KATHMANDU: The popular trekking destination, the Annapurna Conservation Area, reported 21 altitude sickness-related deaths in fiscal year 2080–81 BS (2023–24), including six Nepali nationals. Eleven Indians, two Malaysians, one Ukrainian, one British, and one Ukrainian were among the dead. Most of the casualties took place in the Mustang region near Muktinath. The helicopter carried several people who were suffering from altitude sickness to safety.
The Chief of the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP), Dr. Rabin Kadariya, emphasized that reports of altitude sickness incidences started to come in last year. He suggested that when hiking at high altitudes, adequate acclimatization is crucial and that if symptoms arise, one should descend right once. Additionally, he advised against long-distance solo hiking and in favor of group treks or expert support.
In another instance, seven months after the hiker's disappearance, the bones of a Swedish trekker who vanished during the Mardi Peak trek were found. The number of foreign visitors to the ACAP increased significantly from 172,510 to 222,180 in the previous year. The region, which covers 7,600 square kilometers over numerous districts, is still a popular destination for hikers from around the world due to its breathtaking natural scenery and abundant wildlife.
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