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🇳🇵 Nepal /Culture & Society

Tourists flock to witness cliff honey hunting in Lamjung

From Kathmandu Post · () English

Summarized by DistantNews. Read the original for the full story.

At a glance

News Named sources Context piece
  • Foreign tourists are increasingly drawn to Lamjung, Nepal, to witness the traditional and dangerous Gurung practice of cliff honey hunting.
  • Honey hunters use traditional bamboo ladders and protective gear to collect honey from Himalayan cliff bees, a process that has gained international media attention.
  • The practice, documented by filmmakers and international media, attracts visitors from around the world who are fascinated by its adventurous nature and cultural significance.

The towering cliffs of Lamjung are not just geological wonders; they are stages for a centuries-old Gurung tradition that is captivating the world. Cliff honey hunting, a practice steeped in local heritage, is now a significant draw for international tourists, transforming rural Nepal into an adventure tourism hotspot.

This ancient craft, where brave hunters descend perilous cliffs using traditional bamboo ladders known as 'pro,' is more than just a spectacle. It's a testament to the resilience and ingenuity of the Gurung people. The sight of hunters, surrounded by swarms of Himalayan cliff bees, meticulously harvesting honey, is a powerful display of human interaction with nature's raw elements. The global fascination, amplified by international media and filmmakers like Eric Valli, highlights a growing interest in authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences.

We had only seen it on YouTube. The reality is far more dangerous and extraordinary.

· Francesco SantinoAn Italian tourist describing his experience witnessing cliff honey hunting.

For Nepal, this surge in interest is a welcome boost to rural economies. As tourists, including those from Turkey and Italy, flock to witness this unique tradition, it provides a vital income stream for local communities. The fact that visitors are planning trips specifically to coincide with the honey hunting season underscores its growing appeal. This tradition, once a local practice, is now a global phenomenon, showcasing the rich cultural tapestry of Nepal to the world and offering a unique perspective on the country beyond its famous mountains.

Tourists now ask about the season and come specifically to see cliff honey hunting in the villages.

· Tul Bahadur GurungChair of the Tourism Management Committee in Bhujung, commenting on the growing tourist interest.
About this summary

Originally published by Kathmandu Post. Summarized and contextualized automatically by DistantNews, with a note on how the source frames the story. Not individually reviewed before publishing. How this works.

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