Month: September 2026

Alternative Trekking Route After Bhote Koshi Flash Flood 2026

The recent Bhote Koshi flood 2026 has caused an immeasurable amount of pain and sorrow, affecting not only the lives of Nepali people but also those of foreign visitors. This devastating flood has destroyed homes, bridges, roads, and other vital infrastructure, causing significant physical and economic damage while also scattering the dreams and hopes of those caught in the disaster. The flood has significantly affected Nepal’s tourism and hydropower sectors, particularly in the affected districts of Rasuwa, Dhading, and Nuwakot. As access to several popular trekking areas has been disrupted, travelers are now looking toward alternative trekking routes in Nepal to continue their journeys while avoiding the affected areas.

The tourism sector, one of the most important sectors contributing around 6.7% to 8% of Nepal’s GDP, has helped build homes, make dreams come true, and provide livelihoods to people across the country. It has created employment opportunities in a country where jobs have often been scarce, especially in rural and mountain communities. From guides and porters to hotel workers and local businesses, tourism has helped thousands earn a living and gradually climb the economic ladder. Even amid the challenges caused by the Bhote Koshi flood 2026, the availability of alternative trekking routes in Nepal can help keep tourism moving and provide continued opportunities for local communities.

Roads and Trails Damaged by the Bhote Koshi Flood 2026

The flood has severely affected the Trishuli and Bhote Koshi river valleys, damaging roads and trails in Rasuwa and Nuwakot, key areas for trekkers heading to Langtang and Gosaikunda. In Dhading, the Malekhu Bridge has also been damaged, disrupting travel to Dhading besi, one of the starting points for Ruby Valley and Ganga Jamuna trek. The road at Krishnabhir has also collapsed, disrupting the main road connection between Kathmandu and Pokhara.Also, the road connecting Pokhara to the Annapurna region has been damaged around Nayapul. The flood has also affected other districts, including Gorkha and Chitwan, and damaged major highways such as the Araniko Highway, which connects Nepal with the Chinese border. Similarly, one of the main roads connecting Kathmandu Valley to the Prithvi Highway has also been damaged just ahead of the Nagdhunga Checkpost, with vehicles currently allowed to pass through only one way at a time.

While these routes remain closed for now, alternative routes are still available for travelers who had planned to trek in Langtang, Gosaikunda, Ruby Valley, Annapurna, Ghorepani, Mardi, and other popular destinations through Pokhara or Dhading Besi. These alternative routes provide access to the breathtaking regions while taking you through less-traveled routes, untouched landscapes, and spectacular mountain views, offering a unique way of experiencing Nepal’s natural beauty.

Alternative Road Route to Annapurna Region or Pokhara

If you are travelling to the Annapurna region, you would normally travel through the Prithvi Highway, passing Malekhu, Benighat, and Mugling. However, due to the recent landslide at Krishnabhir, this route is currently inaccessible. The new route follows the road up to Benighat, then diverts toward Phujel, Namjung, Gorkha Bazaar, and Mugling, before finally reaching Pokhara, the gateway to the Annapurna region. This alternate route takes around 8 to 9 hours by private vehicle.

Note: A flight to Pokhara is also available and is highly recommended during this time. The flight takes only around 25 to 30 minutes.

Alternative Road Route to Dhading Besi ( Ruby Valley trek or Ganga Jamuna Trek)

If you’re travelling to Dhading Besi, the gateway to Ruby Valley and Ganga Jamuna Trek, normally you would take the Prithvi Highway up to Malekhu and cross the Malekhu Bridge, but due to the recent Bhote Koshi flash flood, the Malekhu Bridge has been destroyed, making it impossible to cross to the other side. The alternative route is to follow the same highway up to Benighat, cross the Benighat Bridge, and continue through Phujel, Namjung, Okhle, Arughat, Salyantar, and Taribesi, before finally reaching Dhading Besi.

Alternative Road and Trekking Route to Langtang Region

Similarly, for travelers heading toward the Langtang region, the usual road access to Syabrubesi has been affected by the recent Bhote Koshi flash flood. Instead of following the regular route, travelers can now take an alternative journey from Kathmandu to Tokha, Bogetitar, and Kalikasthan, before reaching Dhunche. From Dhunche, the route continues on foot toward Gosaikunda, followed by Thulo Syabru. From there, trekkers can continue to Lama Hotel and reconnect with the original Langtang Valley route, allowing the trek to continue toward the heart of the Langtang region.

For any further updates or additional information about these routes, please feel free to get in touch with Nepal Mountain Trekkers. If you have any questions about the travel time, distance, or how long it may take to reach your destination through these alternative trails, our team will be happy to assist you.