Manang is witnessing growing interest from Indian travelers, with 5,049 Indian tourists visiting the district by October 2026. The Annapurna Circuit and the district’s natural and cultural attractions continue to draw visitors from across the world, strengthening Manang’s position as a major destination for trekking and mountain tourism.
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 period from January to October. The visitor figures include 19,140 men, 11,512 women and 10 visitors recorded under other categories, reflecting the district’s continued appeal among international travellers.
Indian Tourists Lead Manang’s Growing International Visitor Numbers
Indian visitors accounted for the largest number of tourists among the nationalities listed by the ACAP office, with 5,049 arrivals recorded by October. Other leading source markets included Israel with 2,768 visitors, Germany with 1,948, China with 1,899 and France with 1,034. These figures highlight the growing international reach of Manang’s trekking routes and mountain destinations.
Bhujel stated that visitors from 119 countries had travelled to different parts of Manang by October. Among them, 5,090 tourists came from SAARC countries, while 25,572 visitors arrived from other countries. The figures indicate that Manang continues to attract travellers from both neighbouring countries and distant international markets.
Visitors Continue to Explore Manang Despite Challenging Weather
Tourist arrivals remained notable even when snowfall affected Himalayan areas due to the impact of Cyclone Arnab. Bhujel said visitors continued to come to Manang despite the challenging weather conditions, drawn by its natural beauty and cultural attractions. He added that after the risks subsided, tourists had proceeded towards their intended destinations.
The district offers several major attractions for trekkers and mountaineers, including Thorong La Pass, located along the Annapurna Circuit on the Manang Mustang border, and Tilicho Lake, one of the world’s highest altitude lakes. Visitors also travel to the region for climbing expeditions to Himlung Himal and Manaslu. These destinations contribute to Manang’s appeal as a centre for adventure, trekking and high altitude tourism.
Annapurna Circuit Connects Five Districts Through Diverse Landscapes
The Annapurna Circuit is known for its mountain scenery, diverse landscapes and opportunities to experience local traditions, cultures and lifestyles. The route is also recognized as one of the world’s challenging trekking trails, taking visitors from Manang across Thorong La Pass towards Mustang and eventually to Pokhara. Its combination of high mountain terrain and cultural experiences makes it a significant attraction for international trekkers.
The journey traditionally begins at Manange Chautara in Besishahar Municipality 7, Lamjung, which serves as the gateway to the Annapurna Circuit. The trekking route connects five districts: Lamjung, Manang, Mustang, Myagdi and Kaski. Travellers generally reach Besisahar from Kathmandu by road before continuing towards Manang, although an increasing number of visitors now travel by vehicle as far as Chame and Khangsar before beginning their trek.
Road Access and Mountain Attractions Support Tourism in Manang
Improved road access has changed how visitors approach parts of the Annapurna region, with vehicles now reaching settlements such as Chame and Khangsar. This allows travellers to cover some sections by road before starting the trekking portion of their journey. However, the high altitude trails, mountain landscapes and cultural experiences remain central to the attraction of the Annapurna Circuit.
With visitors arriving from 119 countries and Indian tourists forming the largest national group among the listed nationalities, Manang continues to demonstrate its international tourism potential. Its combination of trekking routes, high altitude lakes, mountain peaks and local cultural heritage offers a diverse experience for adventure travelers. Continued attention to visitor safety and changing weather conditions remains important for sustaining tourism in this Himalayan destination.
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