MANANG: Foreign tourists who traveled to Manang via the Annapurna Circuit Trek have begun cutting their journeys short and returning to Lamjung as continuous rainfall has created adverse weather conditions.
Tourists who had planned to cross Thorong La Pass and continue to destinations such as Mustang and Pokhara have started returning from Manang amid worsening weather and increasing risks along the trekking route.
According to Bhupendra Gurung, in-charge of the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) office in Dharapani, 246 foreign tourists have returned from Manang to Lamjung over the past week. Of them, 151 were men and 95 were women. The returnees were recorded between September 22 and 28.
Until a few days ago, around 100 to 150 foreign tourists were traveling to Manang through Dharapani each day. However, tourist movement has declined sharply because of the adverse weather. At present, only one or two tourists are heading toward Manang, while most are returning to Lamjung.
“Until a few days ago, 100 to 150 tourists were going to Manang every day. Now, only one or two appear to be heading there, while most have started returning,” said Gurung.
Continuous rainfall, deteriorating weather, and increased risks along the trekking trails have prompted tourists planning to travel to destinations such as Mustang via Thorong La Pass to shorten their itineraries.
The Annapurna Circuit Trek begins from Besisahar Municipality-7 in Lamjung and passes through Lamjung, Manang, Mustang, Myagdi, and Kaski. The highest point of the route is Thorong La Pass, which stands at an elevation of 5,416 meters.
Known for its diverse natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage, the Annapurna Circuit Trek has long been a popular destination among foreign tourists.
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