New Delhi, Jan. 14 -- As the flight lands at Whitehorse, the capital of Canada's western most territory Yukon, it is difficult not to be struck by the winter light. It is soft and gentle, exuding a warmth that has nothing to do with temperature. Despite a thick blanket of snow all around, the low angle of the sun ensures it is neither sharp nor harsh.

Once outside the plane, frigid air hits immediately. Breath and words promptly turn into plumes of smoky droplets.

Viewed on a flat atlas, Yukon feels like it is almost at the end of the world. So, I arrive into Whitehorse expecting icy wilderness. But despite the sub-zero temperature, the city exudes warmth.

For a capital, it is small: just 28,000 people call it home, and the eponymous M...