For generations, Yuvraj’s family farmed this isolated land the only way the mountain allowed: one season, one harvest, grown to feed their own table. In the 1960s, King Mahendra introduced apples to Nepal. Around the same time, Palden Gurung, Yuvraj’s grandfather and village chief of Manang, was tasked with finding food that could withstand Manang’s harsh climate. For families who relied on potatoes and buckwheat, growing apples was a leap of faith.
Meanwhile, 300 km away in Kathmandu, Satya Lal Ranjitkar, Ashraya’s grandfather and a horticulturist, was sent to California’s Napa Valley to find solutions for Nepal’s surplus produce. There, he discovered that fruit could be transformed into something of greater value, laying the foundation for a family legacy in winemaking. More than five decades later, their children and grandchildren would bring those early visions together, from farm to bottle.
For Pema Chirring Gurung, Yuvraj’s father, his love for his homeland and his father’s vision became a calling to carry that legacy. Under his guidance the Gurung family studied orchard practices abroad and adapted high-density apple farming.
1990 A.D.
Over the years, they brought together seven villages across Manang and worked with local landowners to lease land for orchards.
2015 A.D.
The first high-density apple tree was planted at 3,000m, where few believed an orchard could thrive.
2026 A.D.
What began with a single tree now stretches across 40 hectares, with 80,000 apple trees thriving in the heart of the Himalayas.
And this is only the beginning.
On the other hand, Maheswar Lal Ranjitkar, Ashraya’s father, his father’s vision for Nepal became a lifelong pursuit to create wine with a distinctly Nepalese identity.
1994 A.D.
Maheswar established Hinwa Wine which, for more than a decade of operation, relied largely on traditional methods, working by hand, fermenting in clay ghyampo, and allowing patience to do what machinery could not.
2010 A.D.
The legacy passed to Ashraya, who introduced new winemaking techniques and helped the family craft evolve. But then came an unexpected turn. In 2020, the pandemic brought a difficult decision, to step away from Hinwa and begin a new chapter.
And this is only the beginning.
The idea of turning Manang’s apples into wine began to take shape. The ultimate vision being, to create value from the harvest while building a more sustainable ecosystem around the orchards. Yuvraj found a valuable partner in Chekke Ghale, whose passion for craft beverages helped bring the idea to life.
2019 A.D.
A research and development facility was established under Chekke’s leadership, laying the foundation for Manang’s journey into winemaking.
2020 A.D.
As the COVID-19 pandemic affected Chekke’s health significantly, Ashraya Ranjitkar became an integral part of Manang Valley’s journey.
Finally two journeys unfolding miles apart began to meet.
2021 A.D.
Ashraya travelled to Manang and met Yuvraj for the first time. What he discovered was more than an orchard. He found a valley of enormous potential and a partner who shared the vision that had shaped his grandfather’s work: to turn Nepal’s own resources into lasting value.
2023 A.D.
The first two Manang Valley Wines, Sweet Apple Wine and Semi-Sweet Apple Wine, were launched.
2025 A.D.
The premium variants of Manang Valley Wines, Dry Apple Wine and Rose Apple Wine, were launched.
Managing Partner & CEO
A Visionary Driven by Passion for his Valley.
A distinguished member of an agro-business family and a third-generation farmer, his role has been instrumental in transforming traditional apple orchards into a thriving commercial enterprise. His vision and stewardship have upheld the family’s agricultural heritage while embracing modern techniques to ensure continued growth and quality.
Managing Partner & Production Director
The Happiest Man in the Valley Carrying his Legacy.
Third generation winemaker whose journey began with the family’s inaugural Hinwa Winery. Driven by a genuine love for the craft, he brings a refined interpretation of this heritage. Each bottle produced reflects a harmonious balance of tradition, innovation, and artistry. An enduring testament to the family’s passion for making wines of exceptional character.
Managing Partner & Farmhouse Director
The Soul of the Valley who Makes it a Home.
The custodian of the valley, Samraj is the steady force that keeps the estate alive, welcoming and thriving. His quiet leadership, hands-on stewardship, and unwavering dedication keep us grounded in its roots. His deep connection to the region and its agricultural heritage has been instrumental in turning a bold idea into a living, functioning estate.
Managing Partner & Sales Director
The Spirit that Carries the Valley’s Depth.
Brimming with a genuine passion for the valley and its craft, he carries Manang Valley’s spirit wherever he goes. His infectious energy and unwavering belief in its potential inspire others to see the promise of a small valley at the roof of the world. He is the bridge that takes the valley to the world beyond, carrying the story of Manang wherever he goes.