Soaring prices of Kinnauri dry fruits dampen sales at Lavi Fair

The ongoing International Lavi Fair in Rampur, Shimla, has seen a surge in demand for traditional Kinnauri dry fruits and local hill products. However, escalating prices are putting these goods out of reach for many visitors. Products like Kinnauri chilgoza (pine nuts), apricots, black cumin, almonds, pulses, mushrooms (gucchi), and apricot oil have become key attractions but are priced steeply, slowing down sales in the market.

Chilgoza is being sold at Rs. 2,000 per kg, while the highly sought-after gucchi mushrooms are priced at Rs. 12,000 per kg. Other products, including walnuts, black cumin, kagzi almonds and apricots also come at a high cost, making them less accessible to the average fairgoer. Kidney beans are being sold between Rs 400 to Rs 500 per kg, depending on the quality.

Pinky, a vendor from Reckong Peo, shared that she has brought a range of local dry fruits, pulses and grains from Kinnaur. Almonds are priced at Rs 800 and chilgoza at Rs 2,000, while kidney beans vary from Rs 400 to Rs 500 per kg.

Similarly, Malnar, a regular participant from Poowari, Kinnaur, reported that while he offers products such as almonds at Rs. 1,400 and walnuts ranging from Rs. 500 to Rs. 600 per kilogram, the crowd at the fair seems to be dwindling daily.

Despite the price surge, some vendors like Ravindra Singh Negi from Khadar village are hopeful, noting that foot traffic at the fair is gradually improving.