Annapurna region records nearly 33,000 foreign tourists in a month

GANDAKI: A total of 32,963 foreign tourists visited the Annapurna Conservation Area during the month of Asoj (mid-September to mid-October), according to the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP).

Of the total, 12,645 visitors were from South Asian countries, while 20,318 arrived from other parts of the world.

ACAP Chief Dr Rabin Kadariya said the number of foreign visitors increased by 2,416 compared with the same period last year. The Annapurna Conservation Area received 30,547 foreign tourists in Ashoj last year.

The Asoj figure is the highest monthly tourist arrival recorded in the current fiscal year. ACAP data show that 17,913 foreign tourists visited the area in Bhadra, while 26,591 arrived in Shrawan.

Dr Kadariya said Asoj and Kartik are the peak tourist seasons in the region, contributing to higher visitor numbers during the period.

The project office keeps records of foreign tourists travelling on the Annapurna Circuit Trek. Large numbers of domestic tourists also visit the Annapurna region by road. The current season is regarded as one of the most favourable periods for trekking, making the area a popular destination among visitors.

The Annapurna Circuit Trek provides access to destinations including Annapurna Base Camp, Mardi Peak, Ghandruk village, Tilicho Lake in Manang, Thorangla Pass, Upper Mustang and Ghodepani in Myagdi, among other locations.

Dr Kadariya said many visitors prefer trekking between the Dashain and Tihar festivals. The Annapurna Conservation Area covers more than 7,600 square kilometres and is known for its natural beauty, biodiversity, mountain communities and cultural heritage.

The trekking network extends across Kaski, Lamjung, Manang and Myagdi districts. The conservation area includes 87 wards from 15 local governments. Tourism-friendly infrastructure and hospitality services, alongside the region's natural attractions, continue to draw visitors from Nepal and abroad.