Which City Is Known as the Strawberry Capital of India?

Strawberry is one of the most popular premium fruits in India, valued for its vibrant colour, sweet flavour, and nutritional richness. While strawberry cultivation is limited to specific climatic zones, one hill town has earned nationwide recognition for its high-quality strawberries, commercial cultivation, and strong market presence. That place is widely known as the Strawberry Capital of India.

Strawberry Capital of India

Mahabaleshwar is known as the Strawberry Capital of India. Located in the Satara district of Maharashtra, this hill station has become synonymous with strawberry farming due to its favourable climate, fertile soil, and long-standing tradition of cultivating premium-quality strawberries. Mahabaleshwar strawberries dominate Indian markets during the peak season.

Why Is Mahabaleshwar Called the Strawberry Capital of India?

Mahabaleshwar is called the Strawberry Capital of India because it produces the highest quantity of high-quality strawberries at the town level and supplies a major share of fresh strawberries to Indian cities. The region’s cool temperatures, misty weather, and red laterite soil are ideal for strawberry cultivation. Over time, Mahabaleshwar developed advanced farming techniques and efficient market linkages, strengthening its leadership in strawberry production.

Where Is Mahabaleshwar Located?

Mahabaleshwar is located in the Western Ghats of Maharashtra, about 120 km from Pune. Its high altitude ensures cooler temperatures compared to surrounding regions. The town receives heavy monsoon rainfall, which enhances soil fertility and supports horticultural crops like strawberries, mulberries and raspberries.

Climate and Soil Advantage for Strawberry Farming

Mahabaleshwar offers ideal temperature conditions ranging between 10°C and 25°C, which are crucial for strawberry flowering and fruit development. The red laterite soil is rich in minerals and provides excellent drainage, preventing waterlogging and root diseases. These natural conditions significantly improve fruit sweetness, size, and shelf life.

History of Strawberry Cultivation in Mahabaleshwar

Strawberry cultivation in Mahabaleshwar began during the British colonial period when the fruit was introduced due to the region’s European-like climate. Over decades, farmers refined cultivation practices, adopted high-yield varieties and expanded cultivation areas. Today, Mahabaleshwar stands as India’s most recognised strawberry-growing centre.

Major Strawberry Varieties Grown in Mahabaleshwar

Mahabaleshwar grows several commercially successful strawberry varieties. Chandler is the most widely cultivated variety due to its large size and rich flavour. Sweet Charlie is popular for early harvesting and sweetness. Camarosa is grown for its firmness and transport suitability. These varieties meet the needs of both fresh markets and processing industries.

Strawberry Production Season in Mahabaleshwar

Strawberry planting typically begins in September and October. Harvesting starts from December and continues till March, with peak production during January and February. During this period, Mahabaleshwar becomes the main strawberry supply centre for Mumbai, Pune, Bengaluru, and other metropolitan cities.

Strawberry Tourism in Mahabaleshwar

Mahabaleshwar is famous for strawberry picking farms and strawberry festivals. Tourists visit during the harvest season to enjoy fresh strawberries with cream, strawberry-based desserts, and farm experiences. This agri-tourism significantly boosts the local economy and strengthens the town’s identity as India’s strawberry hub.

Largest Producer of Strawberry in India 

Himachal Pradesh is the largest producer of strawberry in India at the state level. While Mahabaleshwar leads as a city, Himachal Pradesh contributes the highest share of total strawberry production due to large cultivation areas across multiple districts.

Interesting Facts About Mahabaleshwar 

Hill Town Specialisation

Mahabaleshwar specialises in strawberry cultivation more than any other Indian town, making strawberries its agricultural identity.

Premium Quality Fruit

Strawberries from Mahabaleshwar are known for superior taste, aroma and colour, making them highly demanded in urban markets.

Seasonal Economy Driver

The strawberry season significantly boosts income for farmers, vendors, transporters and tourism operators.

Short Shelf Life Management

Due to strawberries’ perishable nature, the region has developed efficient harvesting, packaging and rapid transport systems.

Agri-Tourism Hub

Strawberry farms have become tourist attractions, blending agriculture with tourism and increasing farmers’ earnings.

Read more: Which Country Is the Largest Soybean Producer in the World?

Mahabaleshwar is known as the Strawberry Capital of India because of its ideal climate, fertile soil, long history of cultivation, premium fruit quality and strong market presence. Keep reading for more such topics.