Agriculture in Kargil is restricted by the short summer season and the scarcity of arable land, which is confined strictly to the riverbanks and terraced hillsides fed by glacial meltwater. Despite these limitations, agriculture remains the primary livelihood for the rural population surrounding the town.
The region is famous across India for its apricots (*Chuli* in local dialect). The sweet Halman and Raktsey Karpo varieties are highly sought after, and apricot harvesting, drying, and oil extraction form a crucial part of the agricultural calendar. Apples and walnuts are also grown.
Subsistence crops include hardy grains like barley and wheat, as well as peas and root vegetables (potatoes, turnips) which can be stored for the long winter. Animal husbandry—rearing sheep, goats (including Pashmina goats in higher reaches), and dzos (a cow-yak hybrid)—is essential for dairy, meat, wool, and agricultural labor.
