Honey hunting from the largest bee in the world

One of the Gurung men watches from the base of the cliff as the cutter repositions himself on the rope ladder 200ft above. An influx of tourists trekking the world famous Annapurna circuit has stimulated interest among trekking agencies in organising ‘staged’ honey hunting events in areas such as Ghandruk, Manang and Lamjung. They charge US$250-$1,500 for one honey-hunting event, very little of which is paid to the indigenous communities.