Surkhet, Aug. 20 -- July and August are critical months for Chhiring Lama of Mugu. Every year during these months, Lama sells yarsagumba and other medicinal herbs at the 15-day trade fair in Hyajimar, along the Nepal-China border. With the earnings, he buys Chinese clothing, food and other essential goods to sustain his family throughout the year. Lama has been doing so for nearly two decades.

Lama lives in Mugum Karmarong Rural Municipality, a grueling two-day walk away from Gamgadhi, the district headquarters. China is only a day away. Goods are cheaper and transport is easier.

Usually, the fair starts in late July or early August. But this year, with August already approaching its end, there's no clue when the fair would begin. "It i...