The Annapurna Conservation Area (ACA) recorded 791,773 domestic visitors during the fiscal year 2082/83, highlighting the growing popularity of Nepal’s largest protected area among Nepali travellers.
According to the latest statistics, destinations across the Annapurna region witnessed significant domestic tourist arrivals, reflecting increasing interest in trekking, nature-based tourism, village experiences and mountain adventures.
The figures demonstrate that domestic tourism has become an important pillar supporting the conservation area’s tourism industry while contributing to local economies across multiple districts.
Mustang Emerges as the Most Visited Destination
Among all destinations within the conservation area, Mustang District attracted the highest number of domestic visitors, welcoming 492,537 travellers during the fiscal year.
The Upper Mustang region also received 58,546 domestic tourists, underlining the continued popularity of the trans-Himalayan destination known for its unique landscapes, ancient monasteries and Tibetan Buddhist culture.
The strong visitor numbers indicate that Mustang remains one of Nepal’s leading destinations for domestic tourism.
Ghandruk, Manang and Siklesh Draw Thousands of Visitors
Ghandruk Village, one of Nepal’s most iconic Gurung settlements, welcomed 71,074 domestic visitors, making it one of the most visited destinations within the Annapurna Conservation Area.
Both Manang District and Sikles Village each recorded 40,000 visitors, reflecting growing domestic interest in high-altitude trekking routes, cultural experiences and mountain scenery.
Similarly, the Bhujung area attracted 36,625 visitors, while Ghorepani, famous for the Poon Hill viewpoint, recorded 27,500 domestic tourists.
Adventure Trails Continue to Attract Nepali Trekkers
Popular trekking destinations also witnessed encouraging visitor numbers throughout the fiscal year. The Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) route welcomed 11,456 domestic trekkers, while the North Annapurna Base Camp (North ABC) received 20,000 visitors.
The increasingly popular Mardi Himal trekking route recorded 13,733 domestic visitors, while Khopra attracted 5,000 trekkers.
These figures indicate that adventure tourism continues to gain momentum among Nepali travellers seeking trekking experiences within the country.
Community Tourism Destinations Gain Popularity
Community-based tourism destinations also experienced healthy visitor flows. Lwang Village welcomed 23,109 domestic tourists, while Yanjakot Village received 6,438 visitors.
Thini Homestay recorded 2,204 visitors, Khumai welcomed 3,200 travellers, and Tarahill Top attracted 1,101 visitors during the fiscal year.
The growing popularity of these destinations reflects increasing demand for authentic village experiences, homestays and eco-tourism activities among domestic travellers.
Domestic Tourism Strengthens Local Economies
The increasing number of Nepali visitors has provided important economic benefits to local communities operating hotels, lodges, homestays, restaurants, transportation services and trekking-related businesses throughout the Annapurna region.
Tourism experts say the continued growth of domestic tourism is helping diversify visitor markets while reducing dependence on international arrivals. It is also creating employment opportunities and supporting small businesses in remote mountain communities.
Call for Sustainable Tourism and Conservation
With visitor numbers continuing to rise, conservation authorities have stressed the importance of promoting sustainable tourism while protecting the Annapurna Conservation Area’s fragile ecosystems, biodiversity and cultural heritage.
Responsible tourism practices, effective waste management and community participation are expected to remain central to maintaining the ecological balance of Nepal’s largest conservation area.
The latest figures reinforce the Annapurna Conservation Area’s status as one of Nepal’s most popular destinations for both domestic and international tourism, while highlighting the growing enthusiasm of Nepali travellers to explore the country’s natural and cultural treasures.
