KATHMANDU: The Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) on Tuesday issued a safety advisory urging all trekkers, mountaineers, and tourism stakeholders to exercise extreme caution as heavy snowfall and rainfall have been forecast across various mountain regions.

In its situation update, the NTB referenced the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology (DHM) notice predicting precipitation in different parts of the country from October 27 to 29, warning that the mountainous areas of Gandaki, Lumbini, Karnali, and Sudurpaschim provinces are likely to receive heavy snowfall.

According to the official alert, risks of heavy rainfall, snowfall, and flooding have been identified in the districts of Gorkha, Manang, Myagdi, Nawalpur, Kaski, Parbat, Dolpa, Humla (Simkot), Rasuwa, Nuwakot, Dhading, Lamjung, Jumla, Mugu, Kalikot, Dailekh, Jajarkot, Salyan, Rukum East and West, Baglung, Surkhet, Banke, and Bardiya.

Local authorities in the Annapurna and Manaslu regions have also requested trekkers and visitors to remain alert, maintain communication with guides or local officials, and prepare for unpredictable weather, extreme cold, flash floods, and increased avalanche risk. Trekkers are advised to regularly check weather forecasts, dress in layers, and carry warm, waterproof, and windproof clothing.

The NTB advisory further instructs visitors to recognize signs of flash floods such as rising water levels, avoid camping near rivers or vulnerable slopes, and understand avalanche warnings and trail closures. Those venturing into high-risk areas are urged to ensure they possess proper training and safety equipment, including a transceiver, shovel, probe, and ideally travel with a licensed local guide.

“Inform others about your route and expected return time, and stay in touch with your trekking agency, lodge owners, or a trusted contact,” the NTB stated. Travelers are also encouraged to carry essentials such as a first-aid kit, extra food, water, flashlight, power bank, and reliable communication device. The notice adds that if conditions appear unsafe, trekkers should postpone or choose alternative routes, emphasizing that “the mountains will always be there.”

In light of worsening conditions, the NTB advised:

• All mountaineering and trekking groups to remain alert and prioritize safety in coordination with local authorities and guides.
• Tourists currently on trekking routes to stay in safe shelters until weather conditions improve and immediately contact local administration or the Tourist Police if difficulties arise.
• Homestay operators, hotels, and resorts in affected regions to ensure the safety and comfort of guests by providing shelter and support at reasonable rates.
• Travel, trekking, and tourism-related associations in Gandaki Province and other areas to facilitate coordination and communication for visitor safety.

The NTB also announced that the Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) trekking route remains temporarily restricted until the evening of October 31, 2025, due to adverse weather and safety concerns.

The Board requested all visitors and tourism stakeholders to remain patient, prioritize safety, and follow official updates from the DHM as weather conditions evolve.