Manaslu sees 15,000 foreign tourists in 2025 despite natural challenges

KATHMANDU: In 2025, a total of 15,000 foreign tourists visited the Manaslu region, marking a significant rise despite seasonal floods, landslides, snowfall, and the Gen Z movement.

According to records from the Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP), 14,980 tourists entered the Manaslu area in Gorkha, including 14,738 from abroad, 344 from SAARC countries, and 240 domestic visitors.

MCAP Chief Santosh Sherchan stated that 14,721 tourists obtained online permits to enter the region, while 17 tourists acquired permits at MCAP checkpoints in Jagat and Sama Gaun.

Tourism generated Rs 38,586,000 in conservation area entrance fees in 2025. Of this, SAARC tourists contributed Rs 344,000, and Nepali visitors Rs 48,000.

Foreign tourists from non-SAARC countries pay Rs 3,000 per person, while SAARC nationals pay Rs 1,000, and Nepali tourists Rs 100.

Tourists must pay the fees at counters in Bhrikuti Mandap, Kathmandu, or Dam Side, Pokhara, or double the fee if paid at Jagat and Sama Gaun checkpoints.

MCAP began tracking Nepali tourists’ data from 2025, whereas earlier, only foreign visitors were recorded.

Tourist numbers in Manaslu have steadily risen over the years: 9,782 in FY 2080/81, 7,705 in 2079/80, and 2,284 in 2078/79.

The region saw its lowest visitor count of 194 in 2077/78, followed by 5,338 in 2076/77, and 7,655 in 2075/76.

MCAP Chief Sherchan described the steady growth in tourist arrivals as a positive trend for the region.