110 Tourists Rescued from Manaslu Region
Authorities in Gorkha’s Manaslu region successfully rescued 110 stranded tourists today. The tourists were unable to proceed to their destinations due to injuries, illnesses, and severe weather conditions.
“Rescue operations commenced as soon as the weather cleared,” said Chitrangat Baral, Acting Chief District Officer. “The operation involved five helicopters, and about 85% of the rescued tourists were foreigners.”
Following the improved weather, some tourists descended via Larke Pass towards Manang, while others returned towards Aarughat, according to Assistant Chief District Officer Baral. He added that the rescue operations are expected to be completed within a day or two.
Tourism stakeholders, local youth, and officials from the Manaslu Conservation Area Project, the Rural Municipality, and hotel business committees have been working together to clear snow- and landslide-blocked trails. Nima Dorje Lama, a local tourism entrepreneur from Chumnubri Rural Municipality-1, Samdo, stated that the team began trail clearing after heavy snowfall on Tuesday had blocked paths and caused landslides.
Lama further explained, “Some tourists descended on foot towards Aarughat, while the sick and physically weak were airlifted by helicopters. Around 380 tourists have passed from Samdo to Larke Pass towards Dharmashala, eventually heading to Manang.” He also noted that tourist arrivals in Samdo have continued despite the challenging conditions.
According to Manaslu Conservation Area Project records, 6,414 tourists visited the Manaslu region during this season (Bhadra 16 to Kartik 15), and hundreds of tourists are still present in the area.
35 Tourists Rescued from Tatopani
In a separate incident, 35 tourists, both domestic and international, were rescued from Tatopani in Gorkha. The tourists, consisting of 20 foreigners and 15 Nepalis, were stranded while traveling from Samagaun to Machhikhola when a landslide blocked their path.
A joint team of the Nepal Army and Armed Police Force conducted the rescue operation, according to Shailendra Thapa, spokesperson for the Armed Police Force. The stranded tourists were safely evacuated from Tatopani and escorted towards Machhikhola. The health condition of the rescued tourists was reported as normal.
Coordinated Efforts Ensure Safety
Both rescue operations underscore the coordinated efforts of local authorities, security forces, and tourism stakeholders in ensuring tourist safety in Nepal’s high-altitude and landslide-prone regions. The combined efforts of helicopter rescues, trail clearance, and on-site support have minimized potential hazards and ensured the smooth movement of stranded visitors.
Officials emphasize the importance of preparation and timely monitoring during the peak trekking season. With hundreds of tourists still present in Manaslu, continuous coordination between tourism committees, conservation authorities, and security agencies remains critical.
These rescues highlight the popularity of Manaslu as a trekking destination while demonstrating the challenges posed by sudden weather changes and terrain hazards. Local tourism operators remain committed to providing guidance and assistance, ensuring that Nepal maintains its reputation as a safe and welcoming destination for both domestic and international travelers.
