WATCH: Fresh snowfall delights locals at Nagaland’s highest peak

Guwahati: Standing at an altitude of 3,841 m above sea level, trekking to Nagaland’s highest peak Mt Saramati, especially in winter can be a huge challenge considering its extremely remote, rough and steep terrain. However, in viral videos that are now circulating on social media, a team of locals braved the inclement weather just to make it to the top of the peak and savour the fresh snowfall around the area.

Speaking with EastMojo, Topanthang, general secretary of the Thanamir Village Students’ Union, told EastMojo that eight members of the students’ body trekked to the mountain top to witness fresh snowfall during the first week of January. The student leader also added that the mountain is still witnessing snowfall and that it may continue till February.

In late December last year, parts of Nagaland under Zunheboto, Kiphire and Tuensang districts witnessed snowfall for the first time in nearly four decades following the cyclonic circulation (CC) over Bangladesh and the associated wind convergence, eastern parts of Northeast India, coastal Odisha and northeastern coast and Andhra Pradesh.

Mt Saramati which is an abode of one of the pristine forests of Nagaland, is located near Thanamir village of Kiphire district bordering Myanmar and is over 243 km from state capital Kohima.

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Topanthang, 25, added that the team had not only trekked to the peak to savour snowfall but also carried out a cleanliness drive. The team also put up two notices at different locations to remind trekkers about the need to maintain cleanliness.

The trek to the mountain top is a two-day process which begins from Thanamir village, where trekking guides are available, after a payment of registration fee. The peak remains snow-capped throughout winter and gradually melts and flows into the Likimro river.

When asked about the challenges they faced, he said that although it was hard to endure the extremely cold weather, all hardships were eased as they got to experience the fresh snowfall at the state’s highest peak. He then explained how the team began their journey from the base camp around 1 am in the morning with their torches lighting their way as they braved the steep mountain and made their way to the top.