Himalayan mountain livelihood systems generally rely on natural resources in the higher Himalayan regions. Keedajadi (Ophiocordyceps sinensis) is a natural insect fungus mainly found in the Bugyals (meadows) of high Himalayan regions at an altitude of 3000–5000 m above mean sea level. The medicinal properties of Keedajadi have made it one of the most expensive natural resources in the area. The Keedajadi availability and its commercial value have been explored in the recent past. The high demand and value of Keedajadi in the markets of Tibet and China have played an important role in strengthening the economy of the rural areas of the study area. There was no information about Keedajadi availability in the Mandakini River valley until two decades ago, which has emerged as an important resource. This resource has become very influential and successful in bringing economic and social change to the rural economy of seventeen (17) revenue villages in the area. This study shows that the number of families, which was 1064 in 2011, increased to 1287 in 2022. Total production was 59.5 kg (value Rs. 417 lakhs (629,719$) and 43.3 kg (value Rs. 433 lakhs (581,677$) in 2016 and 2022 respectively. There has been a change of -16.2 kg (27.2%) in keedajadi production from 2016 to 2022. There are a total of eight (8) Bugyals (Dhunkhan, Kokan dhunga, Northern Blati, Southern Blati, Selapani Lambaladi, Khathapu (A, B), Janthri) from where keedajadi collection is made. In general, the income is used by most families for building construction, educating children, starting their employment-oriented businesses, and meeting their day-to-day needs.