7 nights 8 days
Daily Tour
12 people
English
Experience the harvest of the gods in gods’ own terrain
For centuries, the Gurungs and Tamangs of Nepal’s mid-hills have gathered wild honey from combs hanging off precarious cliffs near their villages. The honey sourced from cliffs at higher altitudes is known for its psychoactive properties, while those cut from hives at lower altitudes are renowned for their healing powers.
The lower-altitude honey, whose harvesting you will witness, is regarded as an elixir, an aphrodisiac–as something like manna provided by the gods. The honey-hunting season spans just about a month, starting around mid-June.
On your trip, you will have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich living rituals around honey hunting as practiced by the villagers of Bheer Gaoun , a Tamang village in Lamjung, in the hills of mid-western Nepal.
Hunting for cliff honey is an exceedingly dangerous undertaking, so the villagers call upon the spirits of nature to bless every aspect of the hunt. On the days preceding the hunt, you will be able to intimately observe how the villagers prepare for the daunting task.
You’ll participate in the prayers, rituals, and processes to do with the weaving of the baskets used for carrying back the honey, the crafting of the various ladders and fixings made from bamboo fiber, and the sharpening of the sickles and the wooden extensions used to cut the hives.
ENGAGE WITH THE MAGIC AROUND A SACRED HUNT
On the day of the hunt, you will walk with the honey-hunting team to the base of the cliff that the team will climb that day. Once at the base, you will take in the entirety of the hunt: from the building of the fire whose smoke will drive out the bees from their hives to how the hives are cut and ladled into baskets, which are lowered by the climbers to the villagers below. After the honey is gathered for the day, you will participate in the filtering and refining of the gathered honey, and finally make your way back to the village.
Honey-hunting of this kind is a dying tradition in Nepal, largely owing to the adverse impacts of climate change on the wild honeybees and their ecosystems. Members of many of the traditional honey-hunting families are increasingly opting for other avenues of making an income. Your tour fees will go towards the running of a school in Besisahar that the children of the villagers attend.
That said, although you will be completely immersed in Lamjung’s traditional, rustic Tamang lifestyle, you’ll be living inside tents that offer all the amenities you demand. Depending on your need, we can even make available portered attached commode toilets. If you let us know in advance, we can meet all your demands.
We are a consortium of travel, trekking, and logistics companies headed by seasoned professionals who can take care of your every need from the moment you enter Nepal to when you leave the country, fully satisfied at having experienced a one-of-a-kind experience found nowhere else on earth.
Furthermore, if you would like to revisit the honey-hunting sites later, and you would like the best in the sector to handle all the logistics pertaining to researching or filming honey-hunting and other cultural practices, we can offer you unmatched full-fledged services.
What to Expect from the Honey Hunt in Himalayas?
Embarking on Honey Hunt in Himalayas is an invitation to explore a hidden treasure in the heart of the Himalayas. This unique journey takes you through a lesser-visited region, offering a blend of natural beauty and cultural authenticity.
As you hike through lush forests, charming villages, and sacred monasteries, you’ll discover that this trek is more than just a physical adventure; it’s an expedition of discovery, where each day unfolds new wonders and leaves an enduring impact on your soul.
Unspoiled Natural Beauty: Expect to delve into one of Nepal’s best-kept secrets, a valley where nature’s splendour remains unspoiled by mass tourism. You’ll traverse pristine forests, terraced fields, and scenic alpine meadows.
Rich Cultural Encounters: Encounter the unique culture of the people, a distinct Tibetan ethnic group. They have preserved their ancient traditions and monasteries, providing you with an authentic cultural experience.
Challenging Yet Rewarding Trekking: Be prepared for challenging trekking terrain that includes steep ascents, river crossings, and high mountain passes. Your physical endurance and determination will be tested and rewarded.
Altitude Experiences: Trek to higher altitudes, reaching up to 3,661 meters. Prepare for altitude-related challenges such as shortness of breath and acclimatization. A gradual ascent and proper acclimatization are essential.
Cultural Immersion: Immerse yourself in the daily life and culture of the villages, gaining insights into traditional practices, architecture, and the warm hospitality of locals.
Local Hospitality: Experience the warm hospitality of the people as you stay in teahouses and engage in cultural exchanges. Their friendly nature adds depth to your journey.
Spectacular Scenery: Anticipate breathtaking views of the Himalayas. The ever-changing landscapes and mountain vistas will captivate your senses.
Wildlife Encounters: While not guaranteed, keep an eye out for Himalayan wildlife like marmots, pika, and various bird species in this remote valley.
Sense of Achievement: Expect a profound sense of accomplishment as you complete this rewarding trek, forging a deeper connection with nature, culture, and your inner strength. The memories created will be cherished.
Why Book Your Honey Hunt in Himalayaswith One Globe?
Preparation for the Honey Hunt in Himalayas
Physical Fitness Training: Begin a dedicated fitness routine at least 2-3 months before embarking on the Honey Hunt in Himalayas. Focus on cardiovascular exercises, strength training, and endurance workouts to build your stamina and prepare your body for the rigours of high-altitude trekking.
Medical Check-Up: Schedule a thorough medical check-up with a healthcare professional to ensure you are physically fit for trekking at high elevations. Discuss any pre-existing medical conditions and receive necessary vaccinations.
Altitude Acclimatization Plan: Develop a well-thought-out acclimatization plan as part of your trek itinerary. Gradual ascent and rest days are crucial for acclimatizing to changing altitudes and reducing the risk of altitude sickness.
Trekking Permits and Documentation: Obtain all the required permits and the TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) card for the Honey Hunt in Himalayas well in advance. Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned travel date.
Packing and Gear: Invest in high-quality trekking gear, including warm clothing, waterproof and breathable layers, a sturdy pair of trekking boots, a comfortable backpack, a warm sleeping bag suitable for cold temperatures, a trekking pole, and a headlamp with extra batteries.
Cold Weather Gear: Prepare for chilly temperatures at high elevations by packing thermal layers, insulated gloves, a warm hat, and a neck gaiter or scarf to protect against cold winds.
Medications and First Aid: Consult with a healthcare provider to obtain any necessary medications for altitude sickness, gastrointestinal issues, and other potential health concerns. Carry a personal first aid kit containing essentials like bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any prescribed medications.
Hydration and Water Purification: Bring a reliable water purification system or purification tablets to treat water from natural sources. Staying well-hydrated is essential throughout the trek to prevent altitude-related problems.
Travel Insurance: Secure comprehensive travel insurance that specifically covers trekking at high altitudes and potential emergencies, including helicopter evacuations. Ensure that your insurance is valid for remote areas.
Training in Basic Wilderness Skills: Familiarize yourself with basic wilderness and navigation skills, such as map reading, compass use, tent setup, and cooking with portable stoves. If needed, learn how to use trekking equipment like crampons or ice axes.
Taking these preparation steps is vital to ensure your safety, comfort, and enjoyment during the challenging Honey Hunt in Himalayas. Adequate physical conditioning, appropriate gear, and awareness of altitude-related risks will contribute to a successful and unforgettable adventure in this remote Himalayan valley.
Arrive Kathmandu and our representative will be there to welcome your group. Transfer to hotel and have comfortable.
Overnight at Dusit Princess Kathmandu.
Full day free on your own to explore the beauty of Kathmandu or can do shopping also.
Overnight at Dusit Princess.
Today you will be transferred from Kathmandu to Besisahar on a 4WD landcruiser.
Overnight at Besisahar at Gateway Himalaya Resort.
Today we will proceed with 2 hour jeep drive and 2 hour walk to Honey hunter village.
Overnight at the village
We will head toward the cliff jungle and its around 4 hour trek from the village. We will stay overnight at jungle.
Today we will proceed to cliff it will take around 2 hour. Then attend honey hunting and walk back to the village.
Overnight at honey hunter’s village
Jeep drive to Kathmandu.
Overnight at Dusit princess.
Transfer to the International airport to catch the flight.
Member Since 2024
