Pokhara, Nov 18: In the Nepali month of Kartik, over 33,000 foreign tourists visited the Annapurna Conservation Area (ACAP).
According to the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP), a total of 33,310 tourists visited the region during this period, with 11,678 coming from South Asian countries and 21,332 from abroad.
Dr. Rabin Kadariya, the Chief of the Project, stated that since the month of Srawan, 83,031 foreign tourists have visited the area. During the same period last year, 67,442 tourists had visited. In the current fiscal year, the total number of tourists visiting the region has already exceeded 222,180, and ACAP expects more than 250,000 visitors by the end of the year.
Tourism arrivals have seen a notable increase since the month of Ashoj, with 30,732 foreign tourists visiting the area during that month. Of these, 11,985 were from Asian countries, and 18,747 were from other countries. The number of foreign tourists visiting popular destinations around the Annapurna Circuit has increased compared to last year.
ACAP has been tracking the number of foreign tourists specifically visiting the Annapurna Circuit trekking route. Every year, a significant number of domestic tourists also visit the region via road and air travel, but these numbers are not included in the foreign tourist statistics.
Currently, there is a high influx of both domestic and international tourists at key tourist destinations in the Annapurna region, such as the Annapurna Base Camp, Mardi Himal, Ghorepani, the Tilicho Lake in Manang, Thorong La Pass, Muktinath, and other destinations in the Annapurna Circuit. Dr. Kadariya expects the number of tourists to increase even further as the second peak tourist season begins.
Spanning 7,600 square kilometers, the Annapurna Conservation Area is considered one of the most attractive trekking destinations. According to trekking guide Guru Gurung, the region’s natural beauty, biodiversity, Himalayan lifestyle, and culture are major factors that draw tourists.
With a variety of short, medium, and long-distance treks available, tourists can choose their routes from different regions, including Kaski, Lamjung, Manang, and Myagdi.
The Annapurna Circuit is widely regarded as an excellent trekking destination, thanks to its stunning attractions, tourism-friendly infrastructure, and the hospitality and service offered by the local people. #tourism #nepal #annapurna
