By Prashant Jain
America News World
November 10, 2025
A heartbreaking story from Nepal has shocked people in India. A father and his teenage daughter from Surat city in Gujarat state went missing during a mountain trek. After weeks of searching, their bodies were found buried under deep snow on Sunday.
The victims were Jignesh Patel, a 52-year-old school teacher, and his 17-year-old daughter Priyanshi. They were passionate about trekking and had visited the same area before. This time, they wanted to climb near the famous Annapurna-3 peak in the Himalayas.
Tragic End to Nepal Trek: Indian Father and Daughter Found Dead Under Snowl, got all the needed permits, and started their trek on October 20 from a place called Disyang. They stayed at Gyalsen Hotel and told the staff they would visit Maleripa Monastery nearby and come back the same day.
That was the last anyone heard from them in person. They last called their family on October 21. When no messages or calls came for days, the family got worried. By October 30, Jignesh’s wife Jagruti contacted local leaders for help.
Big Search Operation
The family reached out to Bardoli MP Prabhu Vasava. Surat officials quickly contacted Gujarat’s emergency center, which informed India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). The Indian Embassy in Nepal jumped into action.
Nepal authorities sent helicopters, drones, and ground teams. A special mountain rescue team, led by DSP Hira Bahadur GC from the Armed Police Force, worked hard in tough weather.
On Sunday afternoon, the team found the bodies about 100 meters above the Maleripa Monastery in Manang district. They were covered under thick snow. Police believe the father and daughter went higher up the mountain after the monastery visit. Sudden heavy snowfall trapped them, and they could not escape.
Who Were They?
Jignesh Patel lived in Kadod village near Bardoli. He had an MA and BEd degree. For many years, he taught in school and gave private tuition classes. He loved adventure.
His daughter Priyanshi was in Class 11. She started trekking with her dad in 2018 when she was just a kid. Together, they completed many tough treks and won adventure certificates. Last year, they visited the Annapurna range and came back safe. This year, the trip turned into a tragedy.
Family’s Pain and Request
Neighbors and family are in deep grief. Amit Mistry, a close neighbor, said, “The government and MEA helped us a lot during the search. Now we request them to bring the bodies back to Surat as soon as possible so we can perform the last rites.”
The bodies are still in Nepal. Officials are working on paperwork to fly them home.
Why Is Trekking Dangerous?
The Annapurna range is one of the most beautiful but risky places for trekking. High altitude, sudden snowstorms, and avalanches kill many people every year. Even experienced trekkers can face problems if weather changes fast.
Experts say always go with a guide, check weather reports, and never go off the main path. Carry enough food, warm clothes, and a satellite phone for emergencies.
Reaction in India
News of the tragedy spread quickly on social media. Many people shared prayers for the family. Gujarat Chief Minister and local leaders promised full help to bring the bodies home.
This incident reminds us how nature can be unforgiving in the mountains. Jignesh and Priyanshi’s love for adventure brought them close, but it also took them away forever.
Our hearts go out to the Patel family. May their souls rest in peace.
America News World sends condolences to the bereaved family and friends.
Story based on reports from Times of India and official sources.
Discover more from AMERICA NEWS WORLD
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
