Gandaki: With the onset of the second major पर्यटन season, tourist activity in the Annapurna Conservation Area has increased significantly. According to the Annapurna Conservation Area Project, a total of 48,513 foreign tourists visited various destinations within the region during the month of March.
Among them, 32,020 tourists were from South Asian countries, while 16,493 were from other parts of the world.According to the Project Chief, Dr. Rabin Kaderiya, this represents an increase of 11,679 tourists compared to March 2025.
He noted that tourist arrivals in the region have been steadily rising in recent times. “Statistics show that approximately 40 percent of foreign tourists entering Nepal visit the Annapurna region,” he stated, adding that among South Asian visitors, Indian tourists constitute the largest group.
In Nepal, the period from March to May is considered the second प्रमुख tourist season. With the approach of the New Year and academic institutions closing after annual examinations, there is also a rise in domestic tourist movement during this time, Dr. Kaderiya explained. He added that this season is particularly ideal for both domestic and international tourists who are interested in trekking.
The project office maintains records only of foreign tourists trekking along the Annapurna Circuit. However, a large number of domestic tourists enter the region annually via road routes.
Popular destinations within the Annapurna region include Annapurna Base Camp, Mardi Himal, Ghandruk, Tilicho Lake, Thorong La Pass, Upper Mustang, Ghorepani, and Poon Hill, all of which lie along the Annapurna Circuit.
The Annapurna Conservation Area spans 7,600 square kilometers and includes 87 wards across 15 local levels in the districts of Kaski, Lamjung, Manang, Myagdi, and Mustang.
The Annapurna region is globally renowned for trekking tourism. Its natural beauty, biodiversity, Himalayan lifestyle, civilization, and culture have made it well-known both domestically and internationally.
Short, medium, and long trekking routes into the Annapurna region can be accessed from various entry points, including Kaski, Lamjung, Manang, and Myagdi.
