Frosty Winter

The chill seeped in early this year as even autumn season was relatively colder than the previous years. Now it is the height of winter season as mercury has dipped significantly. Nights are longer while days are shorter as the cold has gripped the Northern Hemisphere. People are harangued with the cold as they share grievances of the season with a cup of steaming chiya (tea) or coffee at hand. Throughout Nepal, the winter season will test the ordeal of many for a few months to come as the frosty weather engulfs the nation.

Most life forms gravitate towards light and warmth. Plants seek the sun as they extend their branches, leaves, vines and even flowers towards the direction of the light. Not surprisingly, many plants shed leaves in winter due to the cold, leaving the trees bare and shrubs withered except for winter flowers, coniferous and evergreen trees. Deciduous trees by the streets are leafless with solitary branches extended. Even animals in the wilderness hibernate during this season. For humans, embracing the cold can be quite a challenge if one is not a winter person. 

In Nepal, the foggy mornings are battled with piping hot beverages as people start their day. Slowly, the fog clears and the warm sun rises in the sky. Some can take solace in sunbathing but for many, the cold is faced with heaters and warm, snuggly clothes. Since the country has a diverse geography, the winter weather is different depending on the location. It is snowy in the Himalayas, while in the Tarai regions, there are instances of cold waves that even take the lives of unsheltered people.

 When it comes to the Kathmandu Valley, it is situated at a high altitude which is why its winter feels rather chilly. Due to lack of rain and haphazard construction, the valley becomes a hot spot for air pollution in the winter, with the added woes of vehicular and industrial emissions. For several years in a row, Kathmandu has topped the rank among the most polluted cities. Even masks can barely stop the harmful effects of the polluted air.

But there are perks and joys to even this cold, frosty and dreary weather. Fashion conscious people can style their wardrobe to suit the season. In are the woolen scarves, mittens, leg warmers, sweatshirts, hoodies and sharp coats. The cafes are the cosiest place to be with an aroma of bubbling tea and frothy coffee. Especially coffee is the most beloved winter beverage even as in Nepal, mornings in most households see the preparation of tea. Cafes are known for chiya-guff i.e. conversations over a cup of tea. 

Winter is also a suitable time to travel. Those who can afford holiday or vacation carve time to hike and trek. And the view is spectacular during this time of the year with the clear, blue sky making way for the sight of magnificent mountain ranges, hills, lakes and rivers. Trekking in Nepal during this season is a popular tourist activity for both the domestic and international tourists. Following the autumn season, winter arrives each year and then departs with the advent of spring. It might be best to make the most of this season while we can.