Honey Hunting in Tembahara Cliff of Dhading: A High Potential for Adventure Tourism

Honey hunting in Tembahara Cliff of Dhading has been carried out at Gangajamuna Rural Municipality-2, Dhading, a place with immense potential for adventure tourism. The honey hunting event took place in the presence of a team from the Trekking Agencies Association of Nepal (TAAN) and the local municipality, who visited the area for the research and promotion of the ‘Gangajamuna Tri-Sure Trail’. In the Tamang language, ‘Hyara’ means cliff bee.

Anil Shrestha, the Chief Administrative Officer of Gangajamuna, mentioned that honey has been harvested from cliff bees at Tembahara Cliff for a long time. The municipality has been supporting tourism promotion by providing the necessary equipment for honey production.

Shrestha added, “Besides honey from cliff bees, Tembahara Cliff has great potential for canyoning. The municipality will conduct a feasibility study and move forward accordingly.”

Bal Bahadur Tamang, the Ward Chair of Gangajamuna-2, stated that a committee will be formed to conserve and produce honey from the cliff bees in the future. He mentioned that honey has been extracted from this cliff for the past two hundred years.

Currently, six youths from the village of Ri have invested NPR 200,000 to buy ropes for honey harvesting from the cliff bees. The honey produced is sold for NPR 1,500 to 2,000 per kilogram, according to Ward Chair Tamang. This cliff is located at the Taprang River, on the border of Gangajamuna-2 and 3.

Rajkumar Gurung, the Ward Chair of Gangajamuna-3, said that the ward is working on identifying and conserving the tourist areas within the ward. It will take a week to extract the honey starting from today.

Chandra Bahadur Tamang, Kurmu Tamang, and Durga Tamang from Ri village have been involved in the honey extraction. Honey production from cliff bees at this site occurs in the months of Kartik and Baisakh (approximately October/November and April/May).

Ramesh Dhakal, the Tourism Development Coordinator and Ward Chair of Ward No. 6, stated that the municipality is committed to developing adventure tourism in Gangajamuna. Many people from Dhading, including those from Gangajamuna, are involved in the tourism business in the federal capital, Kathmandu. Gangajamuna residents alone own 95 trekking companies.

Tourism Development Coordinator Dhakal mentioned that all businesspeople from Kathmandu will be included in the development of tourism within Ganga Jamuna.

Adventure Tourism Potential for Honey Hunting in Tembahara Cliff of Dhading

Tembahara Cliff in Dhading district offers a unique blend of natural beauty and adrenaline-pumping activities, making it an ideal spot for adventure tourism. Here’s a detailed look at the potential adventure tourism activities in this area:

Honey Hunting Adventures

Honey hunting at Tembahara Cliff is not just about harvesting honey; it is an immersive experience where tourists can witness and even participate in the traditional methods used by local honey hunters. This includes scaling the cliffs using ropes and traditional tools.

Visitors gain insights into the local Tamang culture and their sustainable practices, which have been passed down through generations.

Canyoning

The rugged terrain and numerous waterfalls around Tembahara Cliff provide excellent opportunities for canyoning. Tourists can enjoy rappelling down waterfalls, sliding down natural water slides, and jumping into clear pools. Local guides and tour operators can offer safe and guided canyoning experiences, ensuring safety while providing a thrilling adventure.

Trekking

The ‘Gangajamuna Tri-Sure Trail’ offers scenic trekking routes that pass through lush forests, traditional villages, and breathtaking landscapes. Trekking in this region not only provides a physical challenge but also cultural enrichment as trekkers interact with local communities and witness their way of life.

Bird Watching and Wildlife Exploration

The area around Tembahara Cliff is rich in biodiversity, making it a great spot for bird watching and wildlife exploration. Enthusiasts can spot various species of birds, butterflies, and other wildlife. Local guides with knowledge of the flora and fauna can enhance the experience by providing detailed information and helping tourists spot rare species.

Seasonal Aspects of Honey Hunting

Understanding the seasonal dynamics is crucial for those planning to visit honey hunting in Tembahara Cliff of Dhading. Kartik (October/November) and Baisakh (April/May) are the primary seasons for honey hunting at Tembahara Cliff. During these months, the cliff bees are most active, and the honeycombs are at their fullest.

Cliff bees build their nests on the steep cliffs, which are harvested twice a year. The activity of the bees and the production of honey are influenced by the flowering seasons of the local flora. The presence of bees and their protective nature over their hives means that honey hunting requires careful planning and experienced guides to ensure safety.

How to Experience Honey Hunting in Tembahara Cliff of Dhading

For those interested in experiencing honey hunting at Tembahara Cliff, here’s a detailed guide on how to plan your trip:

Getting There

Tembahara Cliff is accessible from Kathmandu. Visitors can take a bus or hire a private vehicle to Dhading, followed by a trek or a local transport ride to Ganga Jamuna. Ensure to arrange for local transportation in advance, as the routes can be challenging and might require off-road vehicles.

Accommodation

There are several guesthouses and homestays in the Gangajamuna area, offering basic amenities and a chance to experience local hospitality.

For a more adventurous experience, camping near the cliff is an option. Ensure to carry necessary camping gear and check with local authorities for permission.

Safety Tips

Always opt for guided tours provided by experienced local operators. They have the knowledge and skills to ensure a safe and informative experience.

Wear appropriate clothing and protective gear. This includes sturdy shoes, gloves, and headgear.

Be aware of any allergies to bee stings and carry the necessary medications. Inform your guide of any medical conditions beforehand.

At Last,

A honey hunting experience at Tembahara Cliff in Dhading is more than simply a journey through difficult landscapes and steep cliffs. It is a journey into Nepal’s rich heritage of culture and natural beauty. Participating in this age-old ritual, guided by the experienced hands of local honey hunters, gives you a deep respect for our peaceful relationship with the environment.

The adrenaline rush of ascending the cliffs, the thrill of observing the bees’ fragile dance, and the sweet reward of tasting freshly harvested honey all contribute to an amazing experience. Aside from the experience, your visit benefits the local economy, promotes sustainable tourism, and helps maintain a centuries-old practice.

So, pack your things, prepare your adventurous spirit, and set off for Tembahara Cliff. Discover the joy of honey-seeking, embrace challenges, and make memories to last a lifetime in this hidden treasure of Dhading. The cliff bees are waiting, as is your next big adventure.