A new film collaboration involving Nepal and Bhutan is set to bring a cross-border cinematic story to audiences as Tunnel 26: The Curse Beneath the Mountain prepares for its theatrical release on October 9, 2026.
The film is a collaboration between Nepal, Bhutan and India, bringing together filmmakers, actors and technical crews from the three countries. The project has attracted attention for its combination of disaster, survival and horror elements, while also highlighting cooperation between the film industries of the neighbouring countries.
Directed, written and edited by Bhutanese filmmaker DD Kinley, Tunnel 26 tells a story set around a crisis inside a hydropower tunnel in Bhutan. Following a deadly incident underground, the characters are faced with a dangerous situation that develops into a fight for survival. The film combines the tension of a disaster movie with elements of supernatural horror.
The film features a multinational cast, including Bhutanese actor Sangay Tsheltrim, Nepali actors Anoop Bikram Shahi and Anna Sharma, along with Nidup Dorji, Deki Lhamo, Phuntshok Dhonden and Roshini Dada. The involvement of performers from both Nepal and Bhutan is expected to give the production a distinct cross-border character.
The production has also brought together technicians from the participating countries. Cinematography was handled by Dirgha Gurung and Sangay T. Tenzing, while Raju Tamang served as the action director. Dorji Wangchuk is the executive producer, while Nepali actor Pradeep Khadka has joined the project as creative producer.
The film’s trailer was recently released in Kathmandu, giving audiences a first extended look at its dark and suspenseful storyline. The trailer presents events following a casualty incident inside a hydropower tunnel and introduces the challenges faced by the characters trapped in the underground environment. The filmmakers have said the story draws inspiration from real events in Bhutan.
The production reportedly involved around 100 days of filming, with important scenes shot inside a real tunnel in Bhutan rather than relying entirely on artificial sets. Visual effects and other technical elements were also developed to strengthen the film’s atmosphere and scale.
The film is scheduled to open simultaneously in cinemas in Nepal and Bhutan on October 9. Following its initial release in the two countries, the production team is also preparing to take the movie to international markets, including other parts of Asia and North America.
An additional feature of the project is its contribution to disaster relief. The production team has announced that 25 percent of the film’s overall income will be contributed to Nepal’s Prime Minister’s Disaster Relief Fund.
With its Nepal-Bhutan collaboration, international production team and distinctive tunnel-based storyline, Tunnel 26 represents a growing effort to connect the film industries of the region. Its October release will give audiences in Nepal and Bhutan an opportunity to experience a story created through cooperation across national borders.
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