First Himalayan spice garden in Ranikhet

In an area of 4 acres, a first of its kind in the entire Indian Himalayan Region and Country, the Himalayan spice garden was inaugurated today by Mr. Shekhar Pathak, noted historian and Padma Shree awardee. It showcases major Himalayan spices, ranging from Kesar of Kashmir to the famed Tejpat (which was the first species in Uttarakhand to receive a Geographical Indicator Tag), Timoor, and Wild Heeng, found in the Bhairoghati area of Uttarkashi District.

It has been established in an area of around 4 acres in Ranikhet with funding from the Japanese International Cooperation Agency (JICA) over a period of two years. It has been developed by the Research Wing of the Uttarakhand Forest Department. It presently houses more than 30 different spices, of which there are 8 spices from the Allium family (onion) of the Himalayan region.

The Chief Conservator of Forest Uttarakhand Research Wing, Dr. Sanjiv Chaturvedi, exhorts that the main objective of the establishment of this spice garden was to popularise and create awareness about various spices of the Indian Himalayan region. These spices are highly nutritious and delicious and have been part of Himalayan cuisine since time immemorial. However, due to various regions, these could not be popularised as much in other parts of the country. It will also enhance livelihood opportunities by linking it with the Self-Help Group (SHG) of women.

Apart from other spices, it has Kala jeera (which grows at very high altitude area only and is more nutrient/spicy than common one), Jakhya (one of the most popular spices of Garhwal region, used for tempering Daal and vegetables), Gandrayani (Pungent spice used as a flavoring agent in vegetable and daal), Badri tulsi (Origanum vulgare), Lakhori Mirchi of Almora (having a very distinct yellow color and unique to Almora, this chili is extremely hot and has antidiabetic, antibacterial properties and rich in vitamin C) and Jambu (Leaves used for seasoning and also as vegetable and in soup) The garden has an interpretation centre also, where information about these spices has been displayed, added Chaturvedi.