Post by : Rameen Ariff

In a massive mountain rescue operation, Nepali security forces have rescued more than 1,500 stranded tourists from the high-altitude district of Manang after heavy snowfall hit the Himalayan region, blocking trails and cutting off access to popular trekking routes.

According to an official statement from the Nepal Army, the rescue mission was launched after severe weather conditions trapped hundreds of trekkers on their way to Tilicho Lake, one of the world’s highest lakes at 4,919 metres. The army said its teams, working alongside the Armed Police Force, Nepal Police, and local authorities, evacuated both domestic and foreign tourists to safety.

“Due to heavy snowfall in various areas of Manang, a rescue team deployed from the New Bhairavidal Gulm has assisted approximately 1,500 people, including more than 200 foreign tourists, in reaching safe areas,” the army said in a post on X (formerly Twitter).

Local officials confirmed that around 800 to 900 trekkers have turned back from Tilicho Base Camp over the past two days after thick layers of snow made trails impassable and visibility dangerously low. “After the heavy snowfall, nearly one thousand tourists descended to Khangsar — the last settlement before Tilicho Lake. Many others are still making their way down,” said Chyolpa Gurung, chairperson of Ngisyang Rural Municipality-9.

The District Administration Office of Manang has issued an urgent appeal to halt trekking activities until conditions improve. “Attempts are being made to clear the trails, but the snowfall remains intense,” said Naba Raj Poudyal, Chief District Officer of Manang. “We’ve requested all trekkers still in lower regions to cancel their plans until the end of this week.”

Rescue teams equipped with shovels, ropes, and excavators have been working relentlessly to clear snow-covered routes and reopen key pathways leading to remote villages. Some sections of the road have already been made accessible to motorcycles and rescue vehicles.

The sudden Himalayan snowfall has brought a premature end to what was expected to be a bustling trekking season in the Annapurna region. The Tilicho Lake trek, known for its breathtaking views and spiritual significance, attracts thousands of trekkers every year — both Nepalese and international travelers seeking high-altitude adventure.

For many rescued tourists, the experience has been both frightening and humbling. “We were surrounded by snow on all sides, unsure if help would come,” said one European trekker. “But the Nepali Army reached us just in time. Their courage saved lives.”

As rescue efforts continue, authorities are monitoring the weather closely and cautioning against unnecessary travel in high mountain areas. The Nepal Army has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring the safety of all visitors and locals, emphasizing that tourist safety remains a top national priority amid changing Himalayan weather patterns.

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