In this comprehensive guide, we break down the Annapurna Base Camp trek cost for a 7-day itinerary. From necessary permits and transportation (Kathmandu to Pokhara) to hiring a guide and porter, every cost factor is examined. Seasoned travelers will appreciate the detailed cost breakdown catering to international trekkers planning their Annapurna Base Camp adventure with confidence. Whether you're a solo traveler or trekking with a group, understanding the Annapurna trek budget helps you plan. We also compare the ABC trek price with the Everest Base Camp trek to highlight why Annapurna can be a more affordable adventure. Additionally, learn about optional expenses like a helicopter return from Annapurna Base Camp and tips for a cheap Annapurna Base Camp trek without compromising safety or experience. Finally, for a hassle-free experience, we discuss guided ABC trek packages with Overland Trek Nepal, ensuring transparent pricing and great value for your trekking journey.
7 Day Annapurna Base Camp Trek Cost Breakdown
Annapurna Base Camp Trek Cost: A 7-Day Guide
This guide explains all the costs for a 7-day Annapurna Base Camp trek. We cover permits, transportation from Kathmandu to Pokhara, guide/porter fees, and more. Whether you're traveling alone or with friends. Knowing these costs helps you plan better. We'll also compare prices with the EBC trek and show you why Annapurna is often more affordable.
You'll also learn about helicopter return, plus tips for keeping costs low. Also, understand guided trek packages with Overland Trek Nepal offer clear pricing and value for your adventure.
About the 7-Day Annapurna Base Camp Trek and Its Cost
Planning your Annapurna Base Camp trek? Understanding the costs is key to a smooth adventure. ABC is one of Nepal's most popular treks, and the good news is—it's affordable when you plan.
This guide breaks down all the expenses for a 7-day trek: Permits, guides, porters, transportation, accommodation, and meals. Whether you're an experienced or a first-timer, knowing your budget means no financial issues.
7-Day Annapurna Base Camp Trek Cost: Guide & Porter Fees
Guide and Porter Costs
Hiring a guide and porter makes your trek easier and safer. In 2025, a licensed guide costs $30-50 per day, while a porter costs $22-25 per day. For 7 days, expect to pay $210-350 for a guide and $154-175 for a porter, totaling $364-525 for both (using the 7-day duration, adjusted from the original calculation).
Want to save money? Consider hiring a guide-porter (one person who does both jobs) for $20-30 per day.
What Else You'll Pay
You'll need to cover their meals and accommodation during the trek. Most trekkers also tip for good service—typically $5-10 per day for guides and $3-7 per day for porters.
The Easier Option: Trek Packages
When you book with a reputable agency like Overland Trek Nepal, things get simpler. Their packages include everything: guide, porter, permits, meals, and accommodation. All in one price. You won't pay separately for your guide and porter's food or lodging.
Overland Trek Nepal's 7-day ABC package starts at $699. For solo travelers, the cost drops to around $650 per person for groups of 2-5 people.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek Cost: Permits & Transportation
Besides the trekking guide and porter, the Permit card plays an important role in the 7 Days Annapurna Base Camp Trek Cost. Without the permit card, no trekkers can do the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. These are mandatory or necessary costs that every trekker must account for:
Trekking Permit cost for ABC Trek
To trek in the Annapurna region, you need two permits: The Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card. The ACAP is required for entry, and TIMS helps authorities keep track of trekkers for safety. For foreign trekkers, the ACAP costs NPR 3,000 (approximately $22–$25 USD per person).
Transportation Cost
The 7-day Annapurna Base Camp trek typically starts and ends in Pokhara. Thus, you should factor in the cost of getting from Kathmandu to Pokhara, and back, if your journey returns to Kathmandu, as well as the trip from Pokhara to the trailhead. There are a few options:
1. Kathmandu to Pokhara (One-Way):
|
Options |
Cost (per person, one-way) |
Duration |
Notes |
|
Tourist Bus (most budget-friendly) |
$10–$15 USD |
6–8 hours |
|
|
Domestic Flight (fastest/comfortable) |
~$110 USD |
~30 minutes |
Offers great Himalayan views on clear days. |
|
Private Car or Jeep (per vehicle) |
$180–$220 USD |
For the entire vehicle. |
2. Pokhara to Trailhead:
The traditional trailhead for the ABC trek is Nayapul. But many 7-day itineraries now start a bit further in, e.g., driving to Jhinu Danda or Ghandruk to shorten the walking duration.
|
Destination |
Option |
Cost |
|
Nayapul |
Local Bus |
around $5-$6 USD (per person) |
|
Nayapul |
Private Jeep |
$100 USD (for the vehicle) |
Annapurna Base Camp Trek Cost vs. Everest Base Camp Trek Cost
Many travelers eventually ask: What is the cost of trekking to Annapurna Base Camp compared to the Everest Base Camp (EBC) trek?
Both are famous treks in Nepal. Here are some differences that make Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) budget-friendly than EBC.
|
Feature |
Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek |
Everest Base Camp (EBC) Trek |
|
Package Price Range |
$500 to $999 per person |
$1299 to $1599 per person |
|
Typical Duration |
7–10 days |
12–14 days |
|
Main Reason for Cost Difference |
Shorter duration (fewer days of food/lodging). |
Expensive Kathmandu to Lukla flight fare and longer duration. |
Annapurna Base Camp Trek Cost with the Helicopter Return Option
One exciting variation you can add is to return on a Helicopter. First, you trek up to ABC and take a helicopter flight back to Pokhara.
This option is growing in popularity. It's best for trekkers who are short on time or those who want to avoid retracing the same path back down.
Remember, adding a helicopter return will increase your Annapurna Base Camp trek cost.
Here’s what to expect with the helicopter return option:
Chartering a helicopter from Annapurna Base Camp (or nearby, such as Machhapuchhre Base Camp) to Pokhara can be quite expensive if you’re alone. But usually, the cost is shared among 5–6 passengers, the typical capacity of trekking helicopters in Nepal.
On average, the cost per person for a helicopter ride from ABC to Pokhara ranges from $500 to $700, if the helicopter is filled.
If you were to charter a private helicopter for just yourself or a very small group, total costs can be $2,000+, so joining others is key to keeping it (relatively) affordable.
7 Days Annapurna Base Camp Trek Cost from Pokhara
Starting the 7-day Annapurna Base Camp trek from Pokhara can be more cost-effective, as it eliminates the need for Kathmandu transport.
Many local agencies in Pokhara offer short ABC trek packages. Usually, the cost for the ABC Trek from Pokhara ranges from about $499 to $799 per person for a standard 7-day package. This includes your permits, guide/porter, meals, stay, Vehicle from Pokhara to the trailhead and back.
Trek with Overland Trek Nepal to Annapurna Base Camp
When planning your ABC trek budget, choosing the right trekking company can make a big difference. Overland Trek Nepal is one of the best local operators known for reasonable pricing and excellent service. Trekking with them provides good value for your money.
If you have extra days, we also provide optional side treks like the ABC Trek with Poon Hill or the combined ABC Mardi Himal Trek. We offer reasonable prices with personalized service. Feel free to contact us via email or WhatsApp us at +9779841920870.
Conclusion
The ABC trek is an incredible, once-in-a-lifetime experience with stunning, close-up Himalayan views. The 7 Days Annapurna Base Camp Trek cost can vary because of the package and the level of service you prefer. To know more about the 7 Day Annapurna Base Camp Trek cost, contact us via email or WhatsApp us at +9779841920870.
ABC Trek Cost FAQs
Is a 7-day Annapurna Base Camp trek itinerary enough to reach ABC and back?
Yes, a 7-day itinerary is a short version of the ABC trek that is feasible for fit and experienced trekkers. In General, this 7 Day ABC Trek starts and ends at Pokhara.
What permits do I need for the ABC trek, and how do I get them?
You will need two permits: the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the TIMS card. ACAP costs NPR 3,000 (around $22–$25) for foreigners and is obtainable through the Nepal Tourism Board offices in Kathmandu or Pokhara. However, when you choose Overland Trek Nepal for this Trek, we handle all the permits ourselves.
How much money should I budget per day for personal expenses on the trek?
If you have paid for a package that includes meals and lodging, you won’t need a lot of money on the trail. Just for extras like snacks, drinks, hot showers, charging electronics, and tips. If meals aren’t included, then budget about $30–$40 per day for food and accommodation.
How much should I tip a guide during the ABC Trek in Nepal?
Tipping the guide and porter is a common practice in Nepal to show gratitude for their work. While it’s not mandatory, it is highly expected when the service is good. For a 7-day ABC trek, a rough guideline could be: Guide: anywhere from $50–$70 total, Porter: about $30–$50 total (roughly $5–$7 per day).
Can I do ABC Trek without a guide or porter?
As of the latest regulations (from April 2023 onwards), solo trekking without a guide is no longer allowed in Nepal, including the Annapurna Region. This rule was implemented by the Nepal Tourism Board to improve trekker safety. Currently, there have been incidents of lone trekkers getting lost or facing difficulties.




