Apples were not grown in Mustang until the 1960s, when the government set up a horticulture farm at Marpha, helped by foreign advisers, to test fruit suited to the dry, cold valley. The varieties thrived. Within a generation orchards spread to Tukuche, Jomsom and Kagbeni, and Marpha apples became a byword in Nepal for crisp, sweet fruit. Our walk starts near the farm, where you can see nursery rows and older trees.
In harvest season, from late August to October, families pick, sort and dry apples in courtyards and on rooftops. You may help pick a few, and buy fresh fruit for a fraction of city prices. Some households press juice and make jam and apple vinegar. Off season, the orchards are bare but the stores of dried fruit and bottles are still full.
We finish in a small family distillery where apple and apricot brandy is made in copper or steel pots. Tasting is informal: a few small glasses, explanations of how the fruit is fermented and distilled, and a chance to buy bottles. Pilgrims and non-drinkers are offered fresh juice and dried apple instead, and children enjoy apple pie in the lodge afterwards.
Good for
- Couples
- Families
- Groups
- Photographers
Questions travellers ask
When is apple season in Marpha?
Apples are harvested from late August to October, with September the peak month. Blossom season is April. Even outside harvest, shops sell dried apples, juice, jam, cider and brandy all year. Fresh apples in winter come from storage and are still good but less crisp.
How strong is Marpha brandy?
Strength varies by producer, but most local apple and apricot brandy is around 30–40 % alcohol, similar to commercial spirits, and some homemade batches are stronger. Taste carefully, especially at altitude, where alcohol affects you faster. Avoid alcohol entirely if you have any symptoms of altitude sickness.
Can I take Marpha brandy on the flight?
Yes, in checked baggage, packed well. Airlines in Nepal generally do not allow liquids over 100 ml in hand luggage on domestic flights from Pokhara and Kathmandu, and Jomsom flights have strict weight limits of about 10–15 kg. Indian customs allows a limited quantity of alcohol duty free; check current status before you travel.
