POKHARA, Nov 5: All high-altitude trails that had been blocked due to snowfall are now fully operational. With the reopening of all trails in the higher reaches of the Annapurna region, both foreign and domestic tourists have resumed trekking, according to the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP).
ACAP Chief Rabin Kadariya said the Tilicho area in Manang, which had been obstructed the longest, is now fully open from Wednesday. He also confirmed that trails in Thorong La Pass, Thachilo, Mardi Himal, Annapurna Base Camp, and Lomanthang, among other areas, are fully accessible.
“The high-altitude trails had been blocked by snow for about a week. With clear weather, most trails in the Annapurna region are now operational. Trekking can proceed on any trail in the region,” he said, “All trails are now open, and trekkers have begun their journeys. The group heading to Tilicho has also reached its destination.” He added that trails toward Nar and Phu are also open.
According to Kadariya, local entrepreneurs and trekking guides worked to remove snow on the Tilicho trail, with assistance from local tourism management committees, which facilitated smoother trail operation.
“Once locals helped remove the snow, it became easier to reopen. With collective effort, the Tilicho route is now operational. Businesses have resumed, and there are no issues with food or accommodation on the trails. The number of foreign tourists has already increased,” he said.
The ultimate trek
Although some trekkers had been delayed in various parts of Manang while waiting for the trails to reopen, they have now reached their destinations. The Thorong La Pass had opened four days earlier due to relatively easier conditions.
“This season’s snowfall disrupted the trekking plans of some foreign visitors. Some had to return without trekking,” he said, “Those waiting for better weather have now begun their ascent, while trekkers with limited time had to return midway.”
October arrival highest in five years
In October alone, 37,076 foreign trekkers visited the Annapurna region. ACAP stated that this month’s arrival is the highest in the last five years, despite the Gen Z protests, bad weather during Dashain, and recent snowfall.
According to Kadariya, in October 2021 only 3,862 foreign visitors reached the Annapurna region. That number rose to 22,476 in 2022, 30,371 in 2023, and 35,519 in October 2024.
“This year, October arrivals exceeded 37,000. This is the highest number in the last five years,” Kadariya said, “Foreigners are increasingly attracted to the Annapurna region. Many book months in advance because they enjoy trekking here.”
Among the foreign visitors this October, 13,399 were from SAARC countries, while the remainder were from third countries. “There were some early challenges this year. The Gen Z protests at the start of the trekking season affected arrivals, and some tourists canceled their trips. But once the situation improved, they arrived,” he said.
Despite seasonal challenges during Dashain and recent snowfall, visitor turnout remains encouraging.
“Trekking in the Annapurna region is comparatively safe. The highlands were unaffected by urban unrest, and the Dashain rains did not impact the area. Recent snowfall posed some challenges, but it was short-lived. Tourist arrivals are now picking up, and the region remains fully safe from natural disasters. No serious incidents occurred during the snowfall, which has boosted tourist confidence,” he added.
