Manaslu: flood closes Chum Valley trek

Flooding on the Budhi Gandaki River has heavily damaged trekking trails in Nepal’s Manaslu Conservation Area. The Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP / NTNC) has temporarily suspended trekking to Chum Valley until further notice.

The cantilever suspension bridges at Sardibhir (Lokpa, Chumnubri Rural Municipality–6) were washed away, blocking the route beyond Lokpa toward Chum Valley.

Sections between Machhakhola and Jagat were badly hit, including around Soti, Khorlabesi, Tatopani, Yaru Bagar and Jagat Bagar; the trail in the Salleri area was also heavily damaged.

MCAP says all trekkers are safe. On Sunday, 87 tourists in Chum Valley were stranded after flooding from the Ungilung Khola side; at the Manaslu entry point, 98 tourists and 73 guides and porters were also reported safe. Rescue work with local authorities and the Government of Nepal continues.

The trail from Philim toward Larke Pass is currently open and in good condition. Trekkers heading for Samagaun / Larke Pass may consider a helicopter direct to Philim, subject to flights and confirmation that access is safe. The Machhakhola–Jagat and Salleri routes remain damaged.

MCAP is coordinating repairs with local authorities; reopening depends on weather and the scale of damage. It asks people to postpone Chum Valley trips and not to attempt damaged trails or river crossings — follow official safety updates.