The Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP), one of the world’s most popular trekking destinations, recorded 139,579 foreign trekkers from mid-July 2024 to mid-March 2025. This marks an increase of 30,169 visitors compared to the same period last fiscal year.

According to ACAP Chief Dr. Rabin Kadariya, the highest number of tourists—33,310—arrived in Kartik (mid-October to mid-November), while the lowest—9,034—were recorded in Magh (mid-January to mid-February).

Dr. Kadariya noted a steady rise in tourist numbers since mid-February and expects a further surge during Chaitra and Baisakh (mid-March to mid-May), considered the peak trekking season. Last year, 35,265 tourists visited the region in the month of Chaitra (mid-March to mid-April) alone. In contrast, tourist numbers tend to decline during the monsoon and winter seasons. Another peak period is Asoj to Kartik (mid-September to mid-November), he added.

Tourist arrivals in the Annapurna region have been steadily increasing over the past three years. In Fiscal Year 2022/23, a total of 172,108 tourists visited the area. This number rose to 222,180 in Fiscal Year 2023/24. With four months remaining in the current fiscal year, ACAP expects to surpass last year’s total.

“The number of tourists has increased each month compared to the previous year,” said Dr. Kadariya. “Tourism in this region is regaining its pre-pandemic rhythm, and the number of foreign trekkers—especially those traveling on foot—is growing.” While many Indian tourists visiting Muktinath travel by road, most visitors from other countries opt for trekking.

ACAP records only foreign tourists on the Annapurna Circuit Trek. Data on domestic tourists visiting destinations such as Mustang and Manang by road is not available, Dr. Kadariya noted.

The Annapurna Circuit remains a global favorite for trekking, featuring destinations such as Annapurna Base Camp, Mardi Himal, Sikles, Lwang, Ghandruk, Tilicho Lake, Thorang La Pass, Upper Mustang, Muktinath, Ghorepani, and Poon Hill.

Renowned as one of the world’s best trekking routes, the Annapurna Circuit is known for its breathtaking landscapes, mountain ranges, diverse routes, favorable climate, well-developed infrastructure, local hospitality, and comprehensive services. Treks of various lengths—short, medium, and long—can be taken through routes across Kaski, Lamjung, Manang, Mustang and Myagdi.

The Annapurna Conservation Area spans 7,600 square kilometers, covering 89 wards across 16 local units in Kaski, Lamjung, Manang, Myagdi, and Mustang districts. -- RSS