Surge in Domestic Tourists at Annapurna Base Camp During Dashain-Tihar Holidays
With many Nepali travelers choosing to explore the Annapurna region during the Dashain-Tihar holiday season, there has been a notable increase in domestic tourists visiting Annapurna Base Camp (ABC), situated at the northern base of Annapurna I, which stands at 8,091 meters.
Located in Narchyang, Myagdi District, the base camp can be accessed via a two-day trek along the Maurice Herzog Trail, also known as the Annapurna Climbing Trek, starting from Humkhola in Narchyang. This picturesque route follows a well-marked path beside the Misri Khola, offering stunning views of natural beauty, glaciers, and waterfalls that have long attracted visitors.
Tej Bahadur Gurung, a campaigner for the Maurice Herzog Trail, noted a significant rise in domestic tourists this year, particularly due to the two-day trek from Narchyang village. He reported that tourist numbers have quadrupled compared to last year, with over 800 domestic tourists arriving from Dashain Day through Friday. Additionally, there has been an increase in foreign visitors from countries such as India, China, Taiwan, and Italy.
“Domestic tourists have led to increased traffic on the trail, with many traveling from Humkhola to ABC,” Gurung explained, adding that visitors are coming from various districts, including Myagdi, Baglung, Parbat, Kaski, Kathmandu, and Chitwan.
However, some tourists have expressed concerns about the lack of infrastructure and the growing issue of waste accumulation at the base camp. Chhabi Acharya, a first-time visitor from Beni, praised the beauty of the area, stating, “Annapurna North Base Camp is truly a paradise.” He suggested that authorities should consider building facilities such as hotels, lodges, communication services, and tea stalls to enhance the overall experience for tourists.
Acharya emphasized the need for infrastructure development, noting that “Annapurna is an increasingly popular destination, valued for its accessibility and spectacular natural surroundings. It’s important for the relevant authorities to focus on tourism infrastructure here.”
Humkhola is a 22-km drive from the headquarters of Annapurna Rural Municipality in Pokhrebagar, with ABC located 21 km away, a journey that takes two days to complete.
In related news, the RSS reported an increase in visitors at the Ramgram Stupa in Ramgram-7, which houses the bodily remains of Gautam Buddha. Siddhi Charan Bhattarai, Treasurer at Lumbini Development Trust, noted that both domestic and foreign tourists have been arriving in increasing numbers, with visitors flocking to Ramgram Stupa, Panditpur, Lumbini, and Tilaurakot. On Friday alone, 28 tourists from Indonesia lit candles at the Ramgram monastery, according to the Trust.
