Honey Hunting in Nepal

Honey hunting is an activity of collecting the honey of wild bees, particularly from those on rocky cliffs. It has been one of the centuries old traditions of indigenous groups of Nepal, which is done twice annually from the Apis Dorsata and Apis Laboriosa Hive. These hives are found in the high altitude and usually located on a rocky cliff, which makes the honey hunting process a thrilling activity to witness. Considering the risk, one would wonder what makes this honey so exceptional that it inspires generations of Nepalese to scale such heights?

Unlike in Turkey, where the wild bees are domesticated, Nepal rather follows the traditional way of honey hunting. That is, suspending themselves by the cliff on a rope ladder made up of bamboo and harvesting the honey using traditional tools with minimum to no protective gear. Before commencing with the harvesting, a ritual sacrifice, typically of a chicken, goat, or sheep, is made to Forest God to keep the hunters safe during the harvest. After the harvesting is done, the honey is separated from the wax by using a cloth as a strainer. Everyone present during the harvest is offered fresh honey at the site, and the rest is distributed among the hunting team and the villagers.

Yearly, hundreds of tourists visit Nepal to experience this thrilling event as well as to taste this divine nectar. The cliffs of the regions such as Kaski, Lamjung, Khotang, Gorkha, Rolpa, and others present the rarest adventurous sight to see across the world. This spectacular vision is not only about what you see but also the involvement of the physical and strategic capability of the hunters you get to witness. And this cultural legacy continues to display the Nepalese courage, skill, and tradition worldwide.

Highlights

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Map

Highlights

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Map

Nepal is a land of majestic mountains, serene valleys, and rich cultural heritage. Among its many hidden treasures, mad honey hunting stands out as one of the most thrilling and culturally immersive adventures for travelers seeking something beyond traditional trekking. This ancient practice is both an art and a daring feat, deeply rooted in the traditions of Himalayan communities.

Trip Highlights

Benefit from the guidance of skilled local honey hunters who navigate the rugged terrains and cliff sides with rope.
Immerse in the spectacular grandeur of the Himalayan landscape, providing a magnificent backdrop to the adventure of honey hunting.
Delve into the cultural richness of the Himalayan belts, gaining an understanding of the traditions associated with Mad Honey Hunting.
Witness the careful and expert extraction of honeycombs, a process that requires accuracy and a deep regard for the surrounding environment
Understand the double role of the honey obtained, not just as a product but also for its cultural value, often used in traditional medicines and rituals.
Engage in a specially prepared honey-hunting expedition exclusive to adventurous individuals, providing a distinct and personalized journey.
Witness the age-old tradition of honey hunting, deeply rooted in the cultural heritage of specific Nepalese communities.
Experience the thrilling excitement as skilled honey hunters ascend dangerous cliffs, showcasing incredible courage and expertise.

Day 01 :

Arrival in Kathmandu (1300 m):

Once you arrive at Tribhuwan International Airport, our representative will meet and greet you. They will drive you to your pre-booked hotel. After the check-in procedure is completed, you can relax at the hotel. Then after a short rest, we will take you to Thamel- the tourist hub of Kathmandu to show you some good restaurants, money exchangers, banks, ATMs, supermarkets, and gear shops. Following a quick exploration, you will be taken to our office for a travel briefing. Overnight in a hotel. If you arrive late today, this tour and trip briefing will be postponed for the next day.

Day 02 :

Kathmandu Sightseeing Tour:

After breakfast at the hotel, we will proceed on the Kathmandu sightseeing tour. Pashupatinath Temple: The temple, located by the riverbank of Bagmati River, is a well-known Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is one of the most important Hindu temples in the world and is listed in the UNESCO World Heritage Site. The temple is designed in a golden pagoda style that is richly carved with silver doors. A large fair is held during the day of Shivaratri, and people/devotees from all around the world come to worship Lord Shiva. Boudhanath Stupa: It is one of the largest stupas in the world, located on the eastern side of Kathmandu valley. It stands with four pairs of eyes in each of the four directions, keeping an eye out for good deeds and human prosperity. This magnificent stupa was erected by King Man Deva on the instruction of the Goddess Mani Jogini. The Mahayana Philosophy is reflected in the stupa. After the sightseeing tour, return to the hotel, take some rest, and prepare your gear and belongings for the upcoming trip. Overnight in a hotel.

Day 03 :

Kathmandu - Khudi:

After breakfast, we will start our day with a drive towards Khudi . We will be passing through Vimal Nagar where the biggest cave in Asia, Siddha Cave is situated. We will continue our drive towards Khudi village. Upon our arrival at Khudi, we will be warmly welcomed by the locals. In the evening we will take part in the Gurung Cultural Program organized by locals. Overnight at the local lodge.

Day 04 :

Khudi - Honey Hunting Spot:

After breakfast, we will start our walk towards the village of Honey Hunters located above Bulbule. We will get some beautiful views of the natural sceneries along with the spectacular mountain views on the way. Upon our arrival at the village, we will have some rest, and brief information on honey hunting will be provided to us by the honey hunting guide. In the evening, we will explore the village and stay overnight at the local accommodation.

Day 05 :

Honey Hunting Day:

Today is an adventurous day. We will start our day after breakfast. We will follow the Honey Hunters to the cliff. Before starting the hunting program, the hunter will organize a praying program in which we can take part. Now we will see the total process of Honey Hunting for which different types locally made equipments are used. We will enjoy the thrilling job from the cliff and we can taste the wild honey after the hunting is done. Now we will return back to the village and stay overnight at the local accommodation.

Day 06 :

Drive to Pokhara:

Return to Khudi and proceed for a drive towards Pokhara. After you check into the hotel, you can relax in your hotel room. In the evening, you can spend your time in the lakeside area. Overnight in a hotel.

Day 07 :

Pokhara Exploration

After a good breakfast in the hotel, we will head for a sightseeing tour in Pokhara. The day includes the sightseeing tour of caves such as Mahendra cave, Bat cave, and Gupteshwor cave, museums such as Mountaineering museum, and Gorkha soldier museum, and sacred places such as Vindabasini Temple, Jal Barahi, and World Peace Stupa. Overnight in a hotel.

Day 08 :

Pokhara - Kathmandu:

On this day we will return to Kathmandu either by flight or by bus (the choice is all yours). In the evening our team will host a farewell dinner party. Join in the party and enjoy yourself. Overnight in a hotel.

Day 09 :

Love Kathmandu Tour:

After breakfast, you will be taken on a Kathmandu city tour as the city is historical, spiritual, and cultural. You will visit Ason, Kilagal, the Oldest market of New Road, Hidden Stupas, and the Glass bead market of Indrachowk. You will visit Kathmandu Durbar Square which was the administrative quarter of the Malla Kings and Shah Kings who ruled until 2008. Here you get to visit the temple of the living goddess “Kumari”. After touring you return back to your hotel and overnight at the hotel.

Day 10 :

Departure Day:

You will be transferred to the Tribhuwan International Airport, 3 hours before your scheduled flight time.

FAQS

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Why is Nepal popular for honey hunting?

Nepal is popular for honey hunting due to its unique geography, particularly the steep Himalayan cliffs that are home to the world’s largest honeybee species, Apis laboriosa and Apis dorsata. These bees build massive hives high on cliffs, making the practice both challenging and distinct. Honey hunting is also a culturally significant tradition among indigenous communities of Nepal who have passed down the skill for generations. Additionally, Nepal’s wild honey, especially the infamous “mad honey,” is known for its medicinal and sometimes hallucinogenic properties.

What is the famous honey in Nepal?

Mad honey, also known as Himalayan honey or wild honey of Nepal, is considered the rarest honey in the world. It is produced by Himalayan giant honeybees of the species Apis Dorsata and Apis Laboriosa after collecting nectar from the rhododendron species Rhododendron Luteum (Yellow) or Rhododendron Ponticum (Violet). The mad honey is consumed in small amounts for medicinal purposes.

What types of wild honey are found in Nepal?

There are two types of honey found in Nepal:

Cliff Honey/Wild Honey: Harvested from wild bees, particularly from the high cliffs and tall trees. It is found from the altitude of 3000 to 10000 ft which has basic medical properties.
Mad Honey: Harvested from the hive of Apis Laboriosa and Apis Dorsata above 3000m. Known for its intoxicating and sometimes hallucinogenic properties, this honey is produced from rhododendron nectar and is sought for its medicinal and recreational uses.

Where can I hunt wild honey in Nepal?

The wild bees (Apis laboriosa and Apis dorsata) usually build their nests in the high cliffs of the Himalayan regions. The districts such as Lamjung, Kaski, Gorkha, Khotang, Rolpa, Myagdi , Solukhumbu,are famous for wild honey hunting. One can participate only as a bystander, observing from afar while the team of hunters engages in the thrilling harvest.

When is the best time for honey hunting in Nepal?

The best time for honey hunting in Nepal is during the spring (End of April- End of May) and autumn (End of October to End of November). These seasons are ideal because the bees are most active, and the hives are full of honey. Spring honey often has more intoxicating effects due to the rhododendron flowers in bloom.

How is mad honey harvested in Nepal?

Mad honey is harvested by ascending the formidable heights of the cliffs of the Himalayan regions where the giant honeybees create their bee hives. Hunters use handmade rope ladders to climb these cliffs where the hives are built. They rely on basic local materials such as bamboo sticks, bamboo baskets, knives and others for harvesting. It is harvested by indigenous groups, usually Gurung, Magar, and Rais castes belonging to the Himalayan regions of Nepal, where the honey is

How difficult is wild honey hunting in Nepal?

Wild Honey Hunting in Nepal is an extremely difficult and dangerous activity as it involves scaling steep cliffs in the high mountainous regions of Nepal where the wild bees build their hives. The process requires significant physical strength, strategic planning, and endurance, as the risk of falling or being injured is significantly high. Factors such as location, harvesting process, bee stings, and physical demands are the challenges the harvesters face during the hunting. On a scale of 1-10, 10 being the most difficult, this activity can be considered to be at the difficulty of 11.

What is the equipment used for honey hunting?

Honey hunting is done by the native groups of the region using basic local materials. Here are some lists of it:

Rope Ladder (to scale the cliffs)
Rope (to secure the ladder)
Rope (to carry the basket)
Bamboo Basket (to collect honey combs)
Bamboo Stick (to guide the rope with hook into the comb)
Bamboo cutting Stick (with a sharp edge)
Rope with Hook (to pull honey combs away from the cliff)
Safety Rope (to fasten honey hunter to the ladder)
Filter (to separate the wax from the honeycomb)
Knife (to cut brood combs)
Bowl (to collect wax)
Sheep skin (to cover the bottom of the honey basket for preventing the leaking of honey)
Even though some local materials are replaced with new tools such as sheep skin with plastic and the sharp edge of bamboo stick with knife, many regions still use the same materials as it is.

What safety gears do I need to pack to observe honey hunting?

If you’re planning to observe a honey hunting expedition, it’s essential to pack safety gear to ensure your protection. Recommended items include:

Protective clothing: Long sleeves, thick pants, and gloves to shield against bee stings.
Bee veil or net: A veil or hat with a net to protect your face from bees.
First aid kit: Including anti sting cream for bee stings and basic wound care supplies.

Is mad honey legal in Nepal?

Yes, mad honey is legal in Nepal. As its hunting is deeply rooted in traditional practices, it is also a means of livelihood for various villagers of the region, which contributes largely to their economy. There are various brands that sell mad honey of Nepal both in domestic and international markets.

Does mad honey get you high?

The intoxication effect of mad honey consumption is often mistaken for getting high. However, more than getting high, it can be considered a side effect of high consumption, which includes dizziness, visual hallucinations, nausea, vomiting, loss of consciousness, and weakness of the body.

What are the benefits of mad money?

Mad honey taken in a certain or minimum dosage is considered a medicine for the general well being of human health. It is traditionally used in the treatment of various diseases, including hypertension, diabetes, gastritis, and many more. It is also considered a pain reliever for abdominal pain and dyspepsia. It is consumed at a minimum dosage of 5 gm to 30 gm (half a tablespoon) by the villagers of the harvesting area for the treatment of basic illnesses such as colds, viral infections, and soon.

What are the possible side effects of mad honey?

Mad honey consumed more than the required dosage can cause side effects due to the presence of grayanotoxin in it. With symptoms starting from nausea, vomiting, visual hallucinations, and dizziness, whereas consumption in large amounts can lead to mad honey poisoning.