Manang:Tourists visiting the Annapurna Circuit have been left stranded in Manang district due to persistent rainfall that has caused flooding in lower Manang and heavy snowfall in upper Manang.
According to National News Agency Nepal, Dhak Bahadur Bhujel, Chief of the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) unit in Manang, reported that tourists in both upper and lower Manang are unable to continue their journey. Heavy snowfall has forced some tourists attempting to cross the Thorong La Pass to turn back.
Bhujel stated that 226 foreign tourists are currently registered in upper Manang, with 44 having returned. More than 150 tourists who attempted to cross the Thorong La Pass have also returned due to the unfavorable weather conditions. Despite these challenges, all tourists in Manang are reported to be safe.
Tourists who have fallen ill or whose visas have expired have been evacuated by helicopter. Additionally, other tourists attempting to cross the Pass are being allowed to proceed, with helicopter evacuation available from Mustang if necessary.
ACAP tourism education assistant Bhupendra Gurung noted that 590 foreign tourists were registered at the Dharapani checkpoint from September 22 to 28. Of these, 146 have returned due to rain, floods, and landslides.
The floods and river erosion have damaged sections of roads in several areas, disrupting transportation. Although alternative tracks are being constructed, transporting heavy equipment to the affected areas remains a significant challenge.