Plizio Visual Lab

Mustang Apple Orchards

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Agriculture

Weather…

The apple orchards of Mustang, particularly those around the villages of Marpha and Jomsom, are a testament to successful high-altitude agriculture in Nepal. Apples from this region are nationwide famous for their unique sweetness and crispness, influenced by the intense mountain sunlight and cool nights. Commercial apple farming was introduced here in the 1960s through government initiatives to boost the local economy and provide sustainable livelihoods. Today, the orchards produce not just fresh fruit but also various value-added products like dried apple rings and the renowned Marpha Brandy, a favorite among trekkers. The irrigation of these orchards relies on sophisticated gravity-fed systems that draw water from pristine Himalayan glacial streams. These lush green spaces provide a remarkable visual contrast against the surrounding arid landscape, framed by the towering peaks of Nilgiri and Dhaulagiri. Harvesting season in the autumn transforms the valley with the aroma of fresh fruit, marking a key period for local trade and tourism.

Location: Nepal
Top sights: Dhampus Peak · Stupa · Chairo Gompa
Nearby: Jomsom (4 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug, Sep.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	-14	-13	-10	-5	-1	3	5	5	3	-3	-8	-11
Rain mm	15	22	28	36	81	151	247	186	130	47	4	6

📋 Practical info

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What is this place?

The Mustang apple orchards in Nepal's dry, windswept highlands, especially around Marpha, grow juicy, crisp apples at high altitude. They symbolise the region's agricultural adaptability and are an economic driver for local tourism.

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Visiting

The orchards are partly accessible to visitors, often for a small donation or purchase of produce. Many farmers allow a stroll through the fruit gardens during harvest.

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Where to view it

The terraced orchards offer an easy on the eye view from surrounding hiking trails, with green tree rows against the majestic Himalayan backdrop. The view from the hills above Marpha is especially striking.

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Local products

Travellers can buy fresh apples directly from farmers, as well as homemade apple juice, cider and dried apple pieces. These products are often available at markets in Marpha and Jomsom.

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Active season

The main apple harvest season in Mustang is from September to October, when the fruits reach full ripeness. This is when the plantations are busiest and apple festivals take place in the villages.

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Nearby

A visit pairs perfectly with a trek through the Mustang Valley, known for its Buddhist monasteries and the ancient cave city of Kagbeni. The airstrip at Jomsom is also a good starting point for further exploration.

Geography

Coordinates

28.75330, 83.68410

Facts

Commercial apple farming was introduced in the 1960s.
The village of Marpha is known as the apple capital of Nepal.
Orchards are situated at altitudes above 2,500 meters.
Primary varieties include Royal Delicious and Golden Delicious.
The local Marpha Brandy is a popular distilled product here.
The peak harvest season occurs in September and October.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Jomsom4 km · NExplore →

Ghorepani (Poon Hill)5 km · WExplore →

Kali Gandaki Valley5 km · SWExplore →

Baglung11 km · SWExplore →

Waling13 km · NWExplore →

Ghandruk14 km · NExplore →

Annapurna I15 km · NExplore →

Kali Gandaki River15 km · SWExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

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Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Mustang Apple Orchards (4)

Dhampus Peak🌿 nature

A popular 6,012-meter trekking peak offering exceptional views of the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna massifs.

Stupa ⛪ religious

A traditional whitewashed Buddhist monument adorned with prayer flags in the arid landscape of Mustang.

Chairo Gompa 📍 landmark

A historic Nyingma monastery located near Marpha, known for its ancient murals and spiritual heritage.

Monastery 📍 landmark

A serene Buddhist monastery set among the famous apple orchards of the Kali Gandaki valley.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

When is apple harvest time?

Harvest time is usually in September and October.

Can you buy apples?

Yes, local products are freshly available in the villages.

Why do the apples taste so good?

The cool mountain climate favors an intense aroma.

Is Mustang open to tourists?

Yes, but you need a special permit.

Are there apple products?

Yes, apple wine and dried apples are specialties.

Mustang Apple Orchards: where is it located?

Mustang Apple Orchards is located in Nepal.

Mustang Apple Orchards: what is there to see?

Highlights include Dhampus Peak, Stupa, Chairo Gompa.

Mustang Apple Orchards: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug, Sep.

Mustang Apple Orchards: why is it worth visiting?

The apple orchards of Mustang, particularly those around the villages of Marpha and Jomsom, are a testament to successful high-altitude agriculture in Nepal.

View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →

Mustang Apple Orchards

Best time to visit & climate