Eighteen Tourists, Including an American, Die from Altitude Sickness in Nepal’s Annapurna Region Over the Past Year

In the most recent Nepali fiscal year (July 16, 2024, to July 15, 2025), the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) reported that 18 tourists died from altitude sickness in various destinations within the Annapurna Conservation Area. The victims included six Nepali citizens, eight Indian nationals, and one citizen each from the United States, Germany, South Korea, and Switzerland.

According to Dr. Rabin Kadariya, head of ACAP, four other tourists died due to falls and other accidents while trekking. Most altitude sickness incidents occur in the high-altitude areas of Mustang and Manang, particularly among Indian tourists traveling to Muktinath by road.

In the previous fiscal year (July 16, 2023, to July 14, 2024), 20 tourists died from altitude sickness in the Annapurna region. ACAP has been tracking these incidents for the past two years to better address the issue. Falls during treks are also a persistent cause of death, with past cases involving tourists from Sweden, Germany, and the United States.

Dr. Kadariya emphasized the importance of gradual acclimatization during high-altitude treks. He advised travelers to avoid rapid ascents and to descend immediately if they experience symptoms of altitude sickness. He also stressed the importance of trekking in groups or with a guide, especially on long-distance routes, and recommended using trekking agencies for a safer experience.

Tourist guide Diwas Gurung noted that Indian tourists often suffer from altitude sickness when traveling directly to Muktinath by vehicle without acclimatizing. He also pointed out similar issues among Nepali tourists from the Kathmandu Valley and Terai regions visiting Tilicho Lake.

Gurung’s advice to travelers is to ascend gradually, limiting elevation gains to no more than 500 meters per day. He also emphasized the importance of being physically and mentally fit before embarking on treks and taking periodic rests to adapt to the climate.

The Annapurna region is a globally renowned trekking destination. It welcomed 278,113 foreign tourists during the last Nepali fiscal year. Popular destinations include Annapurna Base Camp, Mardi Himal, Tilicho Lake, and Upper Mustang.

The Annapurna Conservation Area spans 7,600 square kilometers across the Kaski, Lamjung, Manang, Myagdi, and Mustang districts. It includes 87 wards in 15 local government units and attracts millions of domestic and international tourists each year.

Additional Reporting from RSS