What we know
- The Rasuwagadi checkpoint, a key entry point for electric vehicle imports from China, was severely damaged by a massive debris flow on August 26, according to Nepali Times.
- This checkpoint had only recently reopened after being damaged in floods the previous year.
- The damage has led to significant delays in electric vehicle deliveries to customers in Nepal, as reported by Nepali Times.
- Vehicles are now being rerouted through the longer Korala checkpoint in Mustang, affecting delivery times.
- A price war in the Nepali electric vehicle market, featuring models like the Nammi Box and BYD Atto 2, is occurring alongside these logistical challenges.
What this means if you are travelling
- Travellers planning road journeys along the Pasang Lhamu Highway, particularly towards the Rasuwagadi border, should anticipate significant disruptions and check route status.
- Those relying on local transport that uses imported vehicles might experience indirect delays or increased costs due to supply chain issues.
- Areas like Mustang, which now serve as a rerouting point for imports via the Korala checkpoint, may see increased traffic related to commercial transport.
- This situation primarily affects the import and delivery of electric vehicles and does not directly impact trekking routes or adventure activities in regions like Pokhara or the Everest area.
- Foreign travellers are advised to confirm any planned logistical arrangements with their tour operators regarding vehicle availability or transport services that might be indirectly affected.
The Rasuwagadi checkpoint, an important gateway for electric vehicle imports from China, suffered extensive damage from a massive debris flow on August 26. This incident has disrupted supply chains and caused delays for consumers, as reported by Nepali Times on September 15, 2026.
The checkpoint had only recently resumed its function as the main entry point for EVs after sustaining damage in floods the previous year. The recent event has again rendered the Pasang Lhamu Highway impassable for an undetermined number of vehicles, according to the same report.
Impact on Vehicle Deliveries and Roadways
The destruction at the Rasuwagadi checkpoint has forced the rerouting of electric vehicle imports. Instead of the usual path, consignments are now travelling through the longer Korala checkpoint located in Mustang.
This change in logistics has directly resulted in delays for customers awaiting vehicles that were booked during recent auto shows in Kathmandu. The Nepali Times noted that there is no official count of the cars and vans washed off the road from the border during the August 26 disaster.
Electric Vehicle Market Dynamics
Despite the logistical challenges, Nepal's electric vehicle market is currently experiencing a significant price war. Both the NAIMA and NADA fairs in Kathmandu showcased a wide array of electric vehicles across various segments, including two-, three-, and four-wheelers, as well as commercial vehicles.
- The Nammi Box saw a price reduction of Rs100,000, bringing its entry price to Rs3.099 million, as reported by Nepali Times.
- The Nammi Vigo compact SUV is now priced at Rs3.799 million, with some minor feature adjustments.
- The Deepal Nevo Q05 launched with an introductory offer of Rs4.699 million.
- BYD reduced the price of its Atto 2 model from Rs4.899 million to Rs4.595 million, albeit with a smaller battery pack.
- The new Cherry QQ3 crossover hatchback launched at Rs3.099 million, undercutting the Proton Emas5.
- Mid-size SUVs like the Jaecoo J5 are now offered at Rs4.799 million with a smaller battery configuration, a decrease from its initial launch price of Rs6.099 million.
- Leapmotor decreased the price of its B03X from Rs4.699 million to Rs4.499 million.
- Premium EVs also saw price adjustments, with the BYD Sealion 7 now available at Rs9.3 million and the Leapmotor C10 at Rs7.599 million.
This aggressive pricing strategy has blurred the price differences between segments, allowing customers to potentially upgrade their vehicles for a comparatively small additional cost. However, the Nepali Times also highlighted concerns regarding after-sales support, maintenance, and safety, especially following a recent incident in Bharatpur where an EV caught fire.
Implications for Travellers in Nepal
For foreign travellers in Nepal, the primary impact of the Rasuwagadi checkpoint damage is on road travel and local transportation logistics, rather than trekking or adventure activities in regions unaffected by the direct road closures. The rerouting of commercial traffic through Mustang via the Korala checkpoint may lead to increased traffic on those routes.
Travellers planning any journeys involving the Pasang Lhamu Highway or requiring specific types of vehicle transport in the affected regions should consult with their local operators or guides for the most current information. Trekking routes in the Annapurna, Everest, or Pokhara regions are not directly impacted by these specific road closures.
Reported by
This update summarises reporting from the outlets below and adds our own planning guidance. Follow the links for the original reports.
Questions travellers are asking
Which border checkpoint in Nepal has been affected by floods?
The Rasuwagadi checkpoint, a key entry point for imports from China, was damaged by a massive debris flow on August 26. This checkpoint had also been impacted by floods the previous year, according to Nepali Times.
How does the damage to the Rasuwagadi checkpoint affect travel plans?
The damage primarily affects the Pasang Lhamu Highway and the import of electric vehicles into Nepal. Travellers planning routes through this area should expect disruptions. Commercial vehicles are being rerouted through the Korala checkpoint in Mustang, which could increase traffic on that route.
Are trekking routes in Nepal affected by this flood damage?
No, the flood damage at the Rasuwagadi checkpoint does not directly affect trekking routes in popular areas such as the Annapurna, Everest, or Pokhara regions. The impact is mainly on specific roadways and commercial vehicle imports.
Will this situation cause delays for tourists within Nepal?
While the direct impact is on vehicle imports and commercial transport, travellers might experience indirect delays if their ground transportation relies on services affected by these logistical challenges. It is advisable to check with tour operators regarding any specific travel arrangements.