The Armed Police Force (APF) has launched a health relief operation at the sacred Muktinath Temple in Mustang to assist domestic tourists affected by the recent heavy snowfall. The APF team reached the temple premises early this morning and immediately set up a temporary health camp near the temple’s main entrance. The move comes as many visitors experienced health complications due to the abrupt temperature drop and harsh weather conditions that followed days of continuous snowfall.
According to the APF, the health camp provided medical check-ups to more than 250 tourists throughout the day. Many of them were suffering from altitude-related symptoms, including headaches, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, and breathing difficulties. The cold wave sweeping across the area has further worsened the condition of several visitors who were unprepared for such extreme weather.
Tourists Struggle with Cold and Altitude Effects
Officials on the ground reported that most of the affected tourists had arrived in Mustang to visit the revered Muktinath Temple during the festive season. However, a sudden change in weather conditions, marked by heavy snowfall and freezing winds, left them stranded and exposed to sub-zero temperatures. “Many visitors began showing signs of altitude sickness and cold-related health issues after the snowfall intensified,” said an APF medical officer deployed at the site.
The health team distributed warm fluids, oxygen support, and basic medicines to those in need. Tourists showing severe symptoms were advised to rest or descend to lower altitudes for safety. The APF has also coordinated with local authorities and health institutions in Jomsom to provide emergency medical support if the weather conditions worsen again.
Clearing Snow and Ensuring Safe Access
Besides offering medical assistance, the APF personnel actively worked to clear snow along the route leading to the Muktinath Temple. The thick layer of snow had blocked several sections of the walking trail, making it difficult for pilgrims to move between the temple gate, the bathing ponds, and nearby lodges. With the APF’s help, the path has been reopened, allowing tourists to reach the temple safely.
Visitors expressed gratitude for the timely response from the security personnel. “The snowfall was beautiful but also frightening. We were shivering, and some people could barely breathe. The police provided immediate help and cleared the path, which made it possible for us to return safely,” said one of the pilgrims from Pokhara.
Coordinated Efforts with Local Authorities
The District Administration Office (DAO) Mustang and the Muktinath Temple Development Committee have been closely coordinating with the APF and Nepal Police to manage the situation. Additional security personnel have been stationed around key points of the temple premises to help control crowd movement and ensure visitor safety.
Deputy Superintendent of Police Chhiring Kippa Lama of the District Police Office, Mustang, informed that local authorities are monitoring the weather situation continuously. “We are prioritizing the safety and health of all visitors. The APF’s mobile health camp has been a crucial step in preventing serious health complications among tourists,” Lama said.
Heavy Snowfall Disrupts Tourism but Relief Efforts Continue
The recent snowfall, which began earlier this week, has significantly affected tourism activities in Mustang, particularly in high-altitude areas like Muktinath, Kagbeni, and Thorong-La. Many tourists who had planned to travel further up the region have either postponed or canceled their trips. Despite these challenges, local businesses and authorities are working together to provide shelter, food, and transportation to visitors returning from higher elevations.
Officials from the Muktinath Temple Development Committee stated that while the snowfall has created temporary hardship, it has also enhanced the beauty of the pilgrimage site. “The temple looks stunning under the blanket of snow, but our first priority is the safety and comfort of the pilgrims,” said committee employee Rabin Subedi. He added that the frozen ponds and walkways are being regularly cleared to prevent accidents.
Ensuring Continued Support and Safety
As weather conditions slowly improve, the APF plans to continue its health and rescue support operations for the next few days. The security forces have also requested tourists to carry proper warm clothing and take necessary precautions while traveling to high-altitude destinations like Muktinath.
The combined efforts of the Armed Police Force, Nepal Police, and local authorities have helped avert a potential crisis in the region. Their swift action in providing medical care, clearing snow, and assisting stranded tourists has been widely praised by visitors and local residents alike. For now, with the snow gradually melting and medical support readily available, the situation in Muktinath remains under control, offering reassurance to both pilgrims and tourism stakeholders that safety remains the top priority.
