Everything you need to budget your Himalayan adventure — permits, guides, accommodation, food, and trek-specific costs, all in one place.
Nepal remains one of the world's most accessible mountain destinations, offering treks from gentle valley walks to high-altitude expeditions above 5,000m. However, costs vary enormously depending on your chosen route, season, guide and porter requirements, and comfort level.
Since April 2023, Nepal's government mandates that all foreign trekkers in designated trekking areas must be accompanied by a licensed trekking guide. This regulation applies to virtually all popular routes. For comprehensive planning resources, consult this travel guide covering everything from visa costs to day-by-day itineraries.
This guide breaks down every cost category you'll encounter — so you can arrive in Kathmandu fully prepared. All prices are in USD and reflect 2026 figures.
From teahouse-to-teahouse classics to remote restricted-area expeditions — here's what each major trek will cost you in 2026.
Solo trekking in Nepal changed significantly after the 2023 guide mandate. However, certain routes and budget strategies still allow adventurous solo travelers to manage costs effectively.
Sharing a guide with another trekker can cut your guide cost in half — from ~$35/day to ~$17.50/day per person. Teahouse deals are better negotiated in lower season too.
Based on real trekker data collected across Nepal's most popular routes in 2026.
| Expense Category | Budget | Mid-Range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Teahouse / Lodge | $3–$8 | $15–$30 | $50–$120 |
| Three Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) | $10–$15 | $18–$30 | $35–$60 |
| Drinking Water / Snacks | $2–$5 | $3–$8 | $5–$12 |
| Guide (shared per person) | $15–$20 | $20–$30 | $30–$50 |
| Porter (optional) | $15–$20 | $20–$25 | $25–$35 |
| Hot Showers / Charging | $1–$3 | $2–$4 | Included |
| Miscellaneous / Tips | $3–$5 | $5–$10 | $10–$20 |
| ESTIMATED DAILY TOTAL | $40–$55 | $80–$130 | $155–$300 |
* Permit costs, flights to Lukla, and Kathmandu pre/post expenses are not included in the daily rate above.
Every major trek in Nepal requires at least two permits. Understanding which ones apply to your route is essential before you start budgeting.
Restricted areas require special permits in addition to standard ones. The Manaslu Circuit trek restricted area permit costs $100/week (Sept–Nov) and $75/week (Dec–Aug) per person. Upper Mustang costs $500 for 10 days. These areas also legally require a minimum group of two trekkers and a licensed guide — no solo entry is permitted.
Nepal's teahouse culture means most treks are self-sufficient in lodging and food. But prices vary dramatically by altitude and region.
Shared bathroom, basic mattress, blankets provided. Common in lower-altitude stretches and classic budget trekking routes. You're expected to eat dinner and breakfast at the same teahouse.
En-suite or shared bathrooms, better mattresses, electric blankets at altitude, and WiFi available. Very common along EBC and Annapurna Circuit. Meals priced separately.
Premium properties like Everest View Hotel (Khumbu) or Summit Hotels' properties offer en-suite rooms, hot water, heating, and gourmet meals. Available at select points on major routes.
Required on remote routes like Kanchenjunga. Adds cost for tent, cook, and kitchen crew. Generally more expensive than teahouse trekking when all equipment costs are factored in.
* Prices increase significantly at higher altitudes due to porter-carried supplies. Expect to pay 30–50% more above 4,000m.
Since April 2023, licensed guides are mandatory for foreign trekkers on most routes. Understanding their costs — and the value they add — is essential for accurate budgeting.
Important: Guide and porter fees above do not include their food and accommodation, which you are responsible for paying. Budget an additional $10–$15/day per staff member for their meals and lodge costs. Always ensure your staff have adequate clothing and insurance. The Langtang Valley is particularly beginner-friendly — learn more about its route difficulty at this Langtang Valley trek difficulty guide.
Nepal's trekking calendar has clear peak and off seasons — and your choice dramatically affects both what you pay and what you experience.
Veteran Nepal trekkers know these secrets — apply them to get the most from every dollar on the trail.
These are the questions we hear most from trekkers planning their first or fifth Nepal adventure. Updated for 2026 conditions.
For safety-related concerns on specific routes, this resource on whether the Langtang Valley trek is safe is particularly detailed and up-to-date.
For a 14-day mid-range trek including flights from Kathmandu, permits, guide, accommodation, and food, budget approximately $1,500–$2,200 USD. A budget version can come in at $900–$1,200, while a luxury experience may reach $3,500+.
Absolutely — it's non-negotiable for high-altitude trekking. Your policy must include helicopter rescue coverage (a single rescue above 4,000m can cost $3,000–$8,000 USD). Budget $80–$180 for comprehensive Nepal trekking insurance from providers like World Nomads or True Traveller.
Under regulations effective April 2023, independent trekking in designated trekking areas without a licensed guide is not permitted for foreign nationals. All popular treks including Langtang, EBC, Annapurna, and Manaslu require a registered guide. Some day-hikes outside designated zones may still be done independently.
The Langtang Valley Trek consistently ranks as the best value-for-money major trek in Nepal. With permit costs under $60, no domestic flight required, excellent teahouses, and stunning scenery, a 7–10 day itinerary can be completed for $500–$900 all-in. See the full cost breakdown here.
Budget $50–$120/day in Kathmandu depending on your accommodation choice. Most trekkers spend 2–3 days before and after for permits, gear, acclimatization, and sightseeing. Total Kathmandu budget: $200–$500 excluding international flights.
Yes — tipping is a deeply embedded and important part of the trekking culture. A fair tip for your guide is $50–$100 for a 10–14 day trek; for a porter, $30–$70. Tips represent a significant portion of their annual income and should be given directly in cash, ideally in an envelope on the final trekking day.