KATHMANDU, NOVEMBER 18

The Annapurna Conservation Area has witnessed a substantial increase in foreign tourist arrivals, with a total of 33,310 visitors in October alone.

Among these, 11,678 tourists hailed from South Asian countries, while the remaining 21,632 came from various other nations, according to the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP).

Dr. Rabin Kadel, project head at ACAP, reported that the total number of foreign tourists since mid-July has reached 83,031, a significant rise compared to 67,442 during the same period last year. The previous fiscal year saw 222,180 tourists visiting the area, and expectations are high for more than 250,000 tourists in the current fiscal year.

Tourist flow increased notably since mid-September, with 30,732 visitors in that month alone. The Annapurna Circuit and key sites like Annapurna Base Camp, Mardi Himal, and Tilicho Lake are seeing increased activity. The region attracts tourists due to its scenic landscapes, biodiversity, Himalayan culture, and well-developed trekking infrastructure.

Spanning 7,600 square kilometers, the Annapurna Conservation Area is celebrated for its breathtaking landscapes, rich biodiversity, and vibrant Himalayan culture.