Foreign tourist arrivals in Mustang have seen a remarkable rise, with a nearly 50% increase in 2025 compared to the previous year, according to the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) office in Jomsom. In 2024, 96,645 foreign tourists visited Mustang, while in 2025, this number increased to 144,745.
The office reported a 53.71% rise in visitors from SAARC countries, with 117,614 tourists from these nations and 27,131 from other countries. The most notable months for tourist arrivals were April, May, and December, with significant numbers also visiting in other months like March and January. Indian tourists account for about 80% of the SAARC visitors, particularly for the Muktinath pilgrimage. ACAP Jomsom noted that the easy accessibility of the Beni-Jomsom-Korala road in recent years has significantly boosted both domestic and international tourism in Mustang.
Tourists are drawn to the stunning views of Nilgiri and Dhaulagiri mountains, the Kali Gandaki river, and the region’s diverse natural and cultural heritage. Popular attractions include monasteries, chortens, stupas, and historical sites such as the Mustang King’s palace, Luri Monastery, and religious sites like Muktinath and the famous Marpha village.
ACAP reported that about a quarter of foreign visitors use the Annapurna Circuit Trek, and the number of tourists traveling through Lamjung’s Besisahar and Manang has also increased. Mustang’s increasing popularity as a tourist destination reflects its rich natural beauty and cultural significance.
