GANDAKI: An impressive 177,182 foreign tourists ventured into the Annapurna circuit, a revered trekking destination, over the past 10 months.

According to the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP), the peak influx was observed last Chaitra (March-April) with 35,265 tourists making their way to the area.

Dr. Rabin Kadariya, head of ACAP, revealed that among the visitors, 79,232 hailed from South Asian countries, while 97,950 arrived from other nations during this period.

The months of September-October and April-May are hailed as optimal for trekking in the region.

Dr. Kadariya noted that while most Indian tourists opt for surface routes to destinations like Muktinath, visitors from other countries prefer trekking.

Encompassing 89 wards across 16 local levels in Kaski, Lamjung, Manang, Myagdi, and Mustang, the region boasts rich biodiversity, stunning mountain vistas, and a vibrant cultural tapestry.

“Annapurna area experiences a surge in both domestic and foreign tourists during the peak tourism season,” stated Dr. Kadariya, expressing optimism about the region’s tourism rebounding to its pre-COVID-19 levels.

He also highlighted a substantial increase in tourists from third countries.

ACAP exclusively tracks foreign tourists on the Annapurna circuit trekking route.

Dr. Kadariya mentioned the challenge in accurately assessing the number of domestic tourists arriving from Mustang and surrounding areas via surface routes.

The Annapurna circuit trekking route remains a magnet for tourists from across the globe.

In 2023 alone, 191,558 tourists from 173 countries explored the Annapurna region, marking a record high.

In 2019, a total of 181,000 tourists had visited the area. Notable destinations such as Annapurna Base Camp, Mardi Himal, Lwang, Gandruk village, Tilicho Lake, Thorang La, Upper Mustang, and the Muktinath area continue to allure millions of visitors annually.

Renowned for its picturesque landscapes, tourist-friendly infrastructure, pleasant climate, warm hospitality, and local amenities, the Annapurna circuit route is celebrated as one of the world’s premier destinations.

Trekking options of varying lengths are available across the Kaski, Lamjung, Manang, and Myagdi routes, spanning the expansive 7,600 square kilometers of the Annapurna Conservation Area.

Encompassing 89 wards across 16 local levels in Kaski, Lamjung, Manang, Myagdi, and Mustang, the region boasts rich biodiversity, stunning mountain vistas, and a vibrant cultural tapestry.