Tourist movement in the high-altitude areas of the Khumbu region of Solukhumbu has been affected following heavy snowfall triggered by torrential rainfall, with authorities restricting movement toward higher and potentially risky areas. Snowfall began in the upper reaches of Khumbu after prolonged rainfall, with more than half a meter of snow reportedly accumulating in some higher areas. Local authorities and security agencies have stepped up monitoring and coordination to ensure the safety of tourists and trekkers currently in the Everest region.
More Than Half a Meter of Snow Accumulates
According to Chief District Officer Kaman Singh Thapa Magar, significant snowfall has been recorded in the higher areas of Khumbu. “There is heavy snowfall in the upper areas. We have received reports that in some places, more than half a meter of snow has accumulated,” Thapa Magar said.
He added that authorities are coordinating with local representatives, residents and police to move tourists toward safer locations where necessary. The snowfall has made movement difficult for tourists who had already reached higher elevations for trekking and mountaineering. Authorities have advised them against proceeding further into areas where weather and snow conditions could pose additional risks.
Seven Foreign Tourists Rescued From Island Peak Area
Seven foreign tourists who became stranded in the Imja Tse (Island Peak) area following the heavy snowfall have been rescued and moved to a safe location. According to CDO Thapa Magar, the tourists are reportedly European citizens of Chinese origin. As snowfall made movement in the upper areas increasingly difficult, local representatives and residents assisted in bringing the group to safety. The rescue highlights the challenges faced by trekkers and climbers in the high-altitude region amid rapidly deteriorating weather conditions.
Island Peak Remains a Major Mountaineering Destination
Imja Tse, commonly known as Island Peak, is one of the prominent mountaineering destinations in the Khumbu region and lies within Sagarmatha National Park. The peak stands at approximately 6,165 meters above sea level and is connected to the wider Everest trekking network.
According to the Nepal Tourism Board, the trekking route from Dingboche via the Imja Rivulet toward Chhukung connects with the main hiking trail leading toward the Everest Base Camp area, making the area an important route for trekkers exploring the upper Khumbu.
Authorities Restrict Movement Toward Higher Areas
Following the worsening weather, local authorities and security agencies have coordinated to discourage tourists and trekkers from proceeding toward higher elevations until conditions become safer. The administration has also been monitoring the situation through local authorities, police and other concerned agencies. Officials estimate that more than 1,200 tourists are currently in the Everest region. Authorities said their safety and movement are being continuously monitored in view of the adverse weather.
Khumbu Municipality Urges Tourists to Exercise Caution
Laxman Adhikari, Ward Chairperson of Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality-4, said the municipality has issued notices urging tourists and trekkers to remain cautious due to the unfavorable weather. “Since the weather is unfavorable, we are prioritizing tourist safety. People are advised not to go further up unnecessarily in risky conditions,” Adhikari said. Authorities have urged visitors already in the region to follow local safety instructions, remain in safe areas and avoid unnecessary movement toward higher elevations until weather conditions improve.
