Trek Cost India: How Much Does Trekking in India Really Cost?

When you think of trekking in India, a physical journey through rugged mountains, remote villages, and high-altitude passes that tests endurance and rewards with unforgettable views. Also known as mountain hiking in India, it’s not just walking—it’s an immersion into landscapes few ever see. The trek cost India isn’t just about the trail. It’s about permits, guides, gear, food, transport, and sometimes even porters. And yes, you can do it for under $100—or spend ten times that, depending on what you’re after.

Most popular treks like Stok Kangri, a high-altitude challenge in Ladakh that draws serious adventurers with its 6,153-meter peak and thin air or the Kedarkantha trek, a beginner-friendly winter trail in Uttarakhand with snow-covered pine forests and star-filled skies, have clear price ranges. A basic 5-day trek in the Himalayas usually runs between ₹8,000 and ₹20,000 per person. That includes accommodation, meals, permits, and a guide. But if you want luxury tents, private guides, or helicopter transfers, you’re looking at ₹40,000 or more. Gear rental adds another ₹1,500–₹5,000 if you don’t own a sleeping bag or trekking poles. Flights to Leh or Dehradun? Those can cost ₹5,000–₹15,000 round-trip depending on season.

It’s not just about money—it’s about what’s included. Some operators throw in everything: hot showers, oxygen bottles, even Wi-Fi. Others charge extra for everything from bottled water to toilet paper. The cheapest treks often mean shared dorms, basic food, and group logistics. The pricier ones? Private tents, better food, and smaller groups. And don’t forget permits. Many treks in Ladakh, Sikkim, or Arunachal Pradesh require special inner line permits that cost ₹200–₹2,000 per person, plus processing fees. These aren’t optional. Skip them and you won’t get past the checkpoint.

What you’ll find in the posts below are real breakdowns—what a 7-day trek in the Himalayas actually costs, how much you save by going off-season, which treks give you the most bang for your buck, and why some so-called "budget treks" end up costing twice as much as promised. You’ll see price comparisons between Stok Kangri and Kedarkantha, learn where to rent gear cheaply in Manali, and discover hidden fees that catch first-time trekkers off guard. Whether you’re planning your first walk in the hills or your toughest climb yet, this collection cuts through the noise and gives you what matters: clear numbers, real experiences, and no fluff.