Search, rescue and evacuation efforts are continuing in the aftermath of the devastating flash floods that struck the Bhote Koshi and Trishuli river corridors on August 26, with authorities intensifying efforts to establish the whereabouts and safety of tourists and travelers affected across Rasuwa, Nuwakot, Dhading and Gorkha.
According to Situation Update-8 issued by the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB), 184 tourists had been rescued, three tourists were in contact with authorities, while 420 remained out of communication as of 1:30 p.m. on August 29, 2026. The figures are based on information from the Tourist Police and the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NDRRMA).
Government Agencies Intensify Search and Rescue Operations
Following the flash floods, the Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation, NTB, Tourist Police and other concerned stakeholders have been working closely with government agencies, security authorities and local administrations to trace affected tourists and travelers.
Search, rescue, evacuation and assistance operations are continuing for individuals who remain stranded, injured or otherwise affected by the disaster. Authorities are prioritizing the identification of people whose whereabouts remain unconfirmed while coordinating available resources to reach areas where access has been disrupted by flooding, landslides and infrastructure damage. The NTB has continued to facilitate communication between tourism stakeholders, government authorities and affected travelers while supporting the broader government-led emergency response.
187 Tourists Listed in Country-Wise Rescue and Contact Details
The latest country-wise information released by the authorities records 187 tourists in the detailed list of rescued and in-contact individuals. The figures provide a breakdown of affected foreign tourists by nationality. India accounts for the largest number of tourists in the detailed list, with 114 individuals, followed by China with 27 and South Korea with 20. Tourists from Germany, Italy, Malta, Russia, Spain, Switzerland, Turkey, the USA and several other countries are also included.
The detailed country-wise figure of 187 and the broader situation update figure of 184 rescued, three in contact and 420 out of communication represent the latest information available to authorities and may change as verification and rescue operations continue.
NTB Coordinates With Foreign Diplomatic Missions
The NTB has also stepped up coordination with diplomatic missions seeking information about their nationals affected by the disaster. On August 28, Abraham Tan, First Secretary (Political) at the High Commission of the Republic of Singapore, New Delhi, and Jenny Du Toit, Counsellor (Management) and Consul at the New Zealand High Commission, New Delhi, visited the NTB to seek assistance in tracing Singaporean and New Zealand citizens whose whereabouts remain unconfirmed.
The NTB assured the representatives of its full cooperation and briefed them on the ongoing efforts of the Government of Nepal and relevant agencies to locate, rescue and evacuate affected travelers. The Tourism Board is facilitating information-sharing and coordination with concerned authorities and tourism stakeholders. It has also committed to providing all possible assistance as verified information becomes available.
Kathmandu-Mugling Road Fully Operational
Meanwhile, the Kathmandu–Mugling road section has returned to full operation, allowing normal movement along the important highway connecting Kathmandu with major parts of the country. The NTB stated that, apart from a few road sections affected by flooding in Rasuwa, Nuwakot, Dhading and Gorkha, road networks across most other parts of Nepal are generally operational.
The reopening of the Kathmandu–Mugling section is expected to ease transportation and movement between Kathmandu and destinations beyond the affected areas. However, travelers heading toward flood-affected districts continue to face potential risks from damaged roads, landslides and changing weather conditions.
Tourists Urged to Check Road and Weather Conditions
The NTB has advised tourists and travelers to obtain the latest information on road and weather conditions before beginning their journey, particularly when traveling through or toward the flood-affected districts. Travelers have also been urged to follow instructions issued by local administrations, security agencies and other relevant authorities. Given the continuing risk of landslides, flooding and road damage, authorities have emphasized the importance of exercising caution and avoiding unnecessary travel into areas where conditions remain uncertain.
Emergency Assistance Numbers Released
The authorities have provided emergency contact numbers for tourists, travelers and families seeking assistance or information regarding people affected by the disaster.
For Emergency Assistance:
- Nepal Tourism Board Toll-Free: 1234
- Government Emergency Hotline: 1144
- Tourist Police: 9851289445
Tourists and their families can use these channels to seek assistance, report information or communicate urgent concerns regarding travelers affected by the floods.
Tourist Safety Remains Top Priority
The ongoing rescue operation reflects a coordinated effort among the Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation, NTB, Tourist Police, NDRRMA, security agencies, local governments, diplomatic missions and tourism-sector stakeholders. As search and rescue operations continue, authorities are working to verify information, trace those who remain out of communication and provide timely assistance to stranded or affected travelers.
With 420 tourists still out of communication, efforts to establish their whereabouts remain a major priority. The NTB has reiterated that tourist safety remains its first priority and that it will continue coordinating with government agencies, security authorities, diplomatic missions and tourism stakeholders until reliable information is established and assistance reaches those in need.
