Eight Trekkers Missing in Uttarakhand's Kedartal After Avalanches Search Continues

Eight trekkers remain missing near Kedartal in Uttarakhand after snowfall and avalanches blocked their route. Rescue teams continue searching.

Uttarkashi, November 2, 2026: A major search and rescue operation is underway in Uttarakhand's high-altitude Kedartal region after eight members of a trekking group went missing following heavy snowfall, adverse weather and multiple avalanches.

The group had started its trek from Gangotri on October 27 and was expected to return by October 29. However, worsening weather conditions reportedly blocked sections of the route, leaving members stranded in difficult Himalayan terrain.

Four members of the group were rescued on October 31. The remaining eight had not been located in the latest detailed report published by The Indian Express on November 2.

How the incident unfolded

According to officials cited in the reporting, the trekking party consisted of seven trekkers, a guide, a cook and three porters.

The group entered the Kedartal route before an adverse-weather alert was received by the authorities on October 27. Officials said they were unable to communicate the warning to the trekkers because the group had already moved into an area without reliable contact facilities.

The group was expected to complete its journey by October 29. However, heavy snowfall and avalanches affected the route.

On October 30, authorities received information that members of the group were trapped in the affected area.

Four people rescued

Rescue personnel located four members near Kachchi Dhang on October 31. The rescued group included three porters and one cook.

Teams cleared snow and created a route through the affected stretch before bringing the four people safely back to Gangotri.

The remaining eight people included five trekkers from West Bengal, two women from Uttar Pradesh and a guide from Uttarkashi, according to the report.

Difficulties facing rescue teams

The rescue operation has been complicated by dangerous terrain, fresh snow and avalanche activity.

Officials said avalanches had occurred at several locations along the trekking route. Ground teams attempting to advance towards the missing group were forced to stop after encountering difficult conditions.

Aerial reconnaissance was also conducted, but the missing trekkers, tents and other identifiable signs were not located during the reported searches.

The Uttarakhand State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) planned another attempt on November 2, involving helicopter support and specialised high-altitude rescue personnel. The Nehru Institute of Mountaineering was also expected to assist.

Multiple agencies involved

The operation involves teams from the SDRF, National Disaster Response Force, forest department, police and district administration, along with specialist search-and-rescue personnel.

Officials are working to identify a safe route into the affected region. Helicopter-assisted operations are particularly important because ground access has been restricted by snow and avalanche debris.

Questions about weather warnings and trekking safety

The incident has renewed attention on safety arrangements for high-altitude trekking expeditions.

The weather alert was reportedly received after the group had already begun its journey. The incident highlights the difficulties of communicating with trekking parties once they enter remote mountain areas.

Trekking organisers and authorities need reliable communication systems, weather monitoring, emergency equipment and contingency plans for sudden changes in mountain conditions.

Rescue operation remains critical

The immediate priority is to locate the eight missing people and establish whether they are alive and able to receive assistance.

The situation remains serious because of the high altitude, severe weather and difficult access to the affected area.

News National will update this report when the SDRF, Uttarakhand government or district administration confirms further developments.

By News National Editorial Team

Sources: The Indian Express – Kedartal rescue operation · Hindustan Times – Missing trekkers report

image source: https://indiahikes.com/blog/what-makes-kedartal-a-difficult-trek