The Annapurna Circuit, ranked among the top 10 trekking routes globally, welcomed a total of 30,866 international tourists in 2024. According to the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) Tourist Checkpoint and Information Center in Dharapani, the visitors comprised 18,499 men, 12,362 women, and five others.
Bhupendra Gurung, in charge of the Dharapani center, revealed that 1,567 men and 287 women from SAARC nations trekked the route, alongside 16,932 men, 12,075 women, and five others from other countries. Visitors predominantly hailed from France, Israel, Germany, and the UK.
Tourist arrivals have shown a steady increase following the COVID-19 pandemic’s impact on global travel. Compared to 2023, when 21,247 foreign tourists visited, 2024 saw an additional 9,619 tourists. The 2023 data indicated 12,981 men and 8,266 women trekked the circuit, representing visitors from 122 countries.
In 2022, 15,900 tourists visited the Annapurna Circuit, with 10,364 men and 5,536 women. This marked a rise of 5,347 visitors compared to the previous year. Notably, French nationals accounted for the highest number of tourists, with 2,012 visitors in 2022.
The impact of COVID-19 was evident in 2020, with only 1,976 tourists visiting. In comparison, the trail had welcomed 36,647 visitors in 2019, 29,484 in 2018, and 21,068 in 2017. The pandemic caused a significant decline in 2020, but numbers have been recovering steadily since.
The Annapurna Circuit begins at Manange Chautara in Besisahar Municipality-7, Lamjung District, and connects Lamjung, Manang, Kaski, Mustang, and Myagdi districts. Trekkers are drawn to the circuit for its breathtaking views of the Himalayas, high-altitude trails, and cultural experiences with the Manang community.
Additionally, attractions such as Tilicho Lake, the world’s highest-altitude lake, and opportunities for mountaineering add to the circuit’s appeal. The steady influx of tourists has significantly boosted the local hospitality industry, with hotels flourishing along the route.
This growth underscores the Annapurna Circuit’s continued appeal as a premier trekking destination, contributing to the economic and cultural vibrancy of the region.
