How much does it cost to trek the Annapurna Circuit?

The Annapurna Circuit trek is one of Nepal’s most celebrated trekking routes, known for its cultural richness, beautiful landscapes, and the challenge of crossing Thorong La Pass. Travellers often ask: How much does the Annapurna Circuit trek cost?

On average, the Annapurna Circuit trekking cost ranges between USD 800 and USD 2,000, depending on your itinerary, duration, and the level of services you select. Higher-end packages typically cover accommodation, meals, permits, trekking guides, and porters, offering a hassle-free experience. Budget options may reduce the cost, but often require arranging some services independently.

The total Annapurna Circuit cost can also vary between local and international tour operators. Local agencies usually offer lower prices, while well-established companies with experienced guides and extensive support may charge more. Planning carefully and understanding what’s included in each package ensures your trek is both enjoyable and cost-effective.

Map of the Annapurna Circuit trek in Nepal.

Learn more: Annapurna Circuit vs Everest Base Camp

When looking at the Annapurna Circuit trekking cost, it helps to know what you’re paying for. Costs vary depending on the length of the trek, the services you choose, and if you book with a local or international tour operator.

There are the typical expenses you should know about:

All trekkers must obtain the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and a TIMS card. These mandatory permits ensure you’re trekking legally while supporting local conservation efforts.

Teahouses along the route provide basic but comfortable lodging. Prices are usually per night, but many trek packages include accommodation in the overall cost.

Dal bhat is the staple meal along the trek, and its price rises at higher elevations because transporting food to remote villages becomes more difficult and costly. Packages often include meals on the trail, while independent trekkers will need to budget extra for food.

Getting to and from the Annapurna Circuit trailhead typically involves a combination of buses, jeeps, or domestic flights, depending on your itinerary and starting point. Some itineraries include domestic flights to cut travel time, particularly if you plan a shorter trek or want to return quickly after completing the circuit. Costs vary based on the mode of transport, the season, and if you arrange private transfers or join group vehicles.

Hiring licensed guides and porters is compulsory for the Annapurna Circuit trek. Guides not only navigate the trail and ensure your safety at high altitudes, but they also offer valuable cultural insights, sharing stories about local villages, traditions, and the natural environment. Porters lighten your load by carrying heavy gear, allowing you to focus on trekking comfortably and reducing fatigue on long, steep sections of the route.

Along the Annapurna Circuit and other trekking routes in Nepal, extras such as snacks, hot showers, phone or battery charging, and Wi-Fi are usually not included in the standard teahouse meals or accommodation costs. Most teahouses charge per service, and prices often increase at higher elevations due to transport challenges and limited resources.

The Annapurna Circuit trek cost rises with every additional day on the trail. Longer itineraries mean paying for extra meals, more overnight stays in teahouses, and continued support from guides and porters.

Accommodation ranges from very basic teahouses to more comfortable lodges offering hot showers, private rooms, and broader menus. While these extras enhance comfort, they also increase your overall Annapurna Circuit trek cost.

Prices fluctuate depending on when you trek. The peak trekking seasons of spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) bring the best weather and views, but also higher demand and slightly higher prices. Off-season treks may be cheaper, but they come with greater weather risks.

Trekking with a group can significantly reduce the per-person Annapurna Circuit trekking cost. Shared expenses like guide fees, porter services, and transport lower the overall price compared to travelling solo.

Budget trekkers can keep costs low by choosing shorter routes, travelling in larger groups, and staying in basic teahouses. Those wanting more comfort, flexibility, and support should expect to pay on the higher end of the scale. On a budget trek, expect to spend around USD 800, while fully packaged itineraries with extra comfort, guides, porters, and flights can reach USD 1,500 or more. Choosing a reputable operator like Follow Alice ensures that all services are reliable and safe, letting you focus on the experience rather than logistics.

Trekkers making their way along a winding Himalayan trail on the Annapurna Circuit.

When planning the Annapurna Circuit trek, one of the key considerations is if you should book with a local Nepali agency or an international tour operator. Both options have advantages and affect the overall Annapurna Circuit trekking cost.

Local agencies often advertise lower prices, making them an attractive choice for budget-conscious trekkers. However, quality and reliability can vary widely. Established Nepali companies with experienced guides and porters tend to charge more than newly opened agencies, reflecting their track record, safety standards, and level of service. Choosing a trusted local operator ensures proper permits, knowledgeable guidance, and support for emergencies along the trail.

International trekking companies typically set higher prices but add value through pre-departure support, structured itineraries, and comprehensive safety protocols. These operators often handle logistics such as airport transfers, domestic flights, and detailed route planning, giving travellers peace of mind and a smoother trekking experience.

At Follow Alice, we combine the strengths of both approaches. Our treks are organised to international standards while working closely with trusted local guides and porters. This means travellers benefit from reliable support, cultural insight, and professional guidance, all while enjoying the authenticity and cost-effectiveness of local expertise.

Choosing the right operator is essential for a safe and enjoyable Annapurna Circuit trek. By understanding the differences between local and international providers, you can plan your trek effectively and budget wisely without compromising on safety or experience.

Our trekking team in Nepal is standing proudly with the majestic Himalayan peaks as a backdrop.

Learn more: 10 tips for trekking the Annapurna Circuit

When planning the Annapurna Circuit trek, understanding your primary costs makes budgeting simple. With Follow Alice, there are just two main expenses you will have to focus on:

Our comprehensive trek packages cover almost everything you’ll need on your journey. This includes permits, meals, teahouse accommodation, transport between trailheads, an experienced English-speaking guide, and a porter. By bundling these essentials, we remove the hassle of arranging services individually, allowing you to focus on enjoying the trek and immersing yourself in the Himalayan experience.

Your flights are the only major expense outside of your trekking package. Once you arrive in Nepal, the package takes care of everything on the trail from airport transfers and all road travel to accommodation in teahouses, meals on the trek, drinking water, experienced English-speaking guides, porters, and all necessary permits and taxes. This all-inclusive approach means you can focus entirely on the trek itself. You will be able to enjoy the scenery, pace yourself through the mountains, and immerse yourself in local culture without worrying about logistics or hidden costs.

We design our packages to make your life easier. By handling logistics, safety, and support, you only need to focus on preparing physically for the trek, gathering the right gear, and managing your finances. This approach guarantees a stress-free Annapurna Circuit experience, letting you enjoy the scenery, culture, and challenge of one of Nepal’s most iconic treks. If you are still not sure, schedule a call with our team - we are happy to assist you.

Trekkers pause to take in the moment at Thorong La Pass on the Annapurna Circuit.

When planning your Annapurna Circuit trek, understanding the costs and options helps you choose the itinerary that best suits your preferences. With Follow Alice, your trek cost covers virtually everything, so you can focus on enjoying the adventure.

This itinerary includes:

Travelling by road is a cost-effective option, offering a complete trekking experience while keeping your budget manageable. Please note that prices are subject to change; always check our website for the latest figures.

This itinerary covers everything in the road option but replaces long road journeys with domestic flights. The result is:

Flights offer a quicker and more comfortable journey, while road travel is economical but involves longer transfers. Both itineraries give you full access to the Annapurna Circuit, including iconic landmarks, cultural villages, and Himalayan vistas.

Jomsom Airport, a gateway to the Annapurna Circuit, with the Himalayas towering in the background.

Learn more: Your complete Annapurna Circuit packing list

Understanding what’s included in the Annapurna Circuit trekking cost is key to planning your budget. At Follow Alice, we design our packages to be as all-inclusive as possible once you arrive in Nepal. This way, you know exactly what you’re paying for and can avoid unexpected expenses along the trail.

Here’s what your package covers:

By covering all the essentials, we keep things simple and stress-free. Instead of worrying about daily costs or hidden charges, you can focus on the trek itself – the landscapes, the culture, and the trek ahead.

A hiker on the Annapurna Circuit surrounded by Nepal’s towering peaks.

Learn more: How should I train for the Annapurna Circuit?

Our packages simplify planning by covering permits, meals, accommodation, and transport. You only need to focus on preparing physically, gathering your gear, and getting excited for the trek. By combining local expertise with international standards, Follow Alice ensures a safe, comfortable, and unforgettable Annapurna Circuit experience.

Have a look firsthand to see what it's like trekking the Annapurna Circuit.

Trekking the Annapurna Circuit usually differs, depending on trek length, services, and whether you go with a local or international operator. Packages typically include guides, porters, accommodation, meals, permits, and transport, so there are few hidden costs. Your only major extra expense is your international flight, letting you focus on the trek itself.

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions:

1. Do I need a guide for the Annapurna Circuit? Yes. Since April 2023, trekking without a licensed guide is not permitted. Guides are essential for safety, navigation, and cultural insight.

2. How much do meals cost on the Annapurna Circuit? Meals cost USD 5–8 at lower altitudes and USD 10–12 higher up. Packages with Follow Alice include all meals, so you won’t need to budget separately.

3. How much does accommodation cost on the Annapurna Circuit? Teahouses generally cost USD 5–10 per night if booked independently. With Follow Alice, all accommodation is included in your fee.

Do I need to budget extra for permits? Yes, if trekking independently, you’ll need an ACAP permit and a TIMS card. With Follow Alice, all permits and fees are included.

What’s the total budget I should plan for? With Follow Alice, plan from USD1,590 to USD 2,290 (depending on your itinerary) plus your international flights. Once you land in Nepal, everything else is arranged.

So, how much does the Annapurna Circuit trek cost? Most travellers should budget between USD 800 and USD 2,290, depending on their chosen itinerary, level of comfort, and whether they travel with a local or international operator. This range reflects the variety of options available, from self-organised budget treks to fully supported, all-inclusive packages.

It’s important to understand that the Annapurna Circuit trekking cost isn’t just about accommodation, meals, and transport. You’re also investing in experienced guides, porter support, permits, safety, and the peace of mind that comes with well-organised logistics. Factors such as trek length, season, group size, and accommodation type can influence your overall expenditure, so planning is key.

At Follow Alice, we take care of all the details, ensuring your Annapurna Circuit trek is safe and enriching. Our packages cover everything from airport transfers, permits, and meals to guides, porters, and route planning. This lets you focus on the experience itself: breathtaking Himalayan landscapes, cultural villages, and the achievement of completing one of the world’s most iconic treks.

If you’re ready to experience the Annapurna Circuit with confidence, get in touch with our team today to explore itineraries, pricing, and how we can tailor your Himalayan adventure.