Nepal’s trekking trails have always been a dear destination for adventure travellers, but the dynamic climate is altering the topography, climatic patterns, and the entire trekking culture. The impact of the rising temperature, melting glaciers, and fluctuating weather is now evident, affecting the trekkers and local communities.
Rising Temperatures and Melting Glaciers
The Himalayan region is warming faster than that of the global average, which accelerates the melting of glaciers. The rapid glacial retreat severely impacts Nepal’s trekking paths, especially around Everest and Annapurna region. Glacier retreat causes changes to the Himalayan terrain that can produce hazardous walking paths. Glacial lakes are growing in some areas, threatening to form outburst floods, which are catastrophic for villages along trekking routes.
A prime example is the Khumbu Glacier in the Everest region, which is shrinking at an alarming rate. Trekkers now have to trek different paths compared to their counterparts a decade earlier. As ice melts and forms new glacial lakes, the terrain becomes more unstable, and some paths become riskier.
Unpredictable Weather Patterns
One of the most obvious effects of climate change on trekking in Nepal is unpredictable weather. Traditionally, stable trekking seasons, particularly spring and autumn, are now experiencing unexpected fluctuations. Sudden snowfalls in autumn and heavy rains in spring have disrupted treks, sometimes forcing trekkers to turn back due to unsafe conditions.
Increased rainfall has also led to more frequent landslides, especially in regions like Langtang and Annapurna, where trails can be blocked for days. Weather-related delays of flights to Lukla have increased because unexpected weather changes cause poor visibility at the base when travelling to Everest. Unforeseen climate-related events create major problems for trekking itinerary planning, which leads to higher travelling expenses.
Impact on Local Communities
The impacts of climate change extend beyond trekkers because local people who live in mountainous areas of Nepal encounter major difficulties because of these changes. Many villages depend on glacial melt for their water supply, and glacial recession causes ample shortages of water. Agriculture, which is the main livelihood for such communities, is also affected by erratic weather patterns, causing food insecurity.
Second, unstable trekking seasons impact tourism, an important source of income for locals. Porters, guides, and teahouse owners are struggling to cope with shorter or disrupted trekking seasons that impact their business.
Trekking Route Modifications
Many trekking routes have already been modified because of climate-related changes. Landslides and glacial movements have necessitated rerouting in popular destinations such as the Everest Base Camp and Annapurna Circuit. In some areas, new routes were opened to avoid treacherous stretches, but that has come at the cost of making treks more expensive and challenging.
Rising temperatures have also created greater avalanche risk in some regions. The Thorong La Pass along the Annapurna Circuit, which used to be viewed as a reliable route, has recently experienced spontaneous snowfall and icing conditions and is harder to travel through now.
Adapting to Climate Change
Despite these challenges, the trekking industry in Nepal has been adapting. Sustainable trekking practices, including waste management and eco-friendly lodges, are being promoted. More flexible itineraries are being developed to accommodate sudden weather changes. Additionally, awareness is growing among trekkers about responsible tourism to minimize their environmental footprint.
Increased Risks at High Altitudes
High-altitude treks are getting trickier because of climate change. The warmer temperatures are destabilizing ice and snow, raising the risk of avalanches and rockfalls. Trekkers on routes like Everest Three Passes Trek or the Thorong La should be conscious of these increased risks and proceed with caution.
Moreover, the evolving conditions are complicating rescue operations, with weather conditions able to whimsically defer or thwart emergency responses.
What Can Trekkers Do?
While the challenges posed by climate change are daunting, there are steps trekkers can take to minimize their impact and support sustainable practices:
Choose eco-friendly operators: Support trekking companies that prioritize sustainability and minimize ecological harm.
Practice Leave No Trace principles: Reduce your footprint by carrying out waste, using reusable water bottles, and avoiding single-use plastics.
Stay informed: Stay updated on weather forecasts and trail conditions before and during your hike.
Advocate for action: Identify the effects of climate change and support initiatives to protect the natural heritage of Nepal
Conclusion
Climate change cannot be denied to change the face of trekking in Nepal. From the melting glaciers to the uncertain weather, the obstacles are increasing. Even though Nepal remains a world-class trekking destination, trekkers, guides, and locals must adjust. By promoting sustainable trekking and conservation efforts, Nepal can preserve its trails for future generations while continuing to offer world-class adventure experiences.
Stay in touch to get more updates & news on Internet Chicks!
UmarAwan 
Kieran 
Eagle Eyes