Yarsagumba: The Himalayan Gold fungus driving Nepal’s mountain economy

Key facts

• Yarsagumba, also known as Keeda Jadi or caterpillar fungus, is a unique combination of a parasitic fungus and the larvae of ghost moths.
• The rare fungus is found in the Himalayan regions of Nepal, Tibet, and parts of India at altitudes exceeding 4,000 metres above sea level.
• Highly valued in traditional Chinese medicine for improving stamina and boosting immunity, the fungus can fetch prices up to ₹20 lakh per kg in international markets.
• The annual harvesting season for this natural resource typically occurs between May and July in districts such as Dolpa, Mugu, Jumla, and Darchula.
• The biological process involves the fungus mummifying the underground caterpillar and sprouting a thin stalk above the soil surface for collection.