Apple is the major fruit that is cultivated in Kashmir. It is cultivated in all parts of the valley along with walnuts, pears and pomegranates. Kashmiri Apple is famous in all the parts of world with its distinct taste and color.
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ToggleApple cultivation started in Kashmir almost a century ago. It is said that Apple farming was introduced in Kashmir by the English colonialists. When they saw the rich fertile land along with suitable climatic conditions in Kashmir, they introduced the apple varieties now known as Delicious Apple and Kashur Ambur.
Also see, Saffron in Kashmir
Apple Harvesting is one the most beautiful activities that you can at most places of Kashmir Valley in the beginning season of Autumn. This season is mark of autumn in Kashmir. This is marked with the golden surroundings as well as falling and crisping of leaves. This is the season that will give you the best possible excursion for you.
Usually, Apple harvesting starts in the month of august but the major season of Apple Harvesting happens in the month of September and late into the month of October. This is the season of autumn in Kashmir, where the chill of the season meets with the exhilaration of fall.
Apple is a fruit that is grown in the entire valley. However, you can easily visit the orchards in Budgam, Pampore, Ganderbal, Kulgam and Shopian. The Apple orchards of shopian are even more famous for the taste of apples as well as their harvesting.
Also read, 10 days Kashmir tour package
The apple harvesting season in Kashmir typically begins in September and continues until November, depending on the variety of apples and the altitude of the orchards.
Some of the most popular varieties of apples grown in Kashmir include Red Delicious, Golden Delicious, Ambri, Royal Gala, and Honeycrisp.
Yes, many orchards in Kashmir offer visitors the opportunity to participate in apple picking, providing a hands-on experience of the harvest.
Apple farming is a major source of income and employment in Kashmir, contributing significantly to the region’s economy through both domestic sales and exports.
Kashmiri apples are renowned for their exceptional flavor, vibrant color, and crisp texture, which are attributed to the region’s unique climate and fertile soil.
Apples are harvested by hand to ensure they are picked at peak ripeness without causing bruises. The fruits are carefully twisted off the branches and placed in baskets for sorting and grading.