#Kotgarh

[mysterioushimachal]

The Hidden Stories Behind Kotgarh’s Devta Marich Ji and His Ancient Rituals

[clearholidaysindia]

Narkanda Tourist Spot in shimla, Himachal Pradesh

Narkanda, a charming hill town in the Shimla district of Himachal Pradesh, India, is a hidden gem for travelers seeking peace and adventure. Located at an elevation of 2,708 meters, it offers stunning views of the Himalayan range and is surrounded by dense fir forests. Known for its serene environment, Narkanda is a great destination for nature lovers and those looking to escape the busy city life. In winter, it becomes a popular ski resort, attracting snow lovers from all around. Besides skiing, Narkanda is close to several offbeat places near Narkanda, making it a fantastic base for exploring the surrounding areas.

One of the most popular places to visit near Narkanda is Hatu Peak, just a short drive away. It offers a scenic trek through dense forests and leads to a stunning view of the snow-capped mountains. At the top, the Hatu Mata Temple stands as a spiritual spot for visitors to enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Another nearby attraction is Tani Jubbar Lake, a small but serene lake surrounded by pine trees, perfect for picnics and leisurely walks in nature.

For those seeking more adventure, the town of Kotgarh is another great places to visit near Narkanda. Famous for its apple orchards, Kotgarh offers travelers a chance to explore the beautiful countryside and taste fresh apples straight from the trees. The quiet village atmosphere, combined with the stunning views of the valley, makes it an ideal spot for a relaxing day trip. With its natural beauty and adventure-filled surroundings, Narkanda promises an unforgettable experience for every traveler.

[orchardsbox]

Shimla Apples – A Complete Guide to India’s Most Loved Apples

Introduction

Shimla apples are among the most popular and most sought-after apples in India. Grown in the picturesque orchards of Himachal Pradesh, Shimla apples are extremely prized for their sweetness, crunch, and typical red color. Not only a delicious fruit but also extremely nutritious and a first choice as a healthy diet option.

Shimla apple industry is a significant contributor to India's agricultural economy, giving the state its livelihood to a great extent. These apples are exported across the country and even internationally, making them one of the fruit favorites.

Here in this blog, we will be covering all that there is about Shimla apples like their history, benefits, varieties, season, price, and how to buy them online.

History and Origin of Shimla Apples

The saga starts with the apple farming of the early 20th century when American missionary Samuel Evan Stokes introduced apple farming at Kotgarh in Himachal Pradesh. Over a period of time, the practice of apple farming got extended to nearly all areas in Himachal Pradesh, whether Shimla, Kinnaur, and Kullu, and has become a leader in Indian apple production.

Today, half a million orchards in Shimla provide quality fruits packed with top-class flavor and long shelf life.

Why Should Shimla Apples Be So Popular?

Shimla apples are very popular in India due to the following reasons:

✅ 1. Exceptional Taste & Texture

They have a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness.

Their firm and crunchy texture makes them a pleasure to eat.

✅ 2. Nutrient-Rich & Healthy

Chock-full of fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.

Supports heart health, digestion, and immunity.

✅ 3. Long Shelf Life

They last fresh for weeks when stored well.

✅ 4. Grown in an Ideal Climate

Himachal Pradesh's high-altitude climate ensures natural sweetness and freshness.

Varieties of Shimla Apples

There are a few varieties of apples grown in Shimla. The most in-demand ones are:

1. Royal Delicious

Most popular variety, deep red in color, and crisp.

Sweet with a light tangy undertone.

2. Golden Delicious

Yellow-green in color and sweeter than Royal Delicious.

Soft texture and juicy.

3. Red Delicious

Dark red colored with slight sweetness.

Usually used for juices and desserts.

4. Granny Smith (Green Apples)

Sour and tangy taste, best for weight loss.

Typically used in salads and baking.

 5. Maharaja Apples

Premium variety, larger in size and very sweet.

Best used for raw eating or making apple cider vinegar.

6. Shimla Apple Season – Best Time to Buy

Shimla apples have a specific season for picking, which affects their prices and availability.

Schedule of Apple Picking:

Early Season: July – August (First picking begins)

Peak Season: September – November (Apples at the peak ripeness)

Late Season: December – February (Supply is low, prices are steep)

For fresh picked and low-priced apples, it is ideal to buy between September and November when apples are at their peak ripeness.

Nutritional Value of Shimla Apples

Shimla apples are nutrient-rich but low-calorie. The following is a nutrition breakdown per 100 grams:

Nutrient Amount

Calories 52 kcal

Carbohydrates 14 g

Fiber 2.4 g

Sugar 10 g

Protein 0.3 g

Fat 0.2 g

Vitamin C 8% of Daily Value

Potassium 107 mg

Such nutrients make apples the best option for adopting a healthy lifestyle.

Health Benefits of Shimla Apples

Consumption of Shimla apples on a regular daily basis has the following health benefits:

 1. Enhances Immunity

Packed with vitamin C, which makes the immune system strong.

Aids in the fight against infections, cold, and flu.

 2. Digestion Support

Packed with fiber, which helps in healthy digestion.

Avoids bloating and constipation.

 3. Weight Loss Support

Low calorie and rich in fiber, keeping you full for longer.

Perfect snack for dieting individuals.

 4. Regulates Blood Sugar

Low glycemic index (GI) makes it perfect for diabetics.

Avoids sudden spikes of sugar.

 5. Heart Health

Reduces the level of bad cholesterol (LDL).

Improves blood circulation and heart function.

 6. Improves Skin Health

Antioxidants reduce wrinkles and fine lines.

Keeps skin glowing and shiny.

7. Detoxifies the Body

Removes toxins and keeps the liver healthy.

8. Prevents Cancer

Flavonoids and antioxidants reduce the risk of cancer.

 9. Strengthens Bones

Vitamin K and calcium construct strong bones and reduce the risk of osteoporosis.

10. Boosts Brain Function

Increases memory and mental function.

Where to Buy Shimla Apples Online

If you want to buy fresh Shimla apples without going out to a market, then online portals are the ideal solution. Some dependable websites are given below:

Online Store.Features

BigBasket.Fresh apples, home delivery in cities

Amazon Fresh.Hand Picked apples of highest quality, next-day delivery

Flipkart Grocery.Value for money pricing, discount on bulk order

Orchards Box.Direct import from farms in Himachal

Nature's Basket.Quality apples, organic option available

Buying online gives assurance of convenience, freshness, and doorstep delivery.

How to Store Shimla Apples Correctly?

To store Shimla apples correctly, follow these storage tips:

✔️ ️ Chill them – Store apples in the fridge at 0-4°C.

✔️ ️ Keep away from other fruits – Apples produce ethylene gas, and this will make other fruits ripen quickly.

✔️ ️ Store in an airtight container – Does not let moisture escape and keeps them crunchy.

✔️ Consume within 7-10 days – For best taste and texture.

Fun Methods to Enjoy Shimla Apples

Raw eating as a healthy snack.

Salad using walnuts and feta cheese.

Blended with banana and yogurt.

Cooking for apple pie and muffin.

With peanut butter or cheese.

Apple juice or apple cider vinegar making.

These wonderful ideas will enable you to include apples in your regular diet.

Conclusion

Shimla apples are among the best apples in India with a rich flavor and a host of health advantages. Either buying them fresh at a market or ordering them on the internet, the apples make a great part of your meal plan. From their health benefits to their shelf life that spans months, Shimla apples still remain a fruit lover's delight. So the next time you crave something sweet and crunchy, grab a Shimla apple and enjoy nature's bounty!

[brahmandtour91]

Odisha Tribal Tour Package

If you love to explore diverse cultures and eager to learn about indigenous traditions, there is no better experience than embarking on a tour of Odisha's tribal villages. Odisha is home to a rich cultural heritage, with numerous ethnic tribes that have preserved their ancient customs and ways of life. Odisha tribal tour package offers a unique opportunity to explore small tribal villages, engage with the local people, know their traditions, and shop at vibrant weekly markets.

Our carefully designed 13 Days Odisha tribal tour ensures a seamless and enriching journey through some of the state's most remarkable tribal regions. Starting Price: 2980 $ Per person Destinations Covered: Bhubaneshwar - Pipli-Puri- Chilika Lake-Gopalpur-Raygada-Kotgarh- Chatikona - Semiliguda- Kunduli- Vishakhapatnam

Join us on this unforgettable journey into the heart of Odisha's tribal culture, where you can immerse yourself in a world untouched by modernity. Find all details of this extraordinary cultural experience:

[theancienttimesnews]

Heavy rain in Himachal : 5 killed in landslide’s

Heavy rain fall in Himachal triggering landslides, damaging houses and leaving five people dead, report by officials on Sunday To add on such sad scenes three members of family were killed in a collapse following landslide Because of heavy rain in kotgarh area of Shimla district. A landslide also damaged a makeshift house near Kullu town ,leaving a women dead. An another Incident a person…

[shimlalife]

Lost Lost is a lovely place to find yourself. And when you’re with the right person at Lost place silence is never uncomfortable. Beautiful View Tanijubber Lake Kotgarh Shimla Hills . . Location: Kotgarh, Shimla | #HimachalPradesh . . 📸 @chandel_amit_ #ShimlaLife #Kotgarh #Winters #Lake #Snow #December (at Kotgarh, Himachal Pradesh, India) https://www.instagram.com/p/B6AmkXNnE_m/?igshid=1hf4rayjblmji

[adventure-himalayas]

Always dreamt of a life in the mountains - the awe-inspiring views, fresh air, steaming tea/ coffee/maggi, warm welcoming locals.? Find all this and more... spend some time with us and try the good life. DM for queries. @cottages_in_hatu #narkanda #shimla #himachalpradesh #himachal #hatupeak #mountains #travel #nature #india #rohru #himachaltourism #shimlahills #shimladiaries #manali #kinnaur #kotgarh #kufri #rampur #kullu #pahadi #travelphotography #theog #photography #dharamshala #himalayas #instahimachal #narkandahills #instagram #naturephotography #adventurehimalayas (at Aagyatvas Narkanda) https://www.instagram.com/p/CYgpO_DvqaL/?utm_medium=tumblr

[mysterioushimachal]

Unveiling the Juicy Secrets of Cherries: Nature's Delightful Gift

Cherries are delightful fruit known for their vibrant colour, juicy flesh, and sweet-tart flavour. In the Upper Shimla area of Himachal Pradesh, India, particularly in regions like Kotgarh, Kumarsain, Baghi, and Kothkai, cherry cultivation thrives due to favourable climatic conditions and fertile soil. The Upper Shimla region, located at a higher altitude, offers a cooler climate, which is ideal…

[santyhopes]

Shimla Life. #himachalpradesh #deodar #mallroad #redumbrella #red #snow #umbrella #kotgarh #givemered #himalayans #himachal #himachali #himachaldiaries #himalayangeographic #portrait #portraitphotography #portraitmode #portraits #portrait_ig #instagramphoto #canon60d #canon #lady #instagramportraits #amritsar #haryana #bengaluru #hyderabad #lucknow #agra (at Kufri Hill Station) https://www.instagram.com/p/B2q5YB0nJmV/?igshid=1fq20dolb9q4g

[themumukshusoul-blog]

#thehimalayanvoyager #themumukshusoul #vanvaascampsnarkanda #vanvaascamping #campinglife #malangisback #TADBEER #MNCFEST2021 #himalayas #himachalpradesh #himachal #india #unforgettablehimachal #himachaltourism #Narkanda #kotgarh❤️ #hatupeak https://www.instagram.com/p/CUCE3VxvHYP/?utm_medium=tumblr

[himachalguide]

"Banka Mulk" is a charming Himachali folk song.It is recreated by @lokiverma_ where he takes on a musical sojourn across #himachalpardesh . His melodious voice sings liltingly and invites you to journey across this beautiful state as he praises the specialties of the various regions of Himachal Pradesh – from #chamba and #khajjiar (the Minjar ka mela), #kinnaur #kotgarh #kullu #manali #lahaulspiti #mandi #pangivalley #renukalake (the famous tiraath sthaan) to the famed #hillstation of #shimla and the #jakhutemple . He sings about the scenic beauty, #villageculture and #festivals , the #foodgrains of #una , #appleorchard #temples , the snow clad, pristine environment and the simple, friendly people of the state. #traditonal #folkmusic #himachalsongs #pahadisong (at Himachal - beautiful loving place in world) https://www.instagram.com/p/CEoWd8Hp6wB/?igshid=3fk3o8acgqk0

[amit-raj]

Set to go........✈️✈️✈️ #dji #djiglobal #djiphantom4pro #dronestagram #dronegear #drones #himachalpictures #kotgarh #deodarcottage #nikon #nikon750 #jbl #jblextreme #binoculars #traveler #travels #goantravels #24fhq #indiauntamed #himachal_diaries (at Kotgarh, Himachal Pradesh, India)

[transformingtravel09]

Narkanda & Kotgarh: The Apple Basket of India | Transforming Travels

transformingtravels.com

Narkanda, Thanedar, Kotgarh, and its surrounding areas make the “apple basket of India”. Do you feel excited to visit an apple orchard and relish freshly plucked apples? Does the idea of driving through roads dotted with the beautiful scenery of apple orchards give you goosebumps? We would also experience an amazing trek and some of the sightseeing places during this long weekend trip to the apple basket of India.

Narkanda, a sleepy little town surrounded by fir forests, lies in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh at a distance of 60 km from Shimla. The landscape of Narkanda is captivating, and the environment is peaceful, which means that Narkanda has stayed away from the commercialisation as compared to its surrounding destinations. It’s one of the closest offbeat destinations from Delhi, in the mountains.

[theblogstoday]

7 Surprising Places In Shimla And How To Get There On Your Next Holiday - The Blogs Today

Here are some surprising places to visit in Shimla: Narkanda, Kiarighat, Naldehra, Shoja, Karsog, Tirthan Valley, Kotgarh. Read full blog https://theblogstoday.com/travel/7-surprising-places-in-shimla-and-how-to-get-there-on-your-next-holiday/

[onehimachal]

Tani Jubbar Lake is situated at a distance of 70 KMs from Shimla towards Thanedhar, Kotgarh. The place is 12 kms from Narkanda. 📸 @offtheorytravler #onehimachal #tanijubbar https://instagr.am/p/CebbuPqJhac/