Illam: Queen of Hills

Illam is the main tourist destination of eastern region of Nepal, distance between Kathmandu and Illam is about 677 km. Illam is located in the eastern region of nepal also known as” Queen of Hills”. In Mechi Zone of eastern region the green tea gardens has covered the hills of Illam. In previously Illam was known as the name Vharkhola because it is situated at the middle of four rivers they are Jogmari, Daumai, Maikhola and Puwamai. Still now the people call the name Charkhola instead of Illam. The natural beauty, tradition of ancestors and biological diversity are the most attractions towards Illam. All kinds of tourist from internal and foreigner everyone wanted to feel it and experience it. The beauty of Illam is so attracting. The world’s popular Darjeeling will station is behind. Illam is a heaven on the earth to every tourist who visited or who wanted to visit. The main and major attraction is the lush-green tea gardens which is fully magnetic, the stunning view of Himalayas and the very clean and healthy environment around Illam.

The Indian neighbor also attracted to Illam from Darjeeling and Siliguri. Tourist who view the beauty of nature they forget the hassles of daily life if is refreshing. Thousands of birds and tourist walks around the tea garden taking photos memorizing the moments. Bus services is available in both day and night from Kathmandu. After arriving the airport of Nhadrapur and Biratnagar from there can get buses to Illam there are all kinds of hotels and lodges to stay and relax.

Shree Antudada is one of the main popular place of Illam, the point for view sunrise at the height of 2320 meter, Shree Antu Lake and Tea Gardens are the another famous tourists destination, tourists enjoy moving around the natural pond which is nearby Samalbung VDC, with the facility of boating surrounded by tea gardens from all sides and the dense jungle is also and abode to wild animals. Kanyam is covered in always exciting shroud of cold breeze and another interesting things are rolling hills covered with tea garden and lush terraces full of cash crops. the Himalays towards the North. Fikkal is small location which is in the center of Illam. Tourists visiting Kanyam stay the night at Fikkal on the way, Fikkal bazaar is a busy trading post. Maipokhari which is situated about 18 km north from district headquarter also the religious place.

The best time to visit Ilam is October-December and February-April.

Some of the lovely lookouts in Illam:
1. Fikkal
2. Namsaling
3. Mai Pokhara
4. Kanyam
5. Sandakpur
6. Siddhi Thumka
7. Chinntapu

Pilgrims:
1. Pathibhara Temple
2. Mai Beni
3. Gajur Mukhi