Nepal is one of Asia's most affordable destinations for travelers. You can experience incredible Himalayan treks, ancient temples, and warm hospitality without breaking the bank. With smart planning, a daily budget of $25-30 USD is entirely realistic.
This detailed guide breaks down costs for accommodation, food, transport, and activities — helping you maximize your experience while minimizing expenses.
Daily Budget Breakdown
| Category | Budget | Mid-Range | Comfort |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $5-10 | $15-30 | $40-80 |
| Food (3 meals) | $8-12 | $15-25 | $30-50 |
| Transport | $2-5 | $5-15 | $20-40 |
| Activities | $5-10 | $15-30 | $40-100 |
| Daily Total | $20-37 | $50-100 | $130-270 |
Accommodation: Where to Stay Cheap
Hostels ($5-12/night)
Kathmandu's Thamel district and Pokhara's Lakeside have dozens of hostels with dorm beds from $5-8 and private rooms from $10-15. Look for places with free WiFi, breakfast, and common areas to meet other travelers.
Budget Guesthouses ($8-15/night)
Family-run guesthouses offer simple, clean rooms with attached bathrooms. These are excellent for budget travelers who prefer privacy. Many include breakfast and have rooftop terraces with mountain views.
Teahouses on Treks ($3-8/night)
On popular trekking routes, teahouses provide basic but comfortable accommodation. Rooms are typically $3-8, and the real cost is in meals (which you're expected to buy at the same teahouse). Learn more about trekking costs for EBC.
Negotiate room rates during off-season (December-February, May-August) and for longer stays. Many guesthouses offer 20-30% discounts for multi-night bookings.
Food: Eating Well on a Budget
Dal Bhat Power ($3-5)
The Nepali national dish — lentils, rice, vegetables, and pickles — is the ultimate budget meal. It's nutritious, filling, and usually comes with unlimited refills. Available everywhere from local restaurants to teahouses.
Street Food ($0.50-2)
- Momos: $1-2 for 10 pieces
- Samosas: $0.30-0.50 each
- Chow mein: $1-2
- Sel roti: $0.20-0.30 (ring-shaped bread)
Tourist Restaurants ($5-10)
Thamel and Lakeside have western-style restaurants serving pizza, pasta, and burgers. While more expensive than local food, they're still affordable by international standards. Great for an occasional treat.
Self-Catering
Buy fresh fruit, bread, peanut butter, and snacks from local shops to reduce meal costs on treks and travel days. Most hostels have shared kitchens.
Transport: Getting Around Cheaply
Local Buses (Cheapest)
- Kathmandu-Pokhara: $5-8 (8 hours)
- Kathmandu-Chitwan: $5-7 (5-6 hours)
- City buses: $0.15-0.30 per ride
Tourist Buses (Comfortable)
- Kathmandu-Pokhara: $10-15 (7 hours, air-con, more comfortable)
- Kathmandu-Chitwan: $10-12 (5 hours)
Shared Jeeps
Popular for reaching trailheads and remote areas. Typically $5-15 depending on distance. Crowded but authentic!
Flights (When Worth It)
Kathmandu-Lukla flights ($180-350 return) are essential for EBC trek. Kathmandu-Pokhara flights ($100-150) save time but aren't necessary for budget travelers.
Free & Low-Cost Activities
Free Activities
- Walking around Kathmandu Durbar Square (temple exteriors)
- Sunrise views from Sarangkot (just transport cost)
- Hiking around Phewa Lake in Pokhara
- Watching sunset at Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple area)
- Exploring local markets and neighborhoods
Budget Activities ($5-20)
- Temple entry fees: $3-10
- Yoga classes: $5-10/session
- Cooking classes: $15-25
- Boat hire on Phewa Lake: $3-5/hour
Budget Trek Costs
Trekking is where Nepal offers incredible value. A 5-day Poon Hill trek can cost as little as $150-200 total:
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| TIMS + ACAP Permit | $40 |
| Transport to/from Nayapul | $10 |
| Accommodation (4 nights) | $20 |
| Food (5 days) | $60-80 |
| Misc (tips, snacks) | $20 |
| Total | $150-170 |
Money-Saving Tips
- Travel in shoulder season (March, September, December) for lower prices and fewer crowds
- Eat where locals eat — look for busy restaurants with Nepali customers
- Carry a reusable water bottle — water refill stations are common on treks
- Bargain politely — expected for souvenirs, taxis, and market purchases
- Use ATMs wisely — withdraw larger amounts to minimize fees
- Trek independently — guides aren't required on most major trails
- Stay longer in one place — reduces transport costs and often gets room discounts
Budget-Friendly Custom Trips
We can design affordable itineraries that maximize your experience without exceeding your budget.
Get a Free QuoteSample 2-Week Budget ($400-500)
- Days 1-3: Kathmandu sightseeing ($60)
- Days 4-8: Poon Hill Trek ($150)
- Days 9-11: Pokhara relaxation ($70)
- Days 12-14: Chitwan Safari ($100-150)
- Transport: ~$50
- Total: $430-480
