Annapurna sees record tourist arrivals

By Yadu Prasad Bhatta,Manang, Dec. 10: The Annapurna Conservation Area (ACAP), considered one of Nepal’s premier trekking destinations, has recorded an unprecedented increase in tourist arrivals this year. 

According to ACAP, a total of 273,646 foreign tourists visited the Annapurna region in 11 months from January to November. This is regarded as one of the highest arrival figures seen in Nepal’s trekking tourism sector in recent years.

Of the total visitors, 115,555 were from South Asian countries (SAARC), while 158,091 came from other parts of the world. ACAP said that the globally renowned trekking routes -- Annapurna Circuit, Annapurna Base Camp, and surrounding natural and cultural sites -- continued to attract large numbers of travellers.

ACAP data showed that April was the busiest month of the year, with 44,763 foreign trekkers entering the Annapurna region. This was followed by 36,834 in March, 34,716 in May, 26,008 in June, 14,233 in July, 12,132 in August, 19,386 in September, 37,076 in October, and 27,071 in November.

Last year’s total arrivals stood at 244,045. This year, the figure surpassed that number by more than 29,000 within just 11 months, setting a new record. After several slow years following the COVID-19 pandemic, 2025 has emerged as a year of tourism revival, said Dhak Bahadur Bhujel, Chief of the ACAP Area Conservation Office in Manang.

According to Bhujel, improvements in trekking trails, safety measures, sanitation, local hospitality, socio-cultural diversity and Himalayan scenery have helped establish the Annapurna region as a major attraction for travellers worldwide. 

Enhanced transport access, improved information services and digital promotion have also supported the rise in arrivals. He expressed confidence that tourist numbers will further increase in 2026, enabling country’s mountain tourism sector to reach new heights.

Meanwhile, 6,703 foreign tourists visited Manang, part of the circular Annapurna trail, in November this year. Known for its Himalayan beauty, cultural diversity and adventurous trekking routes, Manang continued to attract a notable number of visitors.

According to the District Tourism Information Centre, the arrivals included 3,918 male tourists, 2,784 female tourists, and one other type. Of the total, 391 were from SAARC countries, while 6,312 came from other nations.

In November 2024, Manang received 6,902 tourists, around 200 more than this year.