Nepal is on pace for a record tourism year in 2026
Foreign arrivals climbed double digits in early 2026, with the country eyeing 1.3 to 1.5 million visitors.
Nepal's tourism recovery has turned into a record chase. The Nepal Tourism Board reported 92,573 international arrivals in January 2026 (up about 15% year on year) and 105,441 in February — both ahead of pre-pandemic benchmarks.
India remained the largest source market, followed by China and the United States. Projections for the full year run to 1.3 to 1.5 million visitors, which would push past Nepal's previous highs.
What this means for trekkers
More visitors means busier trails and lodges in the peak windows — and earlier booking. If you are planning autumn 2026 on a marquee route like Annapurna Base Camp or Everest Base Camp, lock in your dates and teahouses ahead of the rush.
Cover photo: Markus Koljonen (Dilaudid) via Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0).
Source: Tourism Info Nepal
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