Excellent value for the experience
Nepal is one of Asia’s best value destinations — particularly for trekking, where the teahouse system makes multi-day Himalayan adventures surprisingly affordable. Here is the breakdown.
Trekking costs
Permits: $35-55 depending on area. Teahouse accommodation: $3-8/night (some higher at altitude or in peak season). Teahouse meals: $4-10 per meal (dal bhat is the best value, unlimited refills). Guide: $25-40/day (recommended for safety and navigation in remote areas). Porter: $18-25/day (highly recommended for altitude comfort). A 10-day Everest Base Camp trek: permits + teahouses + food ≈ $400-600 without guide/porter, $700-1,000 with.
Kathmandu and Pokhara
Budget guesthouse in Thamel (Kathmandu backpacker district): $8-20/night. Mid-range hotel: $25-60/night. Local dal bhat meal: $2-5. Tourist restaurant in Thamel: $6-15 per person. Pokhara lakeside has similar pricing to Kathmandu’s Thamel.
Activities
Paragliding in Pokhara: $60-100 (world-class, highly recommended). Chitwan National Park wildlife safari: $50-80/day all-inclusive. Pashupatinath temple: free. Boudhanath stupa: NPR 400 ($3) entry. Bhaktapur Durbar Square: NPR 1,500 ($11) entry.
Daily budget
Trekking: $30-60/day (teahouses, food, permits amortized). City (Kathmandu/Pokhara): $25-50/day budget, $60-100/day mid-range.