From Ruins to Resilience: Langtang Valley’s Journey After the 2015 Earthquake
Similar words: Langtang Region, Tour, Journey, Route, Trek, Devastating)
Langtang involves a beautiful valley located in the North Central Nepal. It lies in the Rasuwa district, Bagmati Province, within the Langtang National Park. The valley is a lovely blend of nature, culture, and spiritual feelings. The Tamang culture and their hospitality make this valley a perfect destination for trekking in the Himalayas. Similarly, the rare wildlife, including red panda and 250 species of birds, adds more attraction to this place.
Sadly, the 2015 earthquake remained one of the major thrilling historical events of the Langtang Valley. Many people lost their lives following the huge destruction in this region. Travelers as well as the villagers became victims, with hardly any villagers escaping the incident. The mud and stone houses were destroyed, with many livestock losing their lives. The beautiful Langtang valley trek area turned into tatters in no time.
Due to the high altitude and mountainous region, the rescue task was slightly slowed. This incident stopped the trekking in this region for some time. However, time has healed the painful wound of the villagers. Slowly, the 2015 earthquake turned from ruin to resilience. Domestic as well as International Trekkers are enjoying the Langtang Valley Tour these days.
Langtang Valley Earthquake 2015
The Langtang Valley earthquake 2015 hit the Gorkha district about 80 km northwest of Kathmandu district. This is one of the most devastating earthquakes history of Nepal. With a 7.8 Magnitude, it ruined the major part of the country, taking away the lives of thousands. Similarly, the Langtang Valley is also the one that suffered a huge loss.
Reports suggest that many trekkers, as well as the villagers of the Langtang Region, went through a deadly experience at that time. About 243 people died, among them 175 were villagers. The rest were travelers from various parts of the world. The mud, stone, and wooden houses, as well as the tea houses went collapsed within a few seconds. Besides people, livestock and other monuments also suffered.
Langtang Valley Earthquake Impact on Tourism
The Langtang Valley earthquake created a huge impact on tourism. Along with houses, local pathways and trekking routes were also ruined. As this place was far away from the quick service center, the reconstruction was slightly slower. Landslides and soil erosion further ruined the situation, making it more difficult to reestablish.
The tourism activities were impacted hugely, making it difficult for the locals to meet their daily needs. The majority of the population in this region depends on tourism. Broken house, loss of cattle, and no work for a long time became a nightmare for the villagers. The earthquake relief efforts from the Government were not sufficient for their livelihood.
Despite such a difficult situation, the locals didn’t give up. They acted like fighters and rebuilt their houses and communities. Their joint effort helped maintain their culture, ancient traditions, and lifestyle in the Himalayas.
Did Langtang Valley get reconstructed?
Yes, the Langtang Valley was reconstructed after the massive earthquake of 2015. It took around 2 years to reestablish the valley for both villagers and tourists. Only in 2017 was tourism restarted after the earthquake. With the joint effort of the Government, locals, and the rescue teams of various countries, the establishment happened effectively.
Local, national as well as International organizations provided funds for reestablishment. The local people’s active participation made the reconstruction aligned with the community’s needs. Further, the government provided helicopter aid, making the task complete in the estimated time.
Interestingly, the new Langtang Valley was shifted slightly from its original placement. The new location is sufficient with earthquake-resistant infrastructure. Similarly, a renewed tourism industry, schools, monasteries, and health care centers. The roads and bridges were made for a more convenient route for trekkers.
Tourism revival
In 2017, after 2 years of the devastating earthquake (2015), tourism revived in the Langtang Valley. This time, the region had a great comeback with grand opportunities for the trekkers. The local homes and tea houses were made strong and earthquake-resistant. Not just that, medical services, schools, and spiritual sites were made easily accessible.
The services on the route became more comfortable and trekker-friendly. With the development of bridges and paths, the tea houses and homestays also became more advanced than before. Sustainable Tourism was focused more and given major priority for this resilience.
Langtang Valley Trekking Present Day
Langtang Valley is one of the most popular trekking destinations in Nepal these days. Located near the Capital City, it has been a preferred choice for both national and international trekkers. It has been a favorite region before the earthquake, too. After reconstruction, the tourism industry has revived even faster.
The current focus is on sustainable tourism with good access to services for the trekkers. The locals, tea houses, homestays, as well as the guides and porters, are playing a good role. Even the tour management companies are fulfilling their responsibilities for a successful trek.
These days, the national as well as international trekkers are showing good interest in the Langtang Valley trek. The local lifestyle, Tamang Culture, ancient traditions, and warm hospitality make the journey lively. Similarly, the spiritual sites, the scenic beauty of the mountain, plants, and animals make this trek worth remembering.
Contact Breeze Adventure Pvt. Ltd for successful and enjoyable trekking in the Langtang Valley. Our experienced team will help you get the best of the valley. You will surely love this wonderful journey in the lap of the Himalayas.
