Ilam - The Tea Garden of Nepal

Ilam is famous for luscious green tea-producing hill stations and is one of the famous destinations of Eastern Nepal. This district ranges from 140 m to 3636 m above sea level, and it covers an area of 1703 sq. kms. The name of this hill station is derived from the combination of two Limbu words “IL” which means twisted and “Lam” which means road. 

With sloped tea gardens, the beautiful view of the valley ahead, mountain streams, religious sites, and dense natural forest, the journey to Ilam won’t be limited to only its tea garden. It is also famous for Kanyam, Mai Pokhari Lake and Sandakpur.

Since the flora and fauna of this green hill travel far and near, many researchers, scientists, and biologists visit Ilam to study the red panda, rare birds, orchids, and other medicinal plants.

People and Culture of Ilam

The ethnic groups like Limbu, Lepcha, Rai, Magar, Gurung, Brahmin, and Chhetri are pre-dominant here. Then, the ethnic groups like Newar, Kami, and Sherpa are lower in number in this district. People of Ilam celebrates the festivals like Dashain, Tihar, Lepchas’ New Year, Ubhauli, and Udhauli festival.

They celebrate these festivals with special dancing, singing, and playing instruments. The gathering for these live events is visible openly in the market and the village. So, one can observe the traditional festivals in Ilam with great enthusiasm. 

Famous Attractions of Ilam

• Shree Antu Danda - The first hill of Nepal where the sun rays strikes
• Sandakpur - Famous viewpoint for mountainscapes
• Mai Pokhari - a star shaped Lake with nine corners
• Kanyam - Famous for Tea Garden and Picnic Spots