After devastating floods ripped through Nepal, tour operators have launched a series of fundraisers to support recovery efforts on the ground.
More than 950 people are dead with more than 4,400 still missing after raging floodwaters tore through Central Nepal, near the Nepal-Tibet border in the Bhote Koshi Valley last week. The area ravaged by the water is a popular pilgrimage destination and trekking corridor due to its proximity to Mount Kailash in Tibet.
Several tour operators, including at least one U.S.-based operator called Himalayan Glacier, were leading groups there and reported that guests were missing.
Intrepid Travel launched an appeal for fundraising through its nonprofit arm called Intrepid Foundation. Donations will benefit the Australian Red Cross, which is supporting emergency responses in Nepal.
The tour operator, which offers more than two dozen itineraries in Nepal with a local team of approximately 460 people, has so far raised more than $171,000 and will match donations up to $72,000.
"The scale of this disaster is devastating," said Intrepid's Nepal general manager Yalamber Rai. "Communities across the region are grieving the loss of loved ones while also facing significant challenges in the weeks and months ahead. Support will be critical to recovery efforts, and we are encouraging anyone who is able to donate to the appeal or help spread the word."
How others can help
Sherpa Hospitality Group, which operates mountain lodges in Nepal, launched a GoFundMe with Kathmandu nonprofit Pasang Lhamu Foundation, which empowers women in tourism in Nepal. Donations will be given to the Prime Minister's Disaster Relief Fund, the fundraiser said.
Exodus Adventure Travels, through its foundation, will raise money to be donated to its disaster response partner React or one of its humanitarian partners on the ground. The operator will match donations up to $10,000.
"Nepal has been at the heart of the Exodus story for more than 50 years, and our thoughts are with the communities affected by these devastating floods," said head of sustainability Kasia Morgan. "While we are grateful that our local leaders and partners are safe, many families have lost homes, infrastructure and vital access routes.