basic twin-sharing room: $5–10 per night

Extra for hot showers ($2–3), Wi-Fi ($2–4), or charging devices ($1–2).

Extra Costs on the ABC Trek

Wi-Fi: $2–4 per hour

Hot showers: $2–3

Charging: $1–3 per device

Tips: $5–10 per day for guides/porters

Gear rental in Pokhara: $1–5 per day (if needed)

Annapurna Base Camp Trek Cost | Package vs. Independent Travel

Trekking Package ($700–$1,200): hassle-free, includes permits, transport, guide, porter, meals, and lodging.

Independent Trek (~$30–45/day): cheaper but requires self-management of permits, meals, and bookings.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek Cost for Nepali Locals vs. Foreigners

Nepali Citizens: lower permit cost (ACAP: NPR 100). Other expenses remain the same.

Foreigners: $40 combined for ACAP + TIMS. Still budget-friendly compared to Everest Base Camp.

Tips to Prepare Your Trekking Budget

Carry enough cash in Nepali Rupees—no ATMs beyond Pokhara.

Share transport with other trekkers to cut costs.

Bring a reusable bottle + water purifier tablets to avoid bottled water costs.

Stay flexible—room prices drop if you eat at the same tea house.

Book through a local agency if you want reliable, stress-free planning.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek FAQs

1. What is the cheapest way to do the ABC Trek?
Travel independently, take public buses, and stay in budget tea houses (~$30/day).

2. Are guides mandatory for ABC Trek?
No, but strongly recommended for safety and cultural understanding.

3. How much should I tip my guide or porter?
$5–10 per day, depending on service and trek length.

4. Do tea houses include food in room rates?
Rooms are cheaper if you also eat meals there.

5. How much cash should I carry for a 10-day trek?
At least $300–400 in local currency for food, lodging, and extras.

6. Can I use a credit card on the trek?
No, only cash (Nepali Rupees) is accepted.

7. How much is water on the trek?
$1–3 per bottle; consider purifying tap water to save costs.

8. Is Wi-Fi available?
Yes, but slow and costs $2–4/hour.

9. How does ABC compare in cost to Everest Base Camp?
ABC is cheaper and shorter (7–12 days vs. 12–14+ days).

10. What’s the average package cost in 2025?
$700–$1,200 depending on trek duration, agency, and inclusions.

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is a budget-friendly yet world-class trek in Nepal. With costs ranging from $800–$1,200 for packages—or around $30–45/day independently—you can plan your Himalayan journey without breaking the bank.