Karnali's yarsagumba season set for late May, but yields are thinning and risks rising

As the season approaches, thousands of villagers are busy gathering essential supplies, primarily 'satu' (roasted flour), ghee, and heavy woollen clothing, as they prepare to spend over a month in the high-altitude wilderness.

The highland pastures of Karnali province are set to open for the annual yarsagumba picking season in the final week of May. The high-value caterpillar fungus, prized for its purported medicinal as well as aphrodisiac properties, is mainly found in Mugu, Dolpa, Jumla, and the neighbouring district of Rukum East.