Bhadrak, Aug 19: As devastating floods and landslides continue to wreak havoc in Nepal, 51 tourists from Kerala and Odisha, including travellers from Chandbali in Odisha, have been rescued and shifted to safety.

The group had travelled to Nepal through Kailash Travellers, owned by Kailash Biswal of Nalgunda panchayat in Chandbali block. The group includes 43 tourists from Kerala, five cooks, travel operator Kailash Biswal, Chandbali resident Tuna Dash and Saurav Banerjee from Kolkata.

The tourists were initially staying at a lodge near the Trishuli River. As floodwaters surged following landslides and heavy flooding in the river system, the group had to quickly turn their vehicle around and travel nearly 70 km back towards safety.

They eventually took shelter near the Manakamana Temple. However, as the Trishuli River became more dangerous and floodwaters again threatened the area, Nepal Police and local authorities evacuated them from the temple area and transported them by ropeway to Bhairahawa city.

The 51 tourists are currently staying at a small lodge in Bhairahawa. Kailash Biswal has reportedly arranged accommodation for the group and is working to facilitate their safe return.

Tuna Dash, an educationist from Chandbali, said the group was fortunate to have survived the disaster. He informed his family that they would return home soon. However, he said food was difficult to obtain in the affected area despite having money, as the situation along the Trishuli River remained extremely critical.

Meanwhile, 14 tourists from Tamil Nadu have also reached Kailash Biswal seeking assistance in returning safely to their home state. Arrangements are reportedly being made to help all 65 tourists reach home safely.