Short Nepal Honey Hunting Tour

The Short Nepal Honey Hunting tour from Kathmandu is a popular adventure activity in Nepal. It lets you see how honey hunting has been done in rural areas for hundreds of years.

Trip Facts

duration Duration 4 days
trip-difficulty Trip Difficulty Moderate
trip-difficulty Highest Point 3000M
Average Group Size 4-10 People
trip-code Trip Code SNHHT
trip-code Area Annapurna Region
trip-code Start Point Kathmandu
trip-start-point Trip End Point Kathmandu
trip-accomodation Accomodation Local Lodges
trip-meals Meals As Mentioned
transportation Transportation On Private Basis

Trip Highlights

  • A private and customized trip. 

  • Observe the local honey-hunting process done by the natives.

  • Stay at local homestays in the traditional villages.

  • Taste the local cuisine prepared by the locals during your stay in the villages.

  • Scenic driver in the ruler area of Nepal.

  • Taste the mad honey also known as the hallucinating honey fresh right after harvest.

Trip Overview

The short Nepal Honey Hunting tour from Kathmandu is a popular adventurous activity in Nepal, allowing you to witness the century-old traditional honey hunting method in rural areas. This is a 4-day tour from Kathmandu to Kathmandu, perfect for those seeking adventurous activities during their stay in Nepal. During this tour, you will have the opportunity to experience a unique form of honey hunting. This particular type of honey, known by names such as "Cliff Honey" and "Mad Honey," is not easily found everywhere. On your short Nepal honey hunting tour, you'll have the opportunity to explore the village area and experience the rich cultural beauty while witnessing fascinating activities. During the tour, you will have chances to visit local villages and stay with the natives in community homestays. This will allow you to experience the simplicity of their day-to-day lifestyle. This trip offers a delightful and effortless adventure, allowing you to immerse yourself in the stunning beauty of nature and the vibrant local culture. This honey-hunting activity is sure to get your adrenaline pumping as you witness the daring actions of the locals.

Honey Hunting involves the collection of honey from large wild bee colonies that reside on high cliffs, typically at altitudes ranging from 1500 to 2000 meters above sea level. The honey bees in question exclusively collect nectar from indigenous and seasonal flowers, including the rhododendron, which is native to the flora of Nepal. When going on the short Nepal honey hunting tour, you'll have the opportunity to visit villages where you can find the finest wild honey. The locals will help you in obtaining this delectable treat. The process of honey hunting is not an individual activity, but rather a series of activities that involve participating in various tasks. One such task is honey hunting preparation, where you have the opportunity to observe the locals as they skillfully weave bamboo ladders and hemp rope from scratch. Honey hunting in Nepal is a cherished tradition of the Gurung community, where they skillfully harvest wild honey twice a year during the spring and autumn seasons. This honey is far from ordinary, as it contains Grayanotoxin, a chemical that can cause mild intoxication and poisoning if consumed in large quantities. It is highly regarded for its exquisite flavor and has been utilized for its medicinal properties by the locals. The unique combination of factors and processes involved in Honey Hunting sets this trip apart from any other.

What to expect from short Nepal honey hunting tour?

The short honey-hunting tour is an incredible adventure where you can experience something new and thrilling.  This journey begins in Kathmandu and ends in Kathmandu, reducing travel time and making it a perfect trip for those with limited time. During this trip, you will have the opportunity to witness the breathtaking geography of Nepal and immerse yourself in its rich culture and abundant nature. The honey hunting programme is conducted in the traditional villages of Lamjung district, which is situated around 200 km west of Kathmandu. In these villages, you will have the opportunity to witness the untouched beauty of nature and the majestic mountains that surround the area.

The journey to the village involves a scenic road trip in Nepal, where you will travel in a private jeep. It promises to be an enjoyable and exhilarating experience. Once you arrive at the destination, you'll have the opportunity to stay in a community homestay run by the locals. This will give you a chance to experience the local flavors while enjoying genuine service. On the following day, you'll have the opportunity to witness the locals skilfully crafting essential equipment for honey hunting, including ladders, ropes, and bamboo baskets. It's truly fascinating to observe their craftsmanship. During this day, you will have the opportunity to visit the honey hunting site and explore the surrounding area before the actual honey hunting begins. On this day you can also explore the village area and see the rustic beauty and the beautiful nature around you. In addition to breathtaking views of the mountains, you'll have the opportunity to witness the majestic peaks of Lamjung Himal (6,983m), Machhapuchhre (also known as the Fishtail, 6,997m) in the west, and Himal Chuli in the east.

On the honey hunting day, you will proceed towards the honey hunting site and put on the safety gear as the locals set up the ladder and prepare for the honey harvest. During the harvest, they will use the traditional method and skillfully harvest the sustainable amount of honeycomb. It is important to prioritize safety and leave the task of collecting to trained professionals. However, you can assist them in separating the honey from the wax. After collecting honey, it's important to be cautious about consuming too much, as it can be harmful. Have a wonderful time during your stay at the homestay and fully immerse yourself in the local experience. After the trip, return to Kathmandu where your trip ends.

This short honey-hunting trip is packed with thrilling experiences and activities. You'll have chances to witness the rich traditions and savor the delicious honey that locals have been using for medicinal purposes.  This trip focuses on honey hunting, where you will see honey harvested from a unique location atop a cliff. The process of harvesting honey is truly unique and requires professional expertise, as well as the knowledge and experience of local experts who have dedicated years to perfecting their craft. This trip offers a one-of-a-kind experience, allowing you to explore the natural and cultural beauty of Nepal. You will take on exciting adventures and discover new wonders along the way. If you're looking to witness an incredible activity and be a part of a truly remarkable trip, don't waste any time, and come join us for an unforgettable experience of honey hunting.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 01

Kathmandu to Lamjung, Stay at Ghanpokhara.

At. 08:00 AM: Today, you'll embark on a thrilling journey to a picturesque village for an exciting honey-hunting adventure. Your transportation will pick you up from your hotel or designated location. Your guide and driver will drive you to your destination (Lamjung) which is 200 KM from Kathmandu. The estimated travel time for this distance is 6-7 hours, depending on road traffic. Please note that there are some off-road sections along the way. On your way to Ghanpokhara Village, you'll pass through Dumre and Besisahar. Ghanpokhara is one of the most beautiful prehistoric villages in Nepal. It serves as the gateway to the amazing activity of Mad Honey hunting. After reaching the bus stop, you will walk a short distance to the village and store your bags at the local lodges. During your stay, you will have the opportunity to live with and learn from the locals. You will join them in honey-hunting activities, using their traditional techniques and skills. 

In the evening, enjoy a local dinner with the locals, trying out the delicious local cuisine and exploring the gastronomy of the village area. Ghanpokhara, located near the Himalayan range, offers mesmerizing sunset views from the village area.

duration 6-8 Hours
duration 220 KM
trip-accomodation Local Lodge
trip-meals L,D
transportation On Private Basis
Day 02

Honey Hunting Preparation.

At. 09:00 AM: Today, you will have the opportunity to learn and prepare for the big day tomorrow alongside the skilled locals. For honey hunting, the locals use traditional equipment such as handmade ropes and other tools like baskets. These items are all crafted by hand by the locals themselves. Enjoy breakfast and join the locals to witness honey hunting at the site. Prepare for the next day and learn valuable skills from experienced local honey hunters. Discover the surroundings and immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting the nearby village. You can observe people making traditional ropes and ladders, and explore the village area before going honey hunting.

trip-accomodation Local Lodge
trip-meals B,L,D
Day 03

Honey Hunting Day.

At. 09: 00 AM: Enjoy a delicious breakfast before joining the locals on a honey-hunting adventure at the nearby site where you will collect honey. The site is conveniently located near water resources, allowing you to be near waterfalls and rivers. To reach the location one must walk from anywhere between 15 minutes to 1 hour. This provides an added advantage as you can explore the area while observing the locals extracting honey. The process. The risky meaning implies that you will observe the entire process without participating. The local honey hunters have years of experience in honey hunting. This activity typically takes 5-6 hours, depending on the challenge and amount of honey involved. Once the honeycomb is harvested, locals will ensure they don't take all the honey and leave some for the honeybees, making it a sustainable harvest.

Important Note: You are prohibited from hunting honey due to the hive's dangerous location on a cliff. Climbing and extracting the honey yourself is unsafe; you should leave that to the professional. You can assist them on the ground, but it's not advisable to climb the ladder and participate with them. You can have honey there but you need to buy it if you want to bring some honey with you. The honey is quite strong and has hallucinogenic properties, so it's best to avoid consuming large quantities of it.

Once you have collected honey, you will return to the village and extract it from the honeycomb using a traditional handmade basket. If you want to consume honey, please be aware that it can cause hallucinations and intoxication. Therefore, it is important to consume it in moderation to avoid any potential life-threatening effects.

duration 6-8 Hours
trip-accomodation Local Lodge
trip-meals B,L,D
Day 04

Drive back to Kathmandu.

At. 08:00 AM: Today, you will return to Kathmandu. After having breakfast, you will walk up to the bus station and bid a final farewell to the amazing village. You'll need to travel approximately 200km on a road that may take 6-8 hours due to some off-road sections. After arriving in Kathmandu, your transportation will take you directly to your hotel or designated location, marking the end of this tour. Farewell!

duration 6-8 Hours
trip-meals B,L
transportation On Private Basis

Trip Guide

The information about the short Nepal Honey Hunting Tour is in-depth; feel free to contact us 24/7. We will be available on WhatsApp to assist you instantly. You can write an email if this trip doesn't fit your vacation schedule and requirements. Altitude Himalaya aims to offer the best possible travel experience to customers. Depending on the needs of the visitors and the group size, we customize each vacation package. We will put together a bespoke itinerary just for your private group.

Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is important before traveling to a new place especially when you are traveling for adventure. Travel insurance covers risks such as loss of personal belongings, and any unexpected expenses. Travel insurance also covers sudden medical emergencies such as accidents. It also covers high-altitude emergency evacuation in case of trekking. Travel insurance is not compulsory but highly recommended.

Medical Emergency: If you face any serious medical emergency during your trekking program you will immediately evacuate the place through Helicopter Rescue which the traveler’s insurance company will cover. While trekking to the highlands of Nepal you may face minor health issues such as scratches, headaches, etc. For such a situation, your guide carries a well-equipped first aid kit, ensuring nothing happens to you.

Do’s and Don’t:

  • Select the ideal time to travel.

  • Select a reputed trekking/ travel organization.

  • Training and getting ready for any kind of situation are necessary.

  • Efficient packing is the key. (Nepal trekking gear checklist)

  • Carry all the necessary paperwork.

  • Having the proper personal gear makes your journey more enjoyable.

  • Respect the culture and people of the area.

  • Ask for permission before taking photos and videos of the locals.

  • Travel for experience and not for the sake of traveling.

  • Don’t litter, put trash in its place.

Why with Altitude Himalaya: Altitude Himalaya is one of Nepal’s growing travel companies providing excellent service to its clients. We believe in providing quality experiences and memories. We are concerned about maintaining and following our own standard service that includes a private transfer, at least a 3-star hotel accommodation in urban areas, the best available lodges/tea houses at the trekking trails, and dedicated personalized assistance. Additionally, we also operate our trips in Bhutan and Tibet.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is the ideal time for a honey-hunting trip?

    Honey hunting has two ideal seasons: autumn, which begins in September and lasts until November, and spring, which starts in May and continues until March. May and November are the perfect months to plan a honey hunting trip in Nepal. During these times, the weather is clear and perfect for outdoor activities, particularly for honey hunting. This activity involves a bit of risk, as it requires harvesting honey from cliffs located at an altitude of around 1500 to 2000 m above sea level. During these times, extracting honey becomes slightly easier as the honey tends to become cold and thick until early or mid-fall, making it more challenging to extract.

  • Is it safe to eat mad honey?

    Yes, consuming mad honey is safe, but only in limited amounts. The suggested intake is 1-2 tablespoons. Exceeding this amount can lead to severe side effects, including nausea, vomiting, dizziness, sweating, impaired consciousness, and various cardiac issues. It is important to be cautious when consuming wild honey.

  • Can I take the harvested mad honey after the trip?

    You can purchase the harvested honey from the locals after the harvest, at a price that has been negotiated with them. While on the trip, you can taste mad honey with the locals on harvest day. However, if you wish to bring some honey back with you, it is necessary to purchase it from the locals.

  • How challenging is this trip?

    The hunting trip is an incredibly thrilling activity that presents its own set of challenges. The honey hive is situated high up on the cliff, which adds an extra level of challenge to the honey harvesting process. Additionally, the presence of numerous bees and their stings makes the task even more daunting. When collecting honey, it is important to consider the amount being harvested to ensure sustainability. The high demand for this delicacy has made it challenging to keep up with supply due to overharvesting.

  • What kind of permits are required for this trip?

    The permits depend on the area you're going to visit. If you plan on visiting Lamjung, make sure to obtain an Annapurna Conservation Area permit, as it falls within the Annapurna region. Furthermore, it is important to be aware that obtaining the mad honey requires a royalty pass/fee, as it is highly regarded as a delicacy. 

  • What kind of equipment do I need for this trip?

    Make sure you have all the necessary tools and safety equipment for the honey harvest, including a knife, ladders, rope, baskets, smoke, and protective gear like a hat with a net veil to cover your face which will be provided by the locals. During the honey harvest you will support the express from the ground as climbing can be life threatening. The climbing part is highly regarded by experienced locals due to the years of climbing experience it requires.

  • Where are the Honey Hives located?

    The honey hives are strategically positioned atop a towering cliff, presenting a formidable obstacle for the honey harvest. The hives are situated in high-altitude regions above 2000m, where you can discover unique seasonal flowering plants like Rhododendron. The nectar from these plants gives the honey a distinctive flavor and truly mad honey.

  • Am I able to take part in the Honey Hunting Day during the harvest?

    Unfortunately No, participation in the climb requires prior experience and knowledge of climbing techniques, as well as familiarity with the local equipment and safety protocols. In addition, it is worth noting that the hives are situated at a considerable height on the cliff, which may pose certain risks. The climbing part is done with locals, but you can support them from the ground and help them extract the honey from the comb. This way, you can witness the beauty of their excellent craftsmanship.

Services Includes

  • A private transfer from Kathmandu to Lamjung (Besi Shahar) and back upon requirement.

  • A 4WD Jeep transfers from Besi Shahar to the honey hunting site. 

  • All (3 Nights) accommodations in local lodges/homestays at respective places on twin sharing.

  • Daily breakfast throughout the trip.

  • Lunch and dinner are also included as mentioned in the itinerary, dinner will be at the hotel/lodge where you will stay and lunch will be arranged at convenience.

  • All necessary paperwork. (Annapurna conservation area permit)

  • An English-speaking, experienced, and licensed trek/tour guide.

  • Honey-hunting site royalty fee.

  • All government and local taxes.

  • Guide’s salary, food, and accommodation during the trek.

  • Well-equipped medical kit with necessary medication. (carried by the guide)

  • Arrangement of emergency helicopter service which will be paid by your traveler’s insurance company.

Services Excludes

  • Personal expenses.

  • Travel health insurance. (Recommended)

  • Tips for the guide and driver. (Recommended)

  • Any other expenses which are not mentioned in the included section.

4 Days USD 900 / Person

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