Kathmandu: The Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) has issued a nationwide safety advisory urging trekkers, mountaineers, and tourism operators to remain cautious as heavy snowfall and rainfall continue to affect high-altitude areas in western and central Nepal.
According to forecasts from the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology (DHM), regions in Gandaki, Lumbini, Karnali, and Sudurpaschim provinces are expected to experience heavy snowfall between October 27 and 29. The DHM has also warned of possible flooding and weather-related hazards in several districts, including Gorkha, Manang, Myagdi, Nawalpur, Kaski, Dolpa, Humla, Jumla, and Baglung.
Local administrations in the Annapurna and Manaslu regions have requested visitors to stay in contact with guides and local authorities and to avoid trekking until conditions improve. The Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) trail has been temporarily closed until October 31 due to continuous snowfall and poor visibility.
The NTB has advised trekkers to monitor weather forecasts regularly, carry warm and waterproof clothing, and stay alert for signs of avalanches and flash floods. Travelers have been urged to avoid camping near rivers or vulnerable slopes and to postpone travel if conditions appear unsafe.
“The mountains will always be there, safety must come first,” the NTB stated in its advisory.
The Board has also appealed to hotels, homestays, and trekking agencies in affected areas to provide safe accommodation for stranded tourists at reasonable rates. It further requested travel and trekking associations to assist with coordination and communication efforts.
Reiterating the need for vigilance, the NTB urged all travelers and tourism stakeholders to follow official updates from the DHM and local authorities as unstable weather continues to impact the Himalayan region.