Winter has finally arrived in Karachi. A refreshing chill seems to have brought winter into this city that is otherwise renowned for warm and humid weather. Even if compared to the northern districts of Pakistan, the Karachi weather doesn’t as much seem cold yet due to which the very scenario of change in weather will bring a feel amongst these people and make things much different than their accustomed norms; from comfortable clothes and delicious warm foods, to cold winds, winter makes a way into this noisy Cosmo polis.
Winters in Karachi are mild but this year, it has dropped as low as 8°C (46°F) in some parts of the city. Such temperatures in a city which hardly ever sees cold weathers are felt very intensely. The people have got out their winter ware like sweaters, jackets, shawls, and blankets to keep warm.
Early mornings and evenings, when the temperatures feel much cooler, also affect routines. Schools open their gates a little later while many professionals have already learned to work from home, or opt for more comfortably warm ways of transporting. Stores selling winter clothes, warmer clothes and heaters report to sell much more.
Winter Comfort Foods Takes Center Stage in the Media
Karachi cannot think of winters without the mouth-watering seasonal cuisine. It does see a change in food scenes during winters as throngs of people gorge on the hot, flavor delicacies. Steaming bowlfuls of soup and spicy nihari with parathas hot enough to give one steam becomes more like comfort foods for most.
Street food is doing very well as Karachiites are relishing roasted peanuts, boiled corn, and fish specialties. Seasonal sweets like gajar ka halwa and piping hot gulab jamuns are a must, which add sweetness to the chilly evenings. Local chai dhabas are doing great business as people throng to gather over a hot cup of tea and savor the warmth in the crisp winter air.
The cold weather brought in several health issues as the common cold and flu cases increased. Doctors suggest staying warm, consuming herbal teas, and Vitamin-C-rich foods that will strengthen immunity.
Winter, for those poor ones, can be a very cold season. It is difficult for many the poor and needy people of Karachi to get a glimpse of warm clothes or heating facilities. Relief, however is seen through these victims from charity groups that are supplying blankets, jackets, and food to help them survive during the night of winter.
Winter is the best time for Karachiites to have fun outdoors. Hill Park, Bagh Ibn-e-Qasim, and Clifton Beach are favorite places of families for fun in the winter season in the chilly weather. Picnics, bonfires, and beach trips are common winter activities that most people take advantage of when the weather is pleasant.
This is also the wedding season in Karachi, when wedding seasons are at their peak. The mercury has started to come down, which is quite acceptable for outdoor celebrations. Venues for outdoor parties beautifully decorated and flower adorned, people start wearing smart winterwear. Cultural festivals and Winter Bazaars enhance the gaiety of it all, giving the city more vibrant look than ever so.
Here are a few tips to enjoy Karachi Winter at the maximum.
1. Layer On: Keep piling on the layers and get warm and cozy, especially in the evenings and early mornings.
2. Soups, Halwas, Chai: This is a time to indulge in soups, halwas, and chai to keep the body warm.
3. Get Moving: Cooler days are an excuse for one to engage in physical exercise outside or for leisurely strolls around.
4. Keep yourself warm: Intake of warm liquids. Scarf and gloves be worn to avoid getting chill.
5. Give it to the needy: Giving away warm clothes and blankets can help many during this festival season.
CONCLUSION
Though snow never befalls Karachi, the cool breezes and crisp evenings are its beauty. The season is mostly a mix of both – challenging and joyful – with it being from having to get used to cooler temperatures or getting an opportunity for winter time activities and foods.
Karachiis can enjoy the best that winter has in store for them as they prepare well and make the most of the season – with a hot cup of tea over cozy evenings, an outdoor picnic in the cool breeze of the season, or good deeds to help someone in need.
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