28 October 2026 | NepalNOW Travel Update
Latest weather situation
The cyclonic weather system Arnab has weakened following landfall along India’s eastern coast. However, moisture associated with the system could still influence weather conditions across Nepal over the coming days.
Nepal’s Department of Hydrology and Meteorology (DHM) continues to forecast rainfall in parts of the country and potentially significant snowfall in higher Himalayan regions, particularly between 29 and 31 October.
The interaction between this moisture and other weather systems remains a concern. Forecasting models differ on the intensity and geographical spread of precipitation.
What does this mean for travellers?
The greatest concern remains high-altitude trekking, particularly exposed mountain passes and remote Himalayan routes.
Several government agencies and tourism organisations have issued precautionary advisories:
- Department of Tourism: Advises avoiding high-altitude travel between 28 October and 1 November.
- Department of Immigration: Has issued restrictions affecting trekking in restricted areas from 29–31 October.
- National Trust for Nature Conservation (NTNC): Advises postponing treks to Mardi Himal, Annapurna Base Camp, Annapurna Circuit and Upper Mustang.
- Trekking Agencies’ Association of Nepal (TAAN): Urges particular caution around Thorong La, Larkya La, Kang La and Cho La.
- Mustang and Korala: Travel postponements have been advised in response to expected mountain weather.
Other trekking regions requiring extra caution include Everest, Manaslu, Langtang, Makalu and Kanchenjunga, particularly at higher elevations and along remote or exposed routes.
These precautions are intended to reduce exposure before conditions deteriorate.
Important: When the snow stops, the risk may remain
Travellers whose treks are interrupted by snowfall should not assume that trails are ready to use simply because the weather has improved.
Fresh snow can conceal trails, increase avalanche risk and make steep sections or mountain passes difficult to cross. Snow accumulation, unstable slopes and damaged or blocked paths may continue to present problems after the storm has passed.
Before resuming a trek, check the latest advice from local authorities, trekking guides and relevant route managers.
Some routes may require a proper trail assessment before trekking can resume. Clear skies alone are not sufficient reason to proceed.
This is particularly important for remote high-altitude routes, where assistance and evacuation may be difficult.
What about other travel in Nepal?
Rainfall may affect some mountain highways, while poor visibility could disrupt domestic flights, particularly at mountain airports.
Travellers visiting Kathmandu, Pokhara, Chitwan, Lumbini and other lower-altitude destinations may experience rain or adjustments to outdoor activities.
There is no nationwide tourism shutdown. Nepal remains open to visitors, and conditions will vary considerably by destination, altitude and travel route.
Our advice to travellers
Travellers planning high-altitude treks should follow official restrictions and advisories, consult their guides and postpone exposed mountain crossings during the affected period.
Those already trekking should remain in suitable sheltered locations where advised and avoid proceeding into uncertain conditions.
If snowfall has interrupted a trek, wait for local confirmation that the route is suitable before continuing. A trail assessment may be necessary, particularly around high passes and avalanche-prone terrain.
Travellers using mountain highways or domestic flights should allow flexibility and check local conditions before departure.
There is no need to assume that all travel across Nepal will be affected equally. Local operators can help adjust itineraries and suggest alternative experiences where necessary.
Continuing updates
NepalNOW is monitoring official weather forecasts, tourism advisories and reported travel disruptions.
We will publish further updates as new weather forecasts and verified information become available.
Official weather information: https://dhm.gov.np
This update reflects information available on 28 October 2026. Forecast risks should not be confused with confirmed disruption, and conditions may change.
