POKHARA, Oct 29: Heavy snowfall in the Himalayan region has disrupted trekking in Manang during the peak season, forcing both domestic and international tourists to turn back before reaching their intended destinations. Local authorities have advised trekkers to avoid trekking for at least a week due to potential risks.
Snowfall which started from Monday night severely affected life in Manang and Mustang leaving trekkers stranded along the trail. Even those close to their destinations had to return, according to tourism operators. Authorities warned that despite the roads being cleared, the risk of avalanches remains, urging tourists not to undertake treks for another week.
Tour operator Bijay KC, who brought domestic tourists to Manang for the Annapurna trekking region, said rescue operations became somewhat manageable Wednesday after snow-blocked roads were cleared using dozers. Private vehicles carried tourists back, while those on foot or using public transport also descended.
Royal Trek being promoted during Visit Nepal Year 2020
“The roads were cleared of snow with dozers, but trekking routes are still blocked. Even though snowfall and rain have stopped, trekking remains impossible because upper trails are still covered with snow,” KC said. He said that tourists could not reach their destinations, including Tilicho Base Camp, due to heavy snow. Approximately 350 domestic tourists and 50 international tourists could not continue their trek.
KC said that in addition to Tilicho Base Camp, about 150 tourists stranded at Khangsar and Shrikharka also had their treks disrupted. He expects trekking to resume in three to four days if the snow melts sufficiently under sunlight.
Chief District Officer of Manang, Naba Raj Poudyal, confirmed that although conditions in Manang are improving, trekking in high-altitude areas such as Tilicho, Thorong La, and Larke Pass remains suspended for a week. “Although snowfall has stopped, risks of avalanches are high. We have issued notices to prevent trekkers from going to high-altitude trails. Trekking will be reopened once conditions improve,” he said.
Due to heavy snowfall, hotels in Tilicho are currently closed, leaving tourists without accommodation or food. Poudyal said dozers were used Wednesday to evacuate tourists from higher altitudes to the district headquarters in Chame. He said that around 1,500 tourists were brought down the same day, using private vehicles and government-provided transport.
Most tourists had traveled in private vehicles or reserved transport, while some who used motorcycles also returned. Poudyal emphasized that safety was prioritized over completing the trek.
Meanwhile, in Mustang, tourists reported normal conditions. “The hills are snow-covered, but there were no major issues. Vehicles are running, and tourists are enjoying their visit,” said Dev Chhetri, who traveled from Pokhara for sightseeing.
