Heavy Snowfall Halts Manaslu Trekking:Tourists Stranded in Northern Gorkha | Travel Alert

Heavy snowfall Halts Manaslu Trekking

Heavy Snowfall Paralyzes Manaslu Trekking Routes in Gorkha 

Gorkha, Nepal - Intense snowfall has brought trekking adventures in the iconic Manaslu region of northern Gorkha to a standstill. Tourists attempting the Larkya Pass trek are now stranded in villages like Samdo, Samagaon, and Lho, with nearly 10 inches of snow blanketing the trails. This unexpected weather crisis highlights the challenges of trekking in Nepal’s high-altitude regions during winter.

Current Situation in Manaslu

• Affected Areas: Chumnubri Village Municipality (Ward 1), Samdo, Lho, Syala, and surrounding regions.

• Snow Depth: Up to 10 inches, making trails impassable.

• Stranded Tourists: 14 tourists sheltering in Samdo hotels, with 9 more stuck at Hotel Yak and Dharmashala near Larkya Pass.

Local hotel operator Nimadorje Lama confirmed trekkers are prioritizing safety: “Tourists chose to stay rather than risk dangerous conditions.”

Why This Matters for Trekkers

1. Larkya Pass Closure: Heavy snow has blocked access to the Larkya Pass, a critical route for the Manaslu Circuit Trek.

2. Health Risks: Sub-zero temperatures raise risks of hypothermia and frostbite, especially for children and elderly travelers.

3. Logistical Chaos: Transport (jeeps, horses) and communication networks are disrupted, delaying rescue or evacuation efforts.

Local Life Disrupted

• Daily Struggles: Locals face challenges collecting firewood and fodder.

• Extreme Cold: Children and the elderly are confined indoors.

• Economic Impact: Tourism-dependent businesses suffer as treks halt.

Veer Bahadur Lama, a Samdo resident, shared: “The cold is unbearable, and life has come to a standstill.”

Safety Tips for Trekking in Manaslu During Winter

✅ Check Weather Alerts: Monitor forecasts for Gorkha and Manaslu region.

✅ Hire Local Guides: Experts like Karmachhewang Lama (Chumnubri Ward Chairman) know safe routes.

✅ Pack Winter Gear: Thermal layers, waterproof boots, and crampons are essential.

✅ Travel Insurance: Ensure coverage for trip interruptions and emergency evacuations.

When Will Trekking Resume?

Authorities warn that snowfall may continue for days, prolonging the stranding. Tourists should prepare to stay in Samdo until routes reopen. For updates, contact:

• Nepal Tourism Board: +977-1-4256909

• Tourist Police Hotline: 1144

Key TakeawaysAvoid non-essential travel to Manaslu until snowfall subsides.

• Avoid non-essential travel to Manaslu until snowfall subsides.
• Respect local advisories to reduce strain on resources in villages like Samdo.
• Follow #ManasluSnowAlert on social media for real-time updates.

FAQs

• Which areas in Manaslu are currently affected by heavy snowfall?

  The worst-hit areas include Samdo, Samagaon, Lho, Syala, and parts of Chumnubri Village Municipality (Ward 1). Over 10 inches of snow has blocked trails like the Larkya Pass, a key route for the Manaslu Circuit Trek.

  How many tourists are stranded due to the snowfall?

  At least 14 tourists are sheltering in Samdo hotels, with 9 more stranded near Larkya Pass at Hotel Yak and Dharmashala. Authorities advise against trekking until conditions improve.

  What are the major risks for trekkers in Manaslu right now?

  - Avalanche threats on snow-heavy trails.
  - Hypothermia and frostbite from sub-zero temperatures.
  - Blocked routes delaying evacuations or rescues.

  Can I still trek the Manaslu Circuit during winter?

  Winter trekking is possible but highly risky due to unpredictable snowfall. Always:
  - Hire local guides familiar with weather patterns.
  - Carry thermal gear, crampons, and emergency supplies.
  - Monitor Nepal Meteorological Department updates.

  How is the snowfall impacting local communities?

  - Villagers struggle to collect firewood and fodder for livestock.
  - Children and the elderly are confined indoors due to extreme cold.
  - Tourism-dependent businesses face losses as treks halt.

  When will the Manaslu trekking routes reopen?

  No official reopening date is confirmed. Snowfall may continue for days, and trails need time to clear. Follow updates from the Nepal Tourism Board or Tourist Police (1144).

  What emergency contacts should I save for Manaslu trekking?

  - Tourist Police Hotline: 1144
  - Nepal Tourism Board: +977-1-4256909
  - Local Guides/Porters: Ask hotels for trusted contacts.

  Does travel insurance cover trekking disruptions in Nepal?

  Yes, but ensure your policy includes:
  - Trip interruption due to weather.
  - Emergency evacuation (helicopter rescues).
  - Medical coverage for altitude sickness or frostbite.

  What gear is essential for winter trekking in Manaslu?

  - Waterproof boots and thermal layers.
  - Crampons and ice axes for icy trails.
  - Portable oxygen cans for altitude safety.
  - Headlamps and power banks for emergencies.

  How can I help affected locals in Samdo?

  - Respect resource limits: Avoid straining food/shelter supplies.
  - Support local businesses: Buy meals or handicrafts if safe to visit.
  - Donate responsibly: Coordinate with NGOs like Red Cross Nepal.