KATHMANDU: Tourist activity has started to pick up in the Manaslu region of northern Gorkha following an improvement in weather conditions. The region experienced a dip in visitor numbers from Friday to Sunday due to continuous rainfall, but the situation began to normalize on Monday as skies cleared.

Kumari Gurung, a hotel entrepreneur in Philim, Chumanubri Rural Municipality-3, noted that tourist movement increased significantly starting Wednesday.

She explained that overall arrivals have been lower this year compared to previous years, citing the impact of persistent rain and flooding in the Rasuwa area. While the region typically sees high tourist pressure in September, the recent heavy rainfall had brought travel to a near standstill.

With the weather improving, local residents have begun repairing damaged trails. Chiring Dharke Lama, a resident of Lho in Chumanubri-2, stated that repairs are ongoing on the trail between Syala and Lho villages.

Additionally, locals have repaired the path between Lihir and Bharjam villages, as well as a wooden bridge in Namrung. Lama noted that tourist movement was virtually non-existent during the period when entry permits were suspended due to the weather.

Bhuwan Ojha, information officer for the Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP), confirmed that entry permits were not issued on Sept. 25, 26, and 27 based on weather forecasts. The issuance of permits resumed on Sunday.

However, MCAP has cautioned that the trails are not yet fully secure, as the risk of dry landslides and falling rocks remains in several parts of northern Gorkha. The office has urged tourists, guides, porters, and tourism entrepreneurs to exercise necessary caution and stay alert while traversing the region.