Snowflakes

As snowflakes swirl through the air, covering trees, valleys, and frozen lakes in a pristine white blanket, they fascinate adventurers, trekkers, and nature lovers. The sight of snowdrifts in winter is mesmerising; standing on a windy crest, surrounded by fog and the soft, relentless fall of snowflakes, is an unforgettable experience. The thick snow silences the stream, and morning fog drifts through villages, creating a quiet, reflective atmosphere.

With deep snow, steep slopes, and rugged gorges, Chitral is known as "the land of avalanches". In February and March, avalanches cascade down mountainsides, sometimes within sight of villages. Amid this winter spectacle, waterfowls cut through the falling snow, adding to the wonder. Snowflakes are more than just a seasonal phenomenon—they sustain life, shape the ecosystem, and reflect the region’s changing climate.

Lo! Whirled upon the winter breeze
As in the sky cloud part with ease
That feels poignant and old
Ultra-white, soft, and cold
Draping trees and lakes alike,
As the white snow veils strike.

Atop the snowy, windy crest
Breathing with exposed chest
Nothing visible on the ground,
Fog and frost engulfing around.
Out there alone, out of tracks
Sustaining bullets of snowflakes

An eerie environ, you don’t know
Stream gurgle muted by the snow
Ice festooned along the channel

Wall, ceiling, and window panel
Permeating deep into wall cracks
With a speed of wind snowflakes

Wind against poplar roaring
Eagles in the cloud soaring
It starts forming snowdrift
As nature’s spectacular gift
The chorus of ‘quack’ by drakes
Within the curtain of snowflakes