Heavy snow has covered forests and rivers, and the biting cold makes even simple tasks difficult. Still, with elections approaching, party leaders and cadres are braving the weather in jackets, hats, gloves, and masks to reach voters.

Since many residents are away during the day, candidates are making early-morning visits despite the chill. Some see the snow as a boon for farmers, while others use it to highlight winter crop growth.

Villagers are surprised when campaign teams arrive in such cold weather. This month, Jumla has seen snow twice, intensifying the winter chill, yet political activity remains high.

Most highland areas are still snow-covered. Only the lower regions connected by the Karnali Highway see regular traffic. Snow has piled up on rough village roads, and some paths are slippery, leaving walking as the only way to reach voters.

Nepali Communist Party candidate Naresh Bhandari, campaigning in Pategaun, ward 2 of Patarasi Rural Municipality, said he was visiting homes despite heavy snowfall to meet farmers ahead of the March 5 parliamentary elections. He called on the government to ensure a fair and safe voting process.

Rastriya Prajatantra Party candidate Gyanendra Bahadur Shahi, who is also the spokesperson for the party, has visited all eight local units, aiming to highlight Jumla as a winter tourism destination. In a post on Facebook, he said, “Jumla—Khalanga, Rara Lake, Patarasi Mountain and Sinja Valley—look stunning under snow. It benefits farmers and will attract visitors from across the country and abroad.”

Rastriya Swatantra Party candidate Binita Kathayat also visited households, saying just as snow is essential for winter crops, elections are vital for national development. She added that snowfall could inspire voters to choose wisely.

Candidates from Nepali Congress, CPN-UML and other parties have limited access to remote villages and are focusing on areas near district centres. Voters now share their concerns openly, moving beyond the one-way speeches common in past elections.

Bhandari said, “We listen to voters’ feedback before presenting our election agenda.”

All candidates are currently visiting homes with hope and commitment, promising to address the issues raised by voters.