The 2015 Nepal earthquake devasted the whole country, so how was the Langtang Valley before and after the earthquake?
The Langtang Valley, also famous as the Valley of Glaciers, is a beautiful village in Nepal’s Langtang region. It is a short distance from Kathmandu in the north-central direction and close to the Tibetan border. The Langtang region is a lesser-known trekking destination compared to the destinations of Everest and Annapurna regions. Its off-beat trails lead you to the beautiful Langtang National Park. Similarly, trek past picturesque valleys, deep, gorgeous, rushing rivers, cascading waterfalls, and sparkling glaciers.
The Langtang Valley Trek is a unique adventure, different from other destinations in the country. It perfectly blends raw natural beauty with Nepal’s unique culture and traditions. Numerous ancient monasteries, stupas, cultural heritages, monuments, and religious sites are located in the Langtang Valley. However, the region was among the most affected by the 2015 Nepal earthquake. Let us learn more about the Langtang Valley before and after the earthquake and whether it is safe for traveling.
Table of Contents
Langtang Valley Before the Earthquake
The history of Langtang Valley goes back 700 years. Many believe that civilization in the valley began after a group of people from Tibet settled there. Therefore, you can see that Tibetan Buddhism and culture have had a massive influence on the valley. The Southern explorers discovered the Langtang Valley in 1954, and tourism in the area began from then onwards.
Natural Beauty and Attractions
The Langtang Valley lies within the Langtang National Park and is surrounded by incredible natural beauty. Due to its remote nature, the off-beat trails are mostly unexplored and remain untouched by modernization. Its trekking trails enter the national park and dense forests of rhododendrons, oaks, firs, conifers, and alpine meadows. Several Himalayan flora and fauna, including 250 species of wild birds, call the national park their home. Hence, trekkers can get an opportunity to glimpse rare animals, like red pandas, Himalayan Tahr, Assam macaque, and more if they are lucky.
The trails to Langtang Valley go through traditional settlements, monasteries, stupas, and gompas. En route, trekkers can witness gorgeous views of mountain panoramas such as Langtang Lirung, Langtang Ri, Dorje Lakpa, Langshisha Ri, Yala Peak, Gangchempo, and many more. Before the earthquake, Langtang Valley was slowly flourishing as an ideal destination for trekking, mountain expeditions, and sightseeing tours.
Local Economy and Community
Before the 2015 earthquake, life was ordinary for locals in the Langtang Valley. Primarily, Tamang, Sherpa, and Gurung ethnic groups live in the region. They are mostly involved in agriculture and animal farming. A few of the locals were also working as guides and porters. Although there is an influence of Tibetan Buddhism, there is a blend of fusion of Nepali culture. The locals refer to themselves as “Langtangpa.” Approximately 4,500 locals live within the Langtang National Park. Reportedly, 668 people resided in the Langtang Valley before the 2015 earthquake.
Due to the rough terrain, the locals mainly planted barley, wheat, and potatoes. Aside from agriculture, yak farming was another major occupation for the locals. They use the yak milk to produce the famous yak cheese, contributing to the local economy. Right before the earthquake, Langtang Valley saw a boom in the tourism industry. In 2014, a record number of more than 100,000 tourists visited the valley. Thus, many locals were also slowly expanding their businesses to run tea houses, lodges, and guest houses.
The 2015 Nepal Earthquake
Description of the Earthquake
Just as things were looking up for the region’s tourism industry and locals, a catastrophic 7.3 Richter earthquake shook the nation on April 25, 2015. The quake’s epicenter was Barpark, which struck Nepal at 11:56 AM. Due to the vulnerable topography, Langtang Valley was one of the most affected areas of Nepal.
Immediate Impact on Langtang Valley
A day before, the Langtangpas had just celebrated the Buddist festival, Ghawa, with merry singing, dancing, eating, and drinking. Then, the very next day, the earthquake hit when most locals were busy at work, and some were sleeping late.
When the entire country shook, it destroyed numerous villages and settlements, including Langtang Valley. The earthquake claimed the lives of 9,000 people. Many ancient houses collapsed on the spot, but the worst was yet to come for the Langtang village, which lies at the foothill of the Langtang Lirung’s south face. There was a massive glacier and a frozen lake right above the village. Due to the quake, the entire mountainside came off and brought a huge sweeping avalanche towards Langtang village.
Over 40 million tonnes of ice and debris covered the entire village. The tiny village lost 243 people, including 175 locals, 27 tourism staff, and 41 foreign trekkers. The quake also swept away age-old monuments and cultural heritage sites, and the famous Kyanjin Gompa was also severely damaged. Similarly, the week-long aftershock continued to damage the remaining structures of the village. Only a single house remained when the quake was over.
Learn More: A Complete Guide For Langtang Valley Trek
Langtang Valley After the Earthquake
Recovery and Rebuilding Efforts
Despite the fear and aftershock, the remaining survivors began rescuing victims. Due to its remoteness and lack of proper infrastructure, it took a while for rescuers to reach the Langtang Valley. The government mobilized helicopter rescue operations to provide aid to the Langtangpas. They began repairing roadways to carry aid and supplies to the locals and reconnect the village to the outside world.
After urgently repairing the essentials, the locals and government restored the houses and buildings. They then gradually began reconstructing the local businesses and damaged schools. The recovery and rebuilding efforts were aligned with the needs of the community. Similarly, various national and international organizations offer relief aid to help Langtang Valley. With the help from local authorities and national and international aid, the region regained its previous glory. Most buildings, accommodations, and monuments have been finished building. However, the effort is ongoing.
The locals have built a new village 100 meters above the old one. Most locals have returned to their ordinary lives, and new teahouses are open for business. The trekking trails are safe and open to visitors. During the journey, travelers can still see the ruins left behind by the earthquake.
Changes in Landscape and Environment
The avalanche has changed the landscape and valley floor of the Langtang Valley. It has also slightly changed the shape of the Langtang Lirung mountainsides and glacial lakes and increased the risk of landslides. Similarly, there has also been a slight change in the course of the valley’s water sources, like rivers and streams.
The national park also suffered some damage during the 2015 earthquake. It led to the loss of wildlife habitat and damage to flora and fauna. The local authority and the residents are working on reconstructing their village, focusing on sustainable development. The earthquake has attracted the attention of the local authorities on the importance of managing environmental risks and monitoring glacial formation, climate change, and global warming.
Conclusion
The Langtang Valley underwent drastic changes before and after the earthquake. The valley and the Langtangpas are still recovering from its aftermath. The earthquake prominently changed their lifestyle. They have worked together to rebuild their lives and return their heritage to glory.
Although some reconstruction efforts are underway, the trek routes are safe for trekkers. Set off on a beautiful journey and witness the serene beauty of the Valley of the Glaciers with your own eyes.
FAQs
Where is Langtang Valley located?
The Langtang Valley is hidden in the north-central region of Nepal and lies close to the Tibetan border. It is one of the lesser-known but beautiful trekking destinations in the country. Its trails go through dense subtropical forests and highland pastures. Langtang Valley’s other name is the Valley of Glaciers.
How badly did the 2015 Nepal earthquake affect Langtang Valley?
The 2015 earthquake catastrophically affected the Langtang Valley, destroying numerous settlements, heritages, roads, and other religious sites. It was 7.8 on the Richter scale of magnitude, which caused landslides and avalanches, which resulted in more than 200 locals losing their lives.
How did the 2015 Nepal earthquake affect Langtang’s cultural heritage?
The earthquake caused massive avalanches and landslides. It destroyed the surrounding settlements along with age-old cultural heritages. Many traditional houses, along with cultural heritage and sacred sites, were crushed. It wrecked many important and ancient heritages, which put them at risk of getting lost.
What were the difficulties during the recovery efforts after the earthquake?
The significant difficulty during the recovery after the earthquake was the lack of proper roadway access to the Langtang region. As the Langtang Valley lies in remote areas, there is only limited infrastructure, making the recovery efforts challenging and time-consuming. Similarly, the lack of communication and rough terrain added further difficulties.
How has Langtang Valley recovered since the 2015 Nepal earthquake?
Langtang Valley is still recovering from the effects of the 2015 Nepal earthquake, and the mental toll remains fresh in the minds and hearts of the locals. The reconstruction of houses, buildings, and cultural sites is still ongoing. The locals, government, and various national and international support groups are aiding in rebuilding new villages with modern architecture.
