Annapurna Circuit Trek Cost 2025 | Complete Budget & Expense Guide
The Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of the most iconic trekking routes in Nepal, attracting adventurers with its diverse landscapes, charming villages, and spectacular views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. If you’re planning your 2025 adventure, one of the first questions on your mind will be: How much does the Annapurna Circuit Trek cost? In this guide, we break down all the expenses you should consider to plan your trek efficiently.
Trek Duration and Route Overview
The standard Annapurna Circuit Trek typically takes 14–21 days, depending on your pace and side trips such as Tilicho Lake or Manang. The trek starts from Besisahar and ends in Pokhara, covering approximately 160–230 km.
One of the highlights is crossing the Thorong La Pass (5,416 m), offering some of the most spectacular views in the Himalayas. Your total trek cost will depend on your trek duration, accommodation choices, and whether you hire a guide or porter.
Trekking Permits
Before you start your trek, you must secure two permits:
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): $30 USD
Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card: $20 USD
Total Permit Cost: $50 USD per person
These permits can be obtained in Kathmandu or at the trail’s starting point in Besisahar.
Guide and Porter Fees (Optional)
Hiring a guide or porter is optional but recommended, especially for safety, navigation, and comfort.
Guide fee: $25–30 USD per day
Porter fee: $15–20 USD per day
Food & accommodation for guide/porter: $15–20 USD per day
For a 15-day trek, hiring a guide can cost around $375–450 USD, while a porter may cost $225–300 USD.
Accommodation Costs
The trek offers a variety of lodging options, from basic teahouses to luxury lodges:
Budget teahouses: $5–10 USD per night
Mid-range lodges: $10–25 USD per night
Luxury lodges: $30–50 USD per night
For a 15-day trek in budget teahouses, accommodation would cost $75–150 USD, while mid-range options may cost $150–375 USD.
Food and Drinks
Meals on the trail vary in price depending on location and type:
Breakfast: $3–5 USD
Lunch/Dinner: $5–10 USD per meal
Snacks or tea: $1–3 USD each
Daily food expenses for budget trekkers are approximately $10–20 USD, totaling $150–300 USD for a 15-day trek.
Transportation Costs
Getting to and from the trek also adds to your budget:
Kathmandu to Besisahar bus: $10–15 USD
Private jeep to the trail start: $60–100 USD
Pokhara to Kathmandu bus: $10–15 USD
Private jeeps are faster and more comfortable but more expensive than buses.
Gear and Equipment
If you don’t already own trekking gear, you’ll need:
Sleeping bag: $40–80 USD
Trekking shoes: $60–120 USD
Warm clothing: $50–150 USD
Walking poles, backpacks, and other gear: $50–100 USD
Alternatively, you can rent equipment in Kathmandu or Pokhara, which often saves money.
Miscellaneous Expenses
Additional costs may include:
Hot showers, Wi-Fi, snacks, or battery charging: $2–5 USD per day
Emergency medical supplies or travel insurance
Budget $50–100 USD extra for these incidentals.