The devastating floods in Nepal have once again drawn the attention of the whole world towards the Himalayan region. After the breaking of the glacier near the Nepal-China border, sudden flood and strong flow of debris caused huge destruction in many areas. Along with the local people, a large number of foreign tourists and pilgrims have also come under the grip of this natural disaster.
According to Nepal Tourism Board, among the missing are 517 foreign nationals Are said to be involved. These are suspected to be citizens of more than 30 countries including India. In such a situation, a big question is arising that why do a large number of foreign tourists reach such remote and hilly areas?
Attraction of Himalayas and Everest
Nepal is home to the world's highest mountains and this is its biggest tourism strength. world's highest peak mount everest Apart from this, hilly areas like Langtang, Annapurna, Manaslu attract thousands of trekkers and adventure loving tourists every year.
Tourism is an important part of the economy in Nepal. According to government data, More than 11.47 lakh foreign tourists in 2024 Had reached Nepal.
Rasuwa district affected by flood is also very important from tourism point of view. Areas such as Syafrubesi and Timure are among the main routes leading to the Langtang Valley and the Tamang Heritage Trail. Apart from this, this area is also an important route for travelers going towards Tibet.
Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is also a big reason
Religious tourism is also a major reason for the presence of foreign travelers in these areas of Nepal. Every year pilgrims from many countries including India Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Reach Nepal for.
The roads near the Nepal-China border are considered important stops for this journey. This is the reason why during a disaster like flood, not only trekkers and adventure tourists but also a large number of pilgrims can be present in the affected areas.
Nepal's attraction is not limited to Everest only.
Nepal's identity for foreign tourists is not limited to Everest alone. Here, along with high snowy mountains, beautiful lakes, Buddhist monasteries, Hindu temples, forests and Himalayan villages also attract people.
Many foreign tourists like to stay away from cities and major tourist centers and stay in villages and understand the local culture and lifestyle closely. Located in Rasuwa area Gosainkund Like religious and natural places are also the center of attraction for travelers.
Therefore, under normal circumstances, Rasuwa and these hilly areas connected to the Nepal-China border are not at all unknown or unusual places for tourists. These are part of the major tourist and religious routes of Nepal. However, this time the sudden floods made these tourist corridors extremely dangerous and the safety of a large number of local people as well as foreign travelers became a matter of concern.