The number of foreign tourists departing the Everest region has increased by a staggering 70% compared to those entering, as colder weather grips the area. According to the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) office in Lukla, 711 foreign tourists arrived in Lukla by air last week, while 2,400 departed during the same period.
Increased Departures Amid Colder Weather
Sanjaya Shrestha, an ATC officer at CAAN Lukla, reported significant discrepancies in daily arrivals and departures. For example, on Mangsir 4, 223 tourists arrived while 362 left. Similarly, on Mangsir 8, only 53 arrived compared to 481 departures. Tourism entrepreneur Dika Bahadur Darnal attributed the surge in departures to the harsh cold, which has led many tourists to shorten their visits. “Tourists are reluctant to ascend higher altitudes as water starts freezing, forcing them to return early,” he explained.
Ticket Scarcity and Transportation Challenges
The surge in outgoing tourists has led to an overwhelming demand for flights from Lukla to Kathmandu, resulting in ticket shortages. Tourists are advised to book four to five days in advance. While foreign tourists are charged NPR 29,480 for a flight, Nepalese citizens pay NPR 11,000, causing airlines to prioritize foreign passengers. Due to ticket unavailability, some tourists have opted to trek to Salleri and continue to Kathmandu by jeep.
Tourist and Security Operations in Full Swing
The high volume of departing tourists has also increased the workload for Nepal Police and Tourist Police, who focus on ensuring safety and maintaining records. Deputy Superintendent of Police Dwarika Prasad Ghimire noted that patrols are actively conducted up to the Everest Base Camp.
Everest Region as a Tourist Hub
The Everest region, falling under Sagarmatha National Park, remains a top destination for trekking, mountaineering, and cultural exploration. Spread across 1,148 square kilometers, the park is home to Mount Everest and other iconic peaks like Lhotse, Nuptse, and Cho Oyu. It also boasts rich biodiversity, including musk deer, Himalayan monals, and rare birds like the Tibetan snowcock.
Tourist Seasons in the Everest Region
The primary tourist seasons are between mid-March to mid-June and October to mid-December. Beyond these peak periods, colder weather and challenging conditions often deter visitors.
Cultural and Natural Attractions
In addition to adventure tourism, the region attracts visitors to its cultural sites, such as the Tengboche Monastery. The integration of cultural and natural attractions continues to enhance its global appeal, drawing thousands annually.
