KATHMANDU: Most major trekking routes across Nepal have reopened for the autumn season following heavy rain and snowfall in late September, although road closures and damaged bridges continue to disrupt access to some destinations, according to the Trekking Agencies' Association of Nepal (TAAN).

In an advisory issued on October 8, TAAN said trekking routes in the Kanchenjunga, Makalu, Manaslu, Tsum Valley, Everest, Rolwaling, Helambu and several western Nepal regions were open and safe. The Langtang, Kyanjin and Gosaikunda areas were also reported safe for trekking, despite the closure of the Kathmandu-Syabrubesi road.

The road remains closed following bridge collapses at Betrawati and Syabrubesi. Installation of a Bailey bridge at Betrawati is under way. TAAN has advised trekkers to consider alternative routes through Sundarijal, Chisapani and Helambu, or travel to Betrawati, cross a temporary wooden bridge on foot and continue by local jeep towards Dhunche or Thulo Syabru.

The Ganesh Himal and Ruby Valley areas were reported unharmed, but access via Dhunche and Syabrubesi remains closed. TAAN has recommended alternative routes through Dhadingbesi or Arughat in Gorkha.               

In the Annapurna region, the Ghandruk-Ghorepani, Annapurna Base Camp, Mardi Himal and Sikles treks are operating as usual. The Annapurna Circuit is accessible via Thorong La Pass, where multiple trekking groups have crossed over the past five days following snow clearance by local authorities.

Road access on the Manang side extends to Chame, with local jeeps operating from Bhratang to Upper Manang. On the Mustang side, roads are open from Muktinath to Dana via Kagbeni and Jomsom. TAAN has advised trekkers to begin the circuit from Dharapani to allow proper acclimatisation.

The Tilicho Lake Trek has also reopened following snow clearance. The Nar Phu Trek is accessible after local authorities installed a temporary wooden bridge near Ratodanda. According to TAAN, two trekking groups were making their way towards the area, with one having passed Meta. Both were expected to cross Kang La Pass within the following couple of days.

Upper Mustang is accessible on foot and by vehicle, with private jeeps available from Dana in Myagdi, Jomsom and Kagbeni. Travellers can also fly directly to Jomsom. 

TAAN said popular trails in Dhaulagiri, Dolpo, Jumla, Rara, Humla, Khaptad, Saipal, Badimalika and the Api region were open and safe. It advised trekkers to remain alert, travel through registered agencies with licensed guides and follow instructions from local authorities.