Apis laboriosa, the world’s largest honeybee, lives in the high Himalayan hills of Nepal. These bees produce a rare form of honey, deeply connected to the culture and lifestyle of the Gurung and Kulung communities.
In recent years, changes in harvesting methods and environmental stress have affected both bee populations and honey yields. To support the natural cycle and traditional knowledge, organisations like ICIMOD have been working to encourage sustainable practices in the region.
If you want to gather honey, don’t kick over the beehive - Abraham Lincoln
Everest Luxury Holidays offers a thoughtful journey into this unique tradition of Honey Hunting in Nepal. Our Honey Hunting Cultural Preservation Expedition is guided by local honey hunters, bee experts, and mountain guides. The expedition is planned around the bees’ natural harvesting time, ensuring both safety and respect for the environment.
Travellers experience this rare process from a secure observation point—close enough to witness the intensity and skill, while staying grounded in comfort. This journey is more than an adventure; it is a step toward preserving a living heritage.
This journey takes you into the remote corners of Nepal, where wild honey hunting still survives as a sacred tradition. Our featured itinerary is currently based in Lamjung, though other locations like Solukhumbu may also be chosen depending on timing and conditions. One of the revered sites is linked to the late Maule Dhan Rai (1959–2018), believed by his community to be spiritually blessed by their deity, Rongkemi, for honey harvesting.
This is a legacy-based expedition rooted in deep cultural meaning. With our signature heli-based access, you'll reach hidden locations where tradition, spirituality, and nature meet. At the heart of the journey is the warmth of Nepalese hospitality and the authentic rhythm of village life.
The trip includes unique challenges, but safety remains a top priority. Expect real adventure: river crossings, forest walks, and standing just below towering cliffs where the hives cling. While you won’t be climbing, you’ll witness the hunt up close, guided by experts with years of experience.
Honey hunting is only part of the journey. The experience is thoughtfully blended with wellness practices, slow travel, and cultural immersion. You’ll learn how these communities live in harmony with their land and traditions.
In support of long-term impact, 10% of proceeds from each trip go directly to local initiatives in education, healthcare, and cultural preservation. Your journey of Honey Hunting in Nepal helps protect a living heritage while supporting the future of the Gurung and Kulung villages.
I just got back from an amazing trip to Nepal with Everest Luxury Holidays, and it was incredible! The whole experience was top-notch, and I couldn’t be happier.
The tour was really well organized, and everything went smoothly. The people at Everest Luxury Holidays made sure...
My trip with Everest Luxury Holidays was amazing, thanks to Kamal, Bhakta, and Dawa. Kamal organized our Upper Mustang tour perfectly. He made sure everything was planned out so we could enjoy every part of the trip.
Bhakta, our trekking guide, was fantastic. He helped us through the...
I just came back from an incredible 14-day trip organized by Naresh at Everest Luxury Holidays. We spent 7 days in Bhutan and 7 days in Nepal, and everything was perfect!
In Bhutan, we enjoyed wearing traditional clothes and even tried archery. It was so much fun and...