Book Your Ilam Tour
Explore Nepal’s tea capital and breathtaking landscapes in eastern Nepal.
Ilam, in the Mechi Province, is celebrated for its sprawling tea estates, verdant hills, and tranquil environment. The region’s moderate climate and fertile soil make it ideal for tea cultivation, contributing to its reputation as Nepal’s tea capital—a complete guide to booking your Ilam tour.
Key Attractions in Ilam:
Kanyam Tea Estate: One of Nepal’s largest tea estates, Kanyam offers visitors the opportunity to witness the entire tea production process, from plucking to processing. The estate is also home to the Kanyam Tea Producer Cooperative Society, which supports over 1,000 local farmers.
Mai Pokhari: Encircled by thick trees, Mai Pokhari is a Ramsar site and a sacred wetland located roughly 15 km north of Ilam. The region is a major Buddhist and Hindu pilgrimage site and is rich in wildlife.
Todke Waterfall: Situated near Maimajhuwa, this 85-meter waterfall is a hidden gem of Ilam. It offers a serene environment for nature enthusiasts and trekkers.
Shree Antu: Known for its panoramic sunrise views over the tea gardens, Shree Antu is a popular spot for hiking and birdwatching. The area also produces organic cardamom and garlic.
Kanyam: The Heart of Tea Culture
Kanyam, a village in Suryodaya Municipality, is the epicenter of Ilam’s tea industry. The region’s tea gardens are not only a source of livelihood. It is also a major attraction for tourists seeking to experience Nepal’s tea culture firsthand.
Highlights of Kanyam Ilam:
Tea Production: Kanyam’s tea gardens produce high-quality orthodox black and green teas, renowned for their distinct flavor and aroma.
Cultural Experiences: Visitors can engage in the tea-making process, e.g., from plucking leaves to processing, gaining insight into the traditional methods employed by local farmers.
Trekking Trails: The trek to Kanyam Hill offers a two-hour journey through lush tea estates. Besides that, it culminates in a panoramic view of the surrounding hills and valleys.
Local Markets: Fikkal Bazar, located nearby, serves as a commercial hub where locals trade tea leaves, processed tea, and other agricultural products.
Sandakpur Trek: Short Trek in Ilam
Sandakpur, the jewel of Eastern Nepal, is one of the best highlights of any Ilam tour, offering breathtaking Himalayan views and a refreshing short trekking experience. Starting from the beautiful Maipokhari wetland, the Sandakpur–Phalelung trail takes you through lush forests, rolling hills, and scenic tea gardens, making it a perfect blend of nature and adventure. You can drive on a bumpy road, but walking to Sandakpur is much more rewarding because you can fully enjoy the beautiful scenery and quiet surroundings. If you’re going to Ilam, you should add 2–3 extra days to your trip to do this amazing Sandakpur trek. It’s a true paradise for nature lovers and people who want to see mountains in eastern Nepal.
Kathmandu–Ilam Tour: Best Itinerary
The Kathmandu to Ilam tour itinerary depends on your holiday time and your interest in visiting this area. So normally, if you have 3 to 6 days, you can enjoy visiting Ilam. The eastern Nepal’s natural paradise and the heartland of tea. If you are genuinely interested in knowing about tea growing, tea plucking, and refining at the factory. This 6-day itinerary will be best for your Ilam tour. In this time, you will be able to visit all the highlighted areas of Ilam.
Kathmandu to Ilam Tour: 6-day Itinerary
Day 1: Flight from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur and drive to Kanyam.
2: Explore Kanyam tea plantation and a short drive to → Antu Danda; stay at the hotel
3: Drive from Antu Danda to Ilam Bazaar. Stay at the hotel.
4: Drive to MaiPokhari stay at hotel
5: Hike to Sandakpur and drive back to Ilam/Kanyam. Stay at the hotel
6: Drive to Bhadrapur and flight to Kathmandu; transfer to the hotel.
What is the best time to visit Kanyam/Ilam?
The ideal time to visit Ilam and Kanyam is during the spring (March to May). Likewise, autumn (September to November) seasons. These months offer pleasant weather, clear skies, and vibrant landscapes, making it perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Besides that In the winter also suitable to visit Ilam but in the monsoon it is not flexible to visit ilam due to rain and cloudy weather.
Accommodation Options
Both Ilam and Kanyam offer a range of accommodations, from cozy guesthouses to comfortable hotels. Many establishments provide homestay experiences, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the local culture and hospitality.
Culinary Delights
The local cuisine in Ilam and Kanyam reflects the diverse cultures of the region. Visitors can savor traditional Nepali dishes, including momo (dumplings), Dal Bhat, Sel roti (rice doughnut), and gundruk (fermented leafy greens), often accompanied by locally grown tea.
Ilam Tour Package Cost 2026/27:
The price of the Ilam tour varies based on the group size, duration of the days and types of tour service like standard of hotel in Kathmandu and Ilam, transportation (by drive or flight) etc. Himalaya Darshan Treks offer Ilam tour package cost start from $650 to $1350 per person for normal package to luxurious package. So you can choose your suitable Ilam tour package with us.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a tour to Ilam isn’t just about sightseeing places off a list. It’s about soaking in the green hills, breathing in that fresh air, and slowing down for a while. Picture yourself sipping tea right where it’s grown, catching the first light at Shree Antu, or just getting lost in the mist at Mai Pokhari. Ilam wraps all that up—calm, culture, and a sense of quiet you don’t find everywhere.
If you’re tired of the heat and chaos, Ilam swaps it out for cool winds, rolling hills, and some of the warmest hospitality in the Himalayas. For anyone chasing peace or just a new kind of beauty, Ilam isn’t just somewhere you visit. It’s a place that lets you breathe.
FAQS for Booking Your Ilam Tour
What makes Ilam a must-visit destination?
Ilam is renowned for its scenic tea gardens, peaceful atmosphere, breathtaking views of the Kanchenjunga and Makalu Himalayan ranges, sunrise and sunset views, and rich culture.
How do I get to Ilam from Kathmandu?
There are two options for getting to Ilam: 1st, Travel by Flight: You can fly to Bhadrapur, about 45 minutes from Kathmandu, and take a 2–3-hour drive from Bhadrapur to reach Ilam/Kanyam. 2nd, by drive: You can drive by bus or private vehicle, which takes around 13–14 hours to reach Kanyam/Ilam.
What are the top attractions in Ilam?
Some must-visit places are Kanyam Tea Garden, Mai Pokhari (a serene lake at 2,121 m), Sandakpur (offering panoramic views of Everest, Makalu, and Kanchenjunga), and Fikkal Market for local crafts and tea leaves.
What is the best time to visit Ilam?
Ilam is beautiful year-round, but the best seasons are spring and autumn, when the weather is pleasant and the tea gardens are lush.
How long should I plan for an Ilam tour?
A typical tour lasts 3–5 days, allowing time to explore tea gardens, visit nearby attractions, and enjoy the tranquility of the area.