Green Panorama Tea Leaf Trail

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu

Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by your Landscape Adventure representative. You’ll transfer to your hotel in the bustling Thamel district, a hub of cultural activities, shops, and restaurants. Spend your day relaxing and adjusting to the local atmosphere. In the evening, attend a comprehensive pre-trek briefing, where your guide will walk you through the trek itinerary, discuss necessary gear, health and safety tips, and answer any questions. This preparation ensures you feel confident and ready to embark on your adventure. In the evening enjoy the dinner in the Nepali Cultural Restaurant.

Highlights:

• Arrival and warm welcome

• Pre-trek briefing

• Welcome Dinner in the Nepali Cultural Restaurant

Overnight: Hotel in Kathmandu

Day 02: Fly Kathmandu to Bhadrapur & Drive to Kanyam Tea Estate (1,750m)

Today begins with a short domestic flight from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur, located in Nepal’s eastern plains. The flight offers stunning aerial views of the Himalayan foothills and lush green valleys. Upon arrival, you’ll embark on a scenic 3–4 hour drive winding through rolling hills covered with dense tea gardens and fertile farmland. You reach the renowned Kanyam Tea Estate, famous for its sprawling emerald tea bushes and gentle climate. The afternoon is free to explore the estate, stroll through the tea fields, and interact with local tea pickers to learn about traditional harvesting and processing methods.

Highlights:

• Scenic flight over the Himalayas

• Explore Nepal’s iconic tea gardens at Kanyam

Distance: Drive approx. 90 km

Overnight: Guesthouse in Kanyam

Day 03: Trek Kanyam to Fikkal (1,500m)

You begin trekking with a gentle downhill through a landscape dotted with terraced fields, small forests, and traditional villages. The trail leads through farmland where locals cultivate cardamom, ginger, and vegetables. Passing through quiet hamlets, you get a firsthand look at rural Nepali farming life and community traditions. Arriving in Fikkal, you’ll find a lively market town where local traders sell fresh produce and handicrafts. The day’s walk is moderate and allows ample opportunities to connect with villagers and enjoy the serene surroundings.

Highlights:

• Experience traditional rural life and farming communities

• Visit Fikkal market town

Trek Duration: 4–5 hours
Distance: Approx. 14 km
Overnight: Homestay near Fikka

Day 04: Trek Fikkal to Jorpokhari (1,780m)

Today’s trail gradually ascends through mixed forest and farmland towards Jorpokhari, a pair of sacred twin ponds enveloped by lush woodland. This spot holds great spiritual importance for both Hindus and Buddhists, who gather here for ritual offerings and festivals. The forest path is peaceful and shaded, lined with fluttering prayer flags and occasional small shrines. Jorpokhari offers a tranquil retreat, perfect for contemplation and appreciating the harmony between nature and local beliefs.

Highlights:

• Visit the spiritually significant twin ponds of Jorpokhari

• Walk through serene forest trails with prayer flags

Trek Duration: 4–5 hours
Distance: Approx. 12 km
Overnight: Homestay near Jorpokhari

Day 05: Trek Jorpokhari to Shree Antu (2,328m)

Your trek continues with a steady uphill climb through dense forests, cardamom and tea plantations, and traditional Limbu and Rai villages. As you ascend, the trail opens spectacular vistas of the Kanchenjunga mountain range, the third highest peak in the world, along with the Darjeeling hills across the border in India. Shree Antu is a tranquil hilltop village renowned for its panoramic sunrise views over the Himalayas. Upon arrival, enjoy the calm atmosphere and prepare for an early morning hike to the viewpoint.

Highlights:

• Ethnic Limbu and Rai village culture

• Stunning mountain vistas and Himalayan views

Trek Duration: 5–6 hours
Distance: Approx. 15 km
Overnight: Homestay in Shree Antu

Day 06: Sunrise at Shree Antu & Trek to Soktim Tea Garden (1,900m)

Rise before dawn to witness an awe-inspiring Himalayan sunrise from Shree Antu viewpoint. Watch as Kanchenjunga and neighboring peaks are bathed in golden light, creating an unforgettable spectacle. After breakfast, begin your descent along forest trails and rural paths to the Soktim Tea Garden, a lesser-known tea estate offering an authentic and peaceful experience. Wander among the lush tea bushes, observe traditional tea picking methods, and soak in the tranquility away from tourist crowds.

Highlights:

• Unforgettable Himalayan sunrise

• Explore a quiet and authentic tea garden

Trek Duration: 4–5 hours
Distance: Approx. 12 km
Overnight: Guesthouse near Soktim Tea Garden

Day 07: Trek Soktim to Mai Pokhari (2,121m)

The trail today takes you through mixed forests and traditional villages, gradually ascending to Mai Pokhari, a sacred wetland lake recognized as a Ramsar site for its ecological importance. The lake is surrounded by rich biodiversity and is a spiritual destination attracting pilgrims throughout the year. The trek offers opportunities for birdwatching and nature appreciation amidst towering rhododendrons and pine trees.

Highlights:

• Visit the ecologically and spiritually important Mai Pokhari lake

• Birdwatching and forest exploration

Trek Duration: 5–6 hours
Distance: Approx. 14 km
Overnight: Homestay near Mai Pokhari

Day 08: Trek Mai Pokhari to Siddhi Thumka Viewpoint (1,693m) & Drive to Ilam Bazaar

In the morning, hike to Siddhi Thumka viewpoint, which offers sweeping views of Kanchenjunga, the Terai plains, and, on clear days, distant Bhutan and Sikkim. The descent leads you through traditional villages, terraced farmland, and forest paths before you meet your vehicle. Then, enjoy a scenic drive back to Ilam Bazaar, where you’ll spend your last night in the peaceful hills.

Highlights:

• Panoramic Himalayan and Terai views from Siddhi Thumka

• Relax in Ilam Bazaar

Trek Duration: 3–4 hours
Drive Duration: 1–2 hours
Overnight: Hotel in Ilam Bazaar

Day 09: Drive to Bhadrapur & Fly Kathmandu

After breakfast, take a scenic 3–4 hour drive to Bhadrapur Airport. Board your flight back to Kathmandu, concluding your immersive journey through the tea gardens, hills, and cultural landscapes of Ilam. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you’ll be transferred to your hotel.

Drive Duration: 3–4 hours
Flight Duration: Approx. 1 hour

Overnight: Hotel in Kathmandu

Day 10: Departure Day: Kathmandu – Your Journey Home

On your final day in Nepal, enjoy a relaxed morning at your hotel in Kathmandu after your incredible trek through the Ilam region. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have some time to explore the vibrant streets of Thamel for last-minute shopping, souvenirs, or a delicious Nepali meal.

When it’s time, your private transfer will take you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward international flight. As you leave, take a moment to reflect on the breathtaking landscapes, rich cultures, and unforgettable experiences that made your journey so special.