SATV Manang, Jan 13: Snowfall has occurred in Manang, a mountainous district, bringing joy to the locals. This marks the first snowfall of the winter season, which had been expected since the month of Mangsir (November-December).    

Kishan Mukhiya Gurung of Nesyang Rural Municipality-1, shared that the hills are now blanketed in snow. He added that winter snowfall is good for crops as it keeps the soil moist and fertile.   

He added that snowfall is favourable for the cultivation of medicinal plants, including Yarsagumba (Ophiocordyceps sinensis), Panchaule (Dactylorhiza hatagirea), and Chiraito (Swertia chirayita).  

Yagya Ghale from Tachai of Naso Rural Municipality-8, stated that the delayed snowfall had adversely affected Manang's tourism sector, with potential visitors postponing their trips due to the lack of snow. "We hope tourist arrivals will increase now with the beginning of snowfall though it is not significant."    

However, Naso Rural Municipality-5 Ward Chair, Thuten Lama, said that there is no indication of snowfall in Lower Manang. Snowfall serves as a crucial source of irrigation for winter crops such as potatoes, buckwheat, and barley in these areas.