Snowfall brings joy to farmers & tourism entrepreneurs

KATHMANDU: After three consecutive years of poor snowfall caused by climate change, Nepal’s Himalayan district of Mustang has finally received significant snowfall — unusually early this year.

The snow began early Tuesday morning and continues to fall steadily, surprising locals who usually see snow only around late December.

Snow has blanketed areas above 3,000 meters, including the famous pilgrimage site of Muktinath and several upper Mustang villages such as Ghami and Chhusang. While lower regions are experiencing continuous rainfall, the higher passes — Thorang La, Namuke Lek, Mesokondo, and Dhaulagiri Icefall’s Dhampus Peak route — have been blocked by heavy snow, halting trekking and travel activities.

Authorities have already urged travelers to avoid high-altitude routes. Vehicles on the Korala road are struggling to move, and pilgrims visiting Muktinath are facing difficulties due to the cold and snow accumulation. The ponds used for ritual bathing at Muktinath have frozen, preventing devotees from performing traditional baths and prayers.

Despite the temporary disruptions, local officials and experts say the early snowfall brings multiple benefits.

Ward Chairperson Pravesh Gurung noted that although some apple trees suffered slight damage, the snow will help recharge soil moisture and support future agricultural productivity.

Dr. Lalmani Aryal, head of the Veterinary Hospital and Livestock Service Center, said the snowfall will improve pasture conditions that had deteriorated in recent years due to climate irregularities. “This will provide better grazing for livestock and reduce human-wildlife conflict as snow leopards and other animals won’t need to descend near settlements in search of food,” he explained.

Agriculture Knowledge Center Chief Rajesh Gurung echoed the sentiment, calling the snowfall “a blessing for farmers.” He said it will help soften the soil, boost crop yield, and control pests affecting local grains such as barley, buckwheat, and maize.

Local tourism entrepreneurs also see opportunity. Suraj Gurung, operator of Hotel Grand Sambala in Muktinath, said if snowfall continues at this pace, the area could host the National Ski Championship again — an event held for three consecutive years until it was halted due to lack of snow.

Kaisang Thokya Thakuri, president of Janapriya Youth Club, said the snowfall will attract domestic and international tourists eager to experience snow in Mustang. “This early snow has given new energy to both locals and the tourism sector,” he said.

While the snow has disrupted travel and daily life temporarily, locals agree it has restored a long-missing winter charm — and with it, a sense of renewed hope for Mustang’s fragile mountain ecosystem and economy.