KATHMANDU: Nepal’s major trekking destinations remain safe following the devastating August 26 floods, but damaged access routes and transport links are emerging as the main challenge ahead of the autumn trekking season, according to the Trekking Agencies’ Association of Nepal (TAAN).

In its latest trail safety update, TAAN said destinations including Kanchenjunga, Makalu, Everest, Rolwaling, Helambu, Manaslu, Annapurna, Mustang, Dhaulagiri, Dolpo, Rara, Jumla and far-western trekking areas have not been affected by the floods.

However, several approaches to popular trekking areas remain disrupted.

The Langtang/Kyanjin Valley and Gosaikunda destinations are safe, but the road from Battar through Dhunche to Syabrubesi remains closed. TAAN has recommended an alternative route through Sundarijal, Helambu, Thadepati, Ghopte and Gosaikunda, before continuing towards Thulosyabru, Lama Hotel, Langtang and Kyanjin.

Similarly, Ganesh Himal and Ruby Valley remain secure, but travellers cannot currently access them through Dhunche and Syabrubesi. TAAN has advised using routes through Dhadingbesi or Arughat.

Manaslu access rerouted

The Manaslu, Tsum and Nubri/Larke Pass areas are safe, but TAAN has advised travellers to avoid the Malekhu-Dhadingbesi route after the Malekhu bridge collapsed.

Two alternative approaches have been suggested: Galchhi-Sunaulabazaar-Dhadingbesi-Salyantar-Arughat-Lapubesi, or Benighat-Arughat-Lapubesi.

Access to the Pokhara and Annapurna region, including Manang and Mustang, is also safe. However, travel from Kathmandu to Pokhara remains affected by the Krishnabhir landslide on the Prithvi Highway.

TAAN has recommended flying to Pokhara, bypassing the landslide through alternative road routes, or travelling south towards Hetauda and Chitwan before continuing to Pokhara.

The Kailash Mansarovar route through Rasuwagadhi/Kerung remains completely closed, while the Kodari/Tatopani route is open only for pilgrims returning to Nepal. The Simkot-Hilsa route remains open for both entry and exit, although helicopter availability is currently affected by search-and-rescue operations in the Bhotekoshi area.

TAAN said the Rasuwa Bhotekoshi flood has subsided and water levels in the neighbouring trans-border glacial lake in the Langtang Himal range have safely declined.

It nevertheless advised travellers to exercise caution and plan carefully as the monsoon season has not yet ended.