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Shimla: Famous Apple Orchards:
Known as the 'Queen of Hills', Shimla is surrounded by snow-capped Himalayan mountains and lush scenic valleys. This picturesque hill station is famous for its colonial architecture and, most notably, its succulent red apples that flourish in numerous apple orchards in Shimla. Visitors can explore these orchards, experience apple picking, and witness the region’s rich fruit cultivation heritage in Himachal Pradesh.
Exploring Shimla’s Apple Orchards
Do you love apples? Then you should definitely explore the apple orchards, Shimla. In and around the city, the apple orchards are enveloped in thick forests and rampant oaks and pines, creating an amicable environment. As you stroll through the apple garden in Shimla, you will be struck with a familiar sweet smell. Additionally, you can even grab one from the trees and take a fresh bite! The best time to visit apple orchards in Shimla is during the month of September when the apple trees are fully bloomed.
Mashobra apple farm in Shimla is one of the most famous apple gardens. The apple orchard situated 7000 above sea level is one of the enormous apple orchard estates in India. Apart from the availability of fresh and juicy apples, the orchard conserves a wide selection of flora and fauna. Starting in 1887, the Mashobra apple orchard was established by Alexander Coutts, also known as "Lord Dufferin". The centre later became a horticultural research hub specializing in fruits. As you step into the orchard, you will be greeted by several locals working in the garden. You will be able to closely witness how the scarlet apples in Shimla are grown. You can also choose to stay at the orchard resorts and enjoy the sunkissed golden Himalayan sunrise, or the luxurious The Orchid Hotel.
The story seems straight out of the Garden of Eden. Previously, apples were never grown in Shimla. They were imported from Japan and other places across the world. As part of his life experiments, a Philadelphia man, Samuel Evans Stokes sailed to India in 1904 in pursuit of a spiritual journey. In the 1920s, when the poverty-stricken Shimla was struggling under the colonial British rule, he decided to grow apples to look for a solution. A small village called Thanedar became the core of apple gardens in Shimla. Situated at 7000 ft above sea level, the small place comprising government buildings is surrounded by apple orchards on all sides. You can visit during the summer months when the crowd is less and the temperature is modest.
Shimla is known for its abundance of apples and apple orchards. Some of them that you must visit is the Thanedhar apple garden and Kotgarh village. Each of these places is filled with the riveting aroma of the fresh produce, amid the ethereal views of the hill station. A visit to these apple gardens is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity!
Experiences & Activities at Apple Orchards
Shimla’s apple orchards offer more than just scenic beauty:
- Apple Picking - Visitors can pluck fresh apples directly from the trees during the harvest season (September–October).
- Photography -Capture the lush green orchards with snow-capped mountains in the backdrop. A favorite for Instagram and travel photography enthusiasts.
- Learning Apple Farming -Interact with local farmers to understand apple cultivation, pruning techniques, and organic practices.
- Nature Walks & Picnics -Stroll amidst pine and oak trees, enjoy fresh air, and have a picnic with locally sourced fruits.
Seasonal Guide for Apple Orchard Visits
- September - October: Peak apple season, perfect for harvesting and tasting fresh fruit.
- Summer Months (May–June):Ideal for off-season visits, fewer crowds, pleasant weather, and golden Himalayan sunrises.
- Winter Months:Interact with local farmers to understand apple cultivation, pruning techniques, and organic practices.
Travel Tips for Families
- Kid-Friendly Activities: Apple picking, guided orchard tours, and photography walks.
- Elderly-Friendly Routes: Short orchard trails and easy access to resorts like The Orchid Shimla.
- Nearby Attractions: Combine your orchard visit with trips to Jakhoo Hills, Ridge, or the Heritage Walk.
- Essentials to Carry: Water bottles, hats, sunscreen, and comfortable footwear for orchard exploration.
FAQs
The ideal time to visit Shimla’s apple orchards is September, when apple trees are in full bloom. Summer months are also perfect for fewer crowds, pleasant weather, and a relaxing Himachal vacation.
The Orchid Hotel in Shimlais the perfect base for exploring apple orchards like Mashobra and Thanedar. Enjoy luxury rooms, fine dining, and convenient access to Shimla’s scenic apple gardens
Visitors can expect lush apple gardens, vibrant flora and fauna, and stunning Himalayan backdrops. Witness apple cultivation, taste freshly picked apples, and enjoy serene walks through the orchards for a memorable experience.
Yes! You can stroll through the orchards, pick fresh apples, learn apple farming techniques from locals, take photographs, and relax amidst the scenic beauty of Shimla’s apple gardens.
Most orchards, including Mashobra and Thanedar, are easily accessible from The Orchid Hotel in Shimla by car or local transport. Visitors can also plan guided tours or day trips for a hassle-free experience.
Contact Us
With a 75-year legacy of exceptional hospitality, Orchid Hotel invites you to connect with us. For inquiries regarding reservations, events, corporate partnerships, or media relations, please use the contact details below. Our team is committed to providing prompt and personalized assistance, ensuring your experience with our eco-conscious hotels is seamless and memorable.
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