Historically, the Kathmandu Valley was one of the most fertile regions in the Himalayas, renowned for its highly productive agricultural soil deposited by a prehistoric lake. Traditional farming supported the valley's civilization for centuries, yielding rich harvests of rice, wheat, mustard, and vegetables.
Today, rapid and largely unregulated urbanization has consumed the vast majority of the city's arable land. Agriculture within Kathmandu Metropolitan City is virtually nonexistent. However, in the peri-urban fringes of the Kathmandu District—particularly in areas bordering the hills—agriculture remains relevant.
In these outskirts, farmers focus on high-yield cash crops, primarily seasonal vegetables, poultry farming, and dairy production to supply the massive urban demand. There is also a small but growing movement toward rooftop farming, urban agriculture, and organic farming initiatives, driven by residents seeking fresh produce and better food security amidst urban sprawl.