KATHMANDU: A fresh spell of snowfall has blanketed Nepal’s western Himalayan region, including the popular Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) and Manaslu Circuit trekking routes, following the influence of a low-pressure system developed over the Arabian Sea.

According to local sources, Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m) in Annapurna Rural Municipality–11 received heavy snowfall since late Saturday night, covering the area in a thick white layer. Domestic and international trekkers currently at the base camp have been enjoying the rare early-season snow, though the chill has intensified, affecting normal movement in the higher sections.

“The snow has been falling continuously since last night, and the entire base camp area is white,” said local lodge operators. “Trekkers are safe and spending time inside lodges, while some are stepping out to experience the snow.”

The Department of Hydrology and Meteorology (DHM) has forecast continued precipitation across the country through Tuesday, with moderate to heavy snowfall likely in the high hills and Himalayan regions of Gandaki, Bagmati, Karnali, and Koshi provinces. The department attributed the current weather pattern to the combined influence of westerly winds and a low-pressure system over the Arabian Sea, which has drawn moisture into western Nepal.

In northern Gorkha, snowfall has been reported across several villages of Chumnubri Rural Municipality, including Sama Gaun, Samdo, Syala, Lho, and Niley, disrupting local life and impacting trekkers in the Manaslu region. Tourists attempting to cross the Larke Pass (5,106m) were forced to halt in Samagaun and Samdo due to deteriorating weather and poor visibility, local residents confirmed.

While the sudden cold has affected movement in high mountain areas, local farmers in the lower regions have welcomed the snow, expecting benefits for winter crops and water sources.

The autumn trekking season, currently at its peak, has drawn record numbers of visitors to Annapurna, Mustang, and Pokhara, according to recent Tourism Times reports. Lodges and hotels in the region have been near full occupancy following festival holidays and favorable pre-snow weather conditions.

With the latest snowfall, trekking agencies are urging visitors to exercise caution, carry proper winter gear, and monitor official weather updates before moving toward higher camps. Air services to and from Jomsom and Pokhara may also experience brief disruptions due to low visibility.

Travel authorities have advised trekkers to stay updated on local forecasts, as conditions in high-altitude areas could change rapidly over the next 24 hours.