HUNTING
EXPEDITION
Welcome to the Lamjung Mad Honey Hunting Expedition
Honey Hunting Expedition is an extraordinary adventure that combines the thrill of harvesting wild honey with the rich cultural traditions of the Gurung community in Nepal.
At Mad Honey Store, we offer you the unique opportunity to participate in a once-in-a-lifetime honey hunting expedition in the picturesque Lamjung region. This region, known for its mesmerizing landscapes and ancient customs, provides the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable experience.
Join us as we delve into the fascinating world of mad honey hunting, where you’ll witness the remarkable process of harvesting honey from wild bee nests located on rugged cliffs.
This traditional practice, preserved for generations, not only showcases the skills and bravery of the local hunters but also highlights the deep cultural significance and reverence for nature held by the Gurung community.
Honey Hunting Trip Highlights
- Witness the extraordinary art of extracting honey above the rugged cliff.
- Receive a special gift of premium mad honey, unique to the region.
- Receive a special gift of premium mad honey, unique to the region.
- Receive a special gift of premium mad honey, unique to the region.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1
Drive from Kathmandu to Lamjung
Your honey hunting expedition begins with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to the beautiful Lamjung region. The journey takes approximately 7-8 hours, passing through picturesque landscapes, including cascading waterfalls, serene rivers, and lush greenery.
As you travel, you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy the stunning views and get a glimpse of Nepal’s diverse natural beauty.
Upon reaching Tanje in Lamjung, you’ll be welcomed by the local community, who will be your hosts for the duration of the expedition.
Day 2
Planning and Exploration for Honey Hunting
The second day is dedicated to planning and exploration in preparation for the honey hunting adventure.
You’ll visit a honey-hunting area and meet the local honey-hunting crews, who will share their knowledge and expertise with you. This is your chance to learn about the traditional techniques used in mad honey hunting and understand the preparations involved.
You’ll also scout for a suitable location to observe and photograph the honey hunting process, ensuring you have the best vantage points for capturing this incredible event.
Day 3
Mad Honey Hunting Day
The third day is the highlight of the expedition – the mad honey hunting day. You’ll accompany the honey hunters to the honey hunting spot, a cliff situated in the heart of the Himalayas. Before beginning the hunt, the honey hunters will perform traditional prayers, seeking blessings for a successful and safe harvest.
At the cliff, you’ll witness the spectacular honey hunting activities as the hunters ascend the steep cliffs using bamboo ladders and ropes. The process of extracting honeycombs while calming the bees with smoke is a breathtaking sight.
After a full day of honey hunting, you’ll return to the village to relax and enjoy an evening of traditional Gurung cultural dances.
Day 4
Drive Back to Kathmandu
On the final day of your honey hunting expedition, you’ll drive back to Kathmandu early in the morning. The journey back provides another opportunity to take in the stunning scenery and reflect on the unique experiences you’ve had over the past few days. You’ll arrive in Kathmandu with a wealth of memories and stories to share about your adventure in Lamjung.
Included
Overland Transportation: Comfortable overland transportation as per the itinerary, ensuring a smooth journey from Kathmandu to Lamjung and back.
All Meals: Enjoy delicious meals throughout the tour, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner, providing a taste of local and traditional cuisine.
Lodge Accommodation: Stay in cozy lodges on a twin-share basis during the tour, offering comfortable and welcoming accommodations in Lamjung.
Professional English-Speaking Photography Guide: Benefit from the expertise of a professional photography guide who will assist you with capturing the highlights of the expedition and offer insights into the honey hunting process.
Expenses of Honey Hunting Local Crews: All expenses related to the local honey-hunting crews are covered, ensuring a seamless and authentic experience.
Government Tax and Service Charge: All applicable government taxes and service charges are included in the package.
Excluded
Personal Expenses: Costs for personal items such as souvenirs, additional snacks, or beverages not included in the provided meals.
Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is not included; it is recommended that you purchase comprehensive travel insurance to cover any unforeseen events.
Optional Activities: Any optional activities or excursions not mentioned in the itinerary are not included in the package.
Visa Fees: Visa fees for entry into Nepal are not included and should be arranged separately before the trip.
Tips and Gratuities: Tips and gratuities for guides, drivers, and local staff are not included and are left to the discretion of the traveler.
Packing List for Your Honey Hunting Expedition in Lamjung
As you prepare to explore the stunning landscapes of Lamjung and take part in the time-honored practice of honey hunting, packing the right gear is vital.
This guide lists the must-have items that will ensure you’re equipped for both the demands of the trek and the excitement of the honey harvest, making your adventure smooth and memorable.
01 Essentials
- Comfortable Trekking Shoes: Sturdy, non-slip shoes for rocky and uneven terrains.
- Lightweight Clothing: Breathable, moisture-wicking clothing suitable for warm and humid conditions.
- Waterproof Jacket: Protection against sudden rain and mist in the mountains.
- Sun Protection: Sunglasses, sunscreen, and a wide-brimmed hat to shield against the strong mountain sun.
- Insect Repellent: Essential to protect against insects, especially in forested areas.
- Gloves: Sturdy gloves to protect your hands during the climb and while handling honeycombs.
- Headlamp or Flashlight: Useful for early morning starts or late returns.
- Reusable Water Bottle: Staying hydrated is crucial, so carry a durable, refillable bottle.
- Energy Snacks: High-energy snacks like nuts, energy bars, or dried fruit for the trek.
First Aid Kit: Basic first aid supplies, including band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers.
02 Specialty Items
- Climbing Gear: Harness, ropes, and carabiners, especially if you plan on participating in the actual honey harvesting.
- Protective Clothing: Long-sleeved shirts and pants to minimize exposure to bee stings.
- Bee Veil or Net: Protects your face and neck from bee stings during the honey collection.
- Honey Collection Tools: If you’re participating in the harvest, bring a honey knife or other tools as per the instructions from your guides.
Camera or GoPro: Capture the experience of honey hunting and the stunning surroundings.
02 Miscellaneous
- Personal Hygiene Items: Biodegradable soap, toothpaste, and hand sanitizer.
- Small Backpack: For carrying daily essentials during the expedition.
- Cash: Local currency for small purchases or tips.
Discover Lamjung and Its Mad Honey Hunting Tradition
Cultural Significance
The Lamjung region of Nepal is not only known for its breathtaking natural beauty but also for its deep-rooted cultural traditions. One of the most fascinating and cherished traditions of the Gurung community in this region is mad honey hunting.
For generations, the Gurung people have preserved and practiced this ancient custom, passing down their skills and knowledge from one generation to the next.
Mad honey hunting is more than just a means of harvesting honey; it is a revered tradition that holds immense cultural significance. The wild bees, considered sacred by the Gurung ancestors, are treated with great respect.
The honey harvested from these bees is believed to possess unique medicinal properties and is used in various religious rituals and ceremonies.
Participating in a honey hunting expedition offers a rare glimpse into this age-old tradition and allows you to connect with the cultural heritage of the Gurung community.
Unique Flora and Fauna
Lamjung’s diverse and rich flora contributes significantly to the distinctiveness of the honey produced in this region. The area is home to an array of plants, including rhododendrons and azaleas, which are crucial in the production of mad honey.
These plants contain grayanotoxins, which are transferred to the honey by the bees, giving it its unique properties.
The enchanting landscapes of Lamjung are not only visually captivating but also ecologically rich. The presence of these specific plants creates a unique ecosystem that supports the wild bees essential for mad honey hunting.
As you explore this region, you’ll be immersed in the natural beauty and biodiversity that make Lamjung a prime location for honey hunting.
Traditional Process of Honey Hunting
The process of wild honey hunting in Lamjung is both thrilling and challenging. The adventure begins with locating the bee’s nest, a task often accomplished by following the distinct buzzing sound of the bees. Once the nest is found, a group of skilled hunters prepares to harvest the honey.
Equipped with traditional tools such as bamboo ladders, ropes, and hooks, the hunters ascend the steep cliffs to reach the hive.
Using traditional smoking methods to calm the bees, the hunters carefully extract the honeycombs. This practice not only requires physical strength and bravery but also a deep understanding of the bees’ behavior and the environment.
Honey hunting is a significant source of revenue for many in Nepal’s mountainous regions, but it also remains an essential part of their cultural and spiritual life. The honey collected is valued for its medicinal properties and plays a vital role in various religious and cultural ceremonies.
Best Time for the Expedition
Embarking on a honey hunting expedition in the Lamjung region of Nepal is a unique experience that is best enjoyed during specific times of the year. The prime periods for mad honey hunting are:
During this period, the weather conditions are favorable for honey hunting. The bees are active, and the flora in Lamjung is in full bloom, producing the grayanotoxins that give mad honey its distinctive properties. This time of year also offers relatively mild temperatures, making the trek to the honey hunting sites more comfortable.
Another excellent window for the expedition, as the weather remains pleasant and stable. The clear skies provide stunning views of the Annapurna range, and the honey hunting activities are in full swing. This season is also ideal for those who prefer cooler temperatures and less humidity.
While the expedition can be undertaken at other times of the year, these optimal months ensure that you experience the best of what Lamjung has to offer. The combination of favorable weather, active honey hunting, and beautiful scenery will make your journey memorable.
Planning your trip during these peak times allows you to fully immerse yourself in the cultural and natural wonders of the region, enhancing your mad honey hunting experience.
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FAQs
What is a honey hunting expedition?
A honey hunting expedition is a unique adventure that involves participating in the traditional practice of harvesting honey from wild bee nests located on steep cliffs. It is a cultural and thrilling experience that showcases ancient techniques and local traditions, particularly in regions like Lamjung, Nepal.
What should I bring on the honey hunting expedition?
You should bring comfortable trekking clothes, sturdy hiking boots, a hat, sunscreen, a camera, and personal essentials. It’s also a good idea to pack a lightweight rain jacket and any personal medications you might need.
When is the best time to go on a mad honey hunting expedition?
The best times for a mad honey hunting expedition in Lamjung are from late March to early July and from October to December. During these periods, the weather is favorable, and the bees are active, producing the distinctive mad honey with grayanotoxins.
Is the honey hunting expedition suitable for everyone?
The expedition is suitable for adventurous travelers who are in good health and enjoy outdoor activities. The trek involves climbing and navigating rugged terrain, so a reasonable level of physical fitness is required.
How long is the honey hunting expedition?
The standard honey hunting expedition lasts for four days. This includes travel time from Kathmandu to Lamjung, exploration and preparation for honey hunting, the actual honey hunting day, and the return journey.
What is included in the expedition package?
The package includes overland transportation, all meals during the tour, lodge accommodation, a professional English-speaking photography guide, expenses of local honey hunting crews, ACAP permits, and emergency rescue assistance.
What is not included in the expedition package?
The package does not include personal expenses, travel insurance, optional activities, visa fees, and tips for guides and local staff. These costs are the responsibility of the traveler.
Can I customize the itinerary for the honey hunting expedition?
Yes, the itinerary can be customized according to your preferences. You can discuss your desired changes with our team, and we will do our best to accommodate your requests.
How can I book the honey hunting expedition?
To book the expedition, please fill out the inquiry form on our website with your personal details and any special requests. Our team will contact you to confirm your booking and provide further instructions.
What is mad honey, and why is it special?
Mad honey is honey produced by bees that collect nectar from rhododendrons and azaleas containing grayanotoxins. It has unique medicinal properties and a distinctive taste. The production of mad honey is a traditional practice in regions like Lamjung, Nepal.
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