Over the past two months, more than 12,000 domestic tourists have trekked to the Annapurna I Base Camp located in Narchayang, Annapurna Rural Municipality–4, Myagdi, highlighting a significant rise in local tourism. From Ashwin to the third week of Kartik, the area witnessed unprecedented crowds, particularly during the Dashain, Tihar, and Chhath festival holidays.
Popular Trekking Route and Facilities
The majority of tourists have been exploring the Maurice Herzog trail via Humkhola, which leads directly to Annapurna I Base Camp. Local tourism entrepreneur Tej Gurung, who operates hotels along the Humkhola route, noted that daily arrivals ranged between 200 to 500 visitors during this period. The trail has become increasingly popular due to its accessibility and scenic appeal, offering trekkers a manageable two-day journey from the Narchayang to the base camp.
Since last year, several hotels have opened along the trail, including in Humkhola, Futfute Waterfall, Sandhikharka, Gufaphant, Bhusketmela, and Panchakunda Lake areas, providing much-needed lodging and amenities for the growing number of domestic visitors. The improved infrastructure, combined with the natural beauty of the region, has significantly contributed to the surge in tourism.
Natural Attractions Drawing Tourists
Tourists are attracted to the area’s stunning landscapes and unique natural features, such as the crystal-clear Panchakunda Lakes, cascading Futfute Waterfall, and the scenic Mistry Khola valley. Young travelers from across Nepal are increasingly visiting the Annapurna I Base Camp to experience these highlights, alongside the cultural richness of the Khumbu region.
Local authorities emphasize that the promotion of the area’s natural beauty, along with investments in infrastructure, accommodation, and basic services, has played a crucial role in increasing visitor numbers. Bharat Kumar Pun, Chairperson of Annapurna Rural Municipality, stated that last year’s Annapurna Heera Jayanti Festival, organized to commemorate the 75th anniversary of Annapurna mountaineering, significantly enhanced awareness and popularity of the region.
Managing Tourist Influx and Infrastructure Expansion
Despite the surge in visitors, local authorities acknowledge that current hotel capacities are being stretched beyond limits. Chairperson Pun highlighted plans to expand lodging facilities between Bhusketmela and Panchakunda Lake in collaboration with private operators to ensure a comfortable stay for tourists.
The municipality has also initiated efforts to extend electricity and communication networks to the base camp area, enhancing safety and convenience for trekkers. In addition, due to increased waste and litter along the trails and base camp, the local government plans to deploy cleaning teams to maintain hygiene and environmental standards.
Budget Allocation and Future Plans
To sustain and improve trekking infrastructure, Annapurna Rural Municipality has allocated NPR 20 lakh for the current fiscal year to upgrade trails, lodging, and base camp facilities. Continuous celebrations of Annapurna Mountaineering Day are being organized to promote tourism and cultural awareness, while long-term plans focus on improving visitor management, trail safety, and environmental conservation.
Chairperson Pun emphasized, “Ensuring tourists’ comfort and safety is our top priority. We are coordinating with local stakeholders to expand accommodation, improve trails, and provide better services from Bhusketmela to Panchakunda Lake.” The municipality aims to balance increasing tourist demand with sustainable tourism practices to protect the region’s natural and cultural heritage.
Significance of the Narchayang Trail
The Narchayang-Humkhola trail’s accessibility, combined with its breathtaking scenery and newly developed infrastructure, has positioned it as a preferred route for domestic trekkers. The rise in tourist footfall underscores the potential of domestic tourism in Nepal, especially in regions previously less frequented.
With coordinated efforts from local authorities and tourism entrepreneurs, the Annapurna I Base Camp trek via Narchayang is set to emerge as a model for sustainable and accessible domestic trekking, offering unforgettable experiences while promoting economic development in Myagdi district.
