At this time of year, trekking guide Eka Devi Mainali would typically be engaged in preparations for Nepal’s bustling peak trekking season. However, she finds herself anxiously awaiting news about her 19 missing friends, who are victims of a recent tragic disaster.
“I’ve lost many friends and acquaintances in this heartbreaking event,” Ms. Mainali shared with ABC News. The peak hiking season in Nepal spans from September to November, and for guides like her, who take tourists through the Himalayas annually, the emotional weight is now compounded by their grief over the tragedy.
“Discussing tourism or business feels almost inappropriate when considering the human suffering involved,” she noted. “This situation transcends a mere natural disaster; it is a profoundly painful moment for families mourning lost loved ones, homes, and livelihoods.”
Ms. Mainali is the founder of SheGuide Treks, a trekking company she established over a decade ago. She has guided visitors along some of Nepal’s most famous routes, including the Everest Base Camp, dedicating 10 percent of her profits each year to empower women and support children in need.
Taking on the role of liaison for the families of her missing friends, Ms. Mainali expressed her commitment to supporting them during this challenging time. “I am standing with their wives and children, striving to represent their interests and provide assistance,” she added.
The Nepali government reported that 1,118 bodies have been recovered, while over 3,900 individuals remain unaccounted for, including at least 38 Australians.
For fellow guides like Shishir Sapkota, the floods did not directly impact his family, but the close-knit nature of the trekking community means that the loss resonates deeply. “As guides, our connections extend to many people within the trekking and local communities. Therefore, events like this have an emotional impact on us all, even if our own families are safe,” he remarked.
Mr. Sapkota has been operating his tour company, Mato Manchey Ra Himal, for three years. His passion for guiding stems from the belief that trekking is about more than just reaching a destination; it encompasses experiencing local culture and sharing Nepal’s beauty with visitors.
Tourism operators are actively assessing the damage to infrastructure while keeping tours operational. Intrepid Travel, which offers 26 tours in Nepal, confirmed that its customers and staff are safe and that it is providing support to affected local partners and host families. “We are closely monitoring the situation and assessing the impact on our current trips, transportation, and accommodation,” stated Yalamber Rai, Intrepid’s general manager for Nepal.
Two of Intrepid’s itineraries pass through severely affected regions, including the Tamang Heritage and Langtang Valley Trek, which usually includes an overnight stay in Syabrubesi, a village that has experienced significant destruction. “The ramifications of these floods will likely have long-lasting effects on livelihoods, trade, tourism, and local enterprises,” Mr. Rai added.
Tourism is a crucial aspect of Nepal’s economy, accounting for nearly 7 percent of the GDP before the pandemic. Nepal’s tourism minister, Khadak Raj Paudel, has urged travelers not to cancel their trips, emphasizing that visiting Nepal now offers vital support to a nation grappling with this catastrophe.
Operators have conveyed a clear message: while the tourism industry remains active, routes need to be monitored closely. “It is imperative that travel continues responsibly to the stable regions that remain operational,” said Bly Carpenter of World Expeditions, a company with over 50 years of experience in Nepal.
Kathmandu’s airport is fully operational, and major trekking regions such as Annapurna, Everest, and Kanchenjunga continue to function as normal. “For those feeling apprehensive, we want to reassure them that Nepal is a vast and diverse country,” Mr. Carpenter explained. “The destruction in affected communities is severe, but it does not imply that all areas or trekking routes have been impacted.” He stressed that one of the most effective ways to support Nepal during this challenging time is to proceed with planned treks.
He acknowledged the resilience of the Nepali people who rely on tourism, stating, “They live alongside the mountains, fully aware of their power, and have endured natural disasters before. While this loss is undeniably painful, there is a remarkable strength and solidarity within these communities that inspires us.” Mr. Carpenter expressed admiration for the quiet courage exhibited by the Nepali people in the face of adversity.
