Ilam is a hill district in Nepal. The tea gardens are the hill station’s most well-known attraction, located in one of Nepal’s most populous districts. Visitors are drawn to the region because of its natural beauty and wildlife. Ilam is a well-known tourist spot in Nepal’s eastern region.
It is situated between the Himalayan ranges and attracts many visitors due to its many summer attractions. A quick walk through a tea garden, a peaceful picnic, sightseeing stops, short hikes in surrounding forests, or exploring Ilam’s rich environment is all alternatives.
Below, we have listed the Top 10 Places to Visit in Ilam, Nepal:
1. Sandakpur (Sandakphu)
Sandakpur is located at a height of 3,665 metres on the Nepal-India border. In India, it expands to the Darjeeling area of West Bengal. From Ilam, visitors can book a private cab to Maimajhuwa Khorsanitar. After a 5-hour journey, you will finally arrive at Sandakphu.
Sandakpur offers breathtaking views of the world’s tallest mountains, including Mt. Everest (8,848 m), Mt. Makalu (8,485 m), Mt. Kumbakarna (7,710 m), Mt. Kangchenjunga (8,586 m), and Mt. Lhotse (8,516 m).
The area is well-known for bird watching, and it is home to the Danfe (Himalayan monal), which is a Nepali bird. Sandakpur is also home to endangered animals, including musk deer & red pandas.
- Highlights: Nepal’s highest peak in the Ilam district offers stunning views of Mount Everest, Kanchenjunga, and other Himalayan giants.
- Access: Reachable via jeep from Ilam or by trekking from Mane Bhanjang, requiring 2-3 days.
- Visitor Tips: Ideal trekking season is March-May and October-November. Dress in layers, as temperatures drop significantly at higher altitudes.
2. Maipokhari
The Maipokhari Ramsar area is among the most magnificent wetlands in the Midlands, with abundant biodiversity, nature, and tranquillity. About 18 kilometres to the north of Ilam bazaar, there is a star-shaped lake with nine corners that are believed to pay honour to different Gods. As a result, it is a sacred site for Hindus, Kirats and Buddhists. The lake is surrounded by vegetation and is well known for fishing and boating.
According to the Hindu religious book ‘Mahabharata,’ the Pandav brothers walked through Arjundhara, Baraha Chhetra, and Maipokhari during their stay in the forest.
The Nirmal Mai Ashram, Satyadhuni Ashram, Shiva Temple, Tashi Choling Monastery, Bhagwati Temple, and Saraswati Temple are all popular landmarks in Maipokhari. Large fairs are held on Thulo Ekadashi.
- Features: This serene lake surrounded by dense forests is a pilgrimage site and a natural paradise with rare flora and fauna.
- Getting There: Accessible by car from Ilam Bazaar, approximately a 1-hour drive.
- Advice: Visiting during the Nepali festival of Tihar enhances the cultural experience. Respect the area as a sacred site and refrain from littering.
Read also: Nepal October Travel: Top Places to Explore
3. Siddhi Thumka
Siddhi Thumka, located at a height of 1,693 metres above sea level, is roughly 18 kilometres from Ilam’s Ajambare Danda.
The location is well-known for its sunset and sunrise views, as well as breathtaking vistas of the Kangchenjunga and Everest summits and ranges like the Mahabharat and Churia ranges.
Other popular Siddhi Thumka destinations include Pankhelung Falls, Khnadrung Cave, Falgunanda Manghim Fulbari, Singhadevisthan, Namthala, and Ratopani Temple.
Paddy rice fields & orange production on the southern side of Siddhi Thumpka are major attractions for agricultural tourism.
- What to Expect: A popular hilltop destination offering panoramic views of sunrise, the Himalayas, and valleys dotted with tea gardens.
- How to Access: Around a 2-hour hike from Ilam, making it suitable for day trips.
- Travel Tips: Best visited at sunrise for the spectacular colors. Carry water and wear trekking shoes, as the terrain can be steep.
4. Forests of Sanketham and Choyatar
Sanketham is a popular destination for environment lovers and peace activists. It is 2170m above sea level in the northeast of Ilam in Jamuna, VDC.
What else? Fresh, chilly, and frequently changing weather, opaque fog, melodiously chirping birds, lush woodlands, and views of the majority of Ilam greet you. Here you can see Red Pandas, Thars, Leopards, Black Bears, Charibags, Rajpankhi, and Thakthake. Kandevaccur, Munal, Eagle, Water Duck, and other migratory birds may be seen beside Chap, Rhododendron, Bante, Sunakhari, Lautsalla, Chiraito, Bajrath, Katush, and other plants.
The beautiful environment of Northern Pond is very close to Naya Bazar. This is also a major and well-known Buddhist pilgrimage site. Thumke is situated on the eastern side of Naya Bazar and is widely known for sunrise, Red Panda watching, and trekking.
- Highlights: Rich in biodiversity, these forests are ideal for nature walks, bird watching, and spotting wildlife.
- Getting There: Accessible by road; hiring a local guide is recommended for wildlife insights.
- Visitor Tip: Morning visits are ideal for wildlife sightings; avoid making loud noises to preserve the tranquility and avoid disturbing animals.
5. Chintapu
Chhintapu is Ilam’s second-highest peak at 3,400 metres above sea level. You can reach it after 3 hours of trekking. Chintapu offers visitors amazing views of the Himalayan range.
The vistas from Mt. Kumbhakarna, Mt. Kanchenjunga, Mt. Everest, and other ranges of the Himalayas in Bhutan, Nepal and India are stunning.
Darjeeling, Sikkim, Panchthar, Ilam bazaar, Ilam, Terai’s flat plain, Panchthar, and the hills reaching towards Taplejung are also visible, as are barren villages on the distant slopes. This area is home to eleven distinct types of rhododendron, as well as uncommon flora and animals like the musk deer & red panda.
- Overview: Known for its rhododendron forests, rare medicinal plants, and views stretching into Sikkim and beyond.
- Access: Accessible by a short hike from Ilam, though some parts are remote and best explored with a guide.
- Advice: Visit in spring (March-May) when rhododendrons bloom; carry essentials like water and snacks.
6. The Temple Gajurmukhi
The Temple Gajurmukhi, which is also recognized as Devisthan, is a well-known religious attraction in Nepal’s Eastern Region, situated on the banks of the Deumai River.
It is located 500 metres above sea level. You can reach Devisthan by renting a vehicle or taking a motorcycle from Birtamode to Illam bazaar, followed by a walk from Ghangre Bhanjyang to Ghoseni.
A new 15 km path from Manglabare’s south has just been constructed to reach the temple. It is claimed that people who worship at the Gajurmukhi Devisthan will be rewarded with a child if they are childless, those who are deaf will be given a voice, and that other miracles will occur. The Deumai River enhances the tranquilly of the environment, and the Temple Gajurmukhi is a work of art on its own. There is also a cave in this location that is approximately 10 feet high & 20 feet long.
This location also features a Shivalaya Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, which attracts many Indian visitors. The Limbu community’s culture and practices have been maintained in this culturally rich region.
- Why Go: This historic temple, located on the banks of Deumai River, is revered by locals and has a deep cultural significance.
- How to Reach: About 10 km from Ilam Bazaar, accessible by local transport or taxi.
- Visitor Tip: Be respectful of religious practices, and visit early in the morning to experience the peaceful atmosphere.
7. Shree Antu
Shree Antu is a popular tourist site for seeing the sunrise. Shree Antu Dandais a renowned sunrise-watching location located at an elevation of 2328m above sea level.
The tradition of home staying in this region is believed to have started with Antu. The area’s main attractions are the sunrise vista, Antu Pokhari, sungava cultivation, and Lepcha culture.
The location also provides a stunning view of Mt. Kanchajunga, Indian border regions, and swaths of Ilam and Jhapa. The best time to see the dawn from here is from Kartik to Poush (October to February).
- Highlights: Popular sunrise spot with views of Mount Kanchenjunga, tea gardens, and nearby villages.
- Getting There: About a 1-hour drive from Ilam Bazaar, or a short trek for adventurous travelers.
- Advice: Accommodations are available nearby; plan to stay overnight for an early morning sunrise trek.
8. Pathivara Temple
Pathivara Temple is among the best places to visit in Ilam. The Temple Pathivara Devi (3794m) is a well-known holy site where pilgrims are believed to get their prayers answered. Hindus & Buddhists both worship Pathivara’s animist divinity.
Pathivara’s Goddess is said to give her devotees long-awaited prayers, such as children for those who do not have children or wealth for the poor.
Pathivara Devi, which is among the “Shakti Peeths”, is worshipped.
Worshippers from India and Nepal visit the temple on special occasions, thinking that a visit will satisfy all of their desires.
Pathibhara’s supporters include members of Nepal’s royal family. When animals are slaughtered, Pathibhara Devi gets gold and silver as offerings.
- Features: This Hindu temple dedicated to the goddess Pathivara attracts pilgrims, especially during festive seasons.
- Access: Requires a short trek; local transport options are available to reach the starting point.
- Travel Tips: Dress modestly and carry offerings if participating in rituals. Avoid visiting in monsoon due to slippery trails.
9. Ilam Tea Estate
Ilam is a complete garden in itself. The origins of tea in Liam can be traced back to the 18th century when Nepal’s Prime Minister was Jung Bahadur Rana. The Chinese government gave tea seedlings to Nepal’s Prime Minister, so tea arrived in the Ilam area.
The Ilam Tea plant was established in 1868 and functioned until 2010. Ilam now contains tea estates ranging from 4,000 to 5,000 feet above sea level.
- What to See: Ilam’s renowned tea gardens where visitors can learn about tea cultivation and processing.
- Location: Close to Ilam Bazaar, making it easily accessible by road.
- Visitor Tips: Many estates offer guided tours and tastings. Best visited from March to November when tea harvesting is active.
10. Todke Jharna
A few hours’ journey from the community homestay will lead you to one of Nepal’s greatest and second-longest waterfalls. Many visitors have been attracted to this beautiful 85-meter-long waterfall in Maimajhuwa’s rugged hills and deep forests.
However, well-known among locals, the name Todke Jharna needs to be more well-known among international visitors. When you get to the location, the sight of the huge fall among the beautiful flora is just breathtaking. A refreshing swim in the autumn and the gorgeous surroundings will give you plenty to enjoy.
Numerous amazing views of Gumbas, Sandakpur, and lush green forest await you during the trip.
- Highlights: This scenic waterfall surrounded by lush greenery offers a peaceful retreat.
- Getting There: About a 2-hour trek from Ilam Bazaar; local guides can assist with navigation.
- Advice: Visit during monsoon (June-August) when the waterfall is at its fullest, but exercise caution as trails can be slippery.
How Can I reach Illam?
The road connectivity to the Ilam is great. The Mechi highway serves as the district’s entrance and links it to the east-west Mahendra expressway in Jhapa. Ilam municipality is located 78 kilometres by road from Charali, Jhapa, at the crossroads of the Mahendra and Mechi highways. Charali is 12 kilometres from Bhadrapur Airport, which is about an hour’s flight from Kathmandu.
In the Kolbung region, on the border of Jhapa and Ilam, a tourist information counter is open. Pashupatinagar is another significant entry point for Indian visitors from Darjeeling. There is also a regular bus service from Kathmandu to Ilam, which takes about 12 hours.
Conclusion
This small yet picturesque area of Nepal is well-known for its tea gardens. Ilam is a district in eastern Nepal’s Province 1 that is located between the gorgeous mountain ranges and the plains. It is a district with a great combination of varied cultures and picturesque locations. Undoubtedly, it has been a site that has attracted travellers to visit the Eastern zone of Nepal for several years. Ilam is among the sites you must visit this summer if you haven’t visited yet.
To learn more about Nepal:
- Top 10 Destinations to Visit in Gorkha
- 6 Famous Places to See in Baitadi
- Best Time to Visit for Annapurna Base Camp Trek
- Nepal 6 Destinations to Visit in February 2025
- Most Popular 10 National Parks in Nepal
- Nepal List of Most Popular Museums
- 10 Places to See in Dang, Nepal
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. What are the top attractions to visit in Ilam?
Popular places include Ilam Tea Estate, Maipokhari, Sandakpur, Siddhi Thumka, and Todke Jharna (waterfall).
2. What is Ilam Tea Estate known for?
Ilam Tea Estate is famous for its beautiful tea gardens and scenic landscapes, offering a glimpse into Nepal’s tea culture.
3. Can I go trekking in Ilam?
Yes, Sandakpur and Siddhi Thumka are great spots for trekking, providing stunning views of mountains and surrounding areas.
4. Is Maipokhari worth visiting?
Definitely! Maipokhari is a sacred lake surrounded by forests, known for its biodiversity and peaceful atmosphere.
5. What can I see at Sandakpur?
Sandakpur offers breathtaking views of Mount Everest, Kanchenjunga, and the surrounding Himalayan range.
6. Are there any religious places to visit in Ilam?
Yes, Pathivara Temple and Gajurmukhi Temple are popular religious sites in Ilam, attracting many pilgrims.
7. Is Ilam a good destination for nature lovers?
Absolutely, with its tea gardens, lush hills, forests, and waterfalls, Ilam is perfect for anyone who loves nature.
8. What’s the best time to visit Ilam?
The best time is from October to December when the weather is pleasant, and the views are clear.
9. Are there any unique experiences in Ilam?
You can explore local tea-making processes at tea estates and enjoy the traditional Nepali rural lifestyle in scenic villages.
10. How can I reach Ilam from Kathmandu?
Ilam is accessible by road from Kathmandu or by a short flight to Bhadrapur, followed by a drive to Ilam.
