Kalimpong, West Bengal

Kalimpong apples (including Kinnaur variety)

Apples from the temperate orchards of Kalimpong, with the district's own apple orchard at Fikkalay Gaon (about 9 km from town, the only orchard of its kind in North Bengal) and apple vendors concentrated around Lava. Kalimpong farmers are now even striking gold with the golden Kinnaur variety grown locally in increasing quantities. Orchard-grown fruit is sold fresh in town markets and orchard gates in autumn. Buyers get crisp, locally grown apples with a short farm-to-buyer distance.

Typical price: ₹100-1200

Buying tip: Visit in autumn (October-December) when orchards at Fikkalay Gaon and Lava are picking; buy by the 4-5 kg box from local retailers and check for bruises before travelling down the hill.