Travel Blog

Flash Flood Hits Gorkha’s Budhi Gandaki

Budhi Gandaki River flash flood in Gorkha

Quick Facts

  • What happened: A flash flood hit the Budhi Gandaki River in northern Gorkha.
  • When: Around 4:00 AM, Sunday, October 11, 2026.
  • Where: Chumnubri and Dharche rural municipalities, Gorkha, Nepal.
  • Damage: More than 35 houses, two suspension bridges, and one motorable bridge were swept away.
  • Likely cause: A landslide blocked the river, and the natural dam burst.
  • Trek impact: Parts of the Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley routes may be unsafe.

What Happened in Gorkha?

A sudden flood struck the Budhi Gandaki River before sunrise on Sunday. It carried mud, rocks, and debris down the valley.

Local officials say more than 35 houses were washed away. Villagers heard a very loud roar and ran to higher ground in the dark.

Paiyu, Bagar, Jagat, Salleri, Ghattekhola, and Dobhan were among the hardest hit. Hotels in Nyakphedi were also swept away.

The flood also destroyed the construction camp of the 341 MW Budhi Gandaki hydropower project in Salleri. Four cattle sheds and about 15 yaks were lost too.

Are There Any Casualties?

Early reports said no deaths had been recorded. Later reports say four villagers are missing.

Rescue teams are still checking remote areas. Poor roads and weak phone signals are slowing the work.

Please rely on official updates, as these numbers may change.

What Caused the Flood?

Officials believe a dry landslide blocked the river in the Chumnubri area. Water built up behind the blockage.

The blockage then gave way and released a huge wave. The Ungilung and Syar streams added more water to the river.

One local leader said the flood looked like the Bhote Koshi disaster of August 26. Nepal is still recovering from that event.

Safety Alerts and Evacuation

Nepal’s disaster authority sent SMS alerts at 6:40 AM. It told people to stay away from the river until the flood passed.

The warning covered the river as far downstream as Trishuli Dobhan. Police also used loudspeakers to warn villagers.

Communities on high alert include:

  • Sirdibas
  • Khorlabesi
  • Machhakhola
  • Soti
  • Arkhet
  • Arughat

Residents were told to move to higher ground. Alerts also reached people living along the river in Tanahun and Chitwan.

How Does This Affect Trekkers?

The Budhi Gandaki valley is the main path for both the Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley treks. Many flooded villages sit on this path.

Trails, bridges, and teahouses in the affected area may be damaged. A motorable bridge between Manbu and Soti was also swept away.

Here is what we advise trekkers to do:

  1. Postpone travel through affected areas until officials say the route is safe.
  2. Call your trekking agency for the latest route news.
  3. Check your travel insurance coverage for natural disasters.
  4. Share your plan with family and your hotel in Kathmandu.
  5. Carry extra days in your plan in case of delays.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Manaslu Circuit Trek safe right now?

  • Not in the affected sections. Wait for official updates and ask your trekking agency before you travel.

Is the Tsum Valley Trek open?

  • The route follows the Budhi Gandaki valley, so it is likely disrupted. Confirm the current status with your agency.

Which villages in Gorkha were hit by the flood?

  • Paiyu, Bagar, Jagat, Salleri, Ghattekhola, and Dobhan were badly hit. Sirdibas and nearby settlements were also affected.

When did the Gorkha flood happen?

  • It happened around 4:00 AM on Sunday, October 11, 2026.

Should I cancel my trek?

  • Do not decide alone. Ask your agency about route status, refunds, and new dates.

About the Region

  • Tsum Valley is a remote Himalayan valley with deep Buddhist roots. Many trekkers visit it for its culture, monasteries, and mountain views. It sits inside the Manaslu Conservation Area. The Budhi Gandaki River is its main access path.

Stay Updated

We are tracking this story and the trail conditions. Check back for new updates on the Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley treks.

Source note: This report draws on updates from Onlinekhabar, The Kathmandu Post, Radio Nepal, ANI, IANS, Deccan Herald, and The Statesman. Facts may change as the assessment continues.