Jomsom:Mustang Mustang, known for its stunning Himalayan landscapes, ancient monasteries, and the sacred Muktinath Temple, has experienced a significant increase in tourist arrivals, with over 285,000 foreign visitors exploring the district in the first ten months of 2026.
According to National News Agency RSS, the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) Office in Jomsom reported that 285,616 foreign tourists visited Mustang between January and October. This figure represents a 77.62 percent increase compared to the 161,141 visitors recorded throughout 2025.
The surge in visitors is largely attributed to tourists from South Asian countries, particularly India. The number of tourists from SAARC countries has risen by nearly 97 percent, mainly due to the growing popularity of the revered Muktinath Temple among Indian pilgrims.
In addition to religious tourism, Mustang continues to attract international trekkers, especially those entering the district from Manang via the Thorong La Pass along the Annapurna Circuit trekking route. The region is favored for its spectacular mountain scenery and unique landscape.
Despite facing challenges such as adverse weather, suspension of air services, and disruptions along the Jomsom-Korala road, the growth in tourist numbers is promising. Rajesh Gupta, Chief of the ACAP Office in Jomsom, expressed optimism that tourist arrivals would surpass last year’s figures, with November and December still to come.
Although arrivals from countries outside the SAARC region remain approximately 16.5 percent below the total recorded in 2025, the overall tourism trend indicates a positive year for Mustang.