Rafique Aziz
Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar:
Repeated incidents of honeybee swarm attacks at major tourist destinations—especially the recent cases at the UNESCO World Heritage Site Ajanta Caves—have become a serious concern for tourism stakeholders worldwide.
In response, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and the Department of Forest (DoF) have issued an advisory for visitors planning trips to the caves, located about 100 km from the city. The aim is to ensure tourist safety while preserving the ecological balance and historical integrity of one of India’s most iconic heritage sites.
Stakeholders are particularly worried about the safety of foreign tourists. Over the past two months, 6–7 bee attack incidents have been reported, with hundreds of domestic and international tourists injured in just three days (Wednesday to Friday).
Experts have suggested precautionary measures, including carrying a “honey bee safety cap” when visiting both Ajanta Caves and Ellora Caves.
ASI flags irresponsible tourism as key cause
Manoj Pawar, Conservation Assistant (Ajanta Sub-circle, ASI), said that multiple factors are responsible, with irresponsible tourism being a major contributor.
“Disturbing natural habitats and interfering with wildlife is a key issue. Visitors must follow the dos and don’ts prescribed by ASI and the Department of Forest,” he said.
Box 1
Safety Precautions for Visitors by ASI
Do’s and Don’ts:
Avoid wearing dark-coloured clothing
Stay away from beehives
Do not use strong perfumes or deodorants
Avoid loud noises near hives—bees prefer quiet environments
Move away immediately if bees are actively swarming
Never throw objects at hives
If a Bee Approaches:
Do not swat or hit it
Cover your face, ears, neck, and head with a cloth
Move quickly to a safe, enclosed space
Seek medical attention immediately if stung
Experts recommend “Honey Bee Cap”
Environmental experts emphasize that bees are vital to the ecosystem and must be protected. However, awareness of their defensive behavior is equally important.
Bee stings release chemicals such as formic acid, melittin, and apitoxin, which can attract more bees and intensify attacks. Applying mild alkaline substances like baking soda may help reduce pain. Carrying a protective “honey bee cap” can offer added safety in high-risk zones, said the expert on anonymity.
Rising number of hives
According to ASI data:
9 hives at Cave No. 10
2 hives at Cave No. 9
1 hive each at Cave Nos. 4, 24, and 26
ASI Superintending Archaeologist Dr Shiv Kumar Bhagat recently visited the site and noted a rapid increase in hive numbers. Just last week, Cave No. 10 had only two hives, but changing weather conditions have caused bees to migrate toward the caves for shelter.
Joint Inspection Scheduled
A joint inspection will be conducted on April 4 by Range Forest Officer (Ajanta Range) Santosh Dhodke and ASI conservation assistant (Ajanta Sub-circle) Manoj Pawar.
“ Similar issues were addressed in June 2025 when external experts were brought in to remove beehives. With recent weather changes, the problem has resurfaced. Further action is likely to be taken on Monday, when the caves remain closed, “ said the RFO.
Tourist negligence adds to the problem
An ASI official highlighted that despite increased monitoring by staff and security personnel, many tourists fail to follow safety instructions.
“We advise visitors to move in pairs through sensitive areas like Cave No. 9, but many ignore guidelines and even argue with staff. When incidents occur, ASI is unfairly blamed,” the official said.