Tourism Info Nepal

Manang’s Growing Appeal: A Rising Destination for International Tourists

Manang’s Growing Appeal: A Rising Destination for International Tourists

Manang, a renowned tourist destination in the Annapurna region, has been witnessing an increasing influx of foreign tourists in recent years. Although statistics for domestic tourists are not recorded, the data on foreign tourist arrivals indicates a steady rise in the number of visitors each year. According to the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP), Manang has become a priority choice for foreign tourists visiting the Annapurna Circuit, a globally recognized trekking route identified as a high-risk zone.

In 2024, a total of 30,866 tourists arrived in Manang, including 18,499 men, 12,362 women, and five other foreign nationals. The figures were shared by Dhak Bahadur Bhujel, the head of the ACAP unit, who noted that the majority of foreign tourists visiting Manang also embark on treks to nearby regions such as the Manaslu Circuit. The most frequent international visitors come from France, with 3,316 French nationals arriving in 2024. Other significant tourist populations include 3,006 from Israel, 2,355 from Germany, 1,900 from the UK, and 1,831 from India.

Bhujel explained that tourists are particularly drawn to Manang’s rich biodiversity, towering peaks, and scenic beauty. The region offers an immersive experience in local life, culture, cuisine, and traditions, along with the opportunity to witness breathtaking Himalayan views. In addition to trekking on the Annapurna Circuit, tourists also visit areas like Thorong La Pass and Tilicho Lake, with 22,039 tourists exploring these spots in 2024, while 8,827 trekked the Manaslu Circuit.

Manang experiences two major tourist seasons each year. The peak season runs from March to May, while the second season, covering September through December, sees fewer visitors. In 2023, 21,247 tourists visited Manang, including 18,083 who explored high-altitude lakes such as Thorong La Pass, Tilicho Lake, and Gangapurna Lake, and 3,164 who trekked the Manaslu Circuit. Again, French nationals were the most prominent group of tourists. In 2022, 15,855 foreign tourists visited Manang, with the majority heading to the Annapurna Circuit, recognized as one of the world’s top ten high-risk trekking routes.

The increased tourist arrivals post-COVID-19 pandemic and after the 2021 floods are attributed to the region’s unique natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and the growing accessibility of the trekking routes. Most tourists enter Manang through the Annapurna Circuit, which connects five districts: Lamjung, Manang, Mustang, Magdi, and Kaski. The journey begins from the Manangge Chautara of Bensisahar, Lamjung, with easy road access allowing tourists to reach places like Chame and Khangsar before beginning their trek to the main destinations.

With infrastructure improvements, including better road access, the flow of tourists to the region continues to increase, making Manang a popular and accessible spot for trekking enthusiasts and cultural explorers alike.

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