Nepal floods: Kailash route via Rasuwagadhi closed, Kathmandu and Pokhara open
After the 26 August flood on the Nepal–Tibet border, the Rasuwagadhi–Kerung crossing used by Kailash Mansarovar groups is out of action. India’s MEA reports 158 Indians rescued; Nepal’s main leisure hubs are open.
What happened
A flash flood on 26 August 2026 along the Trishuli river in Nepal’s Rasuwa district destroyed the Rasuwagadhi–Kerung border crossing, the main road transit point between Nepal and Tibet. ThePrint reported on 31 August that authorities had put the death toll at 939, with about 4,000 people missing and more than 10,000 rescued.
India’s Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said 158 Indian nationals had been rescued as of 2100 hrs on 31 August 2026. A 19-member Indian forensics team is working in Kathmandu and an Indian tunnel-rescue team is coordinating with the Nepali Army at the Chilime and Langtang hydropower sites.
The Kailash Mansarovar route
TTG Asia reported on 1 September that the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra via Nepal has been significantly affected and departures are paused. China’s National Immigration Administration formally suspended the issuance of electronic border permits for Shigatse City, which covers the Gyirong (Kerung) port, on 28 August. Indian operators quoted in the report describe cancellations for the remainder of the season; no reopening date has been given.
What is open, and what to do
The damage is concentrated in the Rasuwa corridor north of Kathmandu. TTG Asia lists Kathmandu, Pokhara, Chitwan, Lumbini, Muktinath, Pashupatinath and Janakpur as open and operating. Langtang trekking, which uses the same valley road towards Syaphrubesi, should be treated as closed until local authorities say otherwise.
If you are holding a Kailash booking for September or October, contact your operator about the alternative routes and refunds; if you are travelling to the Kathmandu valley, Pokhara or the Terai, your trip can go ahead. Indian nationals in Nepal who need help should use the Embassy of India, Kathmandu emergency helplines published on the embassy website. This is a developing situation and figures are as reported on the dates cited.
Sources
This report is based on the following published sources. Rules and schedules change — confirm with the issuing authority before you travel.
- Nepal floods: 158 Indians rescued, India steps up relief and rescue efforts — ThePrint, 31 August 2026
- Nepal floods disrupt pilgrimage; key hubs open — TTG Asia, 01 September 2026
- Embassy of India, Kathmandu — flood emergency helplines — Embassy of India, Kathmandu
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