Overview of the Annapurna Circuit Trek
The Annapurna Circuit Trek circles the Annapurna Massif and passes through some of Nepal’s most spectacular mountain scenery. The trek traditionally starts from Besisahar and ends in Jomsom, Tatopani, or Nayapul, depending on the chosen itinerary.
Trek Highlights
- Crossing Thorong La Pass (5,416m)
- Exploring traditional Gurung, Thakali, and Manangi villages
- Stunning views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Manaslu ranges
- Visiting the sacred temple of Muktinath
- Experiencing diverse climates and landscapes
- Walking through the Kali Gandaki Gorge
- Discovering Tibetan-influenced culture
Trek Duration
The standard Annapurna Circuit Trek takes between 12 and 18 days. However, modern road access allows trekkers to complete the route in as few as 10–14 days.
Maximum Altitude
Thorong La Pass: 5,416 meter
Annapurna Circuit Trek Cost Overview
The Annapurna Circuit Trek cost varies depending on your travel style.
| Expense Category |
Budget Trek |
Standard Trek |
Luxury Trek |
| Permits |
$50 |
$50 |
$50 |
| Transportation |
$40-$80 |
$80-$150 |
$200+ |
| Accommodation |
$5-$10/day |
$10-$20/day |
$25-$60/day |
| Meals |
$20-$30/day |
$30-$40/day |
$40-$60/day |
| Guide |
$25-$35/day |
$30-$40/day |
$40+ |
| Porter |
$20-$30/day |
$25-$35/day |
$35+ |
| Miscellaneous |
$100 |
$150 |
$300+ |
Total Annapurna Circuit Trek Cost
- Budget Trek: $700–$1,000
- Standard Trek: $1,100–$1,600
- Luxury Trek: $1,800–$3,000+
Annapurna Circuit Trek Permit Cost
Permits are mandatory for all trekkers undertaking the Annapurna Circuit Trek. Every visitor must obtain the necessary trekking permits before entering the Annapurna region. The Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and TIMS Card are required to help manage tourism, protect the natural environment, and enhance trekker safety. These permits are checked at several checkpoints along the route, so trekkers should carry them at all times. Without valid permits, entry into the trekking region may be denied. Obtaining permits in advance ensures a smooth and hassle-free trekking experience.
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
The Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) is mandatory for all trekkers entering the Annapurna region. This permit supports conservation efforts, environmental protection, trail maintenance, and community development projects within the Annapurna Conservation Area. Revenue generated from the permit helps preserve the region’s unique biodiversity and natural beauty while promoting sustainable tourism.
ACAP Permit Cost:
- Foreign Nationals: NPR 3,000 per person
- SAARC Nationals: NPR 1,000 per person
Trekkers must carry their ACAP permit throughout the journey, as it is checked at multiple checkpoints along the Annapurna Circuit Trek route. Without a valid permit, entry into the conservation area is not allowed.
TIMS Card
Although regulations may vary, trekkers should always verify current TIMS requirements before trekking.
Cost
The Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) is mandatory for all trekkers entering the Annapurna region. The permit supports conservation programs, environmental protection, trail maintenance, and local community development within the Annapurna Conservation Area. By purchasing an ACAP permit, trekkers directly contribute to preserving the region’s natural and cultural heritage for future generations.
ACAP Permit Cost:
- Foreign Nationals: Around NPR 2,000 per person
- SAARC Nationals: Around NPR 1,000 per person
Trekkers should carry their permits at all times, as they are checked at several points along the trekking route. Having valid permits ensures a smooth and hassle-free trekking experience in the Annapurna region.
Total Permit Cost
The total permit cost for the Annapurna Circuit Trek depends on your nationality. Trekkers are required to obtain the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), which helps support conservation and sustainable tourism efforts in the region.
Permit Cost:
- Foreign Nationals: Around NPR 2,000 per person
- SAARC Nationals: Around NPR 1,000 per person
Trekkers should obtain their permits before starting the trek and keep them with them throughout the journey, as permit checks are conducted at various checkpoints along the route.
Transportation Cost for Annapurna Circuit Trek
Transportation is a major component of the Annapurna Circuit Trek cost.
Kathmandu to Besisahar
Local Bus
Tourist Bus
Private Jeep
Besisahar to Chame
Many trekkers continue by jeep to Chame.
Shared Jeep
Private Jeep
Jomsom to Pokhara
Bus
Jeep
Flight
Pokhara to Kathmandu
Tourist Bus
Flight
Annapurna Circuit Trek Accommodation Cost
Tea houses provide basic accommodation throughout the route.
Budget Tea Houses
Rooms generally include:
- Twin beds
- Blankets
- Shared bathrooms
Standard Lodges
- Cost: USD 10–20 per night
Additional facilities may include:
- Attached bathrooms
- Hot showers
- Better dining areas
Luxury Lodges
- Cost: USD 25–60 per night
Available mainly in lower-altitude regions.
Total Accommodation Cost
For a 14-day trek:
- Budget: USD 70–140
- Standard: USD 140–280
- Luxury: USD 350–700
Food Cost on Annapurna Circuit Trek
Food prices increase with altitude because supplies are transported by porters, mules, or helicopters.
Typical Meal Prices
Breakfast
- Porridge: USD 3–6
- Pancakes: USD 3–7
- Eggs: USD 2–5
Lunch
- Dal Bhat: USD 5–8
- Fried Rice: USD 4–7
- Noodles: USD 4–7
Dinner
- Dal Bhat: USD 5–9
- Pasta: USD 5–8
- Soup: USD 3–6
Drinks
- Tea: USD 1–4
- Coffee: USD 2–5
- Bottled Water: USD 1–5
Daily Food Budget
- Budget: USD 20–25
- Standard: USD 30–40
- Comfortable: USD 40–60
Total Food Cost
For a 14-day trek:
- Budget: USD 280–350
- Standard: USD 420–560
- Luxury: USD 600–840
Guide Cost for Annapurna Circuit Trek
Hiring a guide greatly enhances safety and cultural understanding.
Licensed Guide Cost
Total Guide Cost
For a 14-day trek:
Benefits of Hiring a Guide
- Route navigation
- Altitude awareness
- Local knowledge
- Emergency assistance
- Language support
Porter Cost for Annapurna Circuit Trek
Porters help carry trekking gear and make the trek more enjoyable.
Porter Cost
Total Porter Cost
For 14 days:
A porter generally carries luggage for two trekkers.
Travel Insurance Cost
Travel insurance is highly recommended.
Your insurance should cover:
- High-altitude trekking
- Helicopter evacuation
- Emergency medical treatment
- Trip cancellation
Cost
The final price depends on age, nationality, and coverage.
Miscellaneous Expenses
Additional expenses are often overlooked when calculating the Annapurna Circuit Trek cost.
Hot Showers
Charging Devices
Wi-Fi
Laundry
Snacks
Estimated Miscellaneous Budget
Annapurna Circuit Trek Itinerary (14 Days)
Day 1: Kathmandu to Besisahar and Drive to Chame
- Drive Duration: 8–10 hours
- Overnight: Chame
Day 2: Chame to Pisang
- Trek Duration: 5–6 hours
- Overnight: Pisang
Day 3: Pisang to Manang
- Trek Duration: 5–7 hours
- Overnight: Manang
Day 4: Acclimatization Day in Manang
- Explore surrounding viewpoints
- Overnight: Manang
Day 5: Manang to Yak Kharka
- Trek Duration: 4–5 hours
- Overnight: Yak Kharka
Day 6: Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi
- Trek Duration: 4–5 hours
- Overnight: Thorong Phedi
Day 7: Thorong Phedi to Muktinath via Thorong La Pass
- Trek Duration: 8–10 hours
- Highest Point: 5,416m
- Overnight: Muktinath
Day 8: Muktinath to Jomsom
- Trek Duration: 5–6 hours
- Overnight: Jomsom
Day 9: Jomsom to Tatopani
- Drive Duration: 5–6 hours
- Overnight: Tatopani
Day 10: Tatopani to Ghorepani
- Trek Duration: 7–8 hours
- Overnight: Ghorepani
Day 11: Poon Hill Sunrise and Trek to Tadapani
- Trek Duration: 6–7 hours
- Overnight: Tadapani
Day 12: Tadapani to Ghandruk
- Trek Duration: 3–4 hours
- Overnight: Ghandruk
Day 13: Ghandruk to Nayapul and Drive to Pokhara
- Trek Duration: 3 hours
- Drive: 2 hours
- Overnight: Pokhara
Day 14: Pokhara to Kathmandu
- Drive or flight
- Trip ends
Budget Tips for Annapurna Circuit Trek
Travel During Shoulder Seasons
While March to May and September to November are the most popular months for the Annapurna Circuit Trek, traveling during the shoulder seasons can help reduce overall expenses. Months such as February, early June, late November, and December often have lower accommodation rates and fewer crowds. Tea houses may also offer more flexibility in pricing, making it easier for budget-conscious trekkers to save money while still enjoying the stunning mountain scenery.
Carry a Water Purification System
Drinking water can become one of the hidden costs of the trek. Purchasing bottled water every day can significantly increase your budget, especially at higher elevations where prices rise due to transportation challenges. Carrying water purification tablets, a filtration bottle, or a portable water filter allows you to safely refill water from local sources while reducing both costs and plastic waste. This simple step can save a considerable amount of money during the trek.
Share a Porter
Hiring a porter can make the trek more comfortable by reducing the weight you need to carry. To lower expenses, two trekkers can share a single porter, as most porters can safely carry up to 20–25 kilograms. Sharing porter costs is a common practice among trekkers and provides a more affordable option while still offering valuable support throughout the journey.
Eat Dal Bhat
Dal Bhat is the most popular meal on the Annapurna Circuit Trek and is often considered the best value for money. The traditional Nepali meal includes rice, lentil soup, vegetables, and pickles, and many tea houses offer free refills. Because it provides a balanced combination of carbohydrates and protein, Dal Bhat supplies the energy needed for long trekking days while helping trekkers keep food expenses under control.
Book Through a Local Trekking Agency
Best Time for Annapurna Circuit Trek
The Annapurna Circuit Trek can be completed throughout the year, but each season offers a unique trekking experience. Understanding the advantages and challenges of each season can help trekkers choose the most suitable time for their adventure.
Spring (March–May)
Spring is one of the most popular seasons for the Annapurna Circuit Trek. The weather is generally stable, temperatures are comfortable, and the trails come alive with colorful blooming flowers.
Advantages:
- Rhododendron forests in full bloom
- Pleasant daytime temperatures
- Clear mountain views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Manaslu
- Longer daylight hours for trekking
- Excellent conditions for photography
Autumn (September–November)
Autumn is widely considered the best time to trek the Annapurna Circuit. Following the monsoon season, the skies become exceptionally clear, providing breathtaking mountain panoramas.
Advantages:
- Stable and predictable weather
- Excellent visibility and crystal-clear mountain views
- Comfortable temperatures for trekking
- Dry trails and ideal trekking conditions
- Vibrant local festivals such as Dashain and Tihar
Winter (December–February)
Winter offers a quieter trekking experience with fewer visitors on the trail. While the landscapes are stunning, trekkers should be prepared for colder temperatures and possible snowfall at higher elevations.
Advantages:
- Fewer crowds on the trekking route
- Lower accommodation prices in some areas
- Clear skies and beautiful snow-covered mountain scenery
- Peaceful trekking experience
Challenges:
- Heavy snowfall may affect Thorong La Pass (5,416m)
- Extremely cold temperatures at higher elevations
- Some tea houses may close during severe weather conditions
Monsoon (June–August)
The monsoon season brings lush greenery and vibrant landscapes to the Annapurna region. Although trekking is still possible, weather-related challenges should be considered.
Advantages:
- Green and refreshing landscapes
- Less crowded trails and tea houses
- Unique views of waterfalls and flowing rivers
- Quieter trekking experience
Challenges:
- Frequent rainfall and cloudy conditions
- Increased risk of landslides on certain sections of the trail
- Reduced mountain visibility
- Wet and slippery trekking paths
For most trekkers, Spring (March–May) and Autumn (September–November) provide the best combination of weather, visibility, and trekking conditions, making them the most recommended seasons for the Annapurna Circuit Trek.
Is the Annapurna Circuit Trek Worth the Cost?