Taplejung:As many as 250 domestic and foreign tourists have been stranded en route to the Kanchenjunga area due to adverse weather conditions following Cyclone Arnab, which developed in the Bay of Bengal. The extreme weather has resulted in increased snowfall in higher regions and continuous drizzle in lower areas, forcing tourists to halt their journey and seek accommodation in local hotels and settlements, which are now at full capacity.
According to National News Agency RSS, tourists heading to and from the base camp have been unable to proceed and are currently staying in places like Ghunsa, where hotels are packed. The inclement weather has caused temperatures to drop significantly, with snow blanketing the higher ridges and drizzle affecting the lower trail areas.
The affected areas include settlements on the trail leading to the northern and southern base camps of Kanchenjunga, such as Italitar, Lamatar, Amjilesa, Thangim, Gyabla, Fale, Khambachen, Lona, Yamfudin, and Nayajhoreni. In addition, a group of foreign tourists traveling to Makalu Base Camp via Lumbasumba is currently stuck in Olangchungola.
Tourism activist Hemraj Niraula reported that about 60 tourists are staying in local hotels in Olangchungola due to the adverse conditions. Meanwhile, the Chief District Officer Umesh Kumar Dahal confirmed that no disaster-related incidents have occurred in the district but emphasized that tourists and local residents have been advised to remain safe and avoid travel until the weather conditions improve. Notices have been issued by the Armed Police and local authorities to ensure safety amidst the ongoing harsh weather.