Tourists Arrivals Surge by 78 per cent in Mustang

Mustang, renowned for its enchanting Himalayan landscapes, ancient monasteries and sacred Muktinath Temple, has witnessed a remarkable surge in tourist arrivals, with more than 285,000 foreign visitors exploring the district in the first 10 months of 2026. According to the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) Office in Jomsom, a total of 285,616 foreign tourists visited Mustang between January and October.

It is 77.62 per cent higher than the 161,141 visitors recorded throughout 2025. The sharp rise is driven mainly by visitors from South Asian countries, particularly India. The number of tourists from SAARC countries has increased by nearly 97 per cent, largely due to the growing popularity of revered Muktinath Temple among Indian pilgrims. Mustang also continues to attract international trekkers, especially those entering the district from Manang via the Thorong La Pass along the Annapurna Circuit trekking route.

Beyond religious tourism, Mustang continues to draw trekkers and adventure seekers with its spectacular mountain scenery and alluring landscapes. The district that spans deep gorges and high plateaus is a major attraction along the Annapurna Circuit, with many trekkers entering Mustang from Manang through Thorong La Pass, the highest trekking pass on the Annapurna Circuit.

Its appeal also lies in its unique combination of natural and cultural attractions, from the historic settlements and monasteries of Upper Mustang to the distinctive terrain of the Kali Gandaki Valley. The growth in tourist numbers is particularly encouraging as Mustang’s tourism sector faced several challenges this year, including adverse weather, suspension of air services and disruptions along the Jomsom-Korala road.

Rajesh Gupta, Chief of the ACAP Office in Jomsom, expressed optimism that the tourist arrivals are expected to remain higher than last year’s figure, with November and December still remaining. Although arrivals from countries outside the SAARC region have so far remained around 16.5 per cent below the total recorded in 2025, the overall tourism trend points to a promising year for Mustang. (RSS)