October 12, 2023
In an unfortunate turn of events, a stretch of unfavorable weather conditions has left foreign tourists marooned in Manthali for the past five days. Flights to Lukla, their intended destination, have been suspended, prompting these travelers to find temporary refuge and make alternative arrangements with various tour companies.
According to the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal, nearly two hundred flights have been halted from Saturday through Wednesday. Lukla Airport, which serves as the gateway to the stunning Khumbu region, remains inaccessible to tourists. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation, with flights set to resume once the skies clear over Phaplu, an alternative landing point for Lukla.
To cope with the flight restrictions, some companies have turned to helicopter transportation for their stranded clientele. However, even this option faces challenges due to reduced visibility. With Lukla's weather proving highly adverse, landing conditions for aircraft remain treacherous.
The foreign tourists, who had planned their visits for specific durations, are now confronted with concerns about reaching Lukla and returning on schedule. It has been reported that some travelers have already secured return tickets to their respective home countries, further adding to their apprehension.