Kathmandu: The Annapurna Circuit trekking route and Manang district are witnessing a steady rise in the number of Indian tourists. A total of 5,049 Indian visitors travelled to Manang by October 2026.
According to Dhak Bahadur Bhujel, chief of the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) Unit in Manang, a total of 30,662 foreign tourists visited the district during the review period. Of them, 19,140 were men, 11,512 were women, and 10 identified as other genders.
ACAP data show that Indian visitors topped the list with 5,049 arrivals, followed by tourists from Israel (2,768), Germany (1,948), China (1,899), and France (1,034).
“Citizens from 119 countries visited various destinations in Manang by October,” said Bhujel. “Among them, 5,090 visitors came from SAARC countries, while 25,572 were from other nations.”
Bhujel said tourist arrivals remained encouraging despite snowfall in the Himalayan region caused by the impact of Cyclone Arnab.
“Visitors continued to travel to Manang to experience its natural beauty and cultural attractions despite potential risks. As conditions improved, tourists were able to continue their journeys to various destinations,” he said.
Popular attractions in the Annapurna region include Thorong La Pass, located on the border of Manang and Mustang along the Annapurna Circuit; Tilicho Lake, one of the world’s highest-altitude lakes; and mountaineering expeditions to Himlung Himal and Manaslu.
Tourists are drawn to Manang for its panoramic mountain landscapes, unique culture and traditions, and pristine natural environment. Many trekkers traverse Thorong La Pass from Manang and continue through Mustang before reaching Pokhara via the Annapurna Circuit, considered one of the world’s most renowned and challenging trekking routes.
The trekking journey typically begins at Manange Chautara in Besishahar Municipality-7 of Lamjung, the gateway to the Annapurna Circuit. The route connects five districts: Lamjung, Manang, Mustang, Myagdi, and Kaski.
Most international visitors travel by vehicle from Kathmandu to Besishahar. In recent years, road access has extended further into the region, allowing many travellers to reach Chame and even Khangsar by vehicle before beginning their trek on foot. — RSS
