Kathmandu— Following a recent flood of the Bhotekoshi River, tourists who traveled to Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar via the Kerung border point are now returning to Nepal through the Hilsa border crossing in Humla. The disruption began on August 26th, forcing pilgrims and trekking guides to alter their return journeys. Authorities report an increase in both ground and air traffic as tourists utilize the alternative route, with a temporary waiver of restricted area entry fees implemented to ease travel.

Kerung Border Closure Forces Route Change

The Kerung border point was rendered impassable due to flooding on the Bhotekoshi River, effectively cutting off the usual return path for those visiting Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar. Deputy Superintendent of Armed Police Nanda Bahadur Saud of the No. 44 Battalion reported that transport services at Kerung were suspended following the flood, prompting a shift in travel patterns towards Hilsa.

Increased Traffic Through Hilsa

Since August 27th, officials have recorded an influx of pilgrims entering Nepal through Hilsa. A total of 107 people crossed on that date, followed by another 19 on August 28th, all en route to their final destinations. The trend continued into Saturday, with 17 individuals arriving in Simkot. Saud noted a corresponding increase in helicopter flights between Hilsa and Simkot, as well as flights originating from Nepalgunj to accommodate the altered travel arrangements. While the number of Indian pilgrims initially travelling through Hilsa to visit Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar has decreased, the overall traffic volume remains elevated due to those rerouted from Kerung.

Fee Waiver Facilitates Travel

The Department of Immigration responded to the crisis by waiving entry fees for the restricted area for one week specifically for tourists entering through Hilsa. Information officer Shiva Prasad Lamsal explained that this measure was intended to ease travel for those affected by the Kerung border closure, applying only to individuals who initially entered Nepal via Kerung. Tourism entrepreneur Bishnu Rawat welcomed the decision, stating it had simplified travel arrangements during a challenging situation.

While the exact number of tourists currently in the Mount Kailash region remains unknown, authorities estimate that those who traveled between August 20th and 26th may still be completing their pilgrimage. Officials continue to monitor the situation at Kerung and facilitate the return of pilgrims through Hilsa.

(With inputs from RN)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.