Rising tourist numbers in Ghodepani instill optimism in locals

Published on April 20, 2024

The Ghodepani-Poon Hill area in Myagdi district’s Annapurna rural municipality-6 witnessed a notable influx of 31,439 foreign tourists in 2080 BS, as recorded by the Tourist Police Post, Ghodepani. This area, a prime destination for witnessing the sunrise and the vast expanse of the Guranse jungle and surrounding mountains, has seen a significant increase from the previous year’s 26,301 visitors.

During 2080 BS, the most visitors were recorded in the month of Chait, totaling 5,849, with steady numbers throughout the year, reflecting a robust interest in this scenic locale. The area, accessible for its stunning views of peaks like Dhaulagiri, Sisne, and Annapurna, charges different entry fees for domestic and international tourists, enhancing its accessibility and attractiveness.

Tek Bahadur Sunari Magar, senior head constable at Ghodepani Police Post, noted that while 25,279 tourists stayed within the Ghodepani-Poon Hill area, another 6,160 used it as a transit point to other destinations last year. The local tourism infrastructure supports this influx with 27 hotels, catering to the needs of visitors seeking the unique natural beauty of the area.

Juli Thakuri Pun, Vice-Chairperson of the Ghodepani Area Improvement Committee and a hotel entrepreneur, highlighted the positive impact of these tourist numbers on local business, particularly post-pandemic. The area’s tourism, which used to attract between 60,000 to 70,000 visitors annually before the coronavirus pandemic, is now witnessing a resurgence, further indicating a bright future for the global travel industry, as destinations like Ghodepani continue to draw international interest.