In the middle of the October trekking season, on 14 October 2014, the remnants of Cyclone Hudhud, which had hit India's east coast days earlier, brought an unseasonable blizzard and avalanches to the high Himalaya. Trekkers crossing Thorong La (5,416 m) on the Annapurna Circuit were caught in deep snow and strong winds. In all, 43 people died across the affected areas, making it Nepal's worst trekking disaster.
In short: an unseasonable blizzard on 13–15 October 2014, driven by the tail of Cyclone Hudhud, struck the Annapurna Circuit, with most deaths around Thorong La. 43 people died, including trekkers, guides and porters.
Why it was so deadly
The storm arrived in peak season, when hundreds of trekkers were on the trail, and it was not expected at that time of year. Some groups set off for the pass despite worsening weather, and many trekkers were not equipped for deep snow and extreme cold. Helicopters rescued hundreds of stranded people once the weather cleared.
What changed
The disaster led to calls for better weather warnings, trekker registration and tracking, and stronger rules on guides. Today, licensed guides are mandatory for foreign trekkers in Nepal's national parks and conservation areas.
Lessons for trekkers
- Check the forecast before pass days and be willing to wait.
- Turn back if the weather deteriorates; the pass will still be there.
- Carry proper warm gear even in autumn.
- Trek with an experienced, licensed guide.