Nepal earthquake: Photos emerge of people taking selfies in front of damaged landmarks

More than 3,600 people are believed to have died in the enfolding crisis

A man appears to take a selfie in front of the destroyed Dharahara Tower (AP)

In the centre of Nepal's natural disaster people have started documenting unfolding events by taking selfies.

Photographs emerging from the devastated nation, where an estimated 3,600 are thought to have died in the 7.8 earthquake on Saturday, show a man standing in front of the wreckage of the iconic Dharahara Tower taking a picture.

Amid the chaos, a man appears to take a selfie (AP)

A Nepalese business student, who arrived from the suburbs to help with the relief efforts was shocked by those around the demolished Tower.

“This is earthquake tourism,” 21-year-old Pawan Thapa told the Associated Press.

But it did not appear to be tourists – but instead local residents – who were recording the devastation of the Tower that dominated their city no more.

“This is not right,” he added. “They are more interest in clicking their selfies than understanding that it is a tragedy.''

Meanwhile, aid teams and rescue workers are starting to arrive in Nepal. The UK has pledged £5 million and the United States, as well as neighbouring countries India and China, are flying assistance into the stricken country.

Additional reporting by Associated Press