Harvesting Tradition & Innovation: Welcome to Apple Season at Himalayan Kothi

Himalayan Kothi
Jul 4
4 min read

Every year, when monsoon rains give way to cool autumn winds, something magical takes place in the hills of Himachal Pradesh — the apple harvest. At the apple orchards of Himalayan Kothi, this period is not merely a harvest time; it's a celebration of nature's rhythm, culture, and community.

The apple harvesting in Kullu typically begins in mid-July and continues until early October, depending upon the variety and height. With cold nights and warm sunny days, the orchards erupt into a red and green landscape as apples are juicy to the core. The dry crisp air and rich mineral soil give a special flavour and texture to the apples here — something you simply won't find in supermarket produce.

At Himalayan Kothi, our orchards have been cultivated with local knowledge that has been practiced for generations. We stick to age-old pruning, grafting, and tree care practices and support natural pest control and sustainable harvesting methods. It's this wonderful combination of tradition and conscious innovation that creates our apple experience so distinctive.

On-the-Ground Reality – People, Process & Passion

Behind each ripe apple plucked from Himalayan Kothi is a crew of hardworking people who live and breathe orchard life. From dawn till evening, local farmers and seasonal laborers go about hand-plucking, sorting, and stacking apples for distribution. Unlike commercial-scale orchards, our method is people-centric and community-driven.

Apples are carefully handpicked to avoid bruising, put into old-fashioned willow baskets, and then graded carefully. Some apples are bound for farm stands, others for homemade chutneys, jam, or fresh-pressed apple cider — one of the most popular guest treats at Himalayan Kothi.

As you stay here, you may listen to the tales of the orchardists — about childhood spent beneath the branches of apple trees, the delight of seeing the first bloom, or how the smell of ripening fruit indicates the onset of autumn every year. These are not apples — they are a lifestyle.

Visitor Experience – Come, Pluck, Taste, and Explore

Ever dreamed of picking apples from the branch, with crisp mountain air and Himalayan panoramas? At Himalayan Kothi, you can.

Our visitors are welcome to participate in the harvest — strolling through the orchards, basket in hand, picking ripe fruit, and learning how to spot different types of apples. From Royal Delicious to Golden and Gala there's plenty to explore, taste, and learn.

Besides apple picking, visitors can:

Enjoy orchard picnics with fresh apple juice, local Himachali snacks, and mountain views
Have a brief overview of organic apple farming from our in-house experts.
Attempt hands-on activities using traditional recipes
Sit in the shade of apple trees heavy with fruit over a steaming cup of tea

It's a serene, invigorating, and delicious way to reconnect with the earth and taste the true flavor of Himachal.

Challenges & Adaptation – A Changing Climate, A Resilient Tradition

As any other conventional farmer of the area, the workers who cultivate the apple orchards of Himalayan Kothi are increasingly affected by the rising problem of climate change. There have been some changes in flowering and yield timing due to unseasonal rain, variable temperatures of winters, and irregular ice phenologies. In certain seasons the flowers are too early, being spoiled by late snow.

But Himachali farmers are resilient. Many have adapted by:

Introducing climate-resilient apple varieties
Modifying irrigation and pruning practices
Shifting to natural pest management and regenerative agriculture soil practices

Taste the Orchard, Support the Tradition

We at Himalayan Kothi are committed to continuing and sustaining the local apple-growing tradition, while responding to today's challenges through thoughtful, sustainable means.

This apple harvest, don't simply read about it — experience it.

Whether you’re a curious traveler, a photography enthusiast, a foodie, or a family looking for a hands-on experience, the apple harvest at Himalayan Kothi offers a chance to unplug, breathe in the orchard air, and enjoy a slice of rural Himalayan life.

Visit us during the apple season to join the harvest, taste the freshness, and meet the hands behind every apple.
Be a part of it by buying farm-fresh apples or small-batch cider directly from our orchard.
Capture the moments among the apple blossoms, autumn skies, and the smiling faces that give life to this tradition.

FAQs – Apple Harvest at Himalayan Kothi

1. What is the ideal time for apple plucking at Himalayan Kothi?

The best apple picking season lasts from mid-July to early October. Each variety and climate determines the best time of year.

2. May I participate in the apple harvest as a visitor?

Yes! Visitors can come and participate in apple picking, sorting, and even production as part of our seasonal orchard activities.

3. Are the apples organically grown?

Yes, we employ conventional, low-impact farming methods and do not use harmful chemicals. We produce our apples through natural pest management and sustainable agriculture.

4. What do I wear for apple plucking?

Comfortable clothing, good shoes, and a sun hat are ideal for orchard walking and plucking sessions. Baskets and advice are also available for a safe and enjoyable experience.