This tour takes you to Ilam, Nepal’s tea capital, a charming hill town in eastern Nepal. Known for its high-grade tea, sought after since the 1800s, Ilam is a paradise for tea lovers. The landscape features rolling tea gardens, mountain streams, dense forests, and rich cultural heritage. The trek winds through terraced fields, traditional villages, and lush forests, offering an immersive experience of Nepal’s diverse natural beauty. Ilam sits at an altitude of 1,500 meters (4,921 feet), making it a perfect retreat for those seeking tranquility.
The journey culminates at Sandakpur, a breathtaking vantage point at 3,636 meters (11,929 feet). From here, you can witness panoramic views of the mighty Himalayas, including Kanchenjunga and Mount Everest. The region is a biodiversity hotspot, home to over 400 bird species, 30 mammal species, and 100 butterfly species. However, the star attraction is the Red Panda. This shy, solitary creature with its distinctive reddish-brown fur and bushy tail is often called the “Firefox” and symbolizes conservation efforts in Nepal. Spotting one in its natural habitat is both thrilling and humbling.
As you ascend toward Sandakpur, the landscape shifts dramatically—from lush green hills to alpine meadows and rugged mountain terrain. Rhododendron forests, bamboo groves, and snow-capped peaks create a picturesque backdrop. One of the tour’s highlights is Todke Waterfall, a serene natural wonder.
The Ilam-Sandakpur Tour is an excellent opportunity to connect with nature, contribute to wildlife conservation, and soak in the untouched beauty of Nepal’s eastern hills. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a wildlife photographer, or simply seeking a peaceful escape, this tour has something special to offer.
As always for any modification of this Eastern tour or any other Trek or Tour in Nepal please contact our Team [WhatsApp: +9779851029803 Saroj] during your booking or via the quick inquiry.
Duration: 45 Minutes flight , Drive: 4 hours’ drive
Today after having your breakfast you will to Tribhuwan Airport, here you will catch a domestic to Bhadrapur. After taking off you can catch glimpse of the important sites in Kathmandu and the views of Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Mt. Kanchenjunga etc from above. After, 45 minutes of flight you will reach Bhadrapur. Our representative will pick you up and drive towards Illam. You can see the various tea estates and sloped farms making this trip scenic and enjoyable. We will spend the night at a hotel alongside the excellent views of the tea garden.
Overnight stay at a hotel in Ilam.
Enjoy your breakfast and the early morning view of the tea gardens. Today you will stroll around the tea farms, our guide will take you through the process of making and cultivating teas. The tea leaves farmed and cultivated in these altitudes are some of the most sought after in the world. Later you can head to the Illam bazar and shop for the teas, cardamom, silk and various goods found in the market.
Overnight stay at a homestay in Ilam.
Today on the third day of the trek you will be heading to Dobato a remote village situated in the forested hill, far-east of Ilam. After a 6 hours’ drive you will reach the village. The locals are welcoming and friendly, you will have the opportunity to experience the local rural lively hood and culture of the people. After resting, you can go to observe the birds and animals in the surrounding areas. In the evening you will have a briefing with the forest guard and make your schedule increasing the chances to spot the endangered pandas and other mammals the following day. Spend the night at the local homestay.
Overnight at a homestay in Dobato.
After having your breakfast, you will be heading deep into the jungle with experienced wildlife trackers and forest ranger to track the Red Pandas and other tropical birds. After spending the day traversing through the dense forest tracking the various animal species, head back to the homestay for overnight’s rest.
Overnight stay in Dobato.
Duration: 4-6 hours , Drive: 1 hours’ drive [10km approximate]
Today, you will wake up early and head towards the jungle once more to see the Red Panda which you might have missed earlier. Explore the various flora and fauna and enjoy the beauty of nature during your walk. The forest ranger will be accompanying you so, you will not miss anything today. After your exploration of the forest you will drive to Sandakpur.
Overnight stay at Sandakpur.
If you choose to wake up early you will get to see the panoramic sunrise views of the Himalayan mountain range such as the Mt. Everest, Mt. Lhoste, Makalu and Mt. Kanchenjunga. After having your breakfast with the view head to Maipokhari a wetland situated in the middle hill range of the Himalayans at an elevation of 2,100m. The Mai Pokhari houses a variety of flora and fauna and other wildlife. The main lake has 9 corners believed to be paying tribute to the nine different Gods. You can choose to go to the nearby waterfall for relaxation.
Overnight stay in Mai Pokhari.
Duration: 3-4 hours , Walking Distance: 14 km approximate
Today on the 7 day of your trek you will be heading to Todke waterfall. A warm breakfast prepared by the host of the homestay get you ready to trek to the forest trail to Todke Fall. The 85m (280ft) waterfall falls on the lap amid Rocky hill, its staggering height is able to capture the attention of many domestic and international travelers alike. After enjoying in the waterfall hike back to Mai Pokhari and explore the village visiting the tea farms and orchid garden. You can also get a glimpse of the local cheese factory.
Overnight stay at Mai Pokhari.
Duration: 110km; 4 hours
On the 8th day of your trek you will have completed the Illam to Sandakpur-Red Panda Trail. Bid farewell to the locals and drive to the Bhadrapur airport and fly back to Kathmandu. After reaching Kathmandu head back to your hotel and rest for the day.
