Budhi Gandaki Flood Impact on the Manaslu Trek, Routes, Bridges and Teahouses

The Budhi Gandaki flood impact on the Manaslu Trek has disrupted trekking access in Gorkha district, Nepal after a sudden flood swept away trails, bridges and houses on 11 October 2026.

The landslide apparently blocked the Budhi Gandaki River, which led to the flooding of settlements in the Manaslu region. Rescue operations are underway and authorities are assessing damage to infrastructure and local communities.

Reuters reported on 12 October that more than 100 foreign trekkers remained stranded in different locations because parts of the trail had been swept away. The rescue force had taken safe custody of 96 persons, comprising nine foreigners and five local nationals, who were reported missing.

The incident has sparked worries regarding access to trekking routes, river crossings and lodging in the high season of autumn trekking in Nepal. Travellers planning to visit the region should check the latest official notices before making their way to the trailhead.

What Happened in the Budhi Gandaki Flood

The flood occurred before dawn on Sunday, 11 October, in Gorkha district in north-central Nepal.

A preliminary evaluation by the International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development suggests that a landslide near Chumchet could have temporarily jammed a river or stream. If the blockage doesn’t hold up the water, it’s carrying mud, rocks and other debris downstream.

The flood affected settlements along the Budhi Gandaki corridor, including areas in Chumnubri and Dharche rural municipalities.

Early reports included losses of homes, bridges, trekking trails and hydropower facilities. Warnings were also issued for communities downstream due to the water level being dangerously high.

The exact impact and cause of the damage remain to be determined.

How the Flood Has Affected the Manaslu Trek Route

The Manaslu Circuit traverses through the Budhi Gandaki valley and then heads towards the higher mountain settlements and Larkya La Pass. The lower valley tracks are essential to the trek if the upper parts of the route are to be reached.

Damage to a few key crossings can have a significant effect on the Manaslu Trek, as the Budhi Gandaki floods affecting the Manaslu circuit will impact a longer trek route.

The following are the primary concerns:

• Sections of the trekking trail were washed out by floodwaters.
• Several settlements have lost access to each other due to damaged bridges.
• Some areas along the route may be unstable, possibly due to the mud and debris.
• Some bridges were destroyed, hampering road access in these areas.
• Rescue and supply efforts are more challenging in remote communities.

The entire Manaslu Circuit should not automatically be considered destroyed. But it is not safe to assume that any areas not in a local flood zone are accessible until local authorities can be contacted to confirm.

Bridges Damaged by the Flood

Floods were reported to have caused damage or destroyed several bridges which were vital for the residents’ connectivity, for trekking groups and for transport services.

The Kathmandu Post reported on 11th October that the suspension bridges and steel bridge in Gorkha were damaged. Another situation report also reported the loss of additional crossings.

The flooding of the Budhi Gandaki will affect the Manaslu Trek to a certain extent, depending on the speed at which contaminated crossings are assessed and repaired.

Do not cross a swollen river with an improvised rope or on damaged bridge structures or debris. Riverbanks and surrounding slopes can still be hazardous even after floodwaters have subsided.

What Has Happened to Teahouses and Local Businesses

Teahouses offer lodging, food and essentials on the Manaslu Circuit. Trekkers are crucial to many small businesses in the lower valley in the fall.

A number of houses and business buildings were affected in various settlements by the flood. Hotels, shops and other facilities were also reported to be affected by flood waters or debris.

However, it would be inaccurate to say that all teahouses along the route have been destroyed.

Reuters quoted a Manaslu Conservation Area Project official on 12 October saying that restaurants and teahouses along the route remained safe. This will give some context, but the condition and accessibility of individual properties should be checked.

The following are the main concerns for people who are on a trek:

• Some properties may need time to assess damage and resume normal operations
• Access to buildings that are not damaged may be blocked by flood debris
• Food and essential supplies could be delayed due to disrupted transport routes
• Affected families and communities may be supported by local workers
• Pre-arranged trips may have to be modified due to route access

It is advisable for travelers to check with their trekking company before assuming any previous arrangements for accommodation.

Is the Manaslu Circuit Trek Safe Now

The affected Budhi Gandaki corridor must not be considered fit for the normal departures of trekking parties.

The latest Manaslu Circuit Trek safety alert by the Nepal Tourism Board advises tourists to avoid risky river crossings and to listen to local advice. Trekking operators are also being advised to suspend travel through unsafe areas until it is confirmed.

Trail users should not try to depart on their own unless they are accompanied by their guide and/or local authorities.

The following are important precautions:

• Avoid walking near riverbanks and broken bridges
• If warnings are given by local authorities, go to higher ground
• Avoid unstable trails and slopes that are prone to landslides
• Obey instructions of rescuers
• If stuck, talk to your trekking company
• Never presume that helicopter evacuation will be available at all times

Though the flood has receded, according to Reuters, not all trails and crossings are safe. But further assessments are required before it is safe to resume normal trekking operations.

Alternative Treks to Consider Instead of Manaslu

Those who have upcoming reservations can switch to another trek while in Nepal. There are various walks available with varying levels of difficulty and time, listed below.

These, however, are planning alternatives and not confirmation of all routes being open. Do local checks to pick a replacement for transport services and accommodation.

For those who have little time, the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek might be the right choice; for those who have more time, then Langtang Valley and Annapurna Base Camp might be the perfect choice.

For those who enjoy the natural beauty and culture of the Himalayas, Everest View Trek is also available. All of the following should be evaluated on an individual basis due to the rapid change of weather and access conditions.

What Trekkers with Existing Bookings Should Do

People who have already booked their trips for October and November should inform their trekking company prior to their trip to Gorkha.

Inquire if the departure can be delayed, if there is another route and what the booking terms are for natural disasters.

Trekking companies need to verify availability of guides, porters, accommodation and transport before it’s too late to begin operations again.

Those displaced in the area should take official rescue advice and not try to make any dangerous crossings. Individuals in need of emergency assistance should contact the guide, local administration, Nepal Police, or Tourist Police.

What Happens Next

Immediate priorities include rescue efforts and damage assessments. Authorities must check the integrity of damaged bridges, evaluate the stability of the trails and assess when safe access is possible.

The flood has also impacted the communities where trekking is a livelihood. Jobs of teahouse owners, guides, porters and other locals could be supported during the time of repair of the infrastructure and the gradual reopening of tourism.

As more details are provided by the authorities about roads damaged by the flood and how to rebuild them, the impact of the Budhi Gandaki flood on the Manaslu Trek will become more apparent.

While waiting for more reliable information, travellers are asked to delay travel through impacted areas until they know the road is safe to travel. Travelers who want to keep their vacation plans the same can find alternative routes, but safety and access are more important than sticking to their original itineraries.

Conclusion

The Budhi Gandaki flood impact on the Manaslu Trek has raised serious concerns about trail access, bridge safety and accommodation in Gorkha district. The crash has interrupted travel in some areas of the region and teams from rescue services and the local authorities are continuing to determine the severity of the crash. Trekkers should not be in affected areas until it has been deemed safe by officials.

Those with future trips should check with their trekking companies before embarking for the latest news. Even in areas where teahouses are not damaged, bridges may be damaged and the trails and transportation lines may be disrupted, which can impact the planned itinerary. During this time, it is crucial to follow local advice and refrain from crossing rivers where it is unsafe.

Those who cannot postpone their holidays can consider alternatives such as the Langtang Valley Trek, Annapurna Base Camp Trek or Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek. If that’s the case, a separate safety check is necessary prior to each trip.

The main focus is now on giving affected communities assistance and facilitating the reopening of safe access and trekking resumption in appropriate conditions.