Kakani turns red: Strawberry fields boost tourism & farmers’ income (photos)
Farmers say this shift has not only increased sales but also strengthened direct connections between producers and consumers.
KATHMANDU: Kakani is currently glowing red with the vibrant harvest of strawberries, turning its terraced hills into a striking landscape of natural abundance and agricultural charm.
Just a short drive from Kathmandu Valley, the area has transformed into a seasonal attraction where rows of ripe, red strawberries hang heavily on green slopes, reshaping both local livelihoods and rural tourism.
What makes Kakani especially popular this season is the rising trend of “you-pick” strawberry farming, where visitors no longer just buy the fruit—they walk into the fields and pick fresh strawberries straight from the plants themselves.
Families, young people, and tourists from Kathmandu are flocking to the farms to experience the harvest firsthand, capturing photos and enjoying the freshness on the spot.
Farmers say this shift has not only increased sales but also strengthened direct connections between producers and consumers.
Freshly picked strawberries are carefully weighed, packed, and sold on-site, making the marketing process more efficient and rewarding for local growers.
Women and young farmers in the region are playing a key role in this transformation, using strawberry farming as a stable and growing source of income alongside traditional household work.
The success of these farms reflects both improved rural entrepreneurship and changing agricultural practices in the region.
With its cool climate and fertile terrain, Kakani has proven ideal for strawberry cultivation, producing fruits known for their rich flavor and freshness.
Beyond agriculture, it is steadily emerging as a weekend destination for those seeking nature, food experiences, and hands-on farming activities.
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