GANDAKI: The Annapurna Conservation Area, a world-renowned trekking destination, reported 21 deaths due to altitude sickness during the fiscal year 2080-81 BS (2023-24). Among the deceased, six were Nepali.
According to Dr. Rabin Kadariya, Chief of the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP), the victims included 11 Indians, two Malaysians, one Ukrainian, and one Briton.
The majority of the fatalities occurred in the Muktinath area of Mustang.
Several individuals suffering from altitude sickness were rescued by helicopters.
Dr. Kadariya noted that ACAP began recording such incidents last year.
He emphasized that trekking at high altitudes requires special care and should be approached gradually to allow proper acclimatization.
If symptoms of altitude sickness appear, it is crucial to descend immediately.
In a separate incident, the remains of a Swedish national who went missing during the Mardi Peak trek were discovered recently, seven months after the disappearance.
Dr. Kadariya advised against trekking alone on long routes, recommending group treks or the accompaniment of a guide.
The ACAP welcomed 222,180 foreign tourists last year, with 117,845 visitors from Asian countries and 104,256 from other regions.
The highest number of arrivals, 35,265, occurred in Chaitra (March-April), while the lowest, 5,401, was in Shrawan (July-August), the first month of the fiscal year.
Compared to the previous fiscal year, the area saw an increase of around 50,000 visitors.
In the fiscal year 2079-80 BS (2022-23), a total of 172,510 people visited the area, including 89,777 from South Asia and 82,733 from other regions.
The Annapurna Conservation Area, spanning 7,600 square kilometers, encompasses 89 wards across 16 local levels in Kaski, Lamjung, Manang, Myagdi, and Mustang.
Known for its natural beauty, biodiversity, and unique mountain culture, the area remains one of the most sought-after trekking destinations for both domestic and international visitors.
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