The Monsoon season brings with it much-needed rain for Kathmandu, and the entire country. The rains bring hope to the farmers, and relief to everyone from the scorching summer. The rains are also a signal that the Hindu festival season is not far, and there is celebration waiting on the other side of the Monsoon.

According to the South Asian Climate Outlook Forum (SASCOF) in Colombo in April, “The strong El Nino conditions that prevailed over the Pacific since July 2015 have now weakened to a moderate level.”

The forum also said that the ‘El Nino’ effect which has led to severe droughts in South Asia in the past few months has shown signs of weakness  and most parts of Nepal is likely to receive near-normal rainfall this monsoon.

Here we have for you four reasons to look forward to the Monsoon in Kathmandu:

1.

Time to take out the umbrellas

The weather forecast on the radio says its going to rain in the afternoon. So we remember to take an umbrella with us wherever we go. The streets are dotted with people walking in the shade of their umbrellas. Strangers find a reason to talk to each other, and people are willing to share their umbrellas.

2.

Time to enjoy the rain

If you are one of those people who’d rather get wet than get under an umbrella, then the monsoon is the best time to go out and about in the city. Although, getting wet is fun, falling sick afterwards is not!

3.

Time to teach the kids lessons on independence

Monsoon is the right time to teach kids to be independent. Let them carry their own umbrella, or a raincoat, and watch them get on with their lives.

4.

Time to spend time with friends

When it is pouring, there is always that friend who carries an umbrella. It may not be sufficient for everyone, but you certainly can share. If the downpour is too heavy, you can always get together and sip hot chocolate together!