Six Indian tourists were rescued by helicopter from the snow-covered mountains of Upper Dolpa.
The group, consisting of two women and four men, was saved on Monday morning and is reported to be in stable condition, according to the District Administration Office in Dolpa.
The helicopter departed around 6:30 AM, first rescuing the two women and bringing them to the district headquarters in Dunai. It then returned to rescue the remaining four men.
- “We successfully rescued all the Indians,” said Chief District Officer Junu Hamal Dhakal.
The tourists had lost contact on October 31 after getting caught in heavy snowfall while traveling from the Dho area of Dolpo Buddha Rural Municipality to Shey-Phoksundo Lake.
The tough terrain and severe weather hindered their journey, but they managed to inform the District Administration Office on the same day.
Rescue efforts were initially delayed due to bad weather, making it challenging for the rescue team to navigate the difficult Himalayan terrain.
However, authorities eventually arranged a helicopter and successfully rescued the tourists on Monday morning, with no injuries reported.
The Indian tourists did not have the necessary permissions to visit Upper Dolpa, as stated by the District Administration Office.
They had traveled to the Dho area and were returning to Shey Phoksundo Lake, which is located in Ward No. 8 of Shey-Phoksundo Rural Municipality.
The Numla and Wagla passes lie between these locations.
Authorities and locals had warned them against traveling through high-altitude areas due to worsening weather conditions, but they proceeded without permission.
This situation underscores the risks of traveling through remote Himalayan routes during severe weather.
Heavy snowfall can quickly block mountain paths, complicating communication and leaving tourists stranded. Helicopter evacuations can also become difficult.
The district administration advises visitors to remain vigilant and follow travel regulations, avoiding risky routes during bad weather.