Bringing Nepal’s Mad Honey to the World: Tradition and Quality
Our Story
Since 2012
My first encounter with Mad Honey was a transformative experience. During a trek through the stunning landscapes of the Lamjung mountains, I was introduced to this rare honey by a local Gurung family. The moment I tasted it, I was struck by its unique flavor and the stories they shared about its ancient uses. This moment ignited a passion in me to bring this extraordinary honey to the world, so others could also experience its magic and benefits.
One of the most significant moments was witnessing the traditional honey-harvesting process in Bhujung village. Watching the Gurung tribesmen, suspended on cliffs, skillfully gathering honeycomb amidst swarming bees, was awe-inspiring. Their bravery, skill, and deep connection to their environment left a profound impression on me. I felt a strong desire to honor their heritage and share their incredible story with the world through Nepal Mad Honey.
Mad Honey is unlike any other honey in the world. Its distinct taste, coupled with its medicinal properties and the mild euphoria it can induce, makes it truly special. The more I learned about its benefits and the ancient traditions surrounding its use, the more I realized how unique and valuable it was.
By building strong relationships with the Gurung tribe, we overcame challenges to bring this exceptional product to market. Today, I am proud to offer a honey that not only captivates the senses but also supports the livelihoods and traditions of the Gurung people.
The Source: Bhujung Village and Gurung Community
Bhujung village, located in the Lamjung district of Nepal, is a significant hub for the Gurung community, both geographically and culturally. Situated at an altitude of approximately 1,696 meters in the mid-western region of Nepal, Bhujung is surrounded by the majestic Annapurna and Manaslu mountain ranges. The village is characterized by traditional stone and mud houses that harmonize with the natural landscape and is known for its rich biodiversity, including rhododendron forests and various wildlife.
The Gurung people, who predominantly inhabit Bhujung, are known for their vibrant culture, which includes unique customs, traditional attire, and a strong sense of community. Recognized as one of the largest Gurung communities in Nepal, around 90% of Bhujung’s population belongs to this ethnic group.
Mad Honey harvesting is a longstanding tradition among the Gurung, produced by bees that collect nectar from rhododendron flowers. The traditional methods of Mad Honey harvesting involve skilled climbers ascending steep cliffs using handmade ropes and ladders. They utilize smoke to calm the bees before carefully collecting the honeycomb, ensuring minimal disturbance to the hive. This process is not just an economic activity but also a cultural ritual, playing a vital role in the social structure of the Gurung people.
Our Commitment to Quality and Sustainability
At Nepal Mad Honey, we set the bar high with our uncompromising quality assurance practices. Every batch undergoes precise testing for critical metrics like grayanotoxin levels and moisture content, ensuring that our honey consistently meets stringent safety and purity standards.
We’re also committed to ongoing improvement, incorporating advanced technologies and research to refine our methods. By providing detailed quality reports and educating our customers on what defines premium Mad Honey, we uphold a standard of excellence that you can trust with every jar.
Our ethical and sustainable sourcing is reflected in our close collaboration with the Gurung community. We ensure that harvesting practices minimize harm to bees and their habitats, supporting the preservation of traditional methods and promoting sustainable tourism and conservation in the region.
Certification & Recognition
Our commitment to excellence is underscored by our certifications from the Department of Food Technology and Quality Control (DFTQC) in Nepal. This certification verifies that our Mad Honey adheres to rigorous industry standards for safety and quality.
Our facilities and practices were reviewed by industry experts, and we continuously maintain these standards through regular audits. These certifications not only validate our quality control practices but also reinforce our dedication to ethical and sustainable production methods.
In addition to our certifications, we have earned several accolades for our commitment to quality and sustainability. These awards highlight our efforts in upholding high standards and contribute to our reputation as a leader in the Mad Honey market. Each recognition reflects our dedication to delivering a product that excels in both purity and ethical practices.
Meet the Team and Vision for the Future
At the heart of Nepal Mad Honey is a dedicated team passionate about delivering the finest Mad Honey while supporting the Gurung community. Leading the team is Castro Raj, the founder, whose deep connection to the traditions of Nepal and commitment to quality drive the brand’s mission. Working alongside Castro are local experts in honey production and quality control, including Gurung honey-hunters from Bhujung village who bring their traditional expertise to our operations.
Our vision for Nepal Mad Honey extends beyond just selling honey; we are dedicated to making a positive impact in the Gurung community. Our primary goal is to support and preserve traditional harvesting methods while promoting sustainable practices. Additionally, we aim to bolster community support through various initiatives, such as contributing to local development projects and fostering educational opportunities.