The Disappearing Majesty of the Himalayas: A Struggle Against Haze

As pollution thickens in South Asia, notable viewpoints of the Himalayas are increasingly obscured by haze, impacting tourism and local economies. Reports indicate that these conditions are worsening, driven by climate change and industrial emissions, leading to a once-majestic landscape becoming out of sight for many trekkers.

In Nepal, the inspiring vistas of the mighty Himalayas are becoming a rare sight, particularly from hotspots like Kathmandu and Nagarkot. Air pollution, primarily caused by industrial emissions, vehicle fumes, and agricultural burning, entraps particulate matter, creating a relentless haze that blankets the region, obscuring the grandeur of these towering mountains.

Originally from Kathmandu, the author reflects on personal visits filled with disappointment when attempts to display the majestic Himalayan range have resulted in nothing but foggy skies. Towers of haze have become commonplace, with the once-clear seasons of spring and autumn—traditionally revered for the clarity of their views—now frequently marred by pollution. One traveler, awaiting a clear view during a recent trip, noted how a flight to Kathmandu had to circle for over twenty times before landing due to low visibility caused by haze.

Alongside the disappointment for visitors, local businesses are feeling the financial sting. Yogendra Shakya, a hotel operator in Nagarkot since 1996, has rebranded his business towards cultural experiences rather than views, as hazy skyscapes have derailed tourism focused on nature’s grandeur. Similarly, trekking guide Lucky Chhetri reported a staggering 40% decline in business due to these conditions, leading many in the tourist sectors to consider alternative professions as their livelihoods dwindle under the persistent haze.

On the Indian side of the Himalayas, hoteliers express concern over a similar trend, noting that the persistence and density of haze have increased dramatically, compared to just a decade prior. In Pakistan, the impact is less severe due to distance from urban pollution, but locals also report that former clear views of the mountains have diminished.

The ongoing challenge of air pollution not only hampers visibility but also poses a serious public health risk in southern Asia. Cities regularly rank among the world's most polluted, and the associated health issues continue to rise, exacerbated by numerous factors—including construction dust and seasonal crop burning.

Climate experts warn that these hazy days are unlikely to dissipate anytime soon, with predictions suggesting they will continue to intensify. In a region where the Himalayas are a significant draw for tourists, these changes pose a devastating blow not only to the natural landscape but also to the economy reliant on it.

As the Himalayas recede from view, what was once a poetic emblem of natural wonder is increasingly reduced to mere images long to be remembered in photographs, paintings, and postcards—leaving local guides like Chhetri grappling with feelings of guilt as they watch the erosion of their livelihood and the beauty around them.