KATHMANDU: The Trekking Agencies’ Association of Nepal (TAAN) has issued a safety status update on major trekking and pilgrimage routes following the devastating flash floods in the Trishuli and Bhotekoshi rivers on August 26, advising travellers and tour operators to plan routes according to the latest access conditions.

The update, issued in response to inquiries from international tour operators, visitors, journalists and prospective travellers ahead of the autumn trekking season, says several popular destinations remain safe despite access routes being affected by the floods.

The Kailash Mansarovar route through Rasuwagadi/Kerung, however, has been completely affected and remains closed. TAAN has recommended alternative arrangements through Kodari/Tatopani, Simkot-Hilsa, or by flying to Lhasa and travelling overland to Kailash via Shigatse and Saga.

The Langtang/Kyanjin Valley and Gosaikunda destinations remain safe, but access through the Trishuli-Betambeti corridor has been affected and is currently closed. TAAN has suggested waiting for further updates or considering an alternative trekking route via Kathmandu, Sundarijal, Chisapani, Thadepati, Ghoptebhir, Gosaikunda, Thulosyabru, Pairo, Lama Hotel, Langtang and Kyanjin, with travellers advised to return through the same route.

The Ganesh Himal and Ruby Valley areas are also reported to be safe, although access through Dhunche and Syabrubesi is closed. Alternative approaches through Dhadingbesi or Arughat have been recommended.

The Manaslu region, including Tsum Valley and the Nubri-Larke Pass, remains safe. However, trekkers travelling towards Machhekhola and Jagat have been advised to avoid the Malekhu-Dhadingbesi route following the collapse of a bridge at Malekhu and instead use the Benighat-Arughat route.

TAAN said several other major trekking regions have remained entirely unaffected by the floods. These include Kanchenjunga, Makalu, Everest, Rolwaling, Helambu, Annapurna (Manang and Mustang), Dhaulagiri, Dolpa, Rara and Jumla, Humla, and the Far West areas covering Saipal, Khaptad, Badimalika and Api Himal.

The association cautioned that its assessment primarily covers the direct impact of the recent floods and that travellers should continue to exercise caution because the monsoon season is not yet over. Some road sections along the Trishuli River corridor may also remain temporarily closed for safety and ongoing rescue operations.

TAAN said travellers and tourism stakeholders should obtain the latest access information and coordinate with trekking agencies before departure.