Cold Tolerant Rice (Oryza sativa)

The famous Jumli Marsi variety of rice sets the record for being grown at the highest elevation, upto 3000 metres above sea level in Chhumchaur, Jumla. The high mountains of Nepal are important for cold tolerant genes in rice. Our Chomrong rice has become the most important variety in Bhutan and Madagascar covering around 85% of their rice area. Internationally, rice of different hues and colours are increasingly popular in upscale market for their novelty and nutrition (antioxidants and minerals). It is time for Nepali Red Rice to have its day in the sun.