With the monsoon active across the country, snowfall has been reported in the Himalayan district of Manang. Areas such as Tanki, Khangsar, Tilicho Base Camp, Thorong La Pass, Nar, and Phu have experienced snowfall, impacting both locals and tourists in Upper Manang.
Chief District Officer Matrika Acharya confirmed that the snowfall has affected the daily lives of residents and travelers. “Snowfall has occurred in Upper Manang, including Humde in Ngisyang Rural Municipality and areas of Narpa Bhumi Rural Municipality,” Acharya stated. He further advised tourists and locals to assess road and transportation conditions before making travel plans, highlighting the need for caution as the snow accumulates.
While the snowfall began after continuous rainfall on Thursday evening, it intensified on Friday night. Narpa Bhumi Rural Municipality’s Information Officer, Mahesh Pakhrin, reported that around 1.5 feet of snow had accumulated in Nar and 6 inches in Phu. Pakhrin added, “Tourists attempting to cross Kangla Pass are currently stranded in Nar, while some heading towards Himlung Himal have continued their journey despite the snow. Although this is not the typical snow season, the sudden snowfall has brought a rise in cold temperatures.”
Farmers in the region are also facing challenges, as the early snow has buried crops such as barley, adding to concerns. “Many had just harvested their crops and laid them out to dry, but now, snow has covered their fields,” Pakhrin explained.
Vinod Gurung, Chairman of the District Tourism Business Committee, stated that although snowfall has not significantly impacted tourist mobility, it has posed difficulties for local farmers, especially in harvesting and storing crops like wheat and buckwheat. “The unexpected snowfall has made it harder for farmers to secure their produce,” he noted.
In the Tilicho and Thorong La areas, the snowfall has attracted tourists who are enjoying the winter-like scenery, despite the challenges it presents. Dhan Bahadur Bhujel, Chief of the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) Manang Office, mentioned that while the snowfall has excited tourists, they have been advised to stay in safe locations until the weather improves. He noted, “With the tourist season underway, the snowfall has brought added excitement for visitors, but we are urging them to prioritize safety and delay travel until conditions stabilize.”
As weather patterns across the country continue to change, travelers are advised to remain cautious and wait for improvements before proceeding with their treks.
