SOLUKHUMBU, Sept 26: Heavy snowfall in the higher reaches of Solukhumbu’s Khumbu region has disrupted tourist movement, prompting local authorities to restrict trekkers and mountaineers from heading further into risky areas.
Snowfall began in the upper belt of Khumbu following torrential rainfall, with more than half a meter of snow accumulating in some higher areas, according to Chief District Officer Kaman Singh Thapa Magar.
“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. Keeping the safety of tourists a priority, coordination is being done with local authorities, residents and police to move them to safe places,” he said.
Khumbu welcomes tourists even in off-season
Seven foreign tourists stranded in the Imja Tse (Island Peak) area of the Everest region following the heavy snowfall have been rescued. According to CDO Thapa Magar, the tourists are reportedly European citizens of Chinese origin.
As movement in the upper areas became difficult due to the snow, the tourists were brought to a safe place with the help of local representatives and residents.
Imja Tse, also known as Island Peak, is an important mountaineering destination in the Khumbu region within Sagarmatha National Park. According to the Nepal Tourism Board, the trekking route from Dingboche via Imja Rivulet toward Chukung connects with the main hiking trail of the Everest Base Camp area.
Island Peak, locally known as Imja Tse, stands at about 6,165 meters above sea level.
Due to the adverse weather, local authorities and security agencies have coordinated to prevent more tourists and trekkers from heading to higher areas.
More than 1,200 tourists are currently in the Everest region, according to officials. The administration said it is continuously monitoring their situation through local authorities, police and other concerned agencies.
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 bad weather.
“Since the weather is unfavorable, we are prioritizing tourist safety. People are advised not to go further up unnecessarily in risky conditions,” he said.
