KATHMANDU: Trekking in the Annapurna region has partially resumed following disruptions caused by heavy rainfall. The Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) confirmed that the trail to the Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) fully reopened on Tuesday.
Approximately 650 foreign tourists departed from Chhomrong for the base camp on the first day. Additionally, the Mardi Himal trekking route saw 300 tourists begin their journey on the same day.
ACAP focal person Narendra Shrestha noted that tourist activity has increased following the reopening of the trails. ‘Nearly 1,000 tourists obtained permits on the first day,’ Shrestha said. Routes to Ghandruk and Ghorepani are also seeing tourist movement.
However, the popular Annapurna Circuit remains partially closed. A landslide in Chame five days ago blocked the Marsyangdi River, preventing access to upper Manang. Heavy snow accumulation in the Thorong La Phedi area has also hindered trekking. Efforts are underway to clear the river blockage and restore access.
In Mustang, communication services remain disconnected, and the Beni-Jomsom road section is blocked. Shrestha stated that travel to this region is currently difficult until the Kaligandaki Corridor is fully operational. ACAP has suspended individual trekking permits, requiring tourists to travel in groups or with a licensed guide.
Tourism entrepreneurs have welcomed the resumption of trekking activities. Dilip Gurung, an entrepreneur at Machhapuchhre Base Camp, stated, ‘The tourism sector was hindered by floods and landslides, but now it has reopened.’ Jaganraj Gurung, president of the Chhomrong Tourism Management Committee, added that the trails, which had been deserted for nearly a month, are finally seeing visitors again.
