A total of 51,896 foreign tourists visited Mustang in the first four months of 2025, according to the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) office in Jomsom.

Rajesh Gupta, head of ACAP Jomsom, said the number of foreign tourists visiting Mustang has been increasing unexpectedly. From January to April 2025, 43,151 tourists arrived from SAARC countries, while 8,745 came from other nations—accounting for 83 percent and 17 percent of the total arrivals, respectively.

Monthly tourist arrivals stood at 4,346 in January, 5,330 in February, 19,095 in March, and 23,125 in April. Compared to the same period in 2024, when 37,974 foreign tourists visited Mustang, the number has risen by 36.66 percent in 2025.

Suraj Gurung, a hotelier in Muktinath, said that many foreign visitors are drawn to Mustang to explore its historical, religious, cultural, and social heritage. A large share of tourists are from neighboring India, who come to visit Muktinath—a revered pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists.

In addition to Muktinath Temple, Mustang offers numerous attractions including Korala border, Chosher Cave, the Lo Manthang Palace, Nifuk Monastery, Loghekar (Ghar) Monastery, Charang Monastery, Luri Monastery, Damodarkunda, Chiusi Cave, Mustang Gate, the ancient Salt Mine, Kagbeni Dham, Dhumba Lake, Jomsom Bazaar, Marfa Village, Sekung Lake, and Titi Lake, all of which have become increasingly popular among domestic and international visitors. -- RSS