Apple orchard tours and tasting
Experience the heart of Himachal's apple country. This guided orchard tour takes you through the famous apple belts of Thanedar and Kotgarh in Shimla district — walk between terraced orchards, meet local farmers, taste fresh apple varieties (and products), learn about cultivation and post-harvest processes, and enjoy panoramic Himalayan views. The tour suits families, couples, foodies, and anyone interested in agritourism.
Location
Thanedar & Kotgarh apple orchards (Kotgarh-Bagthali / Thanedar belt), Shimla (Shimla district, Himachal Pradesh), India
Duration
Half-day (3–4 hours) or Full-day (6–8 hours) options
Best Time to Visit
September–November (apple harvest & best tasting). March–April (apple blossom season) is spectacular for scenery and photography.
Pricing
Typical pricing (per person):
- Shared group half-day: INR 900–1,500 (~USD 11–19) — transfer + orchard walk + tasting.
- Shared group full-day: INR 1,500–2,500 (~USD 19–31) — includes lunch (local meal), tasting, demo on grafting/packing.
- Private/Customized tour (up to 4 people): INR 3,500–6,000 (~USD 43–75) depending on inclusions and vehicle.
What’s usually included: transport (Shimla round-trip or nearby pick-up), guide/farmer interaction, tasting session, bottled water, basic insurance (if offered by operator). Not included: personal purchases (apples/apple products), tips, entrance to private homestays (if any), food beyond stated meals.
Activity Type
Coordinates
Highlights
Guided walk through terraced apple orchards with expert farmer commentary
Fresh tasting of multiple apple varieties (Royal Delicious, Red Delicious, American varieties, local cultivars)
Sampling of apple products: cider (non-alcoholic or local variants), jams, juices, dried apples and chutneys
Live demo on pruning, grafting and post-harvest sorting/packing
Scenic views of the Himalayas and rural Himachali villages
Opportunity to buy fresh apples directly from farmers (farm gate prices)
Itinerary
Pickup from Shimla (or nearby agreed point)
Travel by shared or private vehicle; travel time ~1–1.5 hours depending on exact start point and season.
Arrival & orientation at Kotgarh orchard
Short introduction to orchard layout and safety; footwear check for muddy/uneven paths.
Guided orchard walk & tasting
Walk among trees, try 3–5 varieties; farmer explains pruning, pest management and harvest techniques.
Farm demo and Q&A
See grafting/pruning demo (seasonal), learn about storage and market practices.
Lunch (full-day option) / Local snack (half-day)
Simple Himachali meal or packed lunch; inform operator about dietary restrictions in advance.
Visit to small processing unit (optional)
Observe how jams/juices/dried fruit are made; opportunity to buy souvenirs.
Return to Shimla
Drop-off at original pickup point; timing varies with traffic and route.
Safety Requirements
Wear sturdy footwear suitable for uneven and sometimes muddy orchard terrain
Carry warm layers — temperature can drop quickly in mornings/evenings
Inform operator of any food allergies (apple products, nuts) before tasting sessions
If prone to altitude sickness, consult a doctor — orchards sit at moderate hill elevations; drink water and rest as needed
Follow farmer/guide instructions — do not climb trees or enter restricted farm buildings without permission
Tips
Book early during harvest (Sept–Nov) and blossom (Mar–Apr) seasons — slots fill fast.
Carry cash for small purchases — many farmers prefer cash and may not accept cards.
Bring a camera and spare batteries — blossom season offers spectacular photo opportunities.
Sample multiple varieties; ask farmers about storage tips if you plan to buy a larger quantity.
Respect private property and local customs; ask before photographing people.
Wear sun protection (hat & sunscreen) even on cool days, and pack a small daypack for purchases.
If you want hands-on experience (picking or grafting), request this when booking — not always available.
