SOLUKHUMBU: Tourist movement in the upper reaches of the Khumbu region has been affected following heavy snowfall in Solukhumbu.
Snowfall began in the upper areas of Khumbu after torrential rainfall. Chief District Officer Kaman Singh Thapa Magar said more than half a metre of snow has accumulated in some higher-altitude areas.
The snowfall has restricted tourists who had travelled to the upper region for trekking and mountaineering from proceeding further into potentially dangerous areas.
“There is heavy snowfall in the upper areas. We have received reports that more than half a metre of snow has accumulated in some places. We are coordinating with local authorities, residents and police to move tourists to safe locations, prioritizing their safety,” CDO Thapa Magar said.
Seven foreign tourists who became stranded in the Imja Tse (Island Peak) area of the Everest region following the heavy snowfall have been rescued.
According to CDO Thapa Magar, the tourists are reportedly European citizens of Chinese origin. As movement in the upper areas became difficult due to the snow, local representatives and residents helped bring them to a safe location.
Imja Tse, also known as Island Peak, is a prominent mountaineering destination in the Khumbu region within Sagarmatha National Park. According to the Nepal Tourism Board, the trekking route from Dingboche through the Imja Valley toward Chhukung connects with the main Everest Base Camp trekking route.
Island Peak, locally known as Imja Tse, stands at an elevation of about 6,165 metres above sea level.
In view of the adverse weather, local authorities and security agencies have coordinated to prevent additional tourists and trekkers from travelling to higher elevations.
According to officials, more than 1,200 tourists are currently in the Everest region. The administration said their condition is being continuously monitored in coordination with local authorities, police and other concerned agencies.
Laxman Adhikari, ward chairperson of Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality-4, said the municipality has issued notices urging tourists and trekkers to exercise caution due to the deteriorating weather.
“Since the weather is unfavorable, we are prioritizing tourist safety. People are advised not to proceed to higher areas unnecessarily under risky conditions,” he said.
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