High-altitude regions of Taplejung and Sankhuwasabha districts have witnessed significant snowfall since Tuesday evening, impacting normal life while also bringing relief to winter crop farmers who had been grappling with prolonged dry conditions.
In Taplejung, snowfall accompanied by moderate rain has blanketed the northern highlands, including the revered Pathibhara Temple, perched at an altitude of 3,794 meters. The trekking route to the temple and settlements in the base of Pathibhara have been receiving consistent snowfall, Milan Katuwal, a constable at the police post in the base of Pathibhara told RSS. Executive Director of the Pathibhara Area Development Committee, Prajin Hangbang, noted a temporary dip in pilgrim numbers due to the intensified cold, though snowfall has historically boosted domestic religious tourism to the site.
Meanwhile, in Sankhuwasabha, the upper regions, including Gufapokhari in Chainpur Municipality-1, Mangalare, Kimathanka, and Makalu, have also experienced steady snowfall since Tuesday night. Angkanju Sherpa, a local resident, shared that children, the elderly, and livestock have been particularly affected by the plummeting temperatures.
Farmers across both districts have welcomed the rainfall and snow, expressing hope that it will benefit their winter crops, which had suffered from a lack of precipitation this season.
While the weather has disrupted daily life and trekking activities, the picturesque snowfall continues to draw the attention of domestic visitors, who are increasingly flocking to these regions to experience their winter charm. (With inputs from RSS)