Hetauda, Jan. 22 -- Aitesingh Chepang, a beekeeper from Silinge village in Makawanpur, central Nepal, cannot hide his excitement this winter. With 150 beehives placed amid blooming chiuri forests, he is expecting a bumper honey harvest that could double his earnings from last year.

In the previous season, Aitesingh sold honey worth over Rs700,000. This year, he estimates his income will exceed Rs1.2 million, driven by a strong demand and better prices.

"These days, honey is sold in cash as soon as it is extracted," he said. "The price is also good."

Unlike earlier years, beekeepers no longer have to travel long distances to sell their produce. Traders now visit the grazing sites directly, paying Rs400 per kilogram. "Last year, honey fe...