Junar

Nepal is a country located geographically within the sub-tropical zone, which maintains a vast variety of climates and altitudes. This allows Nepal to support the growth of a wide assortment of horticultural crops, especially citrus fruits. Within the country of Nepal, the hill regions tend to be well suited for fruit crops such as citrus, which represents one of the most important types of fruit growth in Nepal. Citrus fruits are produced extensively in the mid-hills of Nepal; they cover an area of approximately 9,495.5 hectares with a projected production of roughly 64,132 metric tons of fruit yearly. Among the citrus fruits produced is the indigenous Junar, a sweet orange, which is grown in the Ramechhap, Dhankuta, Sindhuli, and Bhojpur districts. These regions are known for their favorable climate, ideal sunlight exposure, and traditional farming practices that enhance fruit quality and yield.

Junar is a citrus species and a highly nutritious fruit. It is being commercially cultivated in 42 V.D.C.s of Sindhuli District and 6 V.D.C.s of Ramechhap District. It is cultivated in places with altitudes of 800 to 1300 meters along the Mahabharata range. Scientifically, this is proven as the appropriate area and altitude for Junar farming due to its favorable microclimate and soil fertility. The Junar tree starts bearing flowers in April, and the fruit is ready from December and can be enjoyed till the end of April. It is scientifically known as Citrus sinensis. Junar is a juicy fruit having easily separable 10 segments of pulps. It is yellow to orange-reddish in color and rich in flavor. The shape of the fruit is globose or ovate and sub-globose, but it is normally apex round with a slightly depressed base. Junar is being commercially cultivated in 42 V.D.C.s in Sindhuli. Ratanchura, Tinkanya, Jalkanya, Bitijor, Basheshwor, Majhuwa, and Dumja villages are the major pocket areas known for producing high-quality Junar through organic and sustainable farming methods.