MANANG: Tourist arrivals in Manang have begun to increase alongside voters returning home to cast their ballots in the House of Representatives election today.
According to Bhupendra Gurung, Conservation Education Assistant at the Annapurna Conservation Area Project office, the number of tourists entering the district has been gradually rising in recent days.
“Tourists are arriving along with voters returning to the district,” Gurung said, adding that around 50 to 60 tourists are entering the area daily.
He noted that the spring tourism season has started gradually, and the ongoing election has coincided with the arrival of visitors. Gurung also said that preparations for the tourism season are still underway, with many hotels and accommodation facilities yet to complete cleaning and maintenance.
The arrival of foreign tourists has been increasing as weather conditions become more favourable, he added. According to Gurung, many visitors prefer travelling during this period because accommodation is more easily available and the trekking trails are less crowded.
Chief District Officer Nawaraj Paudyal said residents of the district have returned home to vote and that all preparations have been completed to conduct the election safely. As security agencies remain focused on ensuring a peaceful election, tourists have been advised to travel with caution.
“Tourism is the main source of income here, so security arrangements have been made with both tourists and the election in mind,” Paudyal said.
Most tourists visiting Manang cross Thorong La Pass via Tilicho Lake and exit through Mustang District, while some continue towards the Manaslu region through Larke Pass. Others follow the Annapurna Circuit from Manang and eventually reach Pokhara via Mustang.
Tourists are drawn to the region by its mountain landscapes, traditional culture, and natural beauty. Many begin their journey from Manange Chautara, considered the gateway to the Annapurna Circuit, located in Besisahar of Lamjung District.
The trekking route connects five districts, Lamjung, Manang, Mustang, Myagdi and Kaski. While visitors previously travelled by vehicle from Kathmandu to Besisahar before starting the trek, improved road access now allows vehicles to reach Chame and Khangsar, after which trekkers continue their journey on foot toward the main destinations.
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