Cyclone Arnab Chaos: Heavy Snowfall Strands Hundreds of Trekkers in Nepal
Hundreds of tourists and trekkers are stranded in Nepal as Cyclone Arnab triggers heavy snowfall and rain across high-altitude regions.
The weather patterns triggered by Cyclone Arnab Nepal snowfall and rain have caused significant disruptions across the country, leaving hundreds of domestic and international tourists stranded in high-altitude regions. While the capital city of Kathmandu experienced a refreshing overnight rain, the situation in the mountains has turned precarious for those exploring the Himalayas.
Trekkers Trapped on Kanchenjunga Trail
Heavy snowfall in high-lying areas combined with freezing temperatures in lower elevations has brought trekking activities to a grinding halt. Tourists traveling to and from various base camps have found themselves unable to proceed, forcing them to seek emergency shelter in local hotels and lodges.
The impact has been particularly severe along the Kanchenjunga trail. A large number of trekkers are currently stuck in settlements across both the northern and southern routes. The affected areas include:
- Northern Route: Italitar, Lamatar, Amjilesa, Thangim, Gyabla, Phale, Ghunsa, Khambachen, and Lonak.
- Southern Route: Yamphudin, Naya Jhoreni, Torongden, Seram, and Ramje.
Due to the sudden influx of stranded travelers, accommodation facilities in these remote settlements are reported to be completely filled.
Makalu Base Camp Route Blocked
The weather turmoil has not been limited to Kanchenjunga. Officials have confirmed that a group of foreign tourists attempting to reach the Makalu base camp via the Lumbasumba Pass has been held up in Olangchungola. Approximately half of the tourists currently in Olangchungola were heading toward the Makalu base camp.
Additionally, domestic tourists attempting to travel to Singje through Olangchungola have also been forced to stop their journey due to the adverse weather conditions.
Official Response and Safety Warnings
In response to the crisis, the Armed Police Force, responsible for border security, and the local ward office have issued urgent notices. They have advised all individuals in the affected regions to remain in safe locations until the weather improves.
Chief District Officer Umesh Kumar Dahal stated that while approximately 250 domestic and foreign tourists are currently sheltered in hotels and settlements—specifically in Ghunsa, Yamphudin, and Olangchungola—no disaster-related incidents have been reported in the district so far.
Authorities have emphasized that safety must be the priority, urging trekkers to resume their journeys only after a careful assessment of the weather. Coordination between local governments and security agencies is ongoing to ensure the well-being of the stranded visitors and local residents.
Rainfall Hits Kathmandu
While the mountains battle snow, the capital city of Kathmandu received overnight rainfall. This has had the immediate effect of clearing the dust and pollution from the valley's skyline, although the city remains shrouded in rain-induced clouds.