Mad Honey Hunting in Nepal in October/November 2025 Guide

Every year, as the monsoon clouds retreat and the Himalayan foothills of Nepal bask in golden autumn light, a time-honored ritual awakens amidst the hills. October and November mark the heart of the mad honey hunting season - a spectacle steeped in bravery, culture, and nature’s raw beauty. For trekkers, vloggers, and photographers seeking a blend of adventure and authenticity, this period offers a unique window to witness Nepal’s Gurung communities in action, harvesting wild honey from cliffside hives.

In this comprehensive guide, we dive deep into the pulse of honey hunting in Nepal during October and November 2025. You’ll learn why this season is special, discover the main locations like Lamjung Chamche, Ghalegaun, and Bhujung, explore local legends, get practical tips for your visit, and find out how Best Heritage Tour can craft an unforgettable journey for you.

Why October and November Are the Ultimate Honey Hunting Months

Honey hunting is traditionally practiced twice a year: spring (April-May) and autumn (September-November). However, the autumn months, especially October and November, stand out for several reasons:

Post-monsoon clarity: The heavy rains of the monsoon have passed, leaving crisp, clear skies that paint the hills with brilliant visibility - a photographer’s dream.
Peak honey stores: After summer’s nectar-rich bloom, wild bee colonies are laden with honey, ready for harvest.
Mild weather for climbers: The cool, stable climate creates safer conditions for hunters who scale precarious cliffs.
Festive cultural energy: These months coincide with the vibrant Dashain and Tihar festivals, infusing local villages with celebration and hospitality.
Trekking season synergy: October-November is Nepal’s prime trekking season, meaning your honey hunting adventure can be paired with stunning mountain trails.

This season is more than just a practical choice - it is when the whole honey hunting tradition comes alive with rhythm and meaning.

Lamjung Chamche: The Cradle of October-November Honey Hunting

Nestled in the Annapurna foothills, the Chamche area of Lamjung district is synonymous with honey hunting in Nepal. The rugged cliffs here serve as natural hives for the giant Himalayan cliff bees, and the surrounding forests and terraces become the stage for a breathtaking blend of adventure and ritual during October and November.

Visitors trekking to Chamche this season will find:

Sweeping autumn landscapes of fiery orange and gold rhododendrons transitioning to winter greenery.
Village life in full swing, with locals preparing for the harvest amid festivals and communal gatherings.
Dramatic cliffside honey hunts, where Gurung hunters descend bamboo ladders, their figures silhouetted against bright blue skies.

The Gurung people in Chamche view the honey hunt not merely as a harvest but as an act of reverence - invoking protection from the mountain spirits before every climb. Your visit during these months offers a rare chance to witness these prayers and the harvest unfold under ideal weather conditions, with vivid autumn colors painting the backdrop.

Ghalegaun: Cultural Warmth and Golden Honeycombs in Autumn

At an altitude of about 2,100 meters, Ghalegaun stands as a beacon of Gurung culture and hospitality. October and November turn this village into a warm hub where the honey hunting season intersects with local festivities, creating a vibrant atmosphere that welcomes visitors from all over the world.

During these months, Ghalegaun offers:

Traditional homestays where you can savor freshly prepared Gurung cuisine after a day of exploring.
Guided honey hunting treks through crisp forests blanketed in autumn leaves, leading to active cliffside hives.
Opportunities to engage with locals, learning about rituals that honor the bees and the natural world.

Photographers and vloggers love Ghalegaun for its combination of authentic cultural moments and stunning natural scenes - the golden honeycombs gleaming in the warm autumn sun make for unforgettable shots.

Bhujung: The Heartbeat of Gurung Honey Hunting in Autumn

Bhujung, the largest Gurung settlement in Nepal, pulses with life and tradition during the October-November honey hunting season. The villagers’ collective spirit shines brightest at this time, as honey hunting becomes a community event that draws together elders, hunters, women preparing food, and children watching in awe.

In Bhujung this autumn, you will experience:

Communal rituals marking the start of the hunt, filled with songs, prayers, and offerings.
Sweeping terraced fields turning amber under the autumn sun, framing your trek to the cliffs.
The thrill of the descent, as hunters carefully climb precarious ladders to harvest the famed mad honey.

The rich tapestry of stories, rituals, and shared celebrations here is a magnet for travelers wanting to immerse themselves fully in Gurung culture during honey hunting season.

Other Seasonal Hotspots to Explore in October-November

Beyond Lamjung, several other regions come alive with honey hunting activity during the autumn months:

Kaski Region: Near Pokhara, villages such as Dhikur Pokhari hold seasonal hunts, offering easier access combined with spectacular mountain vistas.
Gorkha District: Known for its rugged terrain and traditional villages, some cliff sites here host honey hunts aligned with October–November’s optimal conditions.
Syangja and Parbat Districts: Mid-hill communities maintain honey hunting practices in these areas, providing quieter, less-trodden alternatives for adventurous travelers.
Tanahun District: Smaller-scale hunts occur in these hills, perfect for those seeking intimate cultural experiences.

Each location offers its own flavor of the honey hunting season, shaped by local geography and Gurung customs.

A Honey Hunter’s Season: What to Expect as a Visitor in October-November

Visiting during these months means you can expect:

Comfortable trekking weather, with cool mornings warming into mild afternoons, perfect for hiking and filming.
Festive village atmospheres as local communities celebrate the harvest and fall festivals.
Multiple harvest attempts, since autumn offers a longer season than spring, increasing your chances to witness a cliffside honey hunt.
Golden-hour photography with the honeycombs glowing against the rich colors of autumn foliage.

Guided tours often include not just the honey harvest but also cultural visits, trekking to panoramic viewpoints, and the chance to stay in welcoming Gurung homestays.

Practical Travel Tips for October-November Honey Hunting Tours

Book early: Autumn is Nepal’s peak trekking season, so secure your tour well in advance.
Pack layers: Days can be warm, but mornings and evenings get chilly. Waterproof gear is recommended for unexpected rain.
Fitness: Moderate trekking experience helps, as some trails are steep and uneven.
Respect local customs: Always seek permission before photographing rituals or people.
Health: Carry basic first aid, including bee sting remedies if you’re sensitive.
Permits: Your tour operator will handle community fees and necessary permits.

Best Heritage Tour provides expert guides who ensure your honey hunting adventure is safe, respectful, and culturally enriching.

Conclusion: Experience Nepal’s Autumn Honey Hunting

October and November 2025 offer an extraordinary chance to witness one of Nepal’s most thrilling traditions - the ancient art of honey hunting. The crisp air, vibrant landscapes, and rich Gurung culture come together to create a once-in-a-lifetime journey for adventurers, storytellers, and nature lovers alike.

Don’t miss this golden window. Reach out to Best Heritage Tour to tailor your honey hunting experience and create memories as sweet and lasting as the mad honey itself.

Phone/WhatsApp/Viber: +977-9851149197

Email: info@bestheritagetour.com / bestheritagetour@gmail.com

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Office: Thamel Marg, Kathmandu, Nepal