Nine Russians missing in Nepal floods – but trekking season is low and group tours are scarce

Nine Russian tourists are officially listed as missing following severe flooding in northern Nepal, according to the Russian Embassy in Kathmandu. However, authorities and industry representatives stress that there are currently no large organized groups of Russian travelers in the country.  The Russian Union of Tourism Industry (RST) reported on Wednesday that Nepal is now in the low season for Himalayan trekking routes, meaning virtually no organized tourist groups are present. Tour operators have not reported having any clients in the affected areas.  

“Nepal is currently in a low season for the main tourist routes associated with trekking in the Himalayas. The peak demand period begins in late September and falls in October–November, when more stable weather sets in after the monsoon,” the RST said in a statement.  According to the union’s data, more than 15,000 Russian tourists visited Nepal in 2025 – an increase of about 10% compared to the previous year. However, the vast majority of this flow consists of independent travelers, with organized tours accounting for only a small fraction.  

The RST explained that Russians typically travel to Nepal for mountain ascents, including expeditions to Everest. A larger category of tourists undertakes trekking routes around Manaslu and Annapurna, as well as to the Everest Base Camp. Some travelers also come for sightseeing tours, visiting Kathmandu, cultural and historical sites, and national parks.  Spring and autumn are considered the best seasons for trekking in the region.  

There are no direct flights between Moscow and Kathmandu. All connections are made with stopovers, including via Middle Eastern hubs and other international aviation gateways.

Photo by Stanislav Beloglazov @beloglazov_travel