Nepal, July 24 -- On a fine morning last month, a jeep carrying domestic tourists from Bajhang, Dhangadhi and Dadeldhura climbed a dirt road towards Jadalek in Saipal Rural Municipality, Bajhang. Lured by breathtaking photographs and videos shared on social media, the group had travelled hundreds of kilometres to visit the southern base camp of Mount Saipal (7031 metres), the western base camp at Raidughi and the secluded Maza valley, surrounded by towering snow-covered peaks.

Their trek began from Dhalaun, passing Kakarkot before reaching the southern and western base camps. Things were normal until then and the trekkers were excited. But once they left Raidughi for Maza valley, around four hours away, their excitement gave way to fear....