Current Weather in Kathmandu

In Nepal, a unique meteorological culture has developed through coexistence with nature and agricultural and religious practices, framed by the terrain with significant elevation differences and the influence of the monsoon. Wisdom and customs in line with the regional climate characteristics are deeply embedded in daily life, festivals, and tourism.

Awareness of Coexistence with Nature

Mountain Worship and Weather Observation

• The Himalayas are regarded as sacred, linking the melting of snow at the peaks and the movement of clouds to the fortunes of the weather.
• There is a custom of judging the start of agricultural activities based on the quantity of melting snow and rain patterns.

Monsoon and Agricultural Culture

Acceptance of Seasonal Winds and Harvest Rituals

• The harvesting festival prior to "Tihar," which celebrates the arrival of the southwest monsoon from June to September.
• A custom of offering sacrifices in the fields to divine the advance or weakening of the monsoon.

Religious Events and Weather Sensitivity

Buddhist and Hindu Festivals and Calendars

• Pujas (offering rituals) are scheduled to coincide with the end of the rainy season, considering the movement of worshippers.
• The Vikram calendar, based on the lunar calendar, accurately marks the transitions of the rainy and dry seasons.

Climate Adaptation in Daily Life

Innovations in Clothing, Food, and Housing

• In highlands, warm clothing is used, while in lowlands, breathable attire is chosen depending on the season.
• Elevated houses and attic ventilation designs are common during the rainy season.

Disaster and Disaster Prevention Culture

Preparations for Floods and Landslides

• Communities collaborate to build sandbags and drainage systems before the monsoon season.
• The knowledge passed down from elders includes observatory practices to discern signs of landslides and floods.

Summary

Nepal's meteorological culture can be said to be a crystallization of wisdom and customs where geography, religion, and agriculture are integrated.