Annapurna circuit trek which takes from about 15-22 days to complete is one of the most preferred and famous trekking destinations. Since it is quite a variable journey, the budget also extends or deduces with the total days you spend.
The actual amount any trekker spends in Annapurna circuit trek is totally a subjective figure, but the average amount required or needed to complete the trek can be assumed beforehand.
So I have tried to assume the cost for trekking Annapurna considering factual references and experiences.
There are various categories where the budget gets spent. Below, I have tried to list and elaborate on the areas which need spending during the Annapurna circuit trek expedition along with the expected amount of expenditure.
Visa and Flight Expenses
Travelers will need a visa to enter Nepal. The expenses for visa depend on the length of your stay in Nepal.
All the information on visas and the cost of a visa can be found on the website of Nepal’s Department of Immigration.
In general, the breakdown to visa cost based on your period of stay is listed below:
- Cost of 15 days visa- US$ 15
- Cost of 30 days visa- US$ 40
- Cost of 90 days visa- US$ 100
Likewise, the cost of flight to arrive in Nepal should also be taken into consideration. This expense is subjective to the country you will be traveling from.
Permit Charges
Travelers trekking to Annapurna circuit area need to pay Rupees. 3,000 for Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) permit and an additional NPR 2000 for TIMS Card (Trekkers Information Management System). These permits can be issued from Nepal Tourism Board Office or from trekking agents in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
Travel Insurance
All of us are aware of the uncertainties and probable health issues one may encounter while traveling, be it any part of the world. Likewise, traveling to altitude comes with many unpredictable circumstances, so it’s a wise decision to get yourself covered by travel insurance prior to your trip.
Assure yourself with an insurance policy which covers your mandatory travel needs like, flight cancellation, lost or delayed baggage, and medical cost.
Annapurna circuit trek elevates above 4,000m, so make sure your insurance company covers you above this altitude and also covers you for emergency helicopter evacuation in case of any unfortunate health issues.
Always plan before choosing your insurance policy and insurance company, because you don’t want yourself stranded in the mountains bankrupt.
If you are planning to get indulged in some adventurous activities on your journey, like mountaineering and climbing, you have to make sure you are ensured in case of any misfortunate activities.
Generally, the cost of trekking insurance is around US$ 100. But, this cost varies according to the circumstances.
Trekking Gears
There are various essential gears which are needed while trekking, so it is also an area where trekkers have to spend a significant amount.
This cost of trekking gear is variable, as it depends on how much you own already and what you might need to buy. Not every trekker buys all the gears, as it is more reasonable to hire pieces of equipment as compared to buying.
But if you are a frequent trekker, it would be reasonable as well as beneficial for you to invest in the right types of hiking equipment.
You can find a list of basic and mandatory gears on which you might have to spend below. You can calculate or assume your expenditure based items you already own or don’t.
- A sleeping bag which keeps you warm even in the chilliest night of Annapurna
- Waterproof jacket, trekking boots, gloves, beanie, trekking poles, and proper backpack
- Warm and comfortable clothes which provide adequate thermal insulation
- Other basics including sunglasses, sunscreen and more
The accurate figure of how much will all these gears will cost is totally subjective to every trekker, but the cost ranges from US$ 500 or above.
Tour Operators Charge
Though there are trekkers who trek alone, the majority of trekkers travel with a tour operator, which is a safe way but costlier compared to trekking alone.
Annapurna circuit has numerous intersecting paths which might get a bit confusing at times if you are trekking alone, so having someone who holds expertise on Annapurna circuit is always invaluable.
Tour operators make it easier for trekkers to manage food and lodge, permits, trekking gears, as well as porters.
Trekkers who trek alone, without assistance from the tour operator, are expected to spend about US$ 600 to US$ 800 on the way, for the accommodation, trekking permits, and food.
The actual amount which is spent on this category is again a subjective thing as the charge depends on the trekking operators. I
f you trek with a local operator, you may have to spend between US$ 1000 to US$ 1500 for all the required amenities including accommodation, whereas if you trek with a Western operator, you are expected to pay around US$ 1800 to US$ 3200.
But be sure to check what your operator offers beforehand as this varies from operator to operator. Some of them cover all your accommodation, food, and flight expenses, whereas some may exclude one or few aspects.
Food and Lodging
If your food and lodging are covered by your tour operator, you must be good to go, but If you haven’t affiliated any trekking operator for the course of your trekking, you are expected to allocate an average of US$ 22 to 28 per day.
There might be days when you have to spend a little more than this or days when $20 will be enough. But allocate about US$ 28, in order to be on the safe side and not run out of money.
Average Expenditure Per Day
You will be good to go if you allocate around US$ 32 to US$ 35 per day. This average includes the expenses for food, lodging, transportation, and some minor personal expenses. This cost doesn’t include guide or porter charge if you have any.
Total Annapurna Circuit trek cost
On average, the total cost for the Annapurna Circuit Trek can cost about $1200 to $1500, excluding the flight expenses.
Few Things to take in consideration:
Annapurna circuit trek is one of the most surreal as well as exhilarating experience any trekker might encounter in their life.
But, there are few more things one might want to consider during and before planning the trek, as planning well and beforehand might save you from unwanted expenses and crisis.
Traveling solo is costlier than traveling with a partner or in a group. One can split the cost of accommodation and guide with their companion while traveling in a group of two or many.
Guide service normally costs about US$ 25 to US$30, experienced guides usually charge more.
Most of the trek package bought overseas is expensive, the package from local operators are comparatively less priced.
As mentioned above, don’t forget to include travel insurance before starting your journey.
Seek recommendations and first hand information from people who have made the trek earlier, if possible. This will let you be prepared financially as well as mentally about what to expect and whatnot.
It would be a nice idea to allocate a budget for personal expenses and shopping, in case you want to buy some souvenirs on the way or back.
Also, ensure that your trek operator is a member of the Trekking Agencies’ Association of Nepal (TAAN) as TAAN regulates the welfare issues of guides and porters working in Nepal.
Furthermore, it would be beneficial if have a thorough check on the vaccinations you have made. It is recommended that you are vaccinated with Tetanus, Diphtheria, Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and Polio, as this prevents you from getting any such diseases on your journey to Annapurna circuit.
And finally, drink purified water. The price of bottled water increases with increased altitude. If you can’t find bottled water, you can either boil or use iodine purification tablets.