As Nepal counted the human and economic cost of the deadliest floods in decades, the government appealed to the world not to stay away. In early September 2026, Tourism Minister Khadak Raj Paudel told travellers in a video message that Nepal's mountain trails and trekking routes "are still waiting for you", adding: "Your coming to Nepal this time does not mean only a holiday. It's a big support to the country."
In short: the August 2026 Bhotekoshi flood devastated Rasuwa and the Trishuli valley, but most of Nepal's trekking regions were not affected. The Everest, Annapurna, Manaslu and Mustang regions are open. Treks starting from Syabrubesi (Langtang, Gosainkunda and the Tamang Heritage Trail) were put on hold. The government launched a #NepalCalling campaign to encourage visitors to return.
The scale of the disaster
By early September, more than 1,100 deaths had been confirmed in Nepal and several thousand people were still unaccounted for, including foreigners and many hydropower workers. Rescue teams from Nepal, India, China and South Korea worked in the affected districts, and roads, bridges and at least a dozen hydropower projects were damaged. Later official figures rose further; see our flood report.
Which regions are open?
| Region | Status |
|---|---|
| Everest (Khumbu) | Open |
| Annapurna and Pokhara | Open |
| Manaslu and Tsum | Open |
| Mustang and Dolpo | Open |
| Kathmandu Valley, Chitwan, Lumbini | Open |
| Langtang, Gosainkunda, Tamang Heritage Trail (from Syabrubesi) | On hold; check before booking |
| Trishuli River rafting | Check current conditions |
Conditions change, so always check the latest situation with your trekking company before you travel.
Why visiting helps
Tourism supports hundreds of thousands of jobs in Nepal, from guides and porters to lodge owners, drivers and farmers who supply the trails. After disasters such as the 2015 earthquake, the return of visitors played a big part in the recovery of mountain communities. Choosing a trek in an unaffected region, hiring local staff and spending in local lodges all help.
Our advice
If you had planned a Langtang trek, consider Helambu, Poon Hill, Mardi Himal or the Everest View trek instead. Make sure your travel insurance covers trip disruption. Our Nepal in October and Nepal in November guides cover the autumn season. Contact us for the latest on any route.