The Annapurna region, one of the world’s most renowned trekking destinations, recorded the highest-ever number of foreign tourists in 2024, with 244,450 visitors. Among them, 132,094 were from South Asian countries, while 111,951 came from other parts of the world, according to the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP). This figure surpassed the previous record of 191,558 visitors in 2023.
Tourist arrivals in the region had dropped significantly during the COVID-19 pandemic, with only 16,105 visitors in 2021. The number began to rebound in 2022, with 129,733 tourists, and has now exceeded pre-pandemic levels.
Dr Robin Kadariya, head of ACAP, remarked on the resurgence of tourism in the region, saying, “Tourist arrivals in the Annapurna region reached a new record in 2024, marking a significant increase compared to last year.”
Popular destinations within the Annapurna region, including Annapurna Base Camp, Mardi Himal, Ghandruk, Tilicho Lake, Thorong La Pass, Upper Mustang, Muktinath, and Ghodepani, attract thousands of domestic and international visitors annually. ACAP tracks only foreign tourists to these destinations. Spanning 7,600 square kilometers, the Annapurna Conservation Area remains a top choice for trekking enthusiasts.
The region's global appeal has been bolstered by international recognition. In 2019, Lonely Planet listed the Annapurna Circuit Trail among the world’s top ten must-visit destinations. Similarly, Mustang Valley, part of the Annapurna Conservation Area, was named one of the world’s top 23 must-visit destinations by CNN in 2023.
The Annapurna region’s allure lies in its natural beauty, biodiversity, mountain culture, and trekking opportunities. Short, medium, and long-distance treks can be planned from popular starting points such as Kaski, Lamjung, Manang, and Myagdi. The Annapurna Circular Trek is particularly celebrated for its stunning landscapes, well-developed infrastructure, warm hospitality, and excellent facilities. -- RSS
