Kathmandu, Nepal, en.SERU.co.id — At least 384 travelers, including 105 Indian nationals and 37 non-resident Indians, have been reported missing after sudden flash floods swept through Nepal’s Rasuwa district near the Tibet border on Wednesday, August 26, 2026.
According to the Nepal Tourism Board, the preliminary list includes 291 foreign nationals and 93 Nepalis. Travelers from the United Kingdom, Malaysia, the United States, South Africa, Australia and the Netherlands are also among those reported missing. The board said the list is still being verified with travel agencies, local authorities and security agencies.
The flood struck the Bhote Koshi River area at around 9 a.m. local time after water surged from the Tibetan side of the border. The Timure and Syapru Besi areas in Rasuwa were severely affected, while flooding also damaged settlements, roads, bridges and hydropower infrastructure in nearby districts.
Many of the missing travelers were believed to be heading toward the Kailash Mansarovar region, a major pilgrimage destination in Tibet. At least 59 of the missing Indians were reportedly travelling for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra.
Rescue Operations Underway
Nepal’s security forces have launched search and rescue operations using helicopters, drones and ground teams. Difficult terrain and high-water levels have complicated access to some affected areas.
The number of confirmed deaths remains subject to updates. Reports on Wednesday put the toll at least eight to nine people, while many others remained unaccounted for. Authorities warned that the death toll could rise as rescue teams reach areas that remain inaccessible.
The floods also damaged several hydropower facilities. Nepal’s energy ministry estimated that about 430 megawatts of electricity generation had been affected.
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Cause of Flooding Under Investigation
The exact cause of the sudden surge in the Bhote Koshi River has not been conclusively established.
Authorities and experts are investigating whether an avalanche, landslide or glacial event triggered the sudden flooding. The disaster also affected the Chinese side of the border, where a mudslide was reported near Gyirong Port.
The Nepal Tourism Board has advised families seeking information to contact its emergency numbers at 1234 or 1144, or the Tourist Police at 9851289445. Verification of the missing-persons list and rescue operations are continuing.
