Embracing Himalayan Traditions Through Handmade and Organic Products

How Our Haldi is Made: A Tradition Rooted in the Himalayas

At HimaliMart, our journey begins in the heart of the Himalayas, amidst the lush, mineral-rich soils of Kalimpong and Sikkim. Here, we cultivate our Haldi (turmeric) using age-old techniques that have been passed down through generations. Our turmeric is grown without machinery or synthetic fertilizers, relying solely on natural cow manure and urine to enrich the soil, ensuring a product that is not only potent but also environmentally friendly.

From Farm to Mortar: A Journey of Purity and Tradition

Farming with Care

Our turmeric is grown on small, family-owned farms in the remote villages of Kalimpong and Sikkim. Here, the soil is meticulously ploughed using a traditional wooden plough, or "Ha-lo," which helps maintain the integrity of the land. After ploughing, cow manure and urine are mixed into the soil, enhancing its fertility without any chemical inputs. Once the soil is prepared, beds are made for planting the turmeric. The seeds are placed carefully and covered with dried leaves, creating a natural mulch that protects and nourishes the young plants. This process begins in February, allowing the turmeric to sprout and grow slowly, enriched by the mineral-rich Himalayan soil.

Harvesting by Hand

When the turmeric reaches its peak maturity in the warmer months, the local community gathers for the harvest. Under the warm Himalayan sun, the farmers use traditional tools and hands-on techniques to carefully pick each turmeric root. Unlike mass-produced turmeric, this method preserves the root's purity and integrity, resulting in a superior product. The attention to detail ensures that our Haldi maintains its rich flavor, color, and therapeutic properties.

The Art of Slicing and Drying

After harvesting, the turmeric roots are brought home, where families gather to slice them into thin pieces. This is often done in groups, with loved ones sharing stories and laughter, reflecting the deep cultural connection to the land. The sliced turmeric is then spread out under the sun to dry naturally. The sun-drying process, which can take several days depending on the weather, locks in the turmeric’s essential oils, vivid color, and health benefits, ensuring that our Haldi retains its maximum potency.

Grinding with Handmade Wooden Mortars

Once the turmeric is thoroughly dried, it is ground into a fine powder using handmade wooden mortars. This traditional grinding method preserves the authentic taste and aroma of the turmeric, providing a final product that remains as close to nature as possible. Each step in this process is carried out with the utmost care and respect for tradition, resulting in a turmeric that is vibrant, flavorful, and packed with natural goodness.

Why Choose Himalayan Turmeric?

The Himalayan region, particularly the North Eastern Hill Region (NEHR) of India, is known for its diverse flora, fertile soils, and organic farming practices. Among these states, Sikkim stands out as a leading producer of organic turmeric, with a higher sale price and net return compared to other states like Mizoram, Meghalaya, and Manipur. This premium price reflects the consumer preference for organic produce, especially from regions like Sikkim where traditional farming methods are still upheld.

A Spice with a Rich History

Turmeric's use dates back nearly 4,000 years to the Vedic culture in India, where it was celebrated as both a culinary spice and a sacred element. Over the centuries, it spread across continents, reaching China by 700 AD, East Africa by 800 AD, West Africa by 1200 AD, and Jamaica in the 18th century. Today, turmeric continues to be a staple in kitchens and an essential ingredient in traditional medicine worldwide.

Experience the Himalayas Through HimaliMart

By choosing our Haldi, you are not only bringing home a superior product but also supporting the age-old traditions and sustainable farming practices of the Himalayan communities. Each purchase from HimaliMart is a step towards preserving these practices and ensuring a brighter future for the generations to come.

Explore our Himalayan Haldi today and experience the purity and potency of the mountains with every purchase.