Tourist Departures from Everest Region Surge Amid Cold Weather
 

The number of foreign tourists leaving the Everest region has surged by 70% as temperatures drop. Departures now exceed arrivals, with 2,400 tourists leaving in the past week compared to just 711 new arrivals in Lukla, according to the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN).
 

Tourism entrepreneur Dik Bahadur Darnal explains that many tourists are shortening their trips due to the harsh cold and freezing temperatures. Some are returning from Lukla and Namche without reaching higher altitudes. The trend, which began in early Kartik with snowfall in upper regions, has intensified as the cold worsens.
 

Pressure on Lukla flights has also increased. While flights from Kathmandu and Ramechhap to Lukla are often half-empty, return flights are overcrowded. As a result, securing a seat on return flights has become difficult. Tourists are now booking return tickets several days in advance. The flight fare disparity between foreign and Nepali passengers—Rs 29,480 for foreigners compared to Rs 11,000 for locals—has also led to complaints of foreigners receiving priority.
 

In response to the rising number of tourists, security has been increased in the region. The Nepal Police and Tourist Police are actively ensuring the safety of returning tourists, with patrols as high as Dingboche, at 4,410 meters.
 

The Everest region, renowned for its trekking, climbing, and wildlife, falls under the Everest National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979. The park, spanning 1,148 square kilometers, is home to Mount Everest and other towering peaks, as well as diverse wildlife such as musk deer and Himalayan tahr. It also attracts visitors with its cultural sites, including the Tengboche Monastery. The growing tourism has provided a boost to local communities.