Admin UserNepal's tourism industry has rebounded strongly. This guide to Nepal tourism statistics summarises the data and trends shaping travel to Nepal in 2026 and beyond, based on publicly reported figures from the Nepal Tourism Board and news outlets. It covers annual and monthly arrivals, source markets, where tourists go, seasonal patterns, trends to watch and how to read the numbers carefully, with links to the original sources.
Arrivals at a glance
- 2025. About 1.16 million international visitors were reported for the calendar year.
- Fiscal year 2025/26. About 1.21 million foreign tourists were reported.
- January–May 2026. About 529,000 arrivals, roughly 5.6% above the same period in 2025.
- May 2026. About 102,600 arrivals, around 19% higher than May 2025 and reported as above pre-pandemic levels.
Monthly figures fluctuate. One report showed a decline of around 7% in April 2026 compared with the previous year, so annual patterns matter more than single months. Figures reported by news outlets may differ slightly from final Tourism Board releases.
Top source markets
Reported figures for fiscal year 2025/26 show:
| Market | Visitors (approx.) |
|---|---|
| India | 311,000 |
| United States | 111,000 |
| China | 110,000 |
Other strong markets include the United Kingdom, Australia, Germany, France and South Korea. The Nepal Tourism Board has said it is intensifying promotion in nearby markets such as India and China. For overseas visitors, the main entry point remains Kathmandu; see getting to Nepal.
Where tourists go
The Annapurna region is reported to attract about 40% of all tourists, with popular sites including Annapurna Base Camp, Mardi Himal, Ghandruk, Tilicho, Thorong La, Upper Mustang, Ghorepani and Poon Hill. Everest and Langtang also rank highly. Read our guides for Annapurna, Everest and Langtang, and see less crowded treks for alternatives.
Peak periods and seasonality
The post-monsoon season is the strongest period, with the highest arrivals reported from mid-October to mid-November. Spring is the second peak, and the monsoon and winter are quieter. For travellers, this pattern shapes prices and availability, so book early for October, November and April. See best time to visit Nepal for a month-by-month overview.
Trends to watch
- Wellness travel. Nepal Wellness Year 2027 is a planned campaign; see our wellness year guide.
- Quieter treks. Growing interest in less crowded routes as popular trails get busier.
- Policy changes. Evolving rules for solo trekkers and permits.
- Luxury and boutique stays. New government incentives for high-end hotels (luxury guide).
- Sustainability. More focus on responsible tourism (guide).
- Digital tourism. Better online visa registration and planning tools.
How to read tourism statistics carefully
Different sources use different periods: calendar years, fiscal years (which run from mid-July) and monthly snapshots, and they are not directly comparable. News reports may round numbers or use preliminary figures. Arrivals count visitors, not trips or nights, and entries by land from India may be counted differently from air arrivals. When you quote figures, name the source and period, and check the latest release.
What the numbers mean for travellers
Rising arrivals mean busier trails and fuller flights in peak months, but also more services and better infrastructure over time. If you prefer quiet, travel in shoulder months or choose less-visited regions. If you travel in peak season, book flights, lodges and guides early, and keep flexible dates.
Sources
Data are drawn from Nepal Tourism Board releases and news coverage such as Himal Press and Online Khabar. Always check official sources like the Nepal Tourism Board for the latest figures.
Tourism and the Nepali economy
Tourism is one of Nepal's most important sources of foreign currency and employment, supporting hotels, guides, porters, drivers, restaurants and craft producers. Recovery after the pandemic has restored livelihoods in trekking regions, but also highlighted how dependent communities are on a few peak months. Many operators and local governments are working to spread visitors across more regions and seasons, to build resilience and reduce pressure on popular trails.
Challenges the industry still faces
The Tourism Board and industry groups have pointed to challenges including air connectivity, infrastructure quality, service standards, retention of skilled staff, environmental pressures and the effects of regional crises on some markets. Natural hazards such as earthquakes and landslides add risk. For travellers, this means patience with delays, flexibility in plans and a preference for operators who communicate clearly and prioritise safety.
Tips for using the data in your planning
Use the numbers to decide when to go and how early to book: if arrivals peak in October and November, choose April or late November for fewer crowds. Check trend lines rather than single numbers, and look for official updates before major trips. If you want to avoid crowded trails, see less crowded treks in Nepal and the best short treks for alternatives.
Where to find official statistics
The Nepal Tourism Board publishes arrival statistics and annual reports, and the Department of Immigration also releases entry data. News outlets such as Himal Press and Online Khabar summarise monthly changes. For academic or professional use, cite the original release and note the date and period, and avoid mixing calendar-year and fiscal-year numbers without explanation.
Looking ahead to 2027
Industry commentary points to continued growth in 2027, helped by new flight routes, promotion in Asian markets and the planned Wellness Year campaign. At the same time, travellers are increasingly looking for authentic, lower-impact experiences. Expect more choice at both ends of the market, from luxury lodges to community-run homestays, and keep an eye on policy updates that affect permits and trekking rules.
FAQ
How many tourists visit Nepal each year?
About 1.1–1.2 million international visitors recently.
Which country sends the most visitors?
India, followed by the United States and China.
Which region is most popular?
Annapurna.
When is the busiest season?
October–November.
Are the figures final?
News figures may be preliminary. Check the Nepal Tourism Board for official releases.
