More than 1,000 foreign tourists have become stranded in Nepal after inclement weather forced the cancellation of flights to Lukla, the primary gateway to Mt. Everest. According to state-run media reports on Tuesday, approximately 1,300 trekkers heading to the Everest base camp have been stuck in Manthali, Ramechhap district, for the past two days.
Lukla is a key transit point for trekkers aiming to reach the world’s highest peak. With dozens of flights grounded, many tourists have opted for alternative routes, with some choosing to travel by land to Faplu, while others have arranged helicopter flights to Surkhet.
An official from the Civil Aviation Authority at Manthali confirmed that the stranded tourists had arrived via various private airlines, all eager to continue their journey to Lukla during the busy autumn trekking season, a popular time for Everest explorers. Authorities are working to address the situation as weather conditions improve.
