A total of 228 foreign tourists visited the Everest region over the past week, an unusually high number for the off-season, according to the Civil Aviation Authority office in Lukla.
Ginish Rajbhandari, the in-charge at the Lukla office, reported that between December 25 and January 1, 91 female and 137 male tourists arrived in the region. The daily arrivals were: December 26 (28), December 27 (31), December 28 (30), December 29 (66), December 30 (36), December 31 (19), January 1 (4), and January 2 (14).
Tourism entrepreneur Toya Kumar Shrestha noted that this year’s cold weather, typically considered the off-season, saw an unexpectedly high influx of tourists. This contrasts with previous years when arrivals during this time were minimal.
Positive Impact on Local Businesses
The increase in visitors has uplifted the spirits of local businesses. “Tourist arrivals during the off-season have been a pleasant surprise. December and January used to be quiet months, but this year, we’ve seen steady arrivals, which has significantly benefited the hotel business,” said Jangmu Sherpa, a hotel operator.
However, extreme cold conditions have posed challenges for the region. Tourism entrepreneur Lamakaji Sherpa mentioned that recent snowfall has caused freezing temperatures, with water pipes freezing and resulting in drinking water shortages. Locals reported that temperatures have dropped below -15°C, intensifying the cold, and many business owners have temporarily moved to warmer locations like Kathmandu.
Enhanced Security Measures
In response to the rise in tourist numbers, Nepal Police has strengthened security in the region. Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Dwarika Prasad Ghimire stated that police units in the Khumbu area have been mobilized, with mobile patrolling and enhanced security protocols in place to ensure tourist safety.
“We are committed to maintaining peace and security for our foreign guests. All police units in the Everest region are on high alert to prevent any lapses,” DSP Ghimire affirmed.
