Nepal's authorities have suspended the issuing of permits for treks to the high-altitude regions of the Himalayas from October 29 to October 31. The reason is a forecast of unfavorable weather associated with the tropical cyclone Arnab. Travelers who are already on the routes have been advised to stop their journeys and wait out the storm.
According to Nepalese media, the decision is based on warnings from the country's meteorological service. Forecasters expect heavy rain in the lowlands and, in the mountains, snowfall, blizzards and an increased risk of avalanches. The most difficult conditions are forecast for October 30 and 31.
Cyclone Arnab formed over the Bay of Bengal and on October 28 reached the eastern coast of India, where, according to Indian authorities, it caused destruction and loss of life. The cyclone itself will not reach Nepal, but the moist air masses it carries, colliding with weather systems over the Himalayas, will bring heavy precipitation.
Special restrictions have been introduced in the Annapurna massif area, which is popular with tourists. The administration of the protected area has banned treks above 3,000 meters. This applies, in particular, to routes to the Annapurna Base Camp, around the massif, to Mardi Himal and to the Upper Mustang region. Access to tourist villages below this mark has not been closed.
According to the administration, at least five thousand foreign tourists are currently in the Annapurna area. Of these, about one and a half thousand are on their way to the Base Camp. Warnings have also been issued to travelers in the Manang and Mustang areas, including at the Thorong La and Larkya La passes. Local tour companies have been advised to revise their trekking programs, and rescue services have been put on high alert.
The restrictions have come at the height of the autumn season, which is considered the best time for travel in the Himalayas. According to Nepal's Department of Tourism, this autumn 161 expeditions received permits to climb 44 peaks, a total of 1,410 climbers from 76 countries. The authorities emphasize that the measures are precautionary and may be extended if the weather does not improve.
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