Over 30,000 Foreign Tourists Visit Annapurna Region in Asoj

Gandaki — A total of 30,547 foreign tourists visited the Annapurna region during the month of Asoj (September 17–October 17), according to the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP).

Of the total arrivals, 10,019 tourists were from South Asian countries, while 20,528 came from other parts of the world, the project reported.

ACAP Chief Dr. Rabin Kadariya said that the number of tourists this year was 185 fewer compared to the same month last year. He attributed the slight decline mainly to the Gen-Z protest movement in September and unfavorable weather conditions, which affected travel plans, particularly among Indian visitors.

Dr. Kadariya shared that 28,705 tourists visited the area in the fiscal year 2023/24, while 30,732 tourists arrived during Asoj of the fiscal year 2024/25, noting that Asoj and Kartik are the peak seasons for tourism in the Annapurna region.

He added that the number of visitors is expected to rise further in Kartik (October 18–November 16). Following the Tihar festival, the inflow of domestic tourists, especially in Mustang and surrounding areas, has also seen a noticeable increase.

“Foreign trekkers primarily visit during this season. Last Kartik alone, 33,310 foreign tourists visited the Annapurna region,” Dr. Kadariya stated.

The Annapurna Conservation Area, spread across 7,600 square kilometers, covers 87 wards in 15 local units of Kaski, Lamjung, Manang, Myagdi, and Mustang districts. The region remains one of the world’s most renowned destinations for trekking tourism.