China Issues Travel Alert Mt Everest and Qomolangma Scenic Area Temporarily Closed Following Devastating 6.8-Magnitude Earthquake in Tibet

Published on January 7, 2025

On Tuesday, a powerful earthquake measuring 6.8 on the Richter scale struck the Tibet Autonomous Region, causing significant tremors in Dingri County, which is home to the base camp of Mount Qomolangma, also known as Mount Everest. In response to the natural disaster, Chinese authorities have suspended tourism to the scenic areas on the Tibetan side of Mount Everest, focusing on maintaining safety and conducting necessary safety checks in the aftermath. The move has had an immediate impact on tourism, particularly for those planning to visit the world’s highest peak.

Safety Measures in the Aftermath of the Earthquake

According to the local authorities, the quake hit Dingri at 9:05 AM Beijing Time, but fortunately, there have been no reports of fatalities among tourists or staff in the affected area. Initial reports indicate that the hotel buildings and surrounding infrastructure in the scenic area remain intact, with no significant structural damage. However, safety protocols have been put in place, and as a precaution, the region has been closed to tourists temporarily.

Despite the safety of individuals on-site, the earthquake has caused power outages at certain scientific facilities in the region. For instance, the Qomolangma Station for Atmospheric and Environmental Research, which operates under the Chinese Academy of Sciences, is experiencing disruptions due to the power failure. Despite these challenges, local authorities have emphasized that the facilities are in good condition, and the earthquake’s impact on the physical infrastructure of the area has been limited.

Human Impact: Casualties and Damage

The earthquake has tragically resulted in the loss of 53 lives, with 62 others reported to have been injured in the region. Local disaster relief teams have been actively engaged in recovery and emergency efforts. As per the regional disaster relief headquarters, these numbers are reflective of the widespread impact felt across Dingri County, though efforts are being made to provide aid and manage the recovery process.

Tourism Surge and Shift in Travel Plans

Before the earthquake, Mount Qomolangma had been experiencing a surge in international tourism. In 2024, the Chinese side of Mount Everest saw a record number of overseas tourists, with more than 13,700 visitors compared to just over 6,000 in 2023. The increase in foreign visitors, particularly from countries like Singapore, Malaysia, Germany, and France, marked a new high for tourism at Everest’s northern base. The dramatic rise in tourists has been attributed to growing interest in adventure tourism and the appeal of visiting the world’s tallest mountain.

Despite the ongoing suspension of tourism, many travelers are now reassessing their plans, especially those who had booked travel to Mount Everest’s base camp. The effects of the suspension on both local businesses and the global tourism market are significant. As tourists seek alternative destinations or defer their travel plans, the surrounding areas, such as Nepal’s southern Everest region, may see an influx of visitors instead.

Broader Impact on Global Tourism

This pause in tourism on the Tibetan side of Everest highlights the growing interconnectedness of global travel. As tourists from all over the world seek to explore the world’s iconic peaks, including Everest, the suspension of travel to one of the most famous natural landmarks will likely affect travelers’ decisions. Travelers planning mountaineering expeditions, trekking adventures, and sightseeing tours in the region will need to reconfigure their plans and adjust to the uncertainty caused by the disaster.

With many countries affected by these changes, the travel industry may need to adapt in real time, offering alternative adventure tourism options for those whose plans have been disrupted. As the region’s tourism infrastructure recovers, travelers may look to other popular trekking spots in Asia or consider shifting their focus to other countries’ mountaineering offerings.

Key Takeaways:

• Travel to Mount Qomolangma (Everest) on the Tibetan side has been temporarily suspended due to a 6.8-magnitude earthquake.
• Over 13,700 overseas tourists had visited the region in 2024, with countries like Singapore, Malaysia, Germany, and France contributing significantly to the influx.
• The earthquake’s impact has resulted in casualties and power outages in some scientific facilities.
• Mount Qomolangma’s tourism industry will likely see a short-term downturn as travelers adjust their plans, with surrounding regions experiencing increased demand.

As tourism to Tibet’s Mount Everest side remains paused, the global tourism industry will need to monitor the situation and respond accordingly. The suspension, while temporary, serves as a reminder of the vulnerability of natural landmarks to unpredictable events, prompting travelers and operators to consider safety and disaster preparedness when planning future expeditions to iconic locations.