The region's tourism activities have abruptly stopped due to heavy snowfall, which has caused authorities in Tibet and Nepal to close major hiking and tourist regions surrounding Mount Everest. Visitors are unable to travel safely due to the bad weather that started earlier in the week.
Officials reported that the snowfall was triggered by moisture and strong winds associated with Cyclone Montha, which moved across the Bay of Bengal and brought unstable weather into the Himalayan region. As a result, several popular trekking routes in Nepal — including parts of the Everest, Annapurna, Manaslu, and Dhaulagiri regions — have been closed temporarily. Lower areas received heavy rainfall, while higher altitudes were blanketed in deep snow, creating dangerous conditions for trekkers.
On the Tibetan side, authorities in Tingri County suspended tourist access and stopped ticket sales to the scenic Everest area after roads became covered in ice and visibility dropped sharply. The sudden weather shift also caused disruptions to rescue operations. A private helicopter on a mission to evacuate stranded trekkers near Lobuche crashed into snowdrifts. The pilot survived, while the condition of the trekkers was not immediately confirmed.
The closures have dealt a significant blow to the peak tourism season, affecting guides, porters, lodges, transport services, and local businesses that depend heavily on trekking activities.
Officials noted that such weather at this time of the year is unusual and highlights the increasing unpredictability of Himalayan climate patterns.
Travelers have been cautioned by authorities in both areas to postpone their travels and keep an eye on weather developments. Until conditions improve and regular access can be restored, rescue crews and local organizations will keep an eye on the situation.
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