Pokhara: More than 30,000 foreign tourists visited the Annapurna region during the month of Asoj, spanning from September 17 to October 17, as reported by the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP).
According to National News Agency Nepal, the data indicates that among the visitors, 10,019 were from South Asian countries, while 20,528 hailed from other nations. Project chief Dr. Rabin Kadariya noted a slight decline in tourist numbers compared to the previous year, with 185 fewer tourists visiting during the same period. The decrease in Indian tourist arrivals was attributed to the Gen-Z protest demonstration held last September and weather-related disruptions.
Dr. Kadariya highlighted that 28,705 tourists had entered the region in the fiscal year 2023/24, and 30,732 in the month of Asoj for the fiscal year 2024/25. He emphasized that Asoj and Kartik are peak tourist seasons. He also expressed optimism about an increase in tourist numbers in Kartik, from October 18 to November 16, particularly following the Tihar festivities, with a noted rise in domestic tourists visiting Mustang and nearby areas.
The region, known for trekking, attracted 33,310 foreign tourists last Kartik. The Annapurna Conservation Area spans 7,600 square kilometers and includes 87 wards across 15 local units in the districts of Kaski, Lamjung, Manang, Myagdi, and Mustang, making it a renowned destination for trekking tourism.