SINDHUPALCHOWK
In the enchanting hills of Nepal, an age-old tradition called honey hunting unfolds, as brave individuals venture into the treacherous cliffs in search of nature's golden nectar. With just a single rope as their lifeline, these honey hunters scale great heights, risking their lives for the chance to harvest honeycombs hidden in the heights. Bhotekhosi Rural Municipality in the Sindhupalchowk district serves as their daring playground.
Palden Sherpa, representing generations of honey hunters, shares the challenges and rewards of this perilous pursuit.
He speaks of the steep heights they conquer and the health benefits attributed to consuming the wild honey, which he claims can alleviate various ailments such as gastrointestinal issues, high blood pressure, gouty arthritis, acne, and chronic cough.
While minimal safety equipment is used by honey hunters, some believe that introducing modern safety measures, such as harnesses, could better protect their lives.
Abhi Rai, an observer, expresses admiration for their skills while acknowledging the inherent risks. He suggests the incorporation of safety harnesses and improved equipment to ensure their well-being as they navigate the heights and harvest the honeycombs.
Honey hunting is a seasonal activity, carefully timed to take place during favourable weather conditions. The process involves smoking out the bees from the honeycombs and swiftly cutting them to collect the precious honey. Timing is crucial, as any delays could lead to the bees consuming their own creation.
Despite being stung in his left eye during the hunt, Pemba Rinchen, a dedicated honey hunter, remains resolute.
"Despite the dangers and lack of safety measures," he says, "I continue to work, earning a portion of the honey collected, along with support from the government and my employer."
During the off-season, Pemba engages in agricultural farming and cattle breeding to sustain himself.
With impaired vision from the bee sting, he makes his way back home, allowing another hunter to take his place in the arduous task of honey hunting.
Bikram Khadka, another experienced honey hunter, sheds light on the evolving role of honey. In the past, it was primarily used for animal feed or as a special ingredient during festivals.
However, with increasing demand, Nepali honey now finds its way to international markets, including Korea, China, Japan, and beyond.
Though the inevitable risk, Khadka expressed confidence in the safety measures employed during the hunt, considering the secure knots and ties used in the ropes. He believes that their locking system surpasses those used by tourists in climbing activities.
Deeply rooted in Nepali history and traditions, honey hunting represents the profound connection between humans and nature. Passed down through generations, the knowledge and techniques associated with honey hunting highlight the symbiotic relationship between humans and honeybees.
Honey hunting is undoubtedly a dangerous occupation, and Khadka's family worries about his safety. During the hunting season, he feels a strong urge to continue despite the risks. "I genuinely enjoy honey hunting. During the offseason, I engage in agricultural work and take care of my cattle and chicken," he adds.
"This time, the hunt was more enjoyable as we were stung less by the bees. Usually, even the people who come to witness the hunting process get stung by 25-30 bees," says Khadka.
Recalling a memorable incident from a few years back, Khadka recounted how all the hunters indulged in the wild honey they had harvested causing hunters to either vomit or have explosive diarrhoea. Little did they know that by simply licking the honey off their hands, unwilling to let any of the precious substance go to waste, the honey would have such an effect.
Khadka now usually warns all the hunters about the various effects of honey along with its hallucinogenic effect.
Despite the dangers they face, the honey hunters continue their timeless pursuit. As they gather honey from the cliffs, they recognise the essence of the surrounding flora, reflecting the region's unique biodiversity. They understand the delicate balance between their pursuit and the preservation of the honeybee population, ensuring the sustainability of this practice for future generations.
And so, the timeless tradition of honey hunting in the hills of Nepal lives on, echoing through the generations and captivating the hearts of all who dare to embark on this extraordinary journey.
As the honey hunters scale treacherous cliffs, their unwavering spirit and deep connection with nature remind us of the profound lengths humans will go to unlock the secrets of nature's golden nectar.
It is a testament to the indomitable human spirit, the enduring bond between humans and honeybees, and the enduring magic of Nepal's cultural heritage.
A version of this article appears in the print on June 18, 2023, of The Himalayan Times.
