Annapurna Circuit bustling with a surge in tourists

(Nabin Lamichane) 

Manang - The world famous Annapurna Circuit – an alpine trek route – is bustling with a surge in the number of tourists. 

As the climate veers towards the incoming winter with the end of monsoon season, the number of tourists entering Manang has ranged around 80 to 100 per day. 

Last year, 22,800 foreign tourists and 8000 domestic tourists visited Manang, Annapurna Conservation Area Manang's Chief, Babulal Tiwari said. 

The trans – Himalayan district of Manang now looks like a foreign country with the presence of a high number of tourists. Hundreds are seen trekking towards Manang via Besisahar of Lamjung. The tourists arriving through the Tal Dharpani Chame area usually take up lodgings at Pisang, Dhyaru, Dangbole and Mananggaun in Upper Manang. 

The area has modern hotels and facilities so that the tourists do not have to feel the absence of hospitality and a good service, and the necessary medical facilities as well. The tourists coming here usually visit the Thorong La Pass, Larke Pass and Kanla Pass and well as one of the highest alpine lakes, the Tilicho Taal. 

The area also offers close up views of Mt Annapurna Second, Third and Fourth along with Gangapururna, Julu peak, Pisang peak, Mt Nilgirig and Tilocho peak along the Great Himalayan Range, said local tourist entrepreneur, Guru Prasad Gurung. 

The local entrepreneurs have also arranged for exhibition of art, culture and attire worn in the area to attract the tourists from both the spectrums. Tourism Development District Committee Chairman, Binod Gurung, said the focus has been lent on publicity campaign in national and international levels.