Khuainou Honeycomb Harvesting: A Valuable Thangkhal Forest Tradition

 THE photo shows large pieces of Khuainou, a traditional honeycomb collected from the forest. The combs are cut open, revealing hundreds of white larvae packed inside each cell. Some sections have a little, big round shape in the middle, which is called “Khuaiphaang.” They are all spread out on a wooden table, ready to be cleaned or prepared.

For the Thangkhals, gathering Khuainou has been a common practice for generations. People usually go deep into the jungle, climb tall trees, and carefully remove the combs from wild bee hives.

Khuainou is not only a traditional food but also an important source of income. Today, it has become quite valuable because of its taste and nutritional benefits. In the local markets of Lamka, one kilogram can cost around Rs 2,500. Even though collecting it is risky and requires skill, it remains a meaningful part of Thangkhal culture and livelihood.

Photo credit: Mr Suasuan, Kotlian village, Thangkhal Hills

~ KHALVONTAWI MEDIA

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