Nestled in the lush hills of eastern Nepal, Ilam is a dreamy destination often called the “Queen of Hills.” If you’re seeking peace, tea gardens, and natural beauty far from the touristy chaos, Ilam is your place. There are plenty of things to do in Ilam for travelers who love tranquil vibes, cultural richness, and eco-adventures. From tea tasting to sunrise viewpoints and spiritual monasteries, Ilam promises a slow, soothing escape into nature.
In this blog, we’ll uncover the best things to do in Ilam so you can make the most of your journey to this charming hill district.
1. Visit the Iconic Ilam Tea Gardens
No visit to Ilam is complete without exploring its endless green tea gardens. These beautifully manicured hillsides offer a serene escape where you can walk along the pathways, talk to local tea pickers, and even taste fresh organic tea right at the source.
things to do in Ilam – Tea Garden
Why visit:
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Photogenic landscapes
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Opportunity to taste and buy organic tea
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Learn about traditional tea production
If you’re wondering what are the must-do things to do in Ilam, strolling through these tea gardens should be at the top of your list.
2. Hike to Antu Danda for Sunrise Views
Antu Danda is one of the most famous viewpoints in Ilam and offers a breathtaking panoramic view of Mt. Kanchenjunga, the third-highest mountain in the world. Waking up early for the sunrise here is totally worth it.
things to do in Ilam – Antu
What to expect:
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Epic sunrise above the mountains
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Stunning views of rolling tea hills and valleys
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Ideal for landscape photography
Pro tip: Visit during October-November or March-April for the clearest views.
3. Experience Spiritual Peace at Mai Pokhari
If you’re looking for peaceful and spiritual things to do in Ilam, visiting Mai Pokhari is a must. This sacred pond lies in the middle of a forest and is considered holy by both Hindus and Buddhists. It’s also recognized as a Ramsar Site for its biodiversity.
things to do in Ilam – Mai Pokhari
Why it’s special:
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Surrounded by a dense, mystical forest
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Ideal for meditation and nature walks
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Home to rare orchids, birds, and wetland species
4. Explore the Charming Town of Ilam Bazaar
Ilam Bazaar is the heart of the district. This small yet bustling town gives you a glimpse into local life, traditional houses, and warm hospitality. The market is a great place to try local food, shop for tea, and interact with the locals.
Things to do:
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Try Ilam’s famous “Sel Roti” and local pickles
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Buy fresh tea leaves and handmade crafts
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Visit local temples and monasteries
It’s a great way to soak in the culture and add something authentic to your list of things to do in Ilam.
5. Picnic at Sandakpur – Border Viewpoint
Located near the Nepal-India border, Sandakpur is a high-altitude spot that offers panoramic views of five of the world’s highest mountains including Everest and Kanchenjunga.
Activities:
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Hiking and trekking
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Horse riding options
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Spend a night in a homestay with locals
This is one of the most adventurous things to do in Ilam, perfect for hikers and mountain lovers.
6. Trek Through Local Villages like Shree Antu, Kanyam, and Fikkal
The villages around Ilam are untouched by commercial tourism. A short trek or even a local bus ride can take you to places like Shree Antu, Kanyam, and Fikkal each with its own charm.
Why go village hopping:
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Observe traditional Limbu and Rai cultures
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Stay in community-based homestays
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Enjoy peaceful walks through cardamom fields and forests
Immersing in rural village life is one of the most soul-refreshing things to do in Ilam.
7. Visit the Gajurmukhi Temple
Gajurmukhi is a sacred temple located in a cave beside the Deumai River. Many pilgrims visit here for blessings, but it also offers a spiritual experience for any traveler regardless of faith.
Highlights:
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Peaceful surroundings with forest and river
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Ideal for meditation and nature lovers
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Ancient folklore and religious significance
It’s one of the lesser-known but spiritually fulfilling things to do in Ilam.
8. Go Bird Watching and Butterfly Spotting
Thanks to its rich biodiversity and untouched forests, Ilam is home to many species of birds and butterflies. Areas around Mai Pokhari and Sandakpur are particularly popular for bird watchers.
Species you might spot:
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Himalayan Monal (Nepal’s national bird)
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Kalij Pheasant
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Several species of butterflies and orchids
Nature lovers will appreciate these quiet moments of observation, making this one of the more mindful things to do in Ilam.
9. Taste the Unique Local Cuisine
Food in Ilam is simple, fresh, and deeply flavorful. The district is known for local products like bamboo shoots (Tama), millet bread (Kodo Roti), and gundruk (fermented leafy greens).
Must-try dishes:
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Local tea (obviously!)
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Dhido with goat curry
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Sel roti and spicy pickles
Exploring the culinary side of Ilam is definitely one of the yummiest things to do in Ilam.
10. Participate in a Community Homestay
The hospitality of Ilam’s locals is heartwarming. Opting for a homestay experience lets you dive deeper into the local lifestyle, learn to cook traditional meals, and hear fascinating folklore.
Why it’s worth it:
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Affordable and authentic
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Helps support local communities
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Perfect for cultural exchange
If you’re craving meaningful travel, this is one of the most unforgettable things to do in Ilam.
Travel Tips for Visiting Ilam
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Best time to visit: October to December and March to May
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How to get there: Direct bus from Kathmandu or flight to Bhadrapur + drive
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ATMs: Limited, carry cash
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Connectivity: Wi-Fi available but slow in rural areas
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Language: Nepali, with Limbu, Rai dialects; English is limited
From serene tea gardens to spiritual sanctuaries, from dramatic sunrises to warm village stays there are countless things to do in Ilam that make it worth visiting. Unlike the more crowded destinations in Nepal, Ilam offers an intimate, eco-conscious, and culturally rich travel experience. Whether you’re a photographer, trekker, peace seeker, or cultural explorer, Ilam welcomes you with open arms and endless greenery.