The locally grown spice “Timur,” also known as Sichuan pepper, from Myagdi, Nepal, is now making its way into U.S. markets, reaching star hotels and international buyers. Initially popular in cities like Mustang, Pokhara, Kathmandu, and Chitwan, it is also now being exported to Japan, Belgium, Korea, and the United States, reflecting the increasing global demand for this unique spice.
With its distinct aroma, warming effect, and rich flavor, Timur is often used as a spice in lentils and chutneys. Sagar Baniya, a Timur entrepreneur from Toripani, Beni Municipality-9, noted that demand is not only growing domestically but also abroad, particularly in the U.S., where Nepali expatriates and commercial buyers alike are seeking it.
“Nepalis in the United States frequently take Timur back with them when they visit Nepal or request it from relatives, and now, we are also receiving commercial orders,” said Baniya. “We ensure it is consumable and certified by the Food Technology and Quality Control Department before exporting.”
Last week, 20 kg of raw and 2 kg of dried Timur from Ghatan, Beni-9, were sent to a Kathmandu lab for testing. Baniya reported that farmers are now actively harvesting Timur as they prepare for sales, especially with the U.S. demand growing.
In 2023, Ghatan produced around 1,600 kg of Timur, selling at roughly NPR 3,000 per kg (approximately USD 22.27), with nearly 200 kg exported, much of it to the United States. Hotel operators in Mustang are also among those securing advance orders.
Bhumesiddh Timur Network estimates that this year’s production in Ghatan will reach around 2,000 kg. Nar Bahadur Rai from Dhawa, Beni-9, shared that he has already sold NPR 20,000 worth of Timur (approximately USD 148) and plans to sell another NPR 40,000 worth (approximately USD 296) soon.
“Many farmers have started growing Timur commercially after realizing its income potential,” said Rai. “There’s no problem finding a market—it sells straight from our homes.”
Around 150 families in Beni-9, including areas like Toripani, Dhawa, Dhuplibot, and Dholthan, have embraced commercial Timur farming. According to Chandramani Sapkota from the Division Forest Office, 25 hectares in Magdi are dedicated to Timur, with the district producing about 6 metric tons annually.
Previously harvested in July and August, farmers have shifted to late November for a better quality product. Jamuna Rai from Dhawa attributed this season’s double yield to favorable weather, with no hail damage during flowering.
The Bhumesiddh Timur Network, Lufthansa Airlines, Eco Himal Austria, and Eco Himal Nepal have helped support the industry, supplying specialized harvesting tools. The Division Forest Office has also provided processing tools, and various local bodies continue to promote Timur as a major district product.
With rising exports to the United States, the Division Forest Office distributed 20,000 Timur seedlings last year, and the District Chamber of Commerce and Industry has been actively promoting it as a signature product of Magdi.
Santosh Gautam/RSS
Kishor Panthi
View More PostsKishor Panthi is the founder and editor-in-chief of Khasokhas and NepYork. He is the author of three books, “Kampan,” "UNTRANSLATABLE" and “Zero Mile.” He writes about social issues, immigration, and politics.
