The Annapurna Circuit Trek gives you two weeks in the Himalaya, a 5,416 m pass and some of Nepal’s most varied scenery – for considerably less than the Everest region. Here is a clear breakdown of every cost for 2026, from permits and transport to teahouses and tips.

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Annapurna Circuit Cost Summary

Permits

The Annapurna Circuit lies entirely within the Annapurna Conservation Area. You need the ACAP permit (NPR 3,000 for foreigners, NPR 1,000 for SAARC nationals) and a TIMS card. Both are checked at several points, including Dharapani, Manang and Muktinath. Permits are included in our packages. If you are coming from the Manaslu Circuit, the ACAP you already hold covers you – see our Manaslu permits guide.

Transport Costs

Most trekkers now drive from Kathmandu past Besisahar to Tal, Chame or even further by jeep, skipping the lower road sections. At the end, you can take a jeep or bus from Muktinath or Jomsom down the Kali Gandaki to Pokhara (a long day), or catch the 20-minute Jomsom–Pokhara flight, which runs in the mornings when the weather allows.

Guide and Porter Costs

Nepal requires foreign trekkers to hire a licensed guide in most trekking regions. On the Annapurna Circuit, a guide costs about USD 25–35 per day and a porter USD 20–25 per day, including their meals and lodging. A guide is especially valuable for judging conditions on Thorong La. Tip 10–15% of wages at the end of the trek.

Teahouse and Food Prices

Teahouses on the circuit are among the best in Nepal, with menus that include apple pie in Marpha and yak cheese in Manang. Prices rise as you climb:

• Rooms: often USD 3–10, sometimes free if you eat dinner and breakfast at the lodge.
• Dal bhat: about USD 5–7 in the lower valley, USD 9–12 at Thorong Phedi and High Camp.
• Hot drinks: USD 1–4.
• Hot showers and charging: USD 1–4 each, higher near the pass.

Package Prices: What’s Included?

A full-service Annapurna Circuit package of 13–15 days typically costs USD 1,000–1,800. Our packages include airport transfers, Kathmandu hotel, all ground transport, permits, a licensed guide, porter service, teahouse accommodation and three meals a day on the trail. The Tilicho Lake version costs slightly more because of the extra days.

Other Costs to Consider

• Nepal visa – see our visa guide.
• Travel insurance covering trekking to at least 5,500 m and helicopter evacuation.
• Gear rental – sleeping bag and down jacket from Kathmandu or Pokhara.
• Muktinath temple donations and photography in Kagbeni or Marpha.

How to Save Money

1. Share a guide and porter with a friend or join a group departure.
2. Take the bus rather than flying from Jomsom.
3. Carry a water filter and refill for free or a small fee.
4. Eat dal bhat – filling and refillable.
5. Trek in late November or March for quieter lodges.

Compare costs with the neighbouring circuit in Manaslu vs Annapurna Circuit, or read the regional overview in our Annapurna trekking guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does the Annapurna Circuit trek cost?

A guided 13–15 day Annapurna Circuit trek usually costs USD 1,000–1,800 per person including permits, transport, guide, porter, teahouses and meals.

What permits do I need for the Annapurna Circuit?

You need the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP, NPR 3,000 for foreigners) and a TIMS card. Your trekking agency arranges both.

How much money should I carry on the Annapurna Circuit?

On a full-board package, carry about USD 15–25 per day in Nepali rupees for extras. Independent trekkers should budget USD 30–50 per day for food and lodging. ATMs exist in Chame, Manang and Jomsom but are unreliable.

Is the Annapurna Circuit cheaper than Everest Base Camp?

Yes, generally. There are no expensive Lukla flights and teahouse prices are lower, although the Annapurna Circuit is usually longer.

Is it worth flying from Jomsom to Pokhara?

The flight saves a long, bumpy drive and offers great mountain views, but it only operates in the morning and can be cancelled by wind. A jeep or bus is the cheaper backup.