A total of 228 foreign tourists entered the Everest region in the past week, according to the Civil Aviation Authority office in Lukla. This influx is notable for the off-season, a period when tourist numbers are typically low.
Jinish Rajbhandari, in charge of the Lukla office, reported that between December 26 and January 2 (Poush 11–18), 91 women and 137 men arrived in Lukla for trekking and exploration. Daily arrivals were as follows: 28 on December 26, 31 on December 27, 30 on December 28, 66 on December 29, 36 on December 30, 19 on December 31, 4 on January 1, and 14 on January 2.
Tourism entrepreneur Toya Kumar Shrestha noted that tourist arrivals this year are better than in previous years when off-season visitation was nearly zero. Despite the cold weather, the increasing number of foreign visitors has boosted the morale of local hotel operators.
"Tourists visiting during the off-season have made us very happy. In previous years, we would remain idle during December and January, but this year we are seeing a steady influx, which has positively impacted the hospitality business," said hotel operator Jangmu Sherpa.
The Khumbu region remains challenging for travel due to extreme cold, exacerbated by recent snowfall. Tourism entrepreneur Lamakaji Sherpa mentioned difficulties in daily life as freezing temperatures have caused water pipes to freeze, disrupting water supply. Locals reported that temperatures have dropped below -15°C in the area.
Security Measures Strengthened
With the increase in tourist arrivals, Nepal Police has intensified security measures in the Everest region. Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Dwarika Prasad Ghimire stated that police units in the Khumbu area have been mobilized to ensure the safety of visitors. Mobile patrols and security arrangements have been enhanced to address the influx of off-season tourists.
"We have activated all police units under the Everest region to ensure the safety and well-being of foreign visitors. We will leave no room for lapses in maintaining peace and security," said DSP Ghimire.
