Ilam is a beautiful hill station located in the eastern region of Nepal, known for its picturesque tea gardens and stunning natural beauty. The town is situated at an altitude of 1,200 meters and offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas, including the Mt. Kanchenjunga.
To reach Ilam, visitors can take a bus or taxi from Kathmandu or Biratnagar. The journey takes around 12-14 hours from Kathmandu and around 5-6 hours from Biratnagar. Alternatively, visitors can also take a domestic flight to Biratnagar and then take a taxi or bus to Ilam.
The cost of transportation from Kathmandu to Ilam ranges from NPR 1,000-2,000 (approximately $10-20) per person, depending on the mode of transportation. The cost of transportation from Biratnagar to Ilam ranges from NPR 500-1,000 (approximately $5-10) per person.
Ilam is famous for its tea gardens, which produce some of the best tea in the world. Visitors can take a tour of the tea gardens and learn about the process of tea production. The tea gardens are located in the surrounding hills and offer stunning views of the Himalayas.
Ilam also offers several hiking trails, including the popular Mai Pokhari trek. The Mai Pokhari trek takes around 3-4 days to complete and offers stunning views of the Mt. Kanchenjunga and the surrounding hills. Visitors can also visit the famous Antu Danda viewpoint, which offers panoramic views of the Himalayas.
Ilam offers several accommodation options, ranging from basic guesthouses to hotels and resorts. The average cost of accommodation in Ilam ranges from NPR 1,000-3,000 (approximately $10-30) per night, depending on the type of accommodation and the season.
While Ilam is generally a safe destination, visitors are advised to take precautions while hiking and to follow the instructions of the guide. It is recommended to carry warm clothing, a first-aid kit, and sufficient water and food for the trek. Visitors are also advised to check the weather conditions before starting the trek and to avoid trekking during the monsoon season (June-August).