Pokhara: More than 177,182 foreign tourists visited the Annapurna Circuit, a popular trekking route in Gandaki Province, in the past 10 months, according to the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP). The highest number of tourists visited the area during the month of Chaitra (mid-March to mid-April) when 35,265 visitors arrived in the region that covers five districts – Lamjung, Manang, Mustang, Myagdi and Kaski.

ACAP chief Dr Rabin Kadariya reported that 79,232 tourists came from South Asian countries, while 97,950 tourists arrived from other parts of the world during the review period. The months of September-October and April-May are considered the best times for trekking in the region.

Although most Indian tourists visiting Muktinath and other sites in the Annapurna Circuit use the motorway, tourists from other countries prefer trekking, he told RSS.

"Domestic and foreign tourists throng the Annapurna area during the peak tourist season," said Dr. Kadariya. "Tourism in the area is returning to pre-COVID-19 levels. Recently, there has been a significant influx of tourists from various countries."

ACAP maintains records of foreign tourists visiting the Annapurna Circuit. Kadariya noted that the number of domestic tourists coming through the land route from Mustang and other places could not be ascertained.

The Annapurna Circuit has become a favorite trekking route for tourists from many countries. In 2023, 191,558 tourists from 173 countries visited Annapurna, marking the highest number of tourists in a single year. In comparison, 181,000 tourists visited the area in 2019.

Thousands of domestic and foreign tourists visit key sites such as Annapurna Base Camp, Mardi Himal, Lwang, Ghandruk village, Tilicho Lake, Thorangla Pass, Upper Mustang, Muktinath, Ghodepani of Myagdi, and Poonhil every year.

The Annapurna Circuit is renowned for its attractive locations, including mountains and glaciers, tourism-friendly infrastructure, favorable climate, and the hospitality services and facilities provided by the locals.

Short, medium, and long treks to the Annapurna region can be undertaken through routes in Kaski, Lamjung, Manang, Mustang and Myagdi. The Annapurna Conservation Area, covering 7,600 square kilometers, spans 89 wards across 16 local units in the five districts. The Annapurna region is rich in natural beauty, biodiversity, mountainous life, and diverse culture. -- RSS