April 26: Residents of Manang district have ascended toward the highlands to collect yarsagumba (Ophiocordyceps sinesis), a prized herb known for its aphrodisiac property, with the onset of the yarsa picking season.     
Generally, the yarsa picking season begins from May and it will continue till the third week of June.    
Locals have set out for Namke Kharka, Khangsarkharka and Narphukharka in the Upper Manang to collect the valuable medicinal herbs. Their main source of income of people of this region is agriculture and medicinal herbs.

"We are heading to the highlands to collect yarsa as this season is favourable for the collecting the herb," said Jag Bahadur Gurung of Chame Rural Municipality-4.    
They obtain permission for collecting yarsa from the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAAP) unit office in Manang. Collection of herbs is considered as one of the major sources of income of Manang folks. People from outside the district also arrive here for the collection of yarsa.    
Chief District Officer Suprabha Khanal Dhungel said necessary arrangements have been made for the security of yarsa collectors.    
The collection has begun from the Namke alpine area and it is permitted in Narfu and Khangsar of Upper Manang.    
It is compulsory for the yarsa and other herbs collectors and suppliers from outside the district to have COVID-19 vaccination card. -- RSS