Mad Honey Hunting in Nepal – Adventure with Best Heritage Tour

Hidden deep within the majestic cliffs of the Himalayas lies one of the world’s oldest and most daring traditions — Honey Hunting in Nepal. Performed by the indigenous Gurung tribes, this extraordinary cultural ritual offers travelers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness bravery, spirituality, and nature’s raw power all in one journey.

Now, with Best Heritage Tour, you can experience this thrilling adventure firsthand — ethically, safely, and authentically.

What Is Honey Hunting?

Twice a year, high in the remote cliffs of the Annapurna and Lamjung regions, the Gurung honey hunters risk their lives to harvest wild honey from Apis laboriosa, the largest honeybees on Earth. Using handmade bamboo ladders and rope harnesses, hunters scale vertical cliffs, often hundreds of meters high, to collect golden nectar dripping from giant hives.

But this isn’t just an act of survival — it’s a sacred ritual passed down for generations. Before the hunt, offerings are made, and prayers are chanted to appease the forest spirits. The bees, cliffs, and forests are all treated with deep respect.

Why Is This Honey So Special?

The honey harvested here is known as “mad honey,” due to its rare intoxicating properties. Sourced from rhododendron flowers, this honey has been used in traditional medicine for centuries and is prized for its ability to treat ailments like:

Hypertension
Arthritis
Low libido
Anxiety

Today, it fetches high prices in global markets — but for the Gurung people, it is still part of their sacred tradition, not a commercial venture.

Travel with Purpose: Join Best Heritage Tour

At Best Heritage Tour, we offer immersive, responsible travel experiences that go beyond sightseeing. Our Honey Hunting Expedition is not just about watching — it’s about understanding, respecting, and connecting with a living cultural treasure.

What’s Included in the Tour:

Guided trek to honey hunting sites in Lamjung or Annapurna region
Cultural homestays with Gurung families
Live demonstration of traditional honey hunting (seasonal)
Visits to nearby monasteries and eco-villages
Full safety support with local experts and translators

This is not a tourist show — it’s an authentic experience shared by those who live it.

Best Time to Join

Honey hunting takes place twice a year:

Spring Season: Mid-April to May
Autumn Season: October to November

Spaces are limited and dates are based on the lunar calendar and traditional rituals — so booking early is essential.

Travel Respectfully, Travel Responsibly

With Best Heritage Tour, we ensure your journey respects local culture, protects the environment, and supports the communities who keep this tradition alive. A portion of every tour goes directly to village development, conservation efforts, and youth education.