Manang, renowned as a must-visit destination, has been witnessing a steady increase in foreign tourists in recent years. While data on domestic tourists remains unavailable, official records indicate a consistent rise in foreign visitors.
According to the Annapurna Conservation Area Project Unit, Manang has become a prime attraction for tourists exploring the Annapurna Circuit, considered one of the most challenging trekking routes globally. In 2024, a total of 30,866 foreign tourists visited Manang, including 18,499 men, 12,362 women, and five individuals of other gender, shared the unit's head, Dhak Bahadur Bhujel.
Many of these tourists also embark on the Annapurna and Manaslu trekking routes. Records from Dharapani, a checkpoint under the project unit, show that French nationals make up the largest group of visitors over the past three years.
“In 2024 alone, 3,316 French tourists visited Manang, followed by 3,066 from Israel, 2,355 from Germany, 1,900 from the UK, and 1,831 from India,” Bhujel noted.
The Himalayan landscapes, high-altitude biodiversity, and unique local culture are key attractions for tourists. Bhujel highlighted that visitors are captivated by the region’s natural beauty, traditional lifestyle, local cuisine, and the village life in remote mountain areas. Key destinations like Thorang La Pass, Tilicho Lake, and Gangapurna Lake drew 22,039 tourists in 2024, while 8,827 opted for the Manaslu trekking route.
Tourism in Manang peaks in two main seasons: spring (March to May) and autumn (September to December). Spring sees a higher influx of tourists compared to autumn.
In 2023, the region recorded 21,247 foreign visitors, with 18,083 exploring destinations like Thorang La Pass, Tilicho Lake, and other glaciers, and 3,164 trekking the Manaslu route. French nationals topped the list of visitors that year as well.
The numbers were lower in 2022, with 15,855 international tourists, primarily drawn to the Annapurna Circuit, ranked tenth globally for trekking routes. Nationals from over 125 countries, including the US, Australia, China, Russia, the Netherlands, and Poland, visited Manang, according to Bhujel.
The post-COVID-19 recovery and the rebuilding efforts have boosted tourism in Manang. Visitors are eager to experience the breathtaking mountain scenery, rich culture, and traditional lifestyles of the region.
Most tourists traveling to Manang begin their journey from Manange Chautara, the entry point to the Annapurna Trek in Besisahar Municipality-7, Lamjung. The Annapurna Circuit connects five districts: Lamjung, Manang, Mustang, Myagdi, and Kaski.
Recent improvements in road infrastructure allow tourists to reach Chame and Khangsar by vehicle before commencing their trek to the region’s iconic destinations. -- RSS
