Exploring Ilam, the Jewel of Eastern Nepal

Ilam, one of the districts of province number 1 of eastern Nepal, is one of the most beautiful districts of Nepal which is even compared with heaven due to the presence of the colossal amount of Natural beauty.

Ilam is a stunning hill station with a huge amount of biological and geographical diversity, within just 658 sq. miles area.

From the flatland of Terai to the high hills of the Hill region, the diverse landscapes of the Ilam is truly amazing. But Ilam is mostly popular for its enthralling tea gardens.

Green hills, fields filled with crops, forests chock-full of rhododendron of different species, views of glamorous mountains, peoples with their rich cultures and traditions, exotic species of flora, fauna like Red panda along with some endangered birds are some of the things which adds beauty to the visit of Ilam.

It is one of the must-visit places in Nepal. You can do many things like trekking, sightseeing, mountain biking, hiking, birds watching, research on plants and many more. It has got at least something for everyone.

Must-visit places in Ilam

Antu Danda

If you want to witness the mesmerizing beauty of sunrise, sunset, and mountains then, Antu Danda is the best place to be in Ilam.

Situated at an altitude of 2,328 m above sea level overlooking the Terai flatlands, Antu Danda offers the enthralling views of tea gardens, thick pine forests, and terraced hills, along with the views of Darjeeling, Mirik, and Kurseong in clear days.

Kanyam and Fikkal

If you want to eyewitness the bewitching beauty of the tea gardens then, Kanyam and Fikkal are the best places to visit in Ilam. The tea covered estates are most famous among tourists for picnic, taking photographs, sightseeing, and hiking.

Siddhi Thumka

Siddhi thumka is another place in Ilam, elevated at an altitude of 1,800 meters, to witness the spectacular beauty of sunrise and sunset. Mahabharat range Churia mountain range and the beauty of Terai flatlands can be observed from here.

Mai Pokhari

Mai Pokhari is one of the most beautiful lakes of this region surrounded by the forests of juniper, fir, birch which are habitat to the various species of flora and fauna like, orchids, rhododendron, red panda, musk deer, jackal along with some endangered birds and insects. Special fair is held every year around October or November.

Chhintapu

Chhintapu is the second highest peak in the Ilam district elevated 3,400 meters above sea level. Various species of Rhododendron, herbal plants like Yarshagumba, wild animals like musk deer and red panda can be seen around Chhintapu.

Sadakpur

It is another hill of Ilam, elevated above 3,636 meters, which provides panoramic views of the mountains like Mt. Kanchenjunga, Mt. Kumnhakarma, Mt. Makalu, and even Mt. Everest. It is also home to endangered species of animals like red panda, musk deer, and Himalayan leopard.

Mai Beni

It is a beautiful Shiva temple situated at the confluence of two rivers, Mai Khola, and Jogma Khola. It hosts a major fair during Maghe Sankranti when thousands of devotees arrive from the neighboring districts.

Gajur Mukhi

Gajur Mukhi is a stone tunnel on the bank of Deumai Khola which is carved with images of the Hindu Deities. It is situated in the west of Ilam bazar.