30 April 2015

Thoughts and support for the people of Nepal

At Shanti Travel, our hearts go out to the resilient people of Nepal, a land beloved by travelers, as we reflect on recent events and ongoing recovery. In these challenging times, unity and compassion shape hope for the future.

Updates on the Nepal Earthquake Crisis

Five days after the devastating earthquake struck Nepal, we want to provide you with an update on the situation that has unfolded, focusing on our teams, travelers, and local friends present in the country.

The Shanti Travel Nepal team and all Shanti Travel travelers are fortunately safe. Eight travelers were in Nepal when the earthquake hit. Six have since returned home, while two remain safe in Chitwan. We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who reached out to inquire about our teams on the ground.

General Situation

To date, more than 5,000 lives have been lost, over 10,000 have been injured, and hundreds of thousands have become homeless. With rescue operations ongoing in remote mountainous regions, the numbers are likely to rise.

Situation in Kathmandu

Kathmandu is facing critical conditions: there is a shortage of clean water, damaged buildings pose ongoing risks, electricity remains scarce, medical supplies are needed, and many residents are without shelter. Numerous camps have been established around the city for displaced people. However, aftershocks and rains have subsided, bringing some relief. Kathmandu airport reopened, welcoming aid workers and essential supplies, while local and international NGOs have been working tirelessly since the onset of the disaster. Many residents are leaving the capital in search of safety elsewhere.

Situation in the Mountains

The worst-hit mountain regions are Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, Langtang, and Helambu, all north and northwest of Kathmandu, as well as the Gorkha and Lamjung districts located near the epicenter. Villages like Syabru Bensi, Syabru Gaon, and the entire Langtang valley have suffered extreme destruction, and Mount Everest's Base Camp was severely affected by avalanches. The western regions of Annapurna, Mustang, and Dolpo, together with Pokhara and even the eastern Kangchenjunga area, were relatively unscathed. As of now, the road between Kathmandu and Lhasa remains inaccessible due to landslides, and southern Tibet has also felt the quake's impact.

How You Can Support Nepal

Many have expressed a desire to help. Here are organizations actively offering assistance:

Karuna Shechen, founded and chaired by Matthieu Ricard, who has been based in Kathmandu for over three decades
Doctors without Borders
The Red Cross

Travel to Nepal with Shanti Travel

Travel to Nepal and Tibet with Shanti Travel will resume from 1 June 2015. As the country rebuilds, visitors bring much-needed hope and economic support. Experience the beauty and resilience of this incredible land during a trip to Nepal and help contribute to its recovery. The thoughts and support of our community are invaluable during this challenging time.

Best Wishes,

The Shanti Travel Team