Budgeting for your trek
How much does it cost to trek from Pokhara? A typical teahouse trek in the Annapurna region costs between $35 to $60 per day, excluding the upfront costs of permits and transport. This varies based on your group size, whether you hire a guide and porter, and your appetite for hot showers and extra snacks.
The total cost is generally lower than Everest region treks because you do not need expensive domestic flights to reach the trailhead. Let’s break down the daily and fixed costs.
Fixed costs: Permits and Guides
Most routes require an ACAP permit (NPR 3,000 for foreigners, ~$23) and a TIMS card (NPR 2,000, ~$15).
A licensed trekking guide costs roughly $25 to $35 per day. A porter, if you choose to hire one, costs about $20 to $25 per day. These costs are shared among your group, drastically reducing the per-person expense if you are trekking with friends.
Daily trail costs: Food and Lodging
Teahouse rooms are remarkably cheap, often $3 to $6 per night, on the condition that you eat your meals at the lodge. A plate of Dal Bhat, which comes with free refills, costs around $4 to $7 depending on the altitude.
Budget $20 to $30 per day for three meals, tea, and the occasional snack. Extra comforts add up quickly: a hot shower might cost $3, device charging $2, and Wi-Fi access $3 at higher elevations.
Transport and Gear
Taking a local bus to trailheads like Nayapul or Kande costs only $2 to $4. Hiring a private jeep or taxi is faster and more comfortable but costs $30 to $60 total.
If you need to rent gear in Pokhara, budget $1 to $2 per day per item (e.g., sleeping bag, down jacket). Overall, a 5-day trek like Mardi Himal might cost a solo trekker $300 to $400, or $200 to $250 per person in a group of three.