Overview of Ilam Tour:
The Ilam Tour is a serene journey into the lush green hills of Eastern Nepal, renowned for its sprawling tea plantations and breathtaking landscapes. As a highlight of the Nepal Tea Journey, this tour takes travelers through the famous Ilam Tea Gardens, where rolling hills are carpeted with vibrant tea estates, offering a glimpse into the region’s tea production heritage. Nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, Ilam provides a tranquil escape with its cool climate, making it a perfect retreat for nature lovers and those seeking to explore the Himalayan Scenic Beauty.
The tour also immerses visitors in the Eastern Nepal Culture, with opportunities to interact with local communities, including the Limbu and Rai ethnic groups, and experience their traditions, festivals, and warm hospitality. From sunrise views at Antu Danda to exploring the quaint town of Ilam Bazaar, the Ilam Tour combines natural splendor with cultural richness, offering a refreshing and authentic experience of Nepal’s lesser-known eastern gem.
Trip facts of Ilam Tour:
Destination
Nepal/ Annapurna
Duration
8 Days
Trip Grade
Moderate
Activities
Tour and Trek
Accommodation
Hotels / Tea House
Food
Breakfast /Lunch /Dinner
Best Season
Sept to Nov / Mar to May
Max.altitude
4130m
Transportation
Drive/ Flight
Group Size
1 to 14++
Map
Highlight of Ilam Tour:
- Lush Tea Gardens and Tea Estates: Explore sprawling tea plantations producing some of Nepal’s finest teas, with opportunities to visit processing factories.
- Beautiful Rolling Hills and Scenic Views: Enjoy gentle hills covered in green, with panoramic views of the Himalayas on clear days.
- Antu Danda Sunrise Viewpoint: Famous for breathtaking sunrise views over the Kanchenjunga and other Himalayan peaks.
- Kanyam – The Tea Tourism Hub: A peaceful town surrounded by tea gardens, perfect for nature walks and photography.
- Ilami Local Culture and Cuisine: Experience the warm hospitality of the Rai, Limbu, and other ethnic communities with their unique traditions and food.
- Mai Pokhari – Sacred Wetland and Pilgrimage Site: A natural wetland with religious significance, rich biodiversity, and peaceful trails.
- Waterfalls and Hiking Trails: Visit scenic waterfalls like Hile Pokhari and enjoy hiking through forests and tea gardens.
- Tinjure Milke Jaljale Trail: Known as the “Rhododendron Capital of Nepal,” this trail is famous for its colorful blooms in spring.
- Historic Temples and Local Markets: Discover small but culturally rich temples and bustling markets showcasing local crafts.
- Cool Climate and Fresh Mountain Air: A refreshing getaway from the lowland heat, ideal for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Ilam Tour Itinerary:
Day 1: Arrive in Kathmandu and Transfer to Hotel
- Warm welcome by our representative at Tribhuvan International Airport, followed by a smooth transfer to your hotel in Kathmandu.
- Relax or take a short walk to explore Thamel’s vibrant markets and nearby temples, soaking in the city’s lively charm.
Day 2: Fly to Bhadrapur and Drive to Ilam
- Take a morning flight to Bhadrapur (45 minutes), then drive to Ilam (3-4 hours), passing through scenic hills and tea gardens.
- Check into a guesthouse in Ilam, and spend the evening exploring Ilam Bazaar or relaxing amidst the serene surroundings.
Day 3: Ilam Exploration – Tea Gardens and Kanyam
- Visit the Ilam Tea Gardens in Kanyam, strolling through lush plantations and learning about tea production at a local factory, followed by a tea-tasting session.
- Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the tea estates, and spend the afternoon capturing the scenic beauty of the rolling hills.
Day 4: Sunrise at Antu Danda and Visit Mai Pokhari
- Drive early to Antu Danda (1 hour) for a stunning sunrise view over the Kanchenjunga range, then return for breakfast.
- Visit Mai Pokhari, a sacred lake surrounded by pine forests, and spend time in reflection or exploring the nearby biodiversity park.
Day 5: Cultural Experience and Return to Bhadrapur
- Engage with local Limbu and Rai communities, learning about their traditions, music, and cuisine, with an optional homestay experience.
- Drive back to Bhadrapur (3-4 hours) and check into a hotel for the night.
Day 6: Fly to Kathmandu
- Fly back to Kathmandu (45 minutes) and check into your hotel.
- Spend a free evening shopping for tea souvenirs in Thamel or relaxing at the hotel.
Day 7: Departure from Kathmandu
- After breakfast, enjoy free time for last-minute exploration or relaxation in Kathmandu.
- Our representative transfers you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure, concluding your memorable journey.
Include Exclude in Ilam Tour:
What’s Included
- Transport I: Airport pick-up and drop in Kathmandu, Pokhara, or Lumbini, with private vehicle
- Accommodation: Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu, Pokhara, or Lumbini (based on the itinerary), including breakfast
- Documents: All required trekking permits (ACAP and TIMS), official documents, paperwork, office service charges, and government taxes
- Transport II: Transportation between Kathmandu or Lumbini to Pokhara (round trip) is arranged as per the itinerary, either by tourist bus, private vehicle, or plane
- Transport III: Transportation from Pokhara to the trek start point and back from the trek end point according to the itinerary
- Guide: Experience trekking guide
- Porters: One porter will be provided for every two trekkers
- Duffel Bag: If you need a duffel bag, please let us know before booking the trip and remind us after you arrive
- Trekking Map: A trekking route map for the group leader
- Food and Accommodation: Food and accommodation during the trek in tea houses (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
- Nepali Dinner: A farewell dinner at a traditional Nepali restaurant
What’s Excluded
- Flight ticket: International flight tickets and airport tax
- Nepal visa: You can get your Nepal visa upon arrival at the airport
- City Lunch: Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu / Pokhara / Lumbini
- City tour: city tour with a vehicle and entry fees for visiting UNESCO World Heritage Sites
- Personal expenses: like laundry, phone calls, snacks, drinks, bar bills, and camera battery charging
- Travel Insurance: It should cover emergency evacuation if needed, while trekking to the highest point listed in the itinerary
- Trekking Equipment: Personal trekking gears for your comfort and safety
- Transport IV: Local jeep or bus transport during the trek (if needed but not mentioned in the itinerary)
- Tips and Gifts: Tips for guides, porters, drivers and related staff during trip
Gallery:
FAQs about Ilam Tour:
1. When is the best time to visit Ilam?
The best time to visit Ilam is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is pleasant and the skies are clear. Rhododendrons bloom beautifully in spring, adding vibrant colors to the landscape. Monsoon season brings rain, which can make trails slippery and less enjoyable.
2. How do I get to Ilam from Kathmandu?
You can fly from Kathmandu to Biratnagar and then take a jeep or bus to Ilam, which takes around 3–4 hours. Alternatively, you can travel directly by road from Kathmandu, but it takes about 8–10 hours due to road conditions. The road journey is scenic but longer and less comfortable.
3. What activities can I do in Ilam?
In Ilam, you can visit tea gardens and factories to learn about tea production and taste fresh tea. There are beautiful hiking trails, waterfalls, and viewpoints like Antu Danda for nature lovers. You can also explore local markets and experience the culture of ethnic communities.
4. Is Ilam suitable for family trips and beginners?
Yes, Ilam is perfect for families and beginners as the terrain is gentle and the hikes are not too challenging. The environment is peaceful, making it ideal for relaxation and cultural exploration. It’s a safe and comfortable destination for travelers of all ages.
5. What should I pack for the Ilam tour?
Bring comfortable walking shoes suitable for uneven trails and layered clothing for cool mornings and evenings in the Ilam Tea Garden. If traveling during the monsoon, a rain jacket or umbrella is essential. Don’t forget a camera to capture the stunning landscapes and your personal essentials.
