Eco-Friendly Apple Farming in the Himalayas – A Horticulture Journey
Tour Duration: 13 Nights/ 14 Days
Tour Destinations: Himachal Pradesh (Solan, Shimla, Thanedar, Sangla, Kalpa, Sarahan, JAICA-supported villages), Delhi, Chandigarh
Apple Orchard & Agricultural Learning Experience
• Visit Dr. YS Parmar University of Horticulture & Forestry for expert insights into pomology, fruit science, and modern horticulture practices.
• Explore JAICA-supported villages including Katagaon, Nichar, Bhabanagar, Malling, Pooh, and Sarahan to witness sustainable apple farming and rural development driven by global collaboration.
• Enjoy hands-on orchard stays, offering a unique opportunity to live amidst apple gardens and gain practical learning in real farm environments.
• Participate in specialized workshops & interactive lectures on pest control, high-density plantation, natural/organic farming methods, post-harvest handling, and farmer-driven extension programs.
• Discover the rich culture and spiritual heritage through temple visits and interactions with mountain communities, enhancing your rural tourism experience.
Day 01: Delhi → Chandigarh
• Welcome arrival in Delhi and smooth transfer to Chandigarh.
• Introductory briefing on Himachal Pradesh’s horticulture and thriving apple industry.
• Overnight stay in Chandigarh.
Day 02: Chandigarh → Nauni University (Solan)
• Scenic drive to Nauni, Solan.
• Check-in at Dr. YS Parmar University accommodation.
• Guided campus tour: Departments of Pomology & Fruit Science, research orchards.
• Evening expert session on sustainable apple orchard management.
• Overnight in university guesthouse.
Day 03: Nauni University → Thanedar
• Morning visit to horticulture laboratories and nurseries (subject to availability).
• Drive to Thanedar via the breathtaking Narkanda route.
• Training session on high-density apple plantation and modern horticulture technology.
• Overnight stay at an orchard resort in Thanedar.
Day 04: Thanedar / Kotgarh
• Explore premium apple orchards in Thanedar & Kotgarh, including historic Stokes Farm.
• Hands-on learning about top apple varieties like Royal, Red & Golden Delicious.
• Optional nature walk to Tani Jubbar Lake.
• Overnight in Thanedar.
Day 05: Thanedar → Sangla Valley
• Drive to the stunning Sangla Valley.
• Visit JAICA-supported village Katagaon for insights on community-led apple farming & rural upliftment.
• Evening interaction with local growers and horticulture facilitators.
• Overnight stay in Sangla.
Day 06: Sangla → Chitkul → Sangla
• Field excursion to Chitkul – India’s last inhabited Himalayan village.
• Study traditional high-altitude orchard systems.
• Explore JAICA-supported Nichar & Bhabanagar villages promoting sustainable horticulture.
• Bonfire & group reflection session.
• Overnight in Sangla.
Day 07: Sangla → Malling → Kalpa
• Educational visit to JAICA-assisted Malling village, known for advanced orchard practices.
• Drive to Kalpa and check-in to a scenic orchard property.
• Evening lecture on Kinnaur’s exclusive apple varieties and cultural importance.
• Overnight in Kalpa.
Day 08: Kalpa – Orchard & Cultural Immersion
• Visit Kalpa Monastery and heritage Roghi Village.
• Practical workshop on pest control and climate-resilient apple cultivation.
• Meet horticulture experts and local farmer groups.
• Overnight in Kalpa.
Day 09: Kalpa → Pooh → Sarahan
• Visit Pooh village to study large-scale orchard development and livelihood programs.
• Continue to Sarahan and explore the iconic Bhimkali Temple.
• Overnight stay in Sarahan.
Day 10: Sarahan → Shimla
• Study tour in Sarahan focusing on integrated orchard development.
• Drive to Shimla and check-in at hotel.
• Overnight in Shimla.
Day 11: Shimla (2200M)
• Sightseeing tour: Jakhoo Hill Temple, The Ridge & Christ Church.
• Optional revisit to Nauni University for nursery & lab interactions.
• Academic workshop on climate impact and future of Himachal horticulture.
• Overnight in Shimla.
Day 12: Shimla → Chandigarh → Delhi
• Drive back to Delhi via Chandigarh.
• Wrap-up presentations and reflection on sustainable apple farming learning outcomes.
• Overnight Delhi stay.
Day 13: Academic Visit in Delhi
• Optional visit to IARI or a premier botanical garden for further agricultural exposure.
• Evening cultural experience or leisure time for shopping/sightseeing.
• Overnight in Delhi.
Day 14: Departure from Delhi
• Transfer to airport for onward journey with enriched knowledge and unforgettable experiences.
Inclusions
• Daily Breakfast & Dinner
• All sightseeing and transfers in a comfortable AC vehicle as per itinerary
• Entry to horticulture institutes, orchards & workshops (as applicable)
• Toll taxes, parking fees & driver allowances
• All applicable hotel taxes
Package Exclusions
• Airfare or train tickets not included
• Personal expenses such as portage, laundry, room services, tips, etc.
• Charges for optional adventure or leisure activities
• Additional meals or services not mentioned under inclusions
• Expenses due to unforeseen situations like flight delays, strikes, weather issues, or emergency evacuations
• 5% GST applicable as per government regulations
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