Twice a year high in the Himalayan foothills of central Nepal teams of men gather around cliffs that are home to the world’s largest honeybee, Apis laboriosa. As they have for generations, the men come to harvest the Himalayan cliff bee’s honey. The harvest ritual, which varies slightly from community to community, begins with a prayer and sacrifice of flowers, fruits, and rice. Then a fire is lit at the base of the cliff to smoke the bees from their honeycombs. From above, a honey hunter descends the cliff harnessed to a ladder by ropes. As his mates secure the rope and ladder from the top and ferry tools up down as required, the honey hunter fights territorial bees as he cuts out chunks of honey from the comb.” A chance to view and experience the traditional honey hunting harvest of the Gurung people. The Bees Apis laboriosa and Apis dorsata are indigenous to the region and traditional methods of harvesting the honey on steep cliffs have remained unchanged for generations.
The introduction of non indigenous plant species and the European honey bee Apis mellifera have put pressure on these local bees to compete, and they need to fly further and further to forage their preferred plant species. This along with over harvesting has resulted in the bees’ decline. The Himalayan Honeybees project for the International Center for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD) in Kathmandu has been actively involved in the sustainable management of honey hunting and work with the local communities to ensure the survival of the species.Tourism in this area helps communities protect the flora and fauna, and so gives the bees and local hunters a chance to co-exist and continue. The Blue Space will donate a percentage of profits from these trips to local communities who are actively involved and promoting ICIMOD ideas. There are great views of peaks Lamjung Himal, Manaslu, Hiunchuli, Buddha Himal and Annapurna II.
Overview
Honey Hunting in Nepal is a fascinating and time-honored tradition that dates back centuries, practiced by indigenous communities in the remote regions of the Himalayas. This ancient art involves the extraction of wild honey from the nests of giant honeybees, known as Apis dorsata, which cling to the steep cliffs of the Himalayan foothills.
The honey-hunting season typically occurs during the spring and autumn months when the bees are most active and the weather conditions are favorable. The process begins with a skilled team of honey hunters venturing into the dense forests, equipped with traditional tools and protective gear.
Upon locating a cliffside hive, the honey hunters carefully ascend the precarious cliffs using makeshift ladders and ropes, displaying remarkable agility and courage. Once they reach the hive, the honey hunters employ various techniques to subdue the bees and extract the precious honeycomb.
The extraction process requires precision and expertise, as the honey hunters use smoke to calm the bees before carefully cutting away the honeycomb. They then collect the honey-filled comb in baskets or containers, being mindful not to disturb the bees unnecessarily.
Honey hunting is not only a means of harvesting honey but also a cultural tradition passed down through generations. The skills and knowledge required for honey hunting are typically learned from elders within the community, ensuring the preservation of this unique practice.
In addition to its cultural significance, honey hunting also provides economic benefits to the local communities, as the harvested honey is often sold in local markets or used for medicinal and culinary purposes.
Participating in a honey hunting expedition offers travelers a rare opportunity to witness this ancient tradition firsthand and gain insight into the customs and lifestyle of the indigenous people of the Himalayas. It’s an adventure that combines cultural immersion with natural beauty, providing a truly unforgettable experience in the heart of Nepal’s remote wilderness.
Highlights
- Ancient tradition practiced by indigenous communities
- Thrilling ascent of steep cliffs to reach bee hives
- Use of traditional methods and tools for honey extraction
- Cultural immersion and insight into local customs
- Economic benefits to local communities
- Opportunity to witness remarkable courage and agility of honey hunters
- Unique adventure amidst the natural beauty of the Himalayas.
