One of the most thrilling leisure activities in the world is trekking. And regardless of whether you travel to the faraway Mexico or Nepal, trekking excitement does not compare with other types of adventure activities. Trekking has numerous advantages including an opportunity to engage into the local tradition and people, views of natural resources, etc.

When it comes to Annapurna Circuit Trek in Nepal, you can not only delve into the mentioned merits but also can enjoy the hospitable and warm welcome of the Nepalese community. The major attraction of Annapurna Circuit Trek is the views of the Himalayas from Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Mountain Range. In addition, other attractions include Thorong La Pass, Muktinath, Jomsom, Marpha and Buddhist culture you find along the trail.

While Annapurna Circuit Trek is fun and thrilling, it also comes with many challenges, for which trekkers must be very prepared. Preparation regarding your budget is one of the most important things. So, at what part do you need to allocate your budget during this trek? Let’s get detailed information on it.

Overall Cost for Standard Annapurna Circuit Trek

The Annapurna Circuit Trek, offered by Magical Summits, is priced at USD 800 to USD 1000 per person for the standard package. This comprehensive package covers the entire Himalayan journey, spanning from the lower altitudes of Besisahar, Jomsom, and Muktinath to the higher altitude Thorong La Pass at 5,416 meters. 

The all-in package includes accommodation, transportation, logistics and meals en route the trek. But accommodation services in Kathmandu, international airfare as well as any additional activities, are not included in the all-in cost.

The overall Annapurna Circuit Trek Cost is influenced by factors such as group size, the time of the year, and the specific itinerary included in the package. Peak seasons, like Spring and Autumn, come with higher costs compared to off-peak seasons. While costs may vary, it’s crucial to consider that the off-peak season may pose increased risks and challenges compared to the relatively more favorable conditions experienced during Spring and Autumn.

Magical Summits offers various packages for the Annapurna Circuit Trek, each with different cost ranges. For detailed information on the available packages and their associated costs, refer to the list provided below:

Package	Cost
Annapurna Circuit Trek 10 Days	USD 885 per person
Annapurna Circuit Trek 12 Days	USD 980 per person

All packages feature the same standard route to Annapurna Circuit but differ in terms of cost. Likewise, the increase and decrease of days in the itinerary contributes to as well as reduces for activities during the trek. The recognition of your expectations as well as the requirements you have before making a reservation for the trekking package is also vital, which makes budget management possible.

Cost Includes

• All domestic transportation fees including driving from Kathmandu to BesiSahar.
• All the permits cost, including Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) and TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) Card.
• Accommodation facilities with fees.
• Professional guides and porters fees.
• Meals during the journey.
• Government taxes.
• First aid kits and basic medical supplies.

Cost Excludes

• International flight cost from and to.
• Visa fees {Tourist Visa}
• Personal activities and other fees.
• Evacuation fees.
• Travel & medical insurances.
• Fees of personal snacks and miscellaneous essentials such as flashlights, satellite phones, etc.

Cost Breakdown | Factors That Affect Annapurna Circuit Trek

Accommodation Cost

Accommodation is one of the major contributing factor of the Annapurna Circuit Trek Cost. The Annapurna Circuit Trek offers two main types of accommodation services: Tea Houses and Hotels/Guest Houses. Tea Houses, found at almost every stop along the route, provide shared bedrooms and bathrooms, and sometimes offer 24/7 electricity and internet services. Despite limited privacy, tea houses are the most budget-friendly option, with an average cost ranging from $7 to $10 per person.

For those seeking more comfort and privacy, hotels and guest houses are available in popular locations along the trek. These accommodations offer single-bedroom services with attached bathrooms and hot showers. The cost is higher, averaging around $10 to $20 per person, but they provide additional amenities such as charging facilities and reliable internet services.

Another option is camping, which requires trekkers to carry their own sleeping bags, sleeping pads, tents, food, and water. Some trekking companies may sponsor camping accommodations, but trekkers often need to arrange this themselves. Camping becomes necessary at higher altitudes like Thorong La Pass Phedi, where setting up tents and carrying essential items like gas canisters, food, utensils, and accessories can pose challenges.

Transportation Cost

Transportation is another contributing factor of the Annapurna Circuit Trek Cost. The Annapurna Circuit Trek starts with a soothing drive from Kathmandu, requiring trekkers to arrange transportation to reach these starting points. Typically, trekking agencies take charge of transporting both trekkers and their equipment. There are two primary modes of transportation to Besi Sahar: buses and jeeps.

Traveling by bus costs approximately USD 15 per person for the journey from Kathmandu to BesiSahar. If you want a safer and more comfortable ride facilitated by Magical Summits, go for a jeep drive, which costs around USD 175 to 200 per person. If you are in a group, you can save your budget efficiently as the transportation expenses can be shared. On the contrary, individuals or small groups with only guides may find the cost relatively higher.

Upon completion of the Annapurna Circuit Trek, the return journey to Pokhara from Jomsom follows a flight. Flight from Jomsom to Pokhara costs you around USD 160 per person.

To return Kathmandu from Pokhara, it also takes around NPR. 4,200 per person. However, the cost of flight can fluctuate depending on which operator you choose.

Food & Drinks Cost

The Annapurna Circuit Trek offers an average cost for food and drinks. which directly contributeds to the Annapurna Circuit Trek Cost. Breakfast at the tea houses along the Annapurna route typically ranges from $8 to $12, while lunch and dinner both fall within the $10 to $15 price range. 

A cup of tea costs between $3 and $5, coffee is priced from $3 to $7 per cup, soft drinks like a bottle of beer cost approximately from eight dollars to ten. One can get water bottles or sodas costing between $3to $7.

Permits Cost

Regarding the Annapurna Circuit Trek Cost, permits also come in the main line. The Annapurna Circuit is situated within the restricted Annapurna Conservation Area, requiring permission for entry. The main motive is to preserve the region’s diverse wildlife and plant species, including endangered animals like the Snow Leopard, Blue Sheep, and Himalayan Tahr.

To undertake the Annapurna Circuit Trek, you must obtain permits such as the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and TIMS Card. These permits can be acquired from the Tourism Board in Kathmandu, where you’ll need to submit documents such as photographs, visa copies, and travel documents.

The Annapurna Conservation Area Permit costs NPR. 3,000 per entry for foreign trekkers, NPR. 1,000 for SAARC countries, and a NPR. 100 for Nepalese trekkers. Additionally, the TIMS Card, essential for trekking information management, costs NPR 2,000 for foreign trekkers and NPR 1,000 for citizens of South Asian countries.

Guides Cost

The cost of professional guides for the Annapurna Circuit Trek varies based on factors such as language proficiency, experience, and the level of service provided. On average, hiring a guide typically ranges from $33 to $37 per day, with some experienced guides charging up to $50 per day. Despite the higher cost, the valuable insights and knowledge gained from these guides make the investment worthwhile for trekkers.

Porters Cost

For porters on the Annapurna Circuit Trek, the cost is generally between $20 and $30. This fee covers services such as carrying backpacks, ensuring their safety, and transporting them between locations. The cost-effectiveness of hiring a porter allows trekkers to focus on the journey while their belongings are efficiently handled by experienced individuals.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cost range for the Annapurna Circuit Trek offered by Magical Summits?

The standard Annapurna Circuit Trek package by Magical Summits is priced between USD 800 to USD 1000 per person.

What is included in the overall cost of the Annapurna Circuit Trek package?

The overall cost includes accommodation, transportation within Nepal, logistics, meals during the trek, permits (ACAP and TIMS), professional guides, porters, government taxes, and basic medical supplies.

What services are not covered in the overall cost of the Annapurna Circuit Trek package?

The overall cost does not cover accommodation services in Kathmandu, international airfare, additional activities, international flight costs, visa fees, personal activities, evacuation fees, travel and medical insurances, and fees for personal snacks and miscellaneous essentials.

How do accommodation costs vary on the Annapurna Circuit Trek?

Accommodation costs vary based on the type of stay. Tea Houses cost approximately $7 to $10 per person, while hotels/guest houses range from $10 to $20 per person.

What time will be ideal for me to trek to Annapurna Circuit?

If you are willing to trek to Annapurna Circuit, book the package during Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November).

Can I negotiate prices for guides and porters?

Yes, you can. You can meet guides and porters beforehand and negotiate on their daily cost during the trek.

Is tipping compulsory during the trek?

Tipping guides and porters is not compulsory during the Annapurna Circuit Trek. But most importantly, you must understand that tips are highly expected in remote trekking.