The Winterlights celebration has once again transformed Kilima Village into a snowy, lantern-lit wonderland. As part of the seasonal festivities, Zeki sends players on a playful scavenger hunt—one that requires deciphering riddles and uncovering seven hidden Winterlights Chests scattered across the region. While the clues are short, they’re often cryptic, and several chests are tucked into spots you may never think to check on your own.
This guide breaks down each riddle, pinpoints every location, and provides helpful context so you can complete Zeki’s Winterlights Challenge quickly and efficiently. It also covers the rewards you’ll unlock once all seven chests have been collected.
Table of Contents
- 1 How the Winterlights Chest Hunt Works
- 2 1. First Chest – Hydrating by the Inn’s Outer Docks (E7)
- 3 2. Second Chest – Slipped on the Rocks Near Embra’s Shrine (F4)
- 4 3. Third Chest – Above Mirror Pond Ruins (D3)
- 5 4. Fourth Chest – Napping in Eshe’s Office (F7)
- 6 5. Fifth Chest – Beneath the Village Gazebo (F7)
- 7 6. Sixth Chest – Behind Hekla’s Tent (C4)
- 8 7. Seventh Chest – In the Shadows Near “Butterball” (C6)
- 9 Winterlights Challenge Rewards
- 10 Enhancing Your Palia Experience with GladiatorBoost
How the Winterlights Chest Hunt Works

At the start of the Winterlights event, players receive a letter from Zeki containing seven riddles. Each riddle points to the approximate location of a festive chest. If you ever need a refresher on these clues, simply revisit the small book placed on the corner of Zeki’s shop counter.
Once all seven chests are found, you’ll gain access to a collection of festive crafting recipes—many of which are needed for the seasonal bundle board.
1. First Chest – Hydrating by the Inn’s Outer Docks (E7)
The first clue leads you to the outskirts of Kilima Village, specifically behind the Inn where Reth and Ashura usually work. Search the wooden dock areas that extend outward and beneath the structure. A water tank sits against the side of the building—behind it, you’ll spot the chest cleverly tucked away.
Coordinate: E7
2. Second Chest – Slipped on the Rocks Near Embra’s Shrine (F4)
This riddle references Embra, the great phoenix of Palia. That instantly points you toward Phoenix Falls in the northern stretch of Kilima. Approach the large phoenix statue and look left of the first ramp that climbs toward the shrine. Nestled in the rocks near the riverbank lies your second chest.
Coordinate: F4
3. Third Chest – Above Mirror Pond Ruins (D3)
“By the pond” is your giveaway here—head straight for Mirror Pond Ruins. Because the clue mentions it “can’t find its way down,” look upward rather than at ground level. Near a fallen column that leans against a tree, you’ll find the chest resting on a higher ledge. You may need to glide in and rapidly press the loot button to claim it.
Coordinate: D3
4. Fourth Chest – Napping in Eshe’s Office (F7)
Only one building in Kilima has proper offices: the Town Hall. The clue suggests sleeping, but despite Mayor Kenli’s reputation for snoozing, the chest isn’t in his office. Instead, go upstairs into Eshe’s workspace. The chest is placed on the right-hand side as you step inside.
Coordinate: F7
5. Fifth Chest – Beneath the Village Gazebo (F7)
The next riddle points to a gazebo, and the most notable one in Kilima sits in the Village Center near Town Hall. During Winterlights, a decorated tree stands at its center. Approach the base of this tree and you’ll find the chest resting among the presents and festive décor.
Coordinate: F7
6. Sixth Chest – Behind Hekla’s Tent (C4)
This clue references Jina, but she does not have a house of her own in Kilima. The important detail is her close relationship with Hekla, who does have a noticeable campsite. Head to Hekla’s tent located in the northwestern area of Kilima. The chest is hidden behind the tent itself, partially obscured from view.
Coordinate: C4
7. Seventh Chest – In the Shadows Near “Butterball” (C6)
The final clue mentions Butterball, a name that isn’t explicitly explained in-game. However, the reference points toward livestock—and the main animal pens belong to Badruu’s family farm. Search the smaller of the Ormuu pens and check the tiny shed within. The last chest is sitting inside, completing your Winterlights collection.
Coordinate: C6
Winterlights Challenge Rewards
Completing Zeki’s scavenger hunt grants access to 23 Winterlights-themed crafting recipes, many of which are essential for seasonal decorating. The most important reward for progression is the Winterlights Stockings recipe, required to finish the Winterlights bundle board.
You’ll unlock festive furniture and decorations such as:
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Snowy benches, stools, and chairs
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Multiple Chapaa and Ormuu rugs
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Winterlights wreaths, plates, and toppers
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Skates, snowshoes, mitten décor, and more
Some items are gifted directly during the scavenger hunt, but most must be purchased from the event’s pop-up store.
Enhancing Your Palia Experience with GladiatorBoost
Whether you’re hunting Zeki’s chests, grinding skills, or gearing up for endgame housing aesthetics, progression in Palia can take time. GladiatorBoost’s Palia Boosting services offer a streamlined way to elevate your gameplay—providing expert assistance for farming, leveling, quest completion, and seasonal objectives. By linking up with skilled Palia specialists, players can enjoy a smoother, more rewarding adventure without the repetitive grind. It’s an excellent option for those wanting to focus on exploration, story progression, and festive events like Winterlights.
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