Economical and environmental impacts of tourism in Annapurna Conservation Area: A case study of Lete V.D.C, Lower Mustang, Nepal

The study aims to explore tourism impacts on the economy and mountain environment. It was carried out by accumulating primary information through conducting household surveys using a questionnaire format. Altogether thirty-two households, representing more than a sixty percent sample, were included in this survey. Besides, observation and informal talks or discussion were made as secondary information. The majority of the Indian sub-continent?s tourists visit the study area for religious purposes while American and Europeans visit for trekking. The flow of visits is found to have differed significantly before and after 2000 A.D. Tourists preferred to use the sites for short periods only. Improper livestock rearing practices and high fuel wood consumption have created pressure on natural resources especially on grass and forest land; while, pollution due to tourism is found. Tourism has played a considerable role to increase the villagers? income status and income inequality has slightly decreased with the passage of time. Income from tourism business is inflationary and seasonal, so for sustainable tourism, domestic tourism ought to be promoted. Well managed animal rearing practices should be adopted to mitigate pressure on grasslands and forestlands. With the adoption of new technologies, the traditional use of the resources has deteriorated, thus leading in the degradation of the local culture. So to avoid destroying old knowledge and technologies, new technologies should be locally tested first and adapted to suit the local environment.