KATHMANDU, OCTOBER 8

The Annapurna Conservation Area recorded 19,386 foreign visitors in September, a decline of 3,702 compared to the same month last year, according to the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP).

ACAP Chief Dr. Rabeen Kaderi said the drop in arrivals during the peak autumn season was due to poor weather and recent Janajati demonstrations, which prompted some travelers to cancel bookings. Of the total arrivals, 8,542 were from Asian countries and 10,844 from other regions.

'The number of Indian visitors to Muktinath and nearby destinations also declined,' Dr. Kaderi said, urging tourists to visit as all trekking routes remain peaceful and safe.

Local tourism entrepreneurs in Ghorepani and Poon Hill said that daily arrivals have halved compared to previous years, with only about 200 trekkers visiting the area on Wednesday. 'We used to receive up to 400 tourists per day during this period,' said ticket officer Amrit Pun.

Spread over 7,600 square kilometers across Kaski, Lamjung, Manang, Myagdi, and Mustang districts, the Annapurna region remains a major attraction for its scenic mountains, biodiversity, and vibrant culture.

(With input from RSS)