Ilam's Antu, Kanyam packed for New Year celebrations

By Prem Adhikari,Pashupatinagar (Ilam), Jan.1 : Antu and Kanyam, the two most popular tourist destinations in Ilam district in eastern Nepal, are packed with visitors celebrating the New Year 2025. 

These spots, located near the Indian border, have become increasingly popular among Indian tourists as the new year is being celebrated as a festival across the border in India of late. 

Rudra Ghimire, President of the Antu Tourism Business Association, informed that over 80 per cent of the tourists visiting Antu and Kanyam this year are from India. Tourists flock to Antu to witness the breathtaking sunrise from Antu Hill, explore the scenic Antu Pond, and stroll through the lush tea gardens stretching over vast area. 

All 84 homestays, hotels, and cottages in Antu – all of which are the members of the Association – are fully booked, Ghimire said. "Most Indian tourists have booked their stays in advance. Campfires and local delicacies are a highlight of their visits," he said. 

Many tourists stay for a week or more, enjoying the serene environment and local hospitality, said Dhan Kumar Ale, a homestay operator in Antu.

Kanyam, another renowned destination in Ilam, is similarly crowded with Indian tourists. Tek Raj Giri, a hotel entrepreneur in Kanyam, noted that its proximity to India and the quest for new tourist spots have attracted an increasing number of visitors from across the border.

Domestic tourists also take trips to Kanyam for picnics and group tours, enjoying activities such as horse riding, exploring the tea gardens, and taking photos in traditional costume. Many leave with souvenirs such as churpi, lollipops (traditional sweet), and the famed Akabare chillies produced in Ilam.

Indian tourist Roshan Sharma, who has been a regular visitor to Antu and Kanyam for New Year celebrations for the past several years, expressed his fondness for the area's natural beauty and warm hospitality. "We come here every year because of the stunning scenery and the incredible welcome we receive," he said.

Suryodaya Municipality's beautification efforts have further boosted tourism in the area. Key attractions like Antu Hill, Antu Pond, and Kanyam now feature selfie and TikTok points, drawing more visitors. Likewise, the municipality has constructed a skywalk in Kanyam, with plans underway to add a glass bridge as a new tourist attraction.

Tourists can enjoy horse rides through the tea gardens and spend hours dressed in traditional costumes, taking in the picturesque surroundings. While Kanyam and Antu see an influx of visitors, few venture to other destinations, Giri noted. 

Koshi Province government has declared Suryodaya Municipality as a 'tourist city'. It generates over Rs. 6 million in revenue annually from tourist activities in Antu and Kanyam. Nearby attractions like Sandakpur, Tumling, Tonglu, and Sano Pathivara Temple are also bustling with Indian tourists for the New Year celebrations.