Tourism Soars as Mustang Welcomes 80,000 Visitors in Kartik Month

In a remarkable rebound for the Mustang district, tourism has experienced a resurgence with a staggering 80,000 visitors flocking to the mountainous region during the month of Kartik. The district, renowned for its captivating landscapes and cultural richness, witnessed a substantial influx of both domestic and international tourists, marking a significant revival in the tourism sector.

Festive Season Boosts Domestic Tourism

The festive season played a pivotal role in driving domestic tourism, with an impressive 73,879 internal tourists contributing to the surge. The District Police Office records indicate a total of 5,504 international visitors during Kartik, reflecting the district’s popularity on the global tourism map.

Tourist Data Management

International tourist numbers are meticulously documented by the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) offices in Jomsom and Lhomanthang. Meanwhile, the Ghasa Police Post and Lete Police Post diligently maintain records of the domestic tourists exploring the scenic wonders of Mustang.

Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Bhojraj Pandey of Mustang highlighted the festive spirit in the district, citing queues of tourists during the celebrations of Dashain, Tihar, and Chhath. A staggering 14,000 vehicles were reported to have entered Mustang, transporting enthusiastic visitors eager to experience the unique charm of the region.

Diverse Routes and Favorable Weather

Tourists, not only from the traditional Beni-Jomsom route but also from the Pokhara-Jomsom air route, contributed to the influx. Hotelier Surendra Gauchan of Hotel Ranipauwa at Muktinath attested to the excitement, noting that the clear weather and improved road network compared to the previous year attracted more visitors.

Autumn’s Allure

Autumn, considered an ideal season for visiting Mustang, further enhanced the tourist experience. The picturesque locales of Muktinath, Jomsom, Kagbeni, Lhomanthang, Marpha, Thini, and Dhumba Lake emerged as key attractions, drawing visitors from various parts of the globe.

Satisfaction among Stakeholders

The surge in tourist numbers has brought satisfaction to the local stakeholders and hoteliers. They expressed contentment over the bounce-back in tourism, recognizing it as a positive sign for the district’s economy and the overall tourism industry.

As Mustang continues to captivate the hearts of travelers, the district looks forward to sustaining this momentum, offering an enriching experience to all those who seek to explore its unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage.