MANANG: The number of foreign tourists visiting Manang continues to rise, with 37,732 arrivals recorded in fiscal year 2024/25, according to the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) Area Office, Manang.
Of the total, 22,477 were male and 15,249 were female, along with six others who did not specify their gender. Among the visitors, 2,554 were from SAARC countries, while 35,178 were from other nations, said ACAP Manang Chief Dhak Bahadur Bhujel.
Tourists from 134 countries visited Manang this year, with the highest number—4,358—coming from Israel, followed by 3,616 from France and 2,842 from Germany. Tourist arrivals from 10 countries increased compared to last year, Bhujel added.
In the previous fiscal year 2080/81, Manang saw 22,371 tourists from 124 countries, with the highest number being French nationals. This year, Israeli tourists top the list.
“Tourist numbers are increasing steadily. Locals rely on agriculture and tourism, and the growing arrival of visitors is helping uplift the local and national economy,” said Bhujel.
Manang is a key segment of the world-renowned Annapurna Trek, ranked as the 10th most adventurous trekking route globally. Tourists are drawn by its natural beauty, mountain views, and rich local culture. Bhujel noted rising arrivals from the U.S., China, Russia, and India as well.
Bhupendra Gurung, Conservation Education Assistant at the ACAP Office, Manang, said domestic tourist numbers are also increasing, especially during extended holidays.
“Many Nepalis now choose Manang as a travel destination, particularly during three-to-four-day holidays,” he said. Although no official data is maintained for domestic tourists, their presence is significant.
Most foreign tourists visiting Manang continue to Mustang via Tilicho Lake, crossing Thorang La Pass, while others head toward Manaslu via Larke Pass. Tilicho Lake is a major attraction for Nepali travelers, said Cholpa Gurung, Ward Chair of Ngisyang Rural Municipality-9.
Tourism in the area has rebounded strongly after the COVID-19 pandemic and the 2078 BS floods. Visitors are increasingly drawn to the region’s mountains, landscapes, and cultural experiences.
The Annapurna Trek begins from Manange Chautara in Besisahar Municipality-7, Lamjung, and spans five districts: Lamjung, Manang, Mustang, Myagdi, and Kaski.
Tourists typically travel from Kathmandu to Besisahar by road, with recent infrastructure improvements allowing access by vehicle as far as Chame and Khangsar, from where the trek to the main destinations begins.
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