The Annapurna region has set a new record in foreign tourist arrivals in the fiscal year 2024/25, according to the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP). A total of 278,113 foreign tourists visited the region, the highest number ever recorded. The rise was largely driven by a significant increase in visitors from SAARC countries, especially Indian religious pilgrims.
Out of the total arrivals, 157,786 tourists were from SAARC nations, while 120,327 were from third countries (non-SAARC nations). ACAP Chief Rabin Kadariya credited the sharp rise in Indian visitors to the growing popularity of Muktinath temple in Mustang, which gained attention following Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit seven years ago.
Kadariya noted that many Indian tourists now come not just for religious purposes but also to escape the summer heat and for short treks. Their visits peak between Chaitra and Jestha (mid-March to mid-June). However, he emphasized that most Indian pilgrims stay for only one night, unlike trekkers from third countries, who typically stay around 10 days.
Although the overall visitor count has hit a new high, arrivals from third countries have not yet surpassed pre-COVID levels. In 2018/19, 132,215 tourists from third countries visited the Annapurna region—the highest on record until the pandemic hit. After falling significantly in subsequent years, third-country arrivals have steadily increased, reaching 120,327 in FY 2024/25—still about 12,000 short of the 2018/19 mark.
Kadariya explained that although COVID-19 restrictions have eased, and tourist arrivals are recovering, SAARC countries have driven most of the growth, not long-haul markets. He stressed the importance of attracting more high-spending, long-staying trekkers from third countries.
The Annapurna Circuit Trek, one of the world’s most renowned trekking routes, has also changed in recent years. While it previously took up to 28 days, road expansion has shortened the duration to about a week, allowing vehicles to reach deeper into the mountains. This convenience has increased accessibility but shortened tourist stays.
Popular destinations in the Annapurna region include Annapurna Base Camp, Upper Mustang, Ghandruk, Ghorepani, and the challenging Thorong La Pass at 5,416 meters. With tourism rebounding, stakeholders are now looking to balance accessibility with sustainable, long-stay tourism models, especially to revive numbers from high-value markets.
