Annapurna Circuit Trek Cost Breakdown 2026

The Annapurna Circuit cost varies widely depending on your choices around guides, accommodation standard, and whether you use jeeps for the lower sections. This breakdown uses 2026 prices.

Overview

The circuit takes 14-21 days depending on pace and route variations. Key fixed costs: ACAP permit NPR 3,000, TIMS card NPR 2,000, bus Kathmandu–Besisahar NPR 500-800. Variable costs depend on guide hire, accommodation choices, and food spending. For a fully independent trekker eating modestly and staying in mid-range teahouses, budget NPR 180,000-220,000 (USD 1,350-1,650) for a 16-day circuit including bus transport in and out. A licensed guide adds NPR 40,000-60,000 for the full circuit. Use Sajilo to book your Kathmandu-to-bus-park transport so you reach the Besisahar bus on time without the morning scramble.

Getting There

Bus from Kathmandu: NPR 500-800 to Besisahar (7-8 hours). Tourist bus is more comfortable at NPR 1,200-1,500. Jeep Besisahar–Chame saves 2-3 days: NPR 2,000-3,000 per seat. Return from Jomsom: flight to Pokhara NPR 7,000-9,000 (recommended) or jeep NPR 3,000-4,000.

Key Highlights

Accommodation costs by zone: Besisahar to Chame (below 3,000m): NPR 400-600/night. Pisang to Manang (3,200-3,519m): NPR 600-1,000/night. High Camp (4,925m): NPR 800-1,200/night. Food costs rise with altitude: below Manang, a full meal costs NPR 400-700. At High Camp, the same food costs NPR 700-1,200. Total food budget for 16 days: NPR 40,000-65,000 eating three meals per day.

Tips

• Carry NPR 120,000 in cash minimum — ATMs end at Besisahar (some at Chame but unreliable).
• Calculate your guide tip in advance: NPR 4,000-6,000 per day total for a guide-porter combination is appropriate on the Annapurna Circuit.
• Bargain for accommodation in the lower sections (below Pisang) where competition between lodges is stronger.
• The Jomsom-to-Pokhara flight saves 2 days and NPR 1,500-2,000 versus the jeep — worth it for most trekkers.

FAQ

What is the total cost for a guided Annapurna Circuit trek? With a guide and porter for 16 days: approximately NPR 250,000-320,000 (USD 1,875-2,400) including transport, permits, accommodation, food, and tips.

Is the Annapurna Circuit cheaper than EBC? Yes — significantly. No Lukla flight, lower teahouse prices in the lower circuit villages, and generally fewer crowd-driven price inflations above 4,000m.

What is the biggest unexpected expense on the circuit? The Jomsom-to-Pokhara flight is often unplanned but becomes essential after a tough Thorong La crossing — budget for it regardless of your original plan.