MANANG: Heavy snowfall that began last Monday has stopped, and improving weather conditions are making travel easier for tourists visiting Tilicho Lake (4,919 meters) and trekking the Thorong La Pass (5,416 meters).

According to Chief District Officer Navaraj Paudyal, tourists had faced difficulties, and some began returning from the treks in Manang.

Snow cleared from the roads early Wednesday, allowing travelers to resume their journey. Those who returned from Tilicho Base Camp on Monday night had stayed in Khangsar.

Shivaraj Ghimire, a tourist from Kathmandu heading to Tilicho Lake, said they could not reach the lake due to snowfall at Khangsar.

He added that although the weather is improving, travelers like him are preparing to return without going further.

He noted that visibility and conditions are gradually clearing from Khangsar toward the lower and upper regions of Tilicho.

Mohan Dhakal from Makwanpur, trekking to Tilicho Lake, reported returning to Humde Base Camp and resuming travel as weather conditions improved.

He noted that vehicle access remains difficult, with two-wheeled vehicles unsafe to operate, despite efforts by local authorities and security personnel to facilitate travel.

Karma Ongel Ghale, head of the Upper Manang Hotel Management Committee, said nearly 200 tourists descending from Tilicho were accommodated in private homes, hotel rooms, and dining areas Tuesday night.

Even amid snowfall, arrangements were made to manage tourists down to Braka.

Tourism entrepreneur Ghyamcho Gurung reported that tourists began moving toward Chame from early morning.

He observed partial clearing of clouds and some sunlight, with tourists using motorcycles or jeeps to reach lower regions.

Some foreign trekkers from Thorong La Pass have already returned.

About 150 tourists have descended from Upper Manang so far.

Chief District Officer Paudyal added that available vehicles are being used to assist stranded tourists, and excavators are clearing snow to facilitate safer travel.

He emphasized that two-wheeled vehicles are only allowed to operate with safety guidance.

Most domestic tourists reach Khangsar by motorcycle and trek to Tilicho Lake, while foreign tourists continue trekking safely.

Snow has been cleared from roads to allow smoother passage, with full involvement of district administration and local authorities.