How Much Does a Trip to Nepal Cost? Daily Budget Guide (2026)
Last updated: November 4, 2026. All figures are approximate estimates and vary by season, exchange rate and how you travel.
Quick answer: Expect to spend roughly USD 25 to 40 per day on a budget trip, USD 60 to 120 per day mid-range, and USD 150 or more per day for comfort travel in Nepal. Flights, permits and guides for treks are the biggest extras. A two-week trip typically costs about USD 500 to 1,000 on a budget and USD 1,500 to 2,500 mid-range, excluding international flights.
Nepal daily cost by travel style
| Style | Per day (USD) | What it covers |
|---|---|---|
| Budget | 25 to 40 | Guesthouse dorm or basic room, local meals, buses |
| Mid-range | 60 to 120 | 3-star hotel, restaurant meals, taxis, some tours |
| Comfort | 150+ | 4-5 star hotel, private driver, guided day trips |
Typical costs by category
- Visa: USD 30, 50 or 125. See Nepal visa on arrival.
- Accommodation: about USD 8 to 20 budget, USD 40 to 90 mid-range. Compare options in hotels vs homestays.
- Food: a dal bhat set is usually a few dollars, restaurant dinners cost more. See must-try restaurants in Kathmandu.
- Transport: local buses are cheap, tourist buses and domestic flights cost more. See the Nepal road trip guide.
- Sightseeing: temple and square fees such as Kathmandu Durbar Square entry fee.
- Insurance and SIM: see travel insurance in Nepal and the tourist SIM guide.
Trekking costs
Independent trekkers often budget USD 30 to 50 per day for lodges and food, plus permits and transport. Guided treks cost more because guide, porter and logistics are added. Popular routes such as Everest Base Camp also add a domestic flight. Calculate your own with our trekking budget estimator and read the trekking guide.
Sample budgets
- One week in Kathmandu and Pokhara: about USD 250 to 450 on a budget, USD 600 to 900 mid-range.
- Student travelers can save more with budget travel tips for students.
- Use the 7-day Nepal itinerary as a base for costing.
How to save money
- Travel in shoulder months. See the best time to visit Nepal.
- Eat local dal bhat and stay in family-run guesthouses, for example where to stay in Pokhara.
- Use ATMs in cities and carry cash for treks, where machines are scarce.
Frequently asked questions
Is Nepal cheap to visit?
Yes. Food, local transport and basic lodging are inexpensive. Costs rise with flights, guides and permits.
How much money do I need per day in Nepal?
Roughly USD 25 to 40 on a budget, USD 60 to 120 mid-range and USD 150 or more for comfort travel.
How much does a two-week trip to Nepal cost?
About USD 500 to 1,000 on a budget and USD 1,500 to 2,500 mid-range, excluding international flights.
Can I pay by card in Nepal?
Cards work in many hotels and restaurants in cities, but cash is essential in villages and on treks.
Sources: Nepal Tourism Board; Department of Immigration, Nepal. Cost figures are the author’s estimates.
