Destination
Annapurna Region, Nepal
Region
Annapurna Region
Trip Grade
Grade 2: Moderate
Accommodation
Tea House
Total Distance
90 km/ 55 miles
Start / End Point
Kathmandu/Kathmandu
Durations
10 days
Max. Altitude
2900m/9515ft
Meals Included
Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Group Size
above 1 pax
Best Season
Spring/Autumn
Activity per day
6 hrs
Transportation
Private Jeep /Trekking
Trip Highlights
The highlights of honey hunting in Nepal are the spectacular, high-altitude cliffs where traditional hunts take place, the daring skills and ancient rituals of the hunters, and the opportunity to witness a vanishing cultural practice preserved by communities like the Gurung and Magar. Visitors can also experience local culture, taste unique "mad honey," and enjoy stunning mountain scenery.
Honey harvesting in a traditional way.
Witness Honey harvesting rituals.
Getting a chance to taste a Mad honey (known for its health benefits and mild hallucinogenic effects).
Stay in mountain villages like Bhujung and Pasgaon, living with local Gurung/Magar families.
Trekking through fields, subtropical forests, and river valleys with panoramic Himalayan views.
Sweeping views of the Annapurna, Manaslu, and other mountain ranges.
Cultural immersion as you stay in Gurung village, like Ghalegaun
Trip Overview
The Honey Hunting in Nepal package is designed for travellers who love adventures, nature, and learning about new cultures. This trip is very different from other adventures because we are not talking about simple Honey Hunting in Nepal. It is one of the most thrilling adventures where you will get to see the Honey hunters risking their lives to collect wild honey from the cliffs.
The Honey Hunting in Nepal trip brings travellers to the world of the Gurung and Magar tribes of Nepal. These tribes are an ethnic community that has been part of the Himalayas and nature for many centuries. This journey shows you the typical Himalayan tradition, where you can see the rituals and courage of people.
This 10-day adventure brings you to Bhujung and Pasgaon villages. It is located at the foot of the Annapurna, where people have been honey harvesting for generations as a livelihood.
The heart of the trip is the ancient way of wild honey hunting in Nepal. The honey is harvested according to the harvesting seasons. The preparation of honey harvesting starts with prayers, chantings, and offering a sacrifice (like a chicken) to the forest spirits. Villagers do these with the belief of protecting themselves from any harm during the hunting process.
Afterwards, Honey hunters get down to business by climbing sheer rock walls on fragile handmade bamboo ladders. After reaching near the beehives, they cut down the huge golden honeycombs skillfully. They use strong bamboo or wooden sticks with a sharp blade attached to harvest the honey combs.
The honey collected is called Mad Honey. It’s rare reddish nectar colour comes from the rhododendron blossoms gathered by bees. The blossoms of rhododendron have a natural chemical called grayanotoxin, which is the reason that causes hallucination and dizziness, making people go mad if it’s consumed in large amounts. Therefore, it is called Mad Honey Hunting.
Mad Honey is harvested due to its medicinal properties. The Honey Hunting Nepal package gives you a thrilling sight of people collecting it from impossible heights, and to taste it.
The Honey Hunting Nepal trip shows the raw and wild beauty of Lamjung. Walking along with terraced rice fields glowing in the sun and rolling hills, each stop has something new to see. With the backdrop of the Annapurna and Manaslu ranges, travellers have to pass through the villages like Ghalegaun, Ghanpokhara, Pasgaon, and Pakhrikot. From these villages, you can see the close-up panoramic views of Annapurna II, Lamjung Himal, and Manaslu.
The journey of Honey Hunting in Nepal truly heals your soul as you trek through waterfalls falling down the cliffs, springs, high suspension bridges swinging over the grumbling mountain rivers, and rhododendron forests alive with birdsong. Spending a night with the Gurung and Magar families, sharing meals cooked over open fires, joining in evening folk songs and dances, gives you a therapy. You can also see some of the iconic mountain views in Nepal.
Doing a Honey Hunting in Nepal adventure means you are also supporting local tourism. This type of eco-trekking helps the lives of the Gurung and Magar communities economically. Honey hunting season in Nepal is the second week of November (Autumn) and May (Spring), which means it has arrived.
Booking for the Honey Hunting Nepal package for 2026 and 2027 is now exclusively open. Without any delay, reserve your seat now and join one of the most special adventures, Honey Hunting in Nepal with Good Karma Trekking .
Honey Hunting in Nepal Itinerary
Detailed Itinerary
The honey hunting Nepal trek starts after your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. To pick you up, the Good Karma Trekking staff will be there. After all the documentation process and check out, you will be welcomed with a flower garland or a khada (traditional ceremonial scarf).
Later, we will escort you to your hotel, where you can relax and recover from your jet lag. We will have a brief meeting to prepare for the honey harvesting adventure if you arrive early; otherwise, we will schedule it on day 2. Either the staff or the guide will provide you with all the information about the adventure, including preparation, safety precautions, and you can also ask any questions related to the trip that you are unsure about.
In the evening, there is a welcome dinner in a traditional Nepali style, along with cultural performances hosted by Good KarmaTrekking. Hope you will have the best time exploring Nepal with us.
Included: Accommodation, Airport pick-up, and welcome dinner.
6 to 7 hrs of tour
Today we go for a Kathmandu Valley Sightseeing tour. This rest day in the Honey Hunting Nepal itinerary also helps you to acclimate yourself before gaining elevation. The city is worth exploring due to its rich culture, arts, architecture, history, and people.
After having breakfast, the tour guide will pick you up for the sightseeing. We are visiting four UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Pashupatinath, Bouddhanath, Kathmandu Durbar Square, and Swayambhunath on a tourist vehicle.
Our first destination is Pahupatinath Temple, one of the revered and holiest Hindu temples of Nepal. Beautifully built in a Newari architecture, it is famous for having four silver doors and its golden Gajur (pinnacle). The temple area consists of many other temples and sacred sites. Built near the bank of the Holy River, the Bagmati. Here you can see Hindus performing cremation rituals.
Afterward, we head towards Boudha Stupa, which is a sacred place for Tibetan Buddhists. It was built during the Lichhavi period and is one of the largest stupas in the world. It has many souvenir and Tibetan shops where you can explore. We have a brief lunch break here, and you can try some popular Nepali and Tibetan dishes.
After lunch, we head towards Kathmandu Durbar Square. Built in the 16th century during the reign of Malla Kings, it is a pagoda-style palace. This place is a gem in Nepalese architectural history. Some of the must-see places here are Nau Tale Dharhara (Nine Stored Palace) and Kumari Bahal, a residence of the goddess Kumari (living goddess).
The final stop of the Sightseeing tour is Swayambhu Nath. It is another well-known stupa. Located at the top of the hill, the stupa is known for its beautifully painted Buddha’s eyes in all four directions of the peak. The dome is known for having five golden Buddha shrines.
Our second day of Honey Hunting in Nepal complements the visit to these historical landmarks. Your guide will transfer you to your respective hotels. Those who missed the pre-trek meeting on day 1 will have it today in the evening.
Included: Accommodation with Breakfast and Transportation.
6 to 7 hrs of drive/760 meters/ 2,493 feet
From day 3, the adventure of Honey Hunting Nepal officially starts. Heading towards the west, we leave the Kathmandu Valley in a drive. Driving over the Prithvi Highway, it takes us toward Dumre, a rustic village surrounded by terraced hillsides.
The drive climbs and slowly takes over the bumpy mountain road along the gushing Marshyangdi River. As you head further, the landscapes change into emerald rice paddies and swaying fields of millet along the riverbanks.
After a long drive of nearly 6 to 7 hours, we arrive at BesiSahar by afternoon. It’s a little town full of lovely markets located on the edge of the river at an altitude of 760 meters/ 2,493 feet. This village is the main headquarters of Lamjung District.
We stay for a night in Besisahar after dinner.
Included: Accommodation and Full Board Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
24 km/ 14 miles-2,100 meters/ 6,890 feet-7 to 8 hrs of trek
After breakfast, we trek towards Ghalegaun (2,100 meters/ 6,890 feet) early in the morning. The route slowly climbs up through forests and past small Gurung hamlets like Sirung and Thulo. On the way, you can also see, with occasional plunging waterfalls and rolling hills.
Once you climb higher, the views of the Annapurna and Manaslu mountain ranges get clearer and closer above the tree line. Then you finally reach today’s destination.
Ghalegaun is a popular village and is sometimes known as Asia’s model tourism village. The local people of this village are Gurung. It is culturally rich, as you will see people in traditional ethnic attire, traditions, languages, and many more. The teahouse will welcome you with marigold garlands and folk songs.
The rays of sunset make the peaks glow gold, a perfect view to enjoy and relax after a long hour of trek. We stay for a night in Ghalegaun.
Included: Accommodation and Full Board Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
1.6 km/ 0.99 miles-2,670 meters/ 8,760 feet-1 to 2 hrs of trek
Today’s trek is mild and short, unlike yesterday’s trek. We go for a hike in the morning to Ghanpokhara (2,670 meters/ 8,760 feet). It’s a tiny Gurung village near Ghalegaun.
The trek starts with an ascent. After walking for about one hour, we can see the giant mountains which feel really close. The golden morning sunlight showering over the Manaslu (8,154m) and Annapurna is unforgettable.
After arriving at Ghanapokhara, you can rest or explore around the village surrounded by terraced fields, and observe village life. The natural setting of the village makes the stay more alluring. Another best moment is the view of snow-capped mountains and forested valleys from whichever direction you look. Another night in Ghanpokhara.
Included: Accommodation and Full Board Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
6 km/ 3.7 miles-6 to 7 hrs of trek-2,100 meters/ 6,890 feet and return back 2,670 meters/ 8,760 feet Ghalegaung
Today is the main highlight of the Honey Hunting Nepal adventure. We are going to experience and observe the traditional way of honey harvesting rituals practiced by Gurung climbers.
We trek to the cliff near Ghanpokhara along with the Porter and the guide for the ceremony. The ritual process with a prayer and offerings like flowers, rice, etc., involves lighting the incense. The offering is made to the forest spirit and the mountain for a successful honey harvest.
Afterwards, the fire is started at the base of the cliff to smoke out the bees. The smoke chases the bee away from the hives. Then, the bee hunter rappels down an unsteady bamboo and rope ladder. They are not wearing any modern safety gear, just a traditional garb, a hat with a mosquito net over the face, and a handmade, long bamboo knife.
The one on the top cuts the cliff-honecomb with a bamboo knife, while others stand carrying buckets to catch honey. The whole process of harvesting is intense yet spectacular and not for the faint of heart.
Once all the honey is harvested, you can taste the pure wild honey straight from the comb. We return to Ghalegaun to spend a night.
Included: Accommodation and Full Board Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
17 km/11 miles-6 to 7 hrs of trek-1,650 meters/ 5,413 feet
Leaving behind Ghalegaun early in the morning, we hike down through rhododendron forests. This route leads us toward Bhujung Valley. The Bhujung Village, located at 1,696 meters/ 5,564 feet, is one of the largest Gurung villages in Nepal. This village is very popular for having many wild honey sites, tea gardens, and water mills. Rich in nature and wildlife, this place provides the most natural setting and atmosphere.
From Bhujung, the trails involve steep climbing along with rocky terrain. This section is quite difficult, but the peaceful sound of the forests of oak and pine with birds chirping truly heals you. The views and journey are not a joke; it’s just so beautiful.
Finally, we reach our final destination, Pasgaon at 1,650 meters/ 5,413 feet. This small settlement in Lamjung district is located at the top of a ridge. Here you can find houses made of stone, and open meadows. Likewise, the sweeping panorama of the Annapurna peaks at sunset is the cherry on top. Overnight stay at Pasgaon.
Included: Accommodation and Full Board Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
12 km/ 7.5 miles-5 to 6 hrs of trek-1,200 meters/ 3,937 feet
The day starts early in the morning with a hike from Pasgaon. Today’s trek takes us to the dense deciduous forest. We climb gently through the oak and rhododendron orchard. The trek can get strenuous, but the colourful Himalayan birds singing make the journey less difficult.
This region is not only rich in birds and wildlife but also rich with crystal clear hill streams and small waterfalls. The freshness is just minblowing. Though there are lots of streams and waterfalls, safe drinking water is still scarce, so we suggest you carry a refillable water bottle.
The Honey Hunting Nepal trek then changes to a steep descent. You have to be extra careful in this section due to slippery rocks. Finally, we reach Pakhrikot by afternoon. It is a small and old Gurung village at 1,200 meters/ 3,937 feet. We stay for a night in Pakhrikot.
Included: Accommodation and Full Board Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
2 hrs Trek then 180 km/ 111 miles-7 to 8 hrs of drive
Today is the final day of the Honey Hunting Nepal trek. The route involves walking down when we will reaching Thumsikot at 693 meters/ 2,273 feet.
From here on, you can see the changes in scenery. You can find more terraced fields, villages, and farmers working here and there just below.
After arriving at Thumsikot, the walking journey completely concludes. From here on, we take a private jeep drive back to Kathmandu. The drive is quite long, taking 6 to 7 hours. But the scenery is very pretty as you pass through the beautiful and peaceful Lamjung countryside. It gives perfect relaxation after a long and exhausting trek.
We arrive in Kathmandu in the evening. After checking into the hotel, you can rest. If you still have some energy left, you can explore around the Thamel area and buy souvenirs because it’s your last day in Nepal.
For dinner, Good Karma Trekking have prepared a farewell dinner at one of the finest restaurants in Kathmandu. We will also talk about the experience you got during the Honey Hunting Nepal trek and bid farewell for today.
Included: Accommodation and Full Board Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
The Honey Hunting Nepal adventure has officially come to an end. You can do last-minute shopping for souvenirs depending on your flight schedule. When it’s time, our staff will drop you off at Tribhuvan International Airport for your flight back home.
We hope you had the best trekking experience with Good Karma Trekking. If you want to join another trip or extend your stay in Nepal, just contact us. Moreover, you are always welcome back as you have become part of the Good Karma family with this trip, Honey Hunting Nepal.
Included: Breakfast and Airport Transportation.
Cost Includes
- Airport Transfer (Pick up and drop off).
- Standard accommodation in Kathmandu.
- Traditional Nepali style welcome dinner (Day 1) along with cutural performances.
- Private toursit vehcle for sightseeing.
- Private jeep drive from Kathamndu to Besisahar and Thumsikot to Kathmandu.
- Twin-sharing accommodation throughout the trek.
- Hot showers and attached toilet bathrroms a availabe area.
- Breakfast, lunch, and dinner (full board meals) during the trek, seasonal fruits, and 3 cups of tea/coffee.
- Highly experienced, licensed, first-aid trained, English speaking local guide.
- 1 Porter for 2 travellers (Insurance and fees included).
- Farewell dinner in Kathmandu.
- Unlimited water purification tablets.
- Sleeping bags and Down jackets (provide free of charge to use if needed).
- Adventure certificate.
- Basic first-aid kit.
- All monument sightseeing entry fees, trekking permits, and government tax.
Cost Excludes
- Nepal Tourist Visa.
- Other meals in Kathmandu (welcome and farewell dinner included).
- Personal expenses, travel insurance, internet, and charging electronic devices.
- Tips for guides and porters.
- Additional stay in Nepal and an extra trip.
