Tourism Info Nepal

Record-Breaking Tourist Arrival in Annapurna Region for 2024

Record-Breaking Tourist Arrival in Annapurna Region for 2024

In 2024, the Annapurna region, renowned as a world-class trekking destination, welcomed a record 244,045 foreign tourists. Of these, 132,094 were from South Asian countries, while 111,951 hailed from other parts of the world. According to the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP), this marks the highest number of visitors to date, surpassing the previous record set in 2023, when 191,558 tourists visited the region.

The influx of tourists has significantly recovered since the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to a dramatic decline in tourist numbers. In 2019, the region hosted 181,000 visitors, but the pandemic caused a steep drop, with only 16,105 tourists arriving in 2021. However, the number bounced back in 2022, with 129,733 tourists, marking a steady recovery.

Dr. Rabin Kadhari, Chief of ACAP, highlighted that 2024 saw a notable increase in tourist numbers, setting a new benchmark for the region. He stated, “Tourist arrivals in the Annapurna region have reached a new record in 2024, with a remarkable increase compared to the previous year.”

The Annapurna Circuit, which includes popular destinations such as Annapurna Base Camp, Mardi Himal, Ghorepani, Tilicho Lake in Manang, Thorong La Pass, Upper Mustang, and Muktinath, continues to attract millions of both domestic and international tourists annually. ACAP primarily tracks the number of foreign tourists visiting these key sites.

Spanning over 7,600 square kilometers, the Annapurna Conservation Area is considered an ideal destination for trekking, offering a mix of stunning natural beauty, biodiversity, and Himalayan culture. The region gained further international acclaim four years ago when the renowned travel site Lonely Planet listed the Annapurna Circuit as one of the top ten must-visit destinations in the world. Additionally, the Mustang Valley, located within the Annapurna region, was featured in CNN’s 2023 list of 23 essential travel destinations.

With its breathtaking landscapes, rich biodiversity, vibrant local culture, and warm hospitality, the Annapurna region remains one of the most popular choices for travelers seeking an unforgettable trekking experience. The region is easily accessible from Kaski, Lamjung, Manang, and Magdi, offering trekking routes of varying lengths, from short to long, and well-established infrastructure for tourists.

The Annapurna Circuit continues to be one of the most attractive trekking destinations globally, blending adventure, cultural exploration, and natural beauty.

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