The disaster struck the Rasuwagadhi region on Wednesday, August 26, triggering massive flooding and debris flows that severely damaged roads, bridges, settlements and other infrastructure along the Nepal–China border. The incident has disrupted the key Rasuwagadhi–Kerung route used by pilgrims travelling to Kailash Mansarovar.
While rescue and relief operations continue in the affected region, Tirtha Yatra has initiated an exit plan for its yatris to ensure their safe return to Kathmandu.
Tirtha Yatra Yatris Safe
Tirtha Yatra has confirmed that all its yatris are safe following the disaster. The immediate priority is now to move the group away from the affected region through a safe and operational route.
As the Rasuwagadhi route has been severely affected, the yatris will proceed towards Saga as part of the planned return journey.
Return Route via Kodari–Tatopani
From Saga, the yatris will begin their return journey towards Kathmandu using the Kodari–Tatopani border route.
The planned exit route is:
Saga → Kodari Border → Tatopani → Kathmandu
This route will allow the yatris to avoid the severely affected Rasuwagadhi corridor and return to Kathmandu through an alternative border crossing.
The movement will be undertaken in coordination with the relevant authorities and local teams, with the safety of every yatra participant remaining the foremost priority.
Rasuwagadhi Disaster
The flash flood in the Rasuwagadhi region has caused widespread destruction on both sides of the Nepal–China border. Reports indicate that a massive collapse involving glacial ice and rock triggered a debris-laden flood, devastating areas around the Lhende River and the Rasuwagadhi border region.
The disaster has resulted in significant loss of life and left hundreds of people missing, while roads, bridges, power infrastructure and settlements have been severely damaged. Rescue teams involving thousands of personnel are continuing search and relief operations.
The Rasuwagadhi route is also an important pilgrimage corridor for Kailash Mansarovar yatris. The destruction of the border infrastructure has temporarily disrupted travel through this route.
Tirtha Yatra’s Priority: Safe Return of Every Yatri
For Tirtha Yatra, the immediate focus is the safe and orderly evacuation of all yatris from the affected region.
With all Tirtha Yatra yatris safe, the group is scheduled to head towards Saga, followed by the return journey through Kodari and Tatopani to Kathmandu.
Further updates on the group’s movement and arrival in Kathmandu will be shared as the journey progresses.
Tirtha Yatra remains committed to the safety and well-being of every yatri throughout the journey.
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