If you ask about the Annapurna Base Camp Trek cost, the simple answer is that it is affordable and reasonable.
With proper planning and at a reasonable cost, all of you can enjoy this trek and gather priceless memories that will last forever.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek region is full of rich culture and tradition and a wide variety of flora and fauna. This trek is full of excitement, hardship, new experiences and great hospitality.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek is a divine walk through the diverse landscape, spectacular mountains and rural lifestyle. And, you definitely have to bear a certain cost for this Annapurna Base Camp trek.
Every year, there is a heavy inflow of tourists, both local and international, for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. This trail doesn’t disappoint anyone with its incredible views and amazing experience.
Table of Contents
- Trek Itinerary – 9-day Annapurna Base Camp Trek
- Day 1: Pokhara to Ulleri (2070 meters)
- Day 2: Ulleri to Ghorepani (2810 meters)
- Day 3: Ghorepani to Poon Hill (3210 meters) and Tadapani (2700 meters)
- Day 4: Tadapani to Sinuwa (2310 meters)
- Day 5: Sinuwa to Deurali (3230 meters)
- Day 6: Deurali to Annapurna Base Camp (4110 meters)
- Day 7: Annapurna Base Camp to Bamboo (2340 meters)
- Day 8: Bamboo to Jhinu (1780 meters)
- Day 9: Jhinu to Siwai and Drive to Pokhara (850 meters)
- Factors affecting Annapurna Base Camp Trek Cost:
- Return Flight to Nepal
- Cost of the visa to enter Nepal
- Arrival and departure transfer cost
- Cost of accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara
- Provision of sightseeing in Kathmandu or Pokhara
- Cost of healthy and proper standard meals
- Cost of Teahouse accommodation during the trek
- Cost of a Guide and a Porter
- Trekking area Permit Cost
- Taxes and revenues
- Other extras to consider in Annapurna Base Camp Trek Cost
- Annapurna Base Camp Trek Highlights
- Weather and Best Time to Trek for Annapurna Base Camp
- Conclusion
Trek Itinerary – 9-day Annapurna Base Camp Trek
Day 1: Pokhara to Ulleri (2070 meters)
We’ll pick you up from your hotel in Pokhara and drive for about an hour to Nayapul, the starting point of our 9-day trek. The journey begins with a pleasant walk through terraced fields, lush forests, and charming rural villages. Crossing the Modi Khola river via a suspension bridge, we gradually ascend to the village of Tikhedhunga. From there, the trail gets steeper as we make our way to the beautiful village of Ulleri. Today’s trek will take approximately five and a half hours.
Day 2: Ulleri to Ghorepani (2810 meters)
Today, we trek through lovely rhododendron forests (in full bloom during spring) and regular forests in other seasons. We’ll stop at small teahouses in Banthanti and Nangethanti for some rest and refreshments. As we hike further, the views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges will start to appear. Finally, we’ll reach Ghorepani, a picturesque village on a ridge with breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks. The trek today will take approximately five hours.
Day 3: Ghorepani to Poon Hill (3210 meters) and Tadapani (2700 meters)
An early start as we hike up to Poon Hill to witness the sunrise over the stunning Himalayan range. The view from the top is magnificent, with Dhaulagiri, Annapurna I, Annapurna South, and other peaks glowing in the morning light. After spending some time at Poon Hill, we’ll head back to Ghorepani for breakfast.
After breakfast, we continue the trek to Tadapani. The trail ascends through lush forests, opening up to even more panoramic vistas. You might spot some wildlife along the way, like birds and monkeys. Tadapani is famous for its impressive views of Annapurna South and the distinctive Machhapuchhre mountain. Today’s trek, including the sunrise tour to Poon Hill, takes around 6.5 hours.
Day 4: Tadapani to Sinuwa (2310 meters)
We trek through serene forests of rhododendron and oak trees today. Passing through the Gurung village of Chhomrong, nestled beneath the towering Annapurna mountain, we then descend to Chhomrong Khola before climbing towards Sinuwa. Sinuwa is a peaceful village, and it’s a great place to relax. The trek today will take about 6 hours.
Day 5: Sinuwa to Deurali (3230 meters)
Leaving Sinuwa behind, the trail leads through bamboo forests and a beautiful rhododendron valley. We’ll pass by the Himalayan Hotel and reach the famous Hinku Cave. The trail becomes steeper as we approach Deurali, a small place with teahouses providing shelters to trekkers. Deurali is known for its unique flora and fauna. The total trekking time is approximately 5 hours.
Day 6: Deurali to Annapurna Base Camp (4110 meters)
The highlight of our journey as we make our way to Annapurna Base Camp. The trail gradually climbs through a glacial valley, offering superb views of towering peaks. The landscape changes dramatically as we approach the base camp, surrounded by glaciers and snow-capped mountains. At the base camp, you’ll be greeted by the majestic sight of Annapurna I, the 10th highest mountain in the world. Take your time to enjoy the incredible scenery and immerse yourself in the peacefulness of the Himalayas. Total trekking time is approximately 4 hours.
Day 7: Annapurna Base Camp to Bamboo (2340 meters)
After viewing the sunrise over Annapurna I, we begin our descent, retracing our steps back through Deurali and passing by Machhapuchhre Base Camp before reaching Bamboo. Bamboo is a peaceful village surrounded by bamboo forests, offering a relaxing atmosphere to rest after the long day of trekking. The total trekking time is approximately 6.5 hours.
Day 8: Bamboo to Jhinu (1780 meters)
The trek from Bamboo to Jhinu is comparatively short but rewarding. Along the way, we pass through beautiful villages and fields, with occasional views of the Himalayas in the distance. In Jhinu, you can soak in the natural hot springs and relax after several days of trekking. The total trekking time is approximately 5.5 hours.
Day 9: Jhinu to Siwai and Drive to Pokhara (850 meters)
Our last day of the trek involves a gentle descent through terraced fields and forests to the village of Siwai. From Siwai, we’ll take a short drive back to Pokhara, where you can relax and reflect on your incredible journey through the Annapurna region. Total trekking time is approximately 2.5 hours, followed by a 2.5-hour drive to Pokhara.
Cost of this 9-day Annapurna Base Camp trek, which covers exactly the itinerary described above, is USD 755 per person.
Spring and Aumn are the finest time of the year for this trek and very safe too. Everything is well-managed and there is not a thing that you need to worry about.
The thrill of walking down the Annapurna trails, witnessing the diverse ecosystem, learning new culture and lifestyle, is what matters and counts.
Factors affecting Annapurna Base Camp Trek Cost:
While the cost of USD 755 per person is for the 9-day packaged tour starting and ending in the Lakeside town of Pokhara, you will need to plan for the entire trip in Nepal from your arrival till departure. Here are some things you need to budget for while planning this trek.
Return Flight to Nepal
Before booking anything else, you need to plan how to get to Nepal. There are various international airlines that offer regular flights to Nepal. Flights to Nepal are mostly available from the Western world via countries like China, India, a few Middle Eastern countries like Qatar and UAE, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Turkey and few others. Cost of your flight to Nepal depends on your country of origin and various other factors.
Cost of the visa to enter Nepal
You will also need to obtain a visa to enter Nepal. Nepal visas are available upon arrival for people from most countries. Currently, as of February 2024, the Nepal visa costs are as follows:
- 15 Days: USD 30
- 30 Days: USD 50
- 90 Days: USD 125
Arrival and departure transfer cost
After you land at the airport, you will need pick up service. Similarly, after the end of the trip, while departing, you will need to budget for transfer to airport from your hotel in Kathmandu.
Cost of accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara
You will need to budget for your stay in Kathmandu and Pokhara. Hotels of various ranges are available in both cities. Budget hotels start from around USD 20 and increase in price according to the services offered. You can also find some 5-star hotels like Hyatt Hotel for USD 200 or more per night.
Provision of sightseeing in Kathmandu or Pokhara
While you are in Kathmandu and Pokhara, you would like to visit major attractions in Nepal. Kathmandu has some world heritage and religious sites like Pashupatinath, Boudha, Swayambhunath, Bhaktapur, Patan, etc. Similarly, Pokhara also has many popular attractions like Davis Fall, Phewa Lake, Gupteshwor Cave, Sarangkot, World Peace Stupa, and many more.
To visit these sites, you will need to take a taxi to get around or book a guided tour. The cost of a guided tour per day is about USD 95 per person, which includes the guide, car, and entry fees.
If you are planning to visit these sites on your own, then budget for taxi fares and make sure you find the entrance fees for each attraction and budget accordingly.
Cost of healthy and proper standard meals
Teahouses on trail provide you with healthy and standard meals throughout your trek. You will be having your breakfast, lunch, and dinner in these little teahouses along the way.
The meal costs about USD 35-45 per day per person, inclusive of some hot drinks
Cost of Teahouse accommodation during the trek
Teahouses spare you from carrying your own personal tents and items. They are the best way to spend a night on the trek as they provide a warm, cozy, and dry place to stay.
The teahouse cost per night is about USD 10 to USD 15, depending on the place.
Cost of a Guide and a Porter
It is not possible to Google every tiny piece of information and details. Having a well-experienced guide with fluent English accompanying you will surely enhance your experience. Make sure that the trekking guides are licensed and experienced.
Similarly, to carry luggage, bags, food, and equipment, you should hire a porter.
With the help of a guide and a porter, you can enjoy your trek freely.
Hiring a guide and a porter for the 9-day trek will cost around USD 660. This cost is for 2 people when you hire one guide and one porter.
Trekking area Permit Cost
During the trek, to enter the Annapurna Conservation Area, you need to obtain permits. Here is what you need and how much it will cost:
- Annapurna Conservation Area Entry permit – USD 30
- TIMS card – USD 20
Taxes and revenues
We all are well aware of the government imposed tax and revenues. If you book your tour with agency, these taxes are included and no extra money is required to spend personally for this. Taxes are usually included in the cost.
Tour operator will go through all the legal processes and hope to make the best out of your trek.
Want more information? Send us your query, and our experts will get back to you within 24 hrs.
Other extras to consider in Annapurna Base Camp Trek Cost
Personal expenses
Personal expenses such as laundry, telephone calls, sweets, snacks etc demand your personal payment. So, you will need to bring extra cash for that.
All kind of beverages
Beverages include tea/coffee, coke, etc. The cost outlined above is for few cups of hot beverages and it doesn’t include on above outlined cost cost. As the rate of intake of such beverage is not the same with every individual, it is not possible to estimate the quantity.
This is for personal satisfaction and meeting own demands. That is why the budgeting is on you.
Personal trekking equipment
All the required gears should be arranged by yourself. The cost depends on the brand and quality of the items. Therefore, this is something unpredictable and so we ask you to make your own budgeting for this.
Tipping
For the incredible company and information, some of you might feel impressed by the guide and may want to tip him. On the 9-day trek, budget about USD 150 to tip your guide.
Similarly, for the hard work of the porter, you can show your generosity. On the 9-day trek, budget about USD 90 to tip your porter.
Tipping culture in Nepal says that you do it directly from your heart and not by force. If you don’t like to tip, you don’t have to, and no one will force you.
Any loss and uncertainties
Many of your personal belongings, if lost during the trek, will not be compensated by anyone. That is why you need to take care of your own belongings.
Buy proper travel insurance and keep an extra emergency fund in cash, which you can utilize if needed. We recommend keeping about USD 500 in cash (safely) to ensure you have cash in case of any uncertain situations.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek Highlights
You will be witnessing many amazing things and people along the way. Some of the important highlights of the trek are listed below:
Beautiful view of the sunrise from Poon Hill
The ABC route directs you to Poon Hill, a ridge located in the north of the Pokhara. To all the sunrise lovers, you are in for a treat. This place is insanely famous for beautiful sunrise with a magical view.
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The pleasant sunrise at Poonhill passes through culturally rich villages. They are set along the majestic mountains with panoramic views including Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountains.
And the trek to ABC continues.
High mountains
Along the way, you will come across many high mountains including Dhaulagiri, Himchuli, Machhapuchhre and Annapurna mountain, all looking down at you.
All the mighty mountains are filled with icy snow. The area is all covered with white and thick snow. The view is breathtaking.
And if luck is on your side, you might see some rare high altitude animals wandering around. The high mountains with its rich lifestyle, cultural diversity, cold freezing weather, and vegetation will not fail to amaze you.
Gurung Villages
When you reach here, you will be more than happy to receive such a warm hospitality and hearty welcome in the village. As the majority of the population here are Gurung, it is called a Gurung village. You will have the opportunity to live their way of life.
The people here are true and good by heart. Their unique lifestyle, culture, tradition, rituals will attract your attention.
The village itself is rich in natural vegetation. There are many beautiful natural places you can visit around the village.
Everyone here is kind and caring. The place is untouched by the modern ways or pollution. Everything is pure and fresh.
A Gurung village, also known as Landruk provides a spot for relaxation from the long, tiring trek. It will help trekkers regain their energy for the further trek.
Natural hot spring at Jhinu
Another important highlight of the Annapurna Base Camp trek is the natural hot spring at joint. It is located at an altitude of 1750m.
On the way, you will come across high waterfalls, numerous streams, and terraces. You will go past rhododendron and bamboo forests to Jhinu Danda. This is the place where there is a natural hot spring.
You can enjoy that warm bath at this hot spring. The place is very famous due to the hot spring. Every year many domestic and international tourists pay a visit to this place. Moreover, the natural warm water bath is a relief after hours of a walk down the difficult trails.
Weather and Best Time to Trek for Annapurna Base Camp
The weather plays a crucial role in your trekking experience to Annapurna Base Camp. Different seasons bring different conditions, so picking the right time is important for a safe and enjoyable adventure.
Spring (March to May)
Spring is one of the best times to trek to Annapurna Base Camp. The weather is mild and pleasant with clear skies. The forests bloom with colorful rhododendron flowers. Daytime temperatures are comfortable for trekking, ranging from 15°C to 20°C at lower altitudes and 0°C to 5°C at higher places.
Summer/Monsoon (June to August)
Summer season is not popular for trekking due to heavy rainfall and muddy trails. The monsoon brings rain, leeches on lower trails, and the risk of landslides. If you plan to trek during this time, make sure you have proper rain gear.
Autumn (September to November)
Autumn is another great time for this trek. The weather is stable and clear, offering breathtaking views of the high Himalayan mountains. Daytime temperatures range from 15°C to 20°C at lower elevations, and it gets cooler at higher places. The clear skies make it perfect for capturing stunning mountain views.
Winter (December to February)
Winter brings colder temperatures and the chance of snowfall above 3500 meters. Trekking during this time means quieter trails and snow-covered scenery. However, be prepared for the cold with proper winter gear. Daytime temperatures range from 5°C to 10°C at lower elevations, but it can drop below zero at higher places.
Autumn and Spring are the best trekking seasons, attracting many trekkers. Plan ahead as teahouses and trails can get busy. No matter when you trek, consult with your tour operator, pack the right gear and be prepared for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek.
Conclusion
Annapurna Base Camp Trek is a magical trek that you will want to be a part of. The spectacular snow peaks, hilly gorges, rich culture, and the diverse flora and fauna will leave you breathless.
It is best to book in advance before departure. So that we can prepare a proper itinerary in time which will be highly effective.
The ticket to this beautiful and truly magical journey will make this trek worth remembering for a lifetime.
Read our travel guide for Annapurna Base Camp Trek here.
Want more information? Send us your query, and our experts will get back to you within 24 hrs.
Madhav started working as a porter in 2001 and then moved on to work as a trekking guide. After working in the trekking and tourism industry for eight years, he co-founded Mosaic Adventure in 2009.
Madhav has trekked to most of the trekking destinations in Nepal, including Everest Base Camp Trek, Annapurna Base Camp, Annapurna Circuit Trek, Poon Hill Trek, Jomsom Muktinath Trek, Indigenous Peoples Trek, Langtang Valley Trek, Mardi Himal Trek, and all of the day hikes around Kathmandu.
He has also extensively traveled to other countries such as Australia, the USA, the UK, France, Hong Kong, Japan, China, the Philippines, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Thailand, Turkey, and India. Madhav is the one who answers most of your questions about trekking and tours and helps to plan your trip by giving a personal touch.