Mustang, 27 Oct: Tourists are visiting apple orchards in Marpha, located in Ward No. 2 of Gharpajhong Rural Municipality in Mustang district, to explore the gardens and purchase fresh apples directly from farmers as the harvest continues after the Dashain festival.
Around 50 percent of Mustang’s apples had been transported to markets before Dashain. However, harvesting and distribution are continuing at a rapid pace even after the festival. According to the Agriculture and Livestock Development Office, approximately 80 percent of the district’s apples are expected to be transported to markets before the Tihar festival.
The office estimates that around 8,000 metric tonnes of apples worth approximately NPR 1.14 billion are marketable this year. Mustang, renowned for its cool climate and suitable growing conditions, is one of Nepal’s major apple-producing districts.
Apple orchards in Marpha and surrounding areas have become attractive destinations for domestic tourists. Visitors can walk through the gardens, observe farmers harvesting apples and purchase fresh produce directly from the orchards. This experience offers tourists an opportunity to enjoy the rural landscape while learning about local agriculture and the region’s apple-growing tradition.
The cool weather in Mustang helps maintain the quality of apples during the harvesting season. According to the Agriculture and Livestock Development Office, the apples are expected to retain their quality until the end of Kartik, which generally falls in October or November.
Apple cultivation is an important source of income for many households in Mustang. The seasonal harvest supports farmers, traders, transport operators and other businesses involved in the supply chain. The increasing interest of tourists in visiting orchards also offers opportunities to promote agricultural tourism in the district.
Mustang’s distinctive landscape, mountain scenery and traditional villages already attract visitors from across Nepal and abroad. Combining these attractions with orchard visits and fresh apple purchases could further strengthen local tourism and provide additional income opportunities for farmers.
With harvesting continuing after Dashain and much of the remaining produce expected to reach markets before Tihar, Mustang’s apple industry is entering a crucial period. Farmers and traders are working to distribute the seasonal harvest while maintaining the quality of one of the district’s best-known agricultural products.
