Cases of tourist deaths are increasing in the high Himalayan region due to avalanches during trekking.
Several fatalities have been reported in the Manang area, where trekkers ascend rapidly from low-altitude cities such as Kathmandu and Pokhara.
The traditional 21-day Annapurna Circuit trek has been shortened to about a week because of the road network.
However, this rapid ascent has increased the risk of avalanches and related deaths. Rabin Kadariya, head of the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP), advised against moving directly from low to high altitudes, stressing that ACAP has been issuing notices and alerts to raise awareness among trekkers.
According to ACAP, 18 tourists died in the region during the fiscal year 2025/26, including six Nepalis, eight Indians, one American, one Korean, one German, and one Swiss. In 2023/24, 20 tourists lost their lives, including five Nepalis, 11 Indians, one British, two Malaysians, and one Ukrainian. Data shows Indian tourists have accounted for the highest number of fatalities.
Experts point out that Indian pilgrims, in particular, face health risks as they climb directly to altitudes of around 3,700 meters for religious purposes. Gandaki Provincial Assembly member Bikal Sherchan said he would raise the issue at the policy level, adding that awareness materials should be placed along the Annapurna Circuit to inform trekkers of the risks.
On Wednesday, a discussion was held in Pokhara on ensuring tourist safety in high-altitude areas, particularly against altitude sickness. The program was organized by Mustang-based Gharpajhong Rural Municipality in coordination with the Hotel Association Pokhara Nepal.
Tourism entrepreneurs highlighted growing concerns as tourists from Nepal’s Tarai and neighboring Indian cities increasingly travel directly to Muktinath in a single day, often returning without staying overnight. They warned that this practice not only increases health and safety risks but also reduces the duration of tourist stays.
Mohan Singh Lalchan, chairperson of Gharpajhong Rural Municipality, emphasized the dangers of ascending rapidly to altitudes above 2,800 meters. He urged tourists to acclimatize properly, take rest breaks, and wear warm clothing.
Similarly, Maniraj Lamichhane, head of Nepal Tourism Board Gandaki, recommended distributing informational booklets and placing safety boards at key locations. Krishna Prasad Acharya, chairperson of TAAN Gandaki, stressed that the mandatory use of Tourist Information Management System (TIMS) cards would enhance tourist safety.
