KATHMANDU, MAY 6 Nepal's key mountain tourism destinations, Mustang and the Annapurna Conservation Area, have witnessed a significant rise in foreign tourist arrivals, alongside ongoing infrastructure upgrades aimed at enhancing visitor experience and extending stays. According to the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP), a total of 83,149 foreign tourists visited Mustang in the first four months of 2026, marking a sharp increase from 51,896 during the same period last year. Monthly arrivals stood at 10,803 in January, 9,004 in February, 23,204 in March and 40,138 in April. Officials said over 80 percent of visitors were Indian nationals, with most travelling for pilgrimage to Muktinath, while other foreign tourists continued onward to Upper Mustang via Jomsom. Similarly, the broader Annapurna region recorded 251,188 foreign tourist arrivals over the past nine months (mid-July to mid-April), with the highest influx in Chaitra (March-April). South Asian visitors accounted for the majority of arrivals. Authorities noted a steady year-on-year increase in tourist numbers, particularly during peak seasons such as autumn and spring. Tourism officials attribute the growth to improved accessibility, favourable weather during peak months, and Nepal's continued appeal as a trekking and pilgrimage destination. Popular sites include Annapurna Base Camp, Tilicho Lake, Thorong La Pass, Ghorepani-Poon Hill, and Muktinath. In Mustang, efforts are underway to repair and upgrade trekking trails damaged by road construction and natural factors. ACAP, in coordination with local governments, has allocated over Rs 3.26 million this fiscal year to restore 11 trekking routes across Thasang, Gharapjhong and Baragung Muktikshetra areas. Works include widening trails, installing stone pavements, building gabion walls and railings in risky sections, and improving cleanliness. Additional projects are also being implemented in Upper Mustang, where around 20 kilometres of trails have been upgraded over the past three years. Authorities say the goal is to preserve traditional trekking routes while encouraging longer tourist stays. Meanwhile, eastern Nepal's Antu Pokhari in Ilam has emerged as a vibrant tourism hub, transforming from a former grazing field into a popular destination attracting 800 to 2,000 visitors daily. With boating, sunrise views from Antu Danda, and expanding hospitality infrastructure, the area has become a key attraction for both domestic and Indian tourists. Officials say the combined growth in arrivals and infrastructure development signals a positive trajectory for Nepal's tourism sector, with increasing diversification of destinations beyond traditional trekking routes.