Guides Grieve Lost Colleagues as Nepal Prepares for Peak Trekking Season

Nepal’s prime trekking period, spanning September to November, arrives amid a tragic flood that left 19 of guide Eka Devi Mainali’s friends still missing and over a thousand bodies recovered. Mainali, founder of SheGuide Treks, is handling family liaison work, sorting donated children’s clothing, and pledging 10 % of profits to women and children. Fellow guide Shishir Sapkota, whose own family escaped harm, notes the emotional toll on the close-knit trekking community and the uncertainty of his booked tours.

Operators such as Intrepid Travel and World Expeditions keep itineraries running, stressing safety and the importance of visitor support for Nepal’s tourism-driven economy. The tourism minister urges travelers not to cancel, while foreign travel advisories warn against routes near the flood-hit Bhote-Koshi and Trishuli rivers. Despite damage, major trekking regions remain open, and industry voices highlight resilience and solidarity.