Four foreign tourists, including two Russian and two Swiss nationals, have been successfully rescued after being stranded along the Lapchi road section in Bigu Rural Municipality-1, Dolakha. The tourists were returning from a meditation retreat at the Lapchi Monastery when a dry landslide obstructed their route, leaving them trapped midway.
According to local authorities, the tourists had been meditating at the monastery located in the remote Himalayan region of Lapchi, which is known for its religious significance and isolated terrain. On October 7 (Ashwin 21), while making their way back to Kathmandu, they encountered a major obstruction caused by a dry landslide along the rough Lapchi–Lamabagar road section. The blockage made the route impassable, leaving them unable to continue their journey.
Shelter at Nasa Hydropower Facility
After the road was blocked, the four tourists sought temporary refuge at the Nasa Hydropower Project site located in the Iluk area of the same rural municipality. Local residents and workers at the hydropower project provided them with food and shelter while awaiting assistance. The remoteness of the area and the lack of reliable transportation or communication facilities made the rescue operation particularly challenging.
Officials noted that the Lapchi region, situated near the Nepal-China border, often experiences dry landslides during post-monsoon months. The area’s steep terrain and unpaved roads make travel hazardous, especially after prolonged dry spells or sudden wind erosion, which can loosen soil layers and trigger such slides.
Joint Rescue Operation by Security Forces
The stranded tourists were finally rescued on Thursday morning around 10 a.m. following a coordinated operation conducted by the Armed Police Force (APF) Border Outpost (BOP) Lamabagar and the Nepal Police. Responding swiftly to reports from locals and the hydropower site, a joint rescue team reached the location and ensured the safe evacuation of all four tourists.
The security personnel escorted them safely from the affected area and arranged for their transportation towards Kathmandu. The tourists were reported to be in good health, with no injuries sustained during the incident. Authorities confirmed that the rescue mission concluded smoothly despite the challenging terrain and limited road access.
Authorities Urge Caution for Travelers
Following the incident, local authorities and security forces have urged travelers, trekkers, and pilgrims visiting the Lapchi area to remain cautious and well-informed about road conditions. The Lapchi–Lamabagar road, though scenic, remains one of the least maintained routes in the Dolakha district. Frequent landslides, rockfalls, and poor connectivity make it risky for both domestic and international visitors, especially during or after the monsoon season.
Officials from Bigu Rural Municipality stated that efforts are ongoing to restore safe passage along the obstructed road. Machinery and manpower from the local government, along with support from the hydropower project team, have been deployed to clear debris and reopen the route as soon as possible.
They also emphasized the need for improved infrastructure and early warning systems in such vulnerable areas to prevent future incidents that could endanger tourists and locals alike. The increasing number of visitors seeking spiritual and adventure experiences in remote monasteries like Lapchi has further highlighted the importance of developing safer transportation networks.
Lapchi Monastery: A Remote Spiritual Haven
The Lapchi Monastery, located at an altitude of over 4,000 meters near the Nepal–Tibet border, is considered a sacred site for Buddhist practitioners. It is renowned as a meditation retreat site associated with Milarepa, one of Tibet’s most revered saints. Each year, a small number of foreign monks and spiritual seekers visit the area for extended meditation retreats, drawn by its tranquility and isolation.
However, the remoteness that adds to its spiritual allure also poses logistical challenges. Limited infrastructure, unpredictable weather, and the absence of regular transport services make travel to and from Lapchi both physically demanding and potentially dangerous.
Rescue Reflects Coordination and Preparedness
The swift and effective rescue operation reflects growing coordination among Nepal’s security forces and local administrations in handling emergencies involving foreign nationals in high-risk regions. Both the Armed Police Force and the Nepal Police have played a crucial role in ensuring the safety of tourists, particularly in mountainous and disaster-prone zones.
Authorities have reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining vigilance in tourist areas and responding promptly to emergencies. The rescued tourists expressed gratitude towards the rescue team and the local community for their timely support and hospitality during the ordeal.
