TAPLEJUNG: Heavy snowfall has transformed the hills and mountains of Taplejung District into a bright winter landscape after two days of rain.

As the weather cleared on Sunday morning, snow covered large parts of the district, giving the mountains a silvery look. Views of Kanchenjunga the world’s third highest peak, along with Kumbhakarna and nearby highlands became especially striking.

In the Tijure, Milke, Jalajle area of Maiwakhola Rural Municipality fresh snow has blanketed the landscape since early morning. The clear skies have also drawn more domestic tourists, many eager to experience the snowfall.

Snow began falling on Friday evening along with rain and has continued in many high-altitude areas. Places such as Ghunsa, Phale and Olangchungola in Faktanglung Rural Municipality as well as Lelep, have reported heavy snowfall.

Other areas including Tokpegola, upper Aathrai Triveni, Milke, Jalajle and Timbung Pokhari have also been affected.

Snow has also fallen at the popular pilgrimage site Pathibhara Temple. Officials say snow has built up along the route from Pathibhara Dham to Gurase Danda.

Temperatures have dropped sharply across mountain settlements. Residents in Olangchungola, Yangma, Phale and Ghunsa say the cold has become more intense following the snowfall.