Once the land of Buddha’s teachings, Nepal now faces a grim reality. Streets once filled with tourists are now engulfed in violence and arson. As chaos spreads, Indian nationals find themselves caught in the crossfire, pleading for urgent help.
Violent protests in Nepal have left hundreds of Indian tourists stranded, scared, and searching for safety. From Kathmandu to Pokhara, chaos has gripped the streets. Tourists report hotels set on fire, mobs with sticks, and a total breakdown of order.
Indian tourists in Nepal face arson and violence as protests engulf major cities like Kathmandu and Pokhara. The unrest has left hundreds stranded, terrified, and desperate for safety as mobs attack hotels and public spaces.
Upasana Gill, a corporate speaker from India, narrowly escaped death in Pokhara. She was in Nepal to host a volleyball league when protesters set her hotel on fire while she was inside the spa. Armed with sticks, the mob chased her barefoot into the streets.
“They are not sparing tourists,” she said in a video sent to Praful Garg. “They don’t care if you’re here for work or travel.”
Her voice shaking, she pleaded for help from the Indian embassy. “Everything is burning. I lost all my belongings. Please rescue us.” Other Indian tourists were similarly trapped, unsure of their next move.
Reports confirm at least 25 people have died. Nepal’s Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli resigned amid the chaos, but the violence continues. Streets burn, armed youths roam freely, and curfews struggle to contain the unrest.
Growing Threat to Indian Tourists in Nepal
Indian nationals from states like Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, and Maharashtra are among those hardest hit. A group of 112 tourists from Thane’s Murbad Taluka remains trapped, urgently requesting evacuation.
Gauri K, stranded in Kathmandu while traveling for pilgrimage, shared harrowing details: “Gun-toting students roam the streets. We heard gunshots. Buildings are burning. Hotel staff warned us not to leave. We feel abandoned.”
For context on regional tensions, see our report on Nepal’s political unrest and its impact on tourists.
Flights Canceled, High Fares Compound Crisis
With flights canceled and roads blocked, options for escape are limited. Airlines reportedly charge exorbitant fares—five to seven times normal—for the few remaining seats to New Delhi.
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee assured rescue efforts are underway. Murbad MLA Kisan Kathore confirmed coordination with Maharashtra officials to facilitate returns.
A Plea to the Indian Government
The protests, sparked by a social media ban and calls to end corruption, escalated quickly. Despite curfews and the Nepal Army’s involvement, lawlessness prevails.
Indians stranded in Nepal have flooded social media with pleas for help. Upasana’s voice reflects their fear: “We don’t know how long we can survive. Please help us before it’s too late.”
These Indian tourists face arson in Nepal, caught in a crisis far from home. For their safety, urgent government action is essential.
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