MANANG: Normally bustling with domestic and international tourists from the last week of September, Manang district is unusually quiet this year.

Hotels that are usually fully booked in advance now have vacancies, marking a stark contrast to the usual tourist rush.

Foreign travelers often visit Manang as part of the Annapurna Circuit—ranked 10th globally—with attractions like Thorong La Pass, Tilicho Lake at the world’s highest altitude, and treks to Himlung and Manaslu mountains.

Domestic tourists also flock here during festivals, taking advantage of long holidays. This year, however, the usual influx of visitors has not materialized.

Tourism is a primary income source for Manang, contributing significantly to the national economy. But this year, the impact of the Gen Z movement has disrupted tourist arrivals, causing concern among local entrepreneurs.

Binod Gurung, president of the Tourism Business Association, stated, “Tourism and agriculture are Manang’s main sources of income. The Gen Z movement has prevented tourists from entering the country, affecting local income and the national economy.”

Chief District Officer (CDO) Nabaraj Paudel confirmed that previously crowded spots like Chame and the Tatopani hot springs are now deserted.

“Last week, the area was bustling with visitors, but now both domestic and foreign tourists are absent. The protests and road network disruptions are the main reasons,” he said.

Road conditions have worsened due to landslides on the Lamjung-Manang route and in Chitwan, further deterring visitors.

Dhak Bahadur Bhujel, head of the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) office in Manang, noted that even local tourists stayed away this year due to the combined impact of rain, landslides, and the Gen Z protests.

Hotels that were previously fully booked now report cancellations.

Dhan Bahadur Gurung, chair of Nason Rural Municipality, added that the sudden political upheaval in the last two days further reduced foreign tourist numbers.

“Even though last year’s road conditions were challenging, tourists were still visible. This year, none are seen,” he said.

Most government employees have left for their homes during Dashain, leaving offices with minimal staff, adding to the town’s deserted atmosphere.

Around 90% of Manang residents have homes or businesses in cities like Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Chitwan, and send their children there for education.

Local representatives and businesspeople also travel to cities during festivals, contributing to the quietness.

Konjo Tenzing, chair of Narpabumi Rural Municipality, said he is also traveling to Kathmandu for the festival with his family.

Locals hope the government will take action to revive the slowed tourism sector.

With Manang poised to establish the country’s first foreign trade relations, residents are increasingly concerned about the ongoing decline in tourist activity.