Kashmiri almonds have long been a symbol of purity, nutrition, and heritage, yet today these iconic orchards are rapidly disappearing from the Valley.

The Silent Disappearance of Kashmiri Almond Orchards: A Crisis No One Is Talking About

By KASHMIRCART™ — Authentic Kashmiri Produce & Ground Reality Insights

Not long ago, the road from Budgam to Srinagar International Airport was lined with flourishing almond orchards. Every spring, these trees painted Kashmir’s landscape in soft white and pink hues. Today, much of that beauty has vanished—replaced by concrete structures, apple orchards, and shrinking farmlands.

The decline of Kashmiri almonds, among the finest and most nutrient-rich in the world, is not just an agricultural concern. It is a cultural, economic, and ecological loss. At KASHMIRCART™, we work closely with growers across the Valley, witnessing firsthand how this heritage crop is struggling to survive.

Urbanisation and the Shrinking Almond Belt

Rapid urban expansion across central and south Kashmir has consumed thousands of hectares once dedicated to almond cultivation. Districts such as Budgam, Pulwama, and Awantipora—historically known for almonds—have seen large-scale land-use changes over the last two decades.

Official data indicates that land under almond cultivation in Kashmir declined by nearly 75% between 2006 and 2020. What was once a defining feature of the Kashmiri countryside is slowly disappearing.

Why Farmers Are Abandoning Almond Orchards

1. Poor Market Returns

Maintaining an almond orchard requires year-round effort—pruning, irrigation, pest control, and harvesting. Annual costs often range between ₹50,000 and ₹80,000 per acre. Unfortunately, local almond prices frequently fail to cover these expenses, making cultivation financially unsustainable for many farmers.

2. Shift from Almonds to Apples

Apple cultivation offers quicker returns, better government support, established mandis, and stable demand. As a result, many villages have replaced up to 90–95% of their almond orchards with apple trees.

Kashmir: Still India’s Almond Heartland

Despite the decline, Jammu & Kashmir remains India’s leading almond-producing region, accounting for over 90% of the country’s production.

• Major Kashmiri almond varieties: Makhdoon, Waris, Shalimar, Merced, Paper Shell
• Known for high oil content, natural sweetness, and organic growing conditions

Yet, these superior local varieties struggle to compete against heavily marketed imported almonds.

Infographic: Why Kashmiri Mamra Almonds Are Unique

Kashmiri Mamra almonds are prized for their irregular shape, intense flavor, and exceptional nutritional value. They are naturally grown, non-GMO, and harvested in small quantities—making them rare and highly valuable.

Impact of Imported Almonds on Local Growers

India’s almond imports—from California, Afghanistan, and Iran—have increased significantly over the years. These imported varieties benefit from strong branding, bulk supply chains, and aggressive pricing.

Ironically, the price difference between local and imported almonds is minimal, yet imported almonds dominate retail shelves. This has further weakened the market position of authentic Kashmiri almonds.

No Dedicated Dry Fruit Mandi in Kashmir

Despite being India’s largest producer of almonds and other dry fruits, Kashmir still lacks a dedicated dry fruit mandi. Growers often depend on external markets, reducing their bargaining power and increasing reliance on middlemen.

This structural gap has played a major role in discouraging farmers from continuing almond cultivation.

A Ray of Hope: Modern Almond Farming

Recent horticulture initiatives have introduced almonds into high-density plantation programs aimed at improving yield, quality, and farm profitability. Experts believe that with scientific practices and proper market access, Kashmiri almonds can once again thrive.

How KASHMIRCART™ Is Preserving Kashmiri Almond Heritage

At KASHMIRCART™, we go beyond selling dry fruits. We work directly with Kashmiri farmers to ensure fair pricing, authenticity, and sustainable sourcing. Every purchase helps preserve traditional almond farming and supports local livelihoods.

Final Thoughts

The decline of Kashmiri almond orchards is not inevitable. With conscious consumer choices, policy support, and responsible platforms like KASHMIRCART™, this heritage crop can reclaim its rightful place.

Choosing authentic Kashmiri almonds is no longer just a preference—it is a responsibility.