About Ilam Districts
Ilam District, located in the eastern part of Nepal, is renowned for its stunning landscapes and cultural diversity. With its district headquarters in Ilam Bazaar, the region is characterized by lush green hills and valleys, dominated by thriving tea gardens that contribute significantly to the local economy. The district boasts a diverse population of Brahmins, Chhetris, Rai, Limbu, Tamang, and other indigenous communities. Ilam’s major attractions include the picturesque Antu Danda viewpoint, the sacred Siddheswor Temple, the beautiful Mai Pokhari Lake, and the tea gardens of Kanyam. While accessible by road from major cities, Ilam lacks an airport, with the nearest one located in Bhadrapur, about a six-hour drive away. Overall, Ilam is a popular destination for those seeking tranquility, breathtaking scenery, and a taste of Nepal’s rich cultural tapestry.
Ilam Chowak Bajar
population of Ilam District, Nepal
According to the 2021 census, Ilam District in Nepal has a population of 279,534, with 139,431 males and 140,103 females. The age distribution reveals 60,661 individuals in the 0-14 age group, 195,176 in the 15-64 age group, and 23,697 in the 65 and above category. Regarding the place of birth, 204,815 were born in the same local unit, 33,910 in another local unit within the district, 37,116 in another district, and 3,496 in another country. Citizenship data shows 279,099 Nepali citizens, 423 from India, and 12 from other countries. In terms of literacy, 218,008 are literate, 586 can only read, and 42,894 are non-literate. These statistics offer insights into Ilam District’s population structure, age demographics, birthplace, citizenship, and literacy levels based on the 2021 census.
The population of Dharan sub-metropolitan city, as of the 2021 census, is as follows:
The population of Ilam District, Nepal, according to the 2021 census, is as follows:
- Gender (Census 2021):
– Males: 139,431
– Females: 140,103
- Age Distribution (Census 2021):
– 0-9 years: 39,356
– 10-19 years: 47,161
– 20-29 years: 49,655
– 30-39 years: 43,307
– 40-49 years: 33,944
– 50-59 years: 30,252
– 60-69 years: 21,731
– 70-79 years: 10,712
– 80-89 years: 3,029
– 90+ years: 387
- Place of Birth (Census 2021):
– Same local unit: 204,815
– Another local unit in the same district: 33,910
– Other district: 37,116
– Other country: 3,496
- Age Groups (Census 2021):
– 0-14 years: 60,661
– 15-64 years: 195,176
– 65+ years: 23,697
- Citizenship (Census 2021):
– Nepal: 279,099
– India: 423
– Other country: 12
- Literacy (A5+) (Census 2021):
– Yes: 218,008
– Only reading: 586
– No: 42,894
These statistics provide a snapshot of the demographic composition, age distribution, place of birth, citizenship, and literacy levels in Ilam District, Nepal, as of the 2021 census.
Best tourism Spots nearby Ilam
1. Antu Danda: Located at an altitude of 2,328 m, Antu Danda offers stunning views of the Himalayan sunrise and sunset. It provides panoramic views of the flatlands of Terai, terraced farmlands, pine forests, and tea gardens. On clear days, you can even see India’s hill stations like Kurseong, Darjeeling, and Mirik.
2. Mai Pokhari: A significant attraction, Mai Pokhari is a beautiful lake surrounded by dense forests of juniper, oak, and birch fir. The area is rich in flora and fauna, including rhododendrons, orchids, red panda, musk deer, leopards, and more. It is considered a holy pond devoted to Goddess Bhagwati.
3. Sandakpur (Sandakphu): Situated at the Nepal-India border, Sandakpur offers magnificent views of the world’s highest mountains, including Mt. Everest, Mt. Kangchenjunga, Mt. Makalu, Mt. Lhotse, and Mt. Kumbakarna. It is known for bird watching and is home to Nepal’s national bird, the Himalayan monal, and endangered species like musk deer and red panda.
4. Kanyam and Fikkal (Phikkal Bazaar): Renowned for its tea gardens, Kanyam and Fikkal have been cultivating tea for over 140 years. Kanyam is accessible to visitors interested in photography, sightseeing, and picnics. Fikkal serves as a commercial hub and hosts a weekly market on Thursdays.
Kanyam, Ilam
5. Pathibhara Devi: A temple dedicated to Goddess Pathibhara, it is a popular pilgrimage site in the eastern region of Nepal. It is considered a sister temple to the original Pathibhara Devi in Taplejung. The temple is located above Sunmai and is known for its religious significance.
6. Mai Beni: Situated in Ilam’s foothills, Mai Beni is the confluence of two sacred rivers, Mai Khola and Jogmai Khola. It is famous for a shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva, and worshippers gather here in January for a holy dip during Manghe Sankranti.
7. Siddhi Thumka: Standing at 1,693 m above sea level, Siddhi Thumka offers breathtaking views of the Everest and Kangchenjunga mountains. It is known for its sunrise and sunset panoramas. The area also features attractions like Khnadrung Cave, Singhadevisthan, Fulbari, Namthala, Pankhelung Falls, Ratopani, and Falgunanda Manghim Temple.
8. Gajur Mukhi (Gajurmukhi Devisthan): A prominent Hindu religious site located on the shores of the Deumai River, Gajur Mukhi is believed to bring blessings of a boy to pilgrims who visit. A massive fair is held annually on Kartik Purnima (November).
9. Choyatar and Hangetham Forests: Located on Ilam’s northeastern edge, Hangetham is known for its changing weather patterns, thick fog, and lush trees. The forest houses diverse wildlife, including red panda, leopard, thar, black bear, and various bird species. It is also a hub for agricultural tourism.
10. Todke Falls (Todke Jharna): The second-longest waterfall in Nepal, Todke Falls has a height of 85 m. Situated about 40 m west of Mai Khola or Mai Beni, it is a popular spot for visitors who come to capture the breathtaking views of the waterfall.
These tour spots offer a blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and religious significance, making Ilam a diverse and attractive destination for travelers.
Major Attraction Of Ilam
Ilam, nestled in Nepal’s east, is a gem offering natural wonders and cultural treasures. Imagine standing at Antu Danda, 2,328 m high, with breathtaking views of the Himalayas. Nearby, Mai Pokhari is like a serene sanctuary surrounded by lush forests and diverse wildlife. Sandakpur, close to India, gives you stunning views of Mt. Everest and is a birdwatcher’s paradise. Kanyam and Fikkal have historic tea gardens, while Pathibhara Devi and Mai Beni add a touch of spirituality. Siddhi Thumka offers amazing views and cultural richness. Gajur Mukhi is a special Hindu spot by the Deumai River, and Choyatar and Hangetham are havens for wildlife lovers. Todke Falls, the second-longest waterfall in Nepal, is a sight to behold. Ilam promises a blend of nature’s beauty and cultural richness for all to enjoy!
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Ilam District in eastern Nepal stands as a captivating destination that seamlessly blends natural beauty, cultural diversity, and spiritual richness. From the mesmerizing Himalayan views of Antu Danda to the serene Mai Pokhari and the historic tea gardens of Kanyam and Fikkal, Ilam offers a diverse range of experiences. The district’s cultural tapestry is woven with pilgrimage sites like Pathibhara Devi and Mai Beni, complemented by the panoramic vistas of Siddhi Thumka. Gajur Mukhi along the Deumai River adds a spiritual touch, while Choyatar and Hangetham showcase the region’s rich wildlife. Todke Falls, with its majestic descent, adds a final touch to Ilam’s allure. As a district, Ilam not only offers tranquility and breathtaking scenery but also provides a glimpse into Nepal’s demographic structure, reflecting its population distribution, citizenship, and literacy levels as per the 2021 census. Ilam emerges as a must-visit destination, promising a harmonious blend of nature and culture for every explorer.