This document discusses the concept, issues, challenges, and opportunities of agri-tourism in Ilam, Nepal. It defines agri-tourism as activities that combine tourism and agriculture, such as farm tours, u-pick farms, and farm stays, to generate income for farmers. The document outlines challenges to developing agri-tourism in Ilam such as lack of infrastructure, policies and investment, as well as issues around identifying products and building awareness. However, it also describes the unlimited opportunities for agri-tourism in Ilam given its diverse geography and culture, existing agriculture, and initiatives from organizations. Specific places and agricultural products in Ilam that could support agri-tourism development are also

1. Prospecting Agri-tourism in Ilam: Concept, Issues, Challenges, and
Unlimited Opportunities.
Table of content
Definition of Agri-tourism........................................................................................................ 1
Concept of Agri-tourism ........................................................................................................... 3
Ilam a brief introduction in relation to Agri-tourism ................................................................ 4
Concept of Agri-tourism in the context of Ilam........................................................................ 6
Issues of Agri-tourism in the context of Ilam ........................................................................... 8
Challenges for Agri-tourism in Ilam......................................................................................... 9
National and local level policy ............................................................................................. 9
Existing Infrastructure ........................................................................................................ 10
Identification of Agri-tourism products .............................................................................. 11
Package program................................................................................................................. 12
Tourism route...................................................................................................................... 12
Investment........................................................................................................................... 12
Awareness ........................................................................................................................... 13
Security ............................................................................................................................... 13
Trained Human Resources.................................................................................................. 13
Advertisement ..................................................................................................................... 14
Unlimited Opportunities of Agri-tourism in Ilam.................................................................. 14
Geographical diversity ........................................................................................................ 14
Socio cultural diversity ....................................................................................................... 15
Existing infrastructure......................................................................................................... 15
Initiative from NGOs and line agencies.............................................................................. 15
Places and Products of Tourist Interest............................................................................... 16
Whole area of Ilam District............................................................................................. 16
Sericulture farming ......................................................................................................... 17
Citrus Pocket area ........................................................................................................... 17
Floriculture pocket area .................................................................................................. 17
Commercial Vegetable Production Pocket area ............................................................. 18
Apiculture pocket area .................................................................................................... 18
Agroforestry system........................................................................................................ 19
Traditional agriculture system ........................................................................................ 19
Area of Transformed agriculture .................................................................................... 20
Agri-produce transportation............................................................................................ 20
Milk Processing .............................................................................................................. 20
Periodic market of agri-produce ..................................................................................... 21
Agrobased small scale cottage industries ....................................................................... 22
Agro-processing Industries ............................................................................................. 23
Recent development in the field of tourism........................................................................ 24
Conclusion .............................................................................................................................. 24
References :..............................................................................Error! Bookmark not defined.

2. Prospecting Agri-tourism in Ilam: Concept, Issues, Challenges,
and
Unlimited Opportunities.
Definition of Agri-tourism
Tourism has been flourished a lot within a couple of decade particularly the tourism sectors
which are close to the nature or natural things have become the interest of much tourist
around the world. Nature tourism, Eco-tourism, cultural tourism, and agri-tourism etc. are
taking pace along with the time and among them the agri-tourism has become much popular
in recent years. The reason behind ever growing popularity of agri-tourism is that the human
being are closely related to agriculture and without it we certainly die of hunger, so people
who are more or less far from agriculture and related activities wish to watch, and experience
agricultural activities closely.
Agri-tourism is composed of different two words viz. Agriculture and Tourism. Many
experts and institutions have tried to define agri-tourism in different ways as per their
perception. Simply stated, agri-tourism could be thought of as the crossroads of tourism and
agriculture. Stated more technically, “agri-tourism” can be defined as any business conducted
by a farmer or processor for the enjoyment or education of the public to promote the products
of the farm and to generate additional farm income.
The term could be similarly defined as a form of commercial enterprise that links agricultural
production and/or processing with tourism in order to attract visitors onto a farm, ranch, or
other agricultural business for the purposes of entertaining and/or educating the visitors and
generating income for the farm, ranch, or business owner. One scholar defines “agri-tourism”
as “agricultural activities that feature educational and recreational activities in addition to the
traditional role as commodity production.”
1

3. The American Farm Bureau Federation has defined agri-tourism as:
"An enterprise at a working farm, ranch or agricultural plant conducted for the
enjoyment of visitors that generates income for the owner. Agricultural tourism
refers to the act of visiting a working farm or any horticultural or agricultural
operation for the purpose of enjoyment, education or active involvement in the
activities at the farm or operation that also adds to the economic viability of the
site."
Members of the Tennessee Agri-tourism Initiative defined agri-tourism as “an activity,
enterprise or business that combines primary elements and characteristics of Tennessee
agriculture and tourism and provides an experience for visitors that stimulates economic
activity and impacts both farm and community income.”9 Agri-tourism is occasionally
referred to as “agri-tourism,” “agrotourism,” “farm tourism,” “agricultural tourism,” or
agritainment.”
Thus, agricultural Tourism: Refers to the act of visiting a working farm or any
agricultural, horticultural or agribusiness operation for the purpose of enjoyment,
education, or active involvement in the activities of the farm or operation.
Agricultural tourism is a new field which allows people to experience the cycle of
life, the growth of plants, the birth and death of animals. It is successful because it
takes us back to a culture that was one of oneness with our environment. People
cared for animals, placed their seeds in the grown, harvested their crops. People
worked together to harvest crops. It was a time of great effort, yet great joy and
accomplishment.
Agriculture tourism enterprises include things such as farm tours, farm stands, u-pick farms,
hunting clubs, vineyard weddings, old-fashioned cattle brandings, trail rides, and farm stays.
It also entails a commercial operation working toward its visitor’s enjoyment, understanding,
and appreciation of natural areas while conserving the local ecological, social, and cultural
values. It incorporates aspects of cultural, historical, place based experiences that are
authentic and homegrown.
2

4. Concept of Agri-tourism
Agri-tourism is a hybrid concept that merges elements of two complex industries—
agriculture and travel/tourism—to open up new profitable markets for farm products and
services and provide travel experiences for a large regional market. Although a single
definition of agri-tourism is not widely recognized, it is at the intersection of a number of
important marketing and economic development concepts that are circulating today. Agri-
tourism is unlikely to be the dominant sector of agriculture in most areas, but it may play a
significant support role for many agricultural enterprises. Figure 1 shows the central
relationship, agri-tourism has to alternative agriculture, value-added production, direct farm
marketing, and, ultimately, rural community development.
Figure 1. Agriculture and Figure 2. Tourism and agri-tourism
Complete agri. Temporary
Alternative Value added destination attraction or
agriculture agriculture special events
Agri-tourism Agri-tourism
Part of a large non Part of a large
Rural Direct farm agriculture agriculture oriented
community marketing oriented destination
Development destination
In general, agri-tourism is the practice of attracting travelers or visitors to an area or areas
used primarily for agricultural purposes. Very often, the idea of tourism stimulates images of
mass-produced travel that attracts a large number of travelers. These images may discourage
small business owners from considering tourism as an option for enhancing their agriculture
revenues. However, agri-tourism can be viewed much like eco-tourism in that it is small-
scale, low-impact, and, in most cases, education-focused.
An increasing number of farm businesses are opening their doors to visitors today. Farm
tours, farm-based Bed and Breakfast operations, farm vacations, seasonal festivals, and other
forms of agri-tourism are attracting growing numbers of local, regional and even
3

5. international visitors. Agri-tourism enterprise can be a profitable and enjoyable undertaking
for some farmers, diversifying the business and creating employment for family members
and others.
Agri-tourism also represents a real opportunity for economic development in some
communities. The agri-tourism industry is relatively undeveloped in Nepal compared to other
countries where it is extremely popular among vacationers. It is one alternative for improving
the incomes and potential economic viability of small farms and rural communities. It has
been part of farming in Europe for centuries. Farmers in the USA are finding that
agricultural tourism can help them keep their lands and their way of life. There are many
opportunities for strengthening agri-tourism in Nepal, locally, on the regional level, and
national level. Enhancing cooperation among agri-tourism businesses, connecting agri-
tourism with other forms of tourism, creating cooperative promotional programs, building an
international presence for Nepal agri-tourism, and providing business development assistance
and support for new agri-tourism enterprises are among the strategies that could be pursued.
Ilam a brief introduction in relation to Agri-tourism
Ilam is the
easternmost hill
district of Nepal
and is bordered by
the Indian state of
West Bengal in the
east and by Jhapa, a
Nepal terai district,
in the south. In the
north and west is
Panchthar, another
hill district of
4

6. Nepal. The district headquarter's town, Ilam bajar, is at an altitude of 1,200 mMSL. With a
geographical area of 1,717 sq.km., extending from 260.40′ to 270.8′ north latitude and
870.40′ to 880.10′ east longitude, the district is divided into 48 VDCs and one municipality.
The altitude ranges from 250 meter to 3636 meter above from the sea level. The district has
three clear geographical divisions in terms of altitude: a tropical region boardering with the
terai in the south below 1,000 m. a sub tropical region in the middle of the district with
altitude ranging between 1,000-1,800 m. and a temperate region with altitude of 1,800 m and
above. The average annual rainfall of the district is 250 cm and more than 80% precipitation
occurs during June to September. The total population of Ilam is 282,822 and population
growth rate is 2.10% (population census - 2058). The table below shows the total land
geographical status and land use of Ilam.
Geography Total land area (ha) Total
Agriculture Pasture Forest Others
High hill 95 0 5182 0 5197
Mid hill 62711 3398 51526 1832 119467
Siwalik 3993 0 38268 2602 44863
Terai 738 0 942 418 2198
Total 67537 3398 95918 4852 171725
(source: land resource mapping project, 1987)
Ilam is charming because it is unspoiled by modernity, pollution and urban bustle. It is
multicultural, and multiethnic district. It is very rich in terms of natural, cultural and
environmental perspective. Ilam has various natural resources, green forests, rivers, lakes,
mountains, holy sites, tea gardens and hospitable
people, and above all the diverse agriculture. Being
these all assets, Ilam can provide an ecotourism as
well as the agri-tourism destination for the
purposive tourist around the world.
Agriculture is the mainstay of Ilam and 88.77% of
the total population depends upon agriculture.
5

7. Only 39.32% of the total land is cultivated in which only 13% of cultivated land has
irrigation facility. Crop farming and livestock are the major agricultural sectors. Ilam
synonymously known as the district of Six ‘As’ - Aalu (potato), Alaichi (cardamom), Aduwa
(ginger), Akabare khursani (red round big chilly), Olan (milk and milk product), and Amliso
(broom). Besides, it is the district of tea, silk, bamboo, flower, and agroforestry. The tea
garden has become prime source of income and beauty for the district as a whole. So, Ilam
has become the center of study about tea. Likewise, silk, milk/milk products, bamboo, cut
flower, and varieties of seasonal and off-season vegetables are source of income for the
district. The farmers of Ilam have got multiple opportunities. They are laborious and
independent which teaches us to be hard working and independent. Tourists around the world
and internal tourist as well come to Ilam to observe the traditional and the transformed
agricultural activities as well as to interact with farmers regarding various agriculture Thus,
Ilam has a high potentiality of agriculture based tourism and researches.
Concept of Agri-tourism in the context of Ilam
The flow of tourist in Ilam is significantly high
since long. Among the visitors nearly 90% are truly
for agriculture related business. Some want to learn
the farming techniques of different cash crops that
are widely grown in Ilam, some are brokers related
to agriculture produce marketing, some are related
to agro-industries, and so on. The others tourist who
are basically not intended to see agriculture also
show interest to observe agriculture activities in their rest time while stay in Ilam. Thus, the
agriculture related tourism contribute major sector in the overall
tourism in Ilam.
Though the agriculture related tourism was in existence since long, the
term agri-tourism is new concept for Ilam. Because in previous time
all types of the agriculture related business were considered as
different from tourism. In recent year, considering the significant
contribution of agriculture sector in overall tourism and the high feasibility of agriculture
6

8. related tourism in Ilam district the concept of agri-tourism came in existence. The strong
bases behind this concept are as follow
• The people of Ilam have been considering the tourists as god, because all have faith in
a key Mantra “Atithi Devo Bhava” ( in English Guests are like god)
• The flow of tourist in Ilam is considerable. The tourist from India and abroad and
internal tourist visit Ilam for different agriculture related purposes.
• Agriculture is the mainstay of Ilam and 88.77% of the total population are true
farmers and are entirely depending upon agriculture as a major livelihood.
• The geography of Ilam enables the district to grow wide variety of crops from terai to
high hills.
• Ilam is unspoiled by modernity, pollution and urbanization. Therefore, it is the best
destination for the nature and natural beauty lovers.
• Ilam is the district of 6 ‘A’s- Alu, Olan, Alainchi, Aduwa, Amliso, Akabare khursani.
• There are some pocket areas in western Ilam where modern agriculture have not
yet introduced, those areas have been still practicing the traditional agriculture
system. Those areas may be the appropriate destination of the tourist from
developed countries.
• Ilam has infrastructures enough to develop agri-tourism. The black topped
road that links the district with other part of Nepal, urban and rural
electrification, communication, accommodation facilities, and information centers
etc. are in good condition.
• In the east Ilam the agriculture system has been totally transformed. Farmers are
growing high value cash crops for exporting to abroad. Variety of export cash crops
and the cultivation techniques may be the interest of many tourist who are using those
products but haven't yet seen the farming.
• In almost all VDCs there is at least a small cottage industry based in agriculture
and/or animal husbandry.
• In Ilam all VDCs have been linked with the district head quarter with at least
fair weather road. Therefore, the tourist who can't walk can use vehicle for
visiting around.
7

9. • The farmers of Ilam are innovative, workaholic, hospitable and always eager to
welcome tourists.
• Almost all houses in the village have separate guest room which can provide
appropriate accommodation for tourists.
• Traditional knowledge of cultivation, post harvest activities, NRM practices, and
traditional technology and equipments are unique products for tourism.
• The eye catching views of tea gardens are the added advantage for tourism.
Issues of Agri-tourism in the context of Ilam
Because of the appropriate infrastructures, agricultural bases, peoples perception toward
tourism etc. the agri-tourism in Ilam has been flourishing in rapid rate. At the same time there
are various issues which are directly and indirectly influencing the development of agri-
tourism both from positive and negative aspect. The major issues of agri-tourism in Ilam are
as follow.
• Considering the high feasibility of agri-tourism, it should be prioritized by all level
stakeholders.
• Despite of large flow of agriculture related tourist the farmers and other concerned
are unable to take appropriate advantage.
• The tourists have been benefited from the acquired knowledge from the local farmers
but in return farmers are getting nothing which is totally undesirable. In addition,
there is still a fear of piracy of the local technologies, crop varieties and several
practices.
• The district does not have master plan for the development of agri-tourism in Ilam.
The prime stake holder i.e. DDC should be responsible for formulating master plan
and related local policy, action plan, and strategy for agri-tourism development.
• The hotels, lodges in the district head quarters and other major towns are getting good
income from the agri-tourism. But the hotel and lodges have not been providing
appropriate services to the tourists in the absence of hotel management related
trainings and skilled human resources.
• Advertisement, proposition, and information center at local level is lacking.
• Appropriate products for agri-tourims have not yet been identified.
8

10. Challenges for Agri-tourism in Ilam
Despite a lot of potentialities of agri-tourism, its development is not satisfactory to date.
Although Nepal Tourism Board has identified Ilam as one of the destinations for tourists, the
number of tourist especially from foreign is not increasing in an expected manner. The major
challenge is to increase the number of tourists who come to visit Ilam especially for
agriculture related purpose. There are various reasons behind this challenge which are
described below.
National and local level policy
Despite of long history and evidence of agri-tourism in Nepal, the Government of Nepal has
not yet recognized the agri-tourism as feasible and potential sector of tourism. So, the
national and regional policies, and strategies regarding agri-tourism have not yet formulated.
The national level prime stakeholders i.e. Ministry of Tourism and Nepal Tourism are
recently giving due consideration toward conceptualizing, and popularizing agri-tourism in
Nepal but in the absence of national policy they are experiencing difficulty in exerting
meaningful effort in the same.
To develop the agri-tourism it needs a long term and visionary perspective plan, but in
lacking policy and strategy it is also impossible to develop such plan as the line agencies do
not want to involve in the same and it is not possible from private sectors only. It needs
collaborative effort which is only possible when the government formulates and implements
appropriate policies regarding agri-tourism.
The Department of Environmental Science, IAAS (DES, IAAS) has been offering course in
agri-ecotourism and at the same time it has been advocating and conceptualizing of the same.
After several efforts by DES, IAAS, recently the Ministry and NTB have recognized the term
agri-tourism as appropriate sector for Nepal tourism and have placed in the priority-1 level.
The lacking national policy has been adversely affecting the development of agri-tourism in
Ilam because the local government, district and regional level line agencies have been
hesitating to exert effort for agri-tourism development in Ilam. Besides, the private sectors
are also in confusion and undecided whether to invest in this sector or not.
9

11. Existing Infrastructure
Appropriate infrastructure is essential for the development of agri-tourism thereby attracting
the international as well as domestic tourists. The all season road, good accommodation
facilities, tour operating agencies, good communication facilities, appropriate products, and
touring package are the desired infrastructures for agri-tourism. In Ilam the condition these
infrastructures are not that much satisfactory.
Many VDCs which are much feasible from agri-tourism view point are not accessible
throughout the year. Though all the VDCs have fair weather road, it is difficult to reach
during rainy season. In addition, the lacking permanent bridge again create problem in
getting to these remote area. The condition of horse trails and foot trails are also poor during
as these become muddy because of frequent and heavy rain during the entire rainy season.
Communication facility is another felt problem in the district. Recently all VDCs are
connected with telephone facility but remote areas of VDCs are still out of the same. The
mobile telephone services provided by Nepal Telecommunication and Mero Mobile are out
of network coverage in most of the VDCs. Similarly inaccessibility of email and internet
facilities in most of the VDCs is another problem for the development of agri-tourism in the
whole district.
Accommodation facility is another major infrastructure that determines the development of
agri as well as other sectors of tourism. The local hotels and lodges are not that much
professional in terms of services and facilities. in addition, the existing hotel and lodge are
not enough to accommodate large number of tourist at a time. Though the houses in
transboundary VDCs have been accommodating tourist in their own houses the rural
households in western Ilam do not have tradition of keeping tourist home stay and as paying
guests. Similarly there is no guest houses and other accommodation facilities offered by local
organisations and government.
Information center is essential to get various informations as per the interest of tourists. In
Ilam there is no well functioned information center. The information center established by
10

12. Ilam Municipality does not have much information in the absence of human resources,
database etc. Another information center is run by a religious forest groups at Maipokhari
Ilam which can not provide the information of whole district. Some NGO like Ilam Sarokar
Manch has taken initiative to establish information center but it is not regular and not
updated too.
Tour operating agencies are essential to make the tourism package appropriately coordinated
and organized. In whole district there is no existence of even a single tour operating agency.
Till date the agencies from Kathmandu, Pokhara and Darjeeling of India have been bringing
international tourist to Ilam and domestic tourist have been approaching freely without
assistance of tour operating agencies. The outside tour operating agencies are not much
familiar with Ilam so, they are unable to explain and show Ilam perfectly.
Souvenir Shops (Koseli Ghar) are essential to present the famous and unique local products
for sale. Tourists, when go back to their place want to bring some local products as per
interests. Recently in Ilam the number of souvenir shops has been in increasing trend but all
are concentrated to Ilam Bazar. There is no even a single souvenir shop outside of Ilam
bazar. The existing souvenir shops are also not much professional and are found a bit weak in
terms of selecting tourism products, dealing with tourists etc.
Identification of Agri-tourism products
Ilam is blessed with a wide varieties of agri-tourism products throughout the district. Almost
all area within Ilam are unique in terms of crops, way of farming, agri-technology, agri-
equipments, marketing and other agri-related activities. Despite of these the feasible agri-
tourism products have not yet been documented and identified. To invite tourist, it is
necessary to present tourism product to the tourists but in the absence of proper identification
it is quite impossible.
All the tourists don't have the same interest, some want to observe one thing and others want
different. Interest of tourist differ from person to person, so, survey at fixed interval is
essential to know the variety of interest which, later help to identify the agri-tourism
products. But there is no evidence of such survey conducted by related stakeholders at central
11

13. and local level. This situation has resulted in feasible agri-tourism products remain
unidentified.
Package program
It is essential to increase the duration of tourist stay, if we want to earn good income
from tourist. Appropriate package program is a must to retain tourist for a longer
period. The package program should include the program as per tourist interest.
In the absence of tour operating agencies at local level and agri-tourism products,
it is difficult to develop the package tour program. Despite of wide variety of tourism
products, places of tourists interest the package tour program for Ilam have not yet
been developed.
Tourism route
It is not possible to show all the places and products in a single package because of
time limit, interest of tourists, facilities etc. Therefore, tourism route is essential
for coverage of maximum places and products in a single package. Single route is
not sufficient as there is limitation of accommodation, travel, communication facilities
in the district. Therefore, as much as possible tourism route is essential for the
development of agri-tourism. Ilam Sarokar Manch has developed a possible tourism
route for the district before a couple of year with a view to developing eco-tourism in
Ilam. Though that route covers some of the agriculture activities but does not cover
the whole. It needs to develop separate route exclusively for agri-tourism which is
lacking at present.
Investment
Without appropriate infrastructure agri-tourism is quite impossible. Infrastructure
development is quite costlier and seeks collaborative efforts. It needs investment from both
the government and private sectors. Because of the long political crisis, and unstable political
situation of the country both the government and private sectors have been hesitating to
invest in this sector. Especially the private sectors, because of security problem did not invest
even a single penny to develop infrastructure. Now the situation is in improving trend but
both sectors have not yet invested as they are still in confusion and not confident from the
situation of country.
12

14. Awareness
Most of the tourism stakeholders and general people are not much familiar with the concept
of agri-tourism. As it is the new introduction in terms of definition, approach, modality etc, it
should be conceptualized among the related stakeholders and general mass. There is no
evidence of any awareness program from the agencies who are involved in the development
of this sector. Every farmers, tourism related stakeholders should no what it is but in the
absence of awareness program they are unaware and their perception toward agri-tourism is
unoccupied. Because of this situation they are not advertising, advocating, and supporting
agti-tourism promotion.
Security
Security of the tourist is the prime concern of the tour operating agencies and all related
stakeholders. Because of the long political crisis of the country the security condition was
poor before a year. Now the condition has been changed but still security of the tourist is in
questions. At present new political, and ethnic parties and movements are mushrooming in
the national and local level which is creating serious question of security. The police posts in
VDCs before the conflict period were removed during the conflict period which have not yet
reestablished properly. There are various evidences of terror of donation, hijacking, theft etc
faced by international tourists. In such security crisis, neither tour operating agencies nor
tourist himself/herself want to be involved in touring,
Trained Human Resources
Like other type of tourism, agri-tourism is also depended on human resources. Tourists want
to get professional services as they are paying for it. Skilled human resources in hotel
management, guiding tour, and information center is essential for the promotion of the same.
In Ilam there is no trained human resources in these field.
Production of trained human resources is the responsibility of concerned agencies. But they
are not actively involved in organizing skill development trainings regarding tourism. At the
same time higher education institutes in Ilam have not yet offered academic course to
develop tourism related human resources at local level.
13

15. Advertisement
Despite high feasibility of agri-tourism, availability of agri- tourism products and places the
advertisement of the same is lacking. It needs appropriate advertisement to make possible
tourist familiar about Ilam, its unique agri-tourism products, place of interest etc. so that they
can decide Ilam as possible destination. There are some advertisement by Nepal Tourism
Board, DDC Ilam, Ilam Sarokar Manch and Ilam Shutra through electronic and printed
media but that is not sufficient because of small coverage, inadequate information etc. It
needs to develop separate website to advertise at global level thereby attracting agri-tourists
across the world. But such efforts have not yet been made from the related stakeholders.
Unlimited Opportunities of Agri-tourism in Ilam
The existing tourism status of the district, the existing infrastructures, and the existing
agriculture scenario etc indicate that, Ilam will be the best destination for the tourists having
interest in agriculture and related activities. Agri-tourism is already established tourism
sector for Ilam, the only need is to promote it through collaborative effort from all level
stakeholders. Ilam has unlimited opportunities and scopes of developing agri-tourism which
can be proved by the various features described below.
Geographical diversity
Ilam is endowed with variety of
geographical as well as numerous micro-
climatic features. It is extended from
tropical to temperate zone having different
aspects and slopes. These situations have
enabled Ilam to grow variety of crops and
to develop/follow location specific
agriculture technology. Tourist can see
different crops at different places along
with plantation/transplantation, intercultural operations, harvesting, post harvest processing
etc. of variety of cereals, vegetables, fruits, spices, and cash crops. In addition, the different
14

16. types farm animals and animal farming techniques at different places may also be the interest
of tourist.
Socio cultural diversity
Ilam is diverse in terms of ethnicity, culture, tradition etc. which has been determining the
crop farming techniques as well as the farming types. For example Limbus are said to be the
best to grow and take care of different fruit variety, to construct irrigation canal in traditional
way and to make terrace in slope land. Rais are growing Ghiya Dhan (dryland rice), Bitter
buckwheat, Chindo etc. Most of the Brahmin and kshetri keeps cattle and produce milk and
milk produce. The so called untouchable as well as mongol farmers raise pigs, Gurungs are
involved in sheep and duck farming, and Blacksmith prepare agriculture tools and equipment
to be used by others etc. They have their own belief, norms and tradition. All are living in the
same community with ethnic, cultural and agricultural harmony without interfering others
and this feature will be the interest of tourists.
Existing infrastructure
Ilam has at least some existing infrastructures so it does not need to start developing
infrastructure from nil. The district is linked with black topped road, has communication
services, accommodation facilities, information centre etc. and above all the strong
agriculture bases. If the existing infrastructures are improved a bit it will certainly help attract
tourists. In the changed political context of the countries the central and local government
along with the private sectors may invest in infrastructure development, if they are
appropriately motivated.
Initiative from NGOs and line agencies
Some NGOs namely Namsaling Community Development Centre (NCDC), Ilam, and Ilam
Sarokar Manch have been involving in the promotion of tourism sectors since a couple of
year. NCDC has incorporated agri-tourism promotion program in its project areas
particularly along the transboundary VDCs of Ilam. It has provided some support for the
promotion of the same. Similarly Ilam Sarokar Manch is involved in the trekking route
development and advertisement of tourism which include agri-tourism too. These initiatives
are really a positive step for the promotion of agri-tourism. Besides, recently the district level
line agencies like DADO, DLSO, DFO along with the District Development Committee has
15

17. been advocating for agri-tourism realizing the high feasibility of the same. Thus, the
involvement of NGOs and line agencies in agri-tourism promotion will certainly yield a
positive result.
Places and Products of Tourist Interest
In Ilam, there exist wide varieties of agri-tourism products and places throughout the district.
Following agri-tourism product may help to attract tourist in future.
Whole area of Ilam District
Ilam is famous for growing Tea,
Cardamom, Zinger, Broom grass,
Bamboo, Potato etc., and keeping
farm animals. These are found
everywhere in the district. The
broom grass, tea, cardamom etc.
are not in commercial production in
other part of the country and most
of the foreign country as well.
Therefore, the users of these
products, who have not yet seen the
cultivation and processing
activities may have interest to
observe these in field.
Chayote is another widely grown vegetable for export and local use, this is unique
vegetable as no part goes waste. The technique of chayote farming is also
interesting to see. Harvesting of tea leaves (plucking) is much interesting activity and
the people who see plucking definitely try to pluck tea leaves at once carrying basket
on the back.
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18. Sericulture farming
Sericulture and silk cocoon production is another widely
practiced agriculture activities in Ilam. Twelve VDCs are
exclusively sericulture farming belt of Ilam which include
Sangrumba, Siddhithumka, Soyak, Godak, Ilam Municipality,
Laxmipur, Chisapani, Danabari, Mahamai, Kolbung, Kanyam,
and Samalbung. Farmers in these VDCs have been rearing bi-
voltine silkworm that produces mulberry silk of world’s top
quality. The mulberry farming, silkworm rearing, cocoon
production and processing activities can be one of the best agri-
tourism products in Ilam which may attract a large number of tourists who have not yet seen
the sericulture farming though they use silk fabric.
Citrus Pocket area
Ilam is also famous for the production of mandarin and lime.
There are pocket areas for the production of mandarin which
covers 6 VDCs namely Jirmale, Soyak, Sumbek, Namsaling,
Laxmipur and Panchakanya VDCs. Mandarin is produced
during the winter season and is delivered to the local market
and is also exported to nearby Indian cities. The mandarin
farming, harvesting and transport are really an interesting to observe for all, so, it can attract
tourist if advertised appropriately.
Floriculture pocket area
Farmers of some VDCs of
Ilam have been involving in
floriculture and flower
business. The widely grown
flowers are Gladiolus,
Gerbera, Anthurium,
Begonia, Chrysenthemum, Azelia, Orchids, and Glorisa. The transboundary VDCs like
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19. Gorkhe, Pashupatinagar, Sriantu, Samalbung, Fikkal
are famous of producing flowers. The produce is
exported to nearby Indian market like Darjeeling,
Kalimpong and Siliguri. It is nice to see the cultivation
and harvesting of flower which can definitely attract a
large numbers of tourists.
Commercial Vegetable Production Pocket area
Since last decade Ilam is producing
vegetable to export to India. Normally
the VDCs which are linked with the
highway are producing vegetable in
commercial scale. Puwamajhuwa,
Godak, Kolbung, Irauntar,
Panchakanya, Fikkal, Kanyam, Shantidanda, Sakhejung,
Soyang VDCs can be visited to observe the vegetable
farming. Recently some areas are producing organic
vegetable which is also interesting to see. Organic vegetable
farming can be observed in the rural area of Ilam
municipality and Laxmipur VDC.
Apiculture pocket area
Some parts of Ilam are highly feasible for bee keeping and honey production. There are some
pocket areas for producing
honey like Jirmale,
Samalbung, Siddithumka,
Irauntar, Laxmipur,
Kolbung VDC where a
large number of farmers are
involved in bee keeping. Both the traditional and the improved technology is being practiced
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20. in these areas. The management of bee hives, honey
extracting activities in both the traditional and modern bee
keeping are interesting activities for tourists and can easily
attract tourist in these areas.
Agroforestry system
Agroforestry in Ilam is traditional practice for the
farmers, but it is new for the farmers of other areas. It
has been well developed since long. Farmers have been
growing several multi purpose tree species along the
bund of cultivated land. Normally the tree species
which produce fodder, fruit, firewood, food etc are
planted for own use. The farmers from other part of
Nepal come to Ilam to observe and learn agroforestry
system. It can be observed in almost all VDCs within
Ilam.
Traditional agriculture system
There are still some VDCs in western Ilam which are
unspoiled by modern agriculture technology. The farmers
have not yet used chemical fertilizer, pesticides, improved
seeds and agriculture appliances because of low level
awareness and inaccessibility to these inputs. The farmers are
practicing true traditional
system of agriculture. These
areas can be visited to
observe traditional
agriculture technology,
traditional crop varieties,
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21. integration of animal husbandry and crop
farming, the traditional agroforestry and home
garden model, traditional agriculture equipments
etc. and can attract tourists who are familiar only
with modern agriculture system.
Area of Transformed agriculture
Agriculture system of Most of the VDCs in Ilam has been changed from traditional to
modern. How the transformation took place? It may be the subject of interest of many
people. And how farmers adapted to changed context context and how they are considering
the transformed agriculture in terms of crops, varieties, technology, processing etc may be
the interest of tourists. The transformed agriculture can be observed nicely in eastern, central,
and southern Ilam.
Agri-produce transportation
Transportation of agri-product is another interesting
activity to observe. In laking road facility the produce is
transported by horse and porter up to the collection center
located at road head. The caravan of horses carrying milk
canister in the morning is interesting to see. Similarly the
groups of people and horses carrying basket of tea leaves,
mandarin, vegetables, zinger, broom are also noticeable
activities for tourists.
Milk Processing
Ilam ranks highest position in eastern
Nepal in terms of milk production and
processing. Almost all farmers keep
cattle and produce milk and delivered
to nearest milk collection center. Ilam
has been supplying milk to Biratnagar and also export to Calcutta, an Indian Metropolitan.
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22. Ilam produce Cheese from cattle milk under Kanchan trade mark. There are around 13
Cheese factories in different district. Cheese making is interesting activities and can be
observed in VDCs like Fikkal, Pashupatinagar, Maipokhari, Puwamajhuwa, and Chamaita.
Ilam is also producing hard cheese (Chhurpi) from cattle milk. The hard cheese making
activities can be observed all VDCs excluding the terai areas.
Some VDCs like Fikkal, Pashupatinagar, Sakhejung are producing other milk products like
chocolate, Bambaisan, Khuwa and these product making is also interesting to observe.
The farmers of northern belt produce Seregam (solid whey prepared by coagulating whey)
which is tasty to eat and can be store as such for longer period. This can be one of the agri-
tourism products
Bambaisan a sweet item prepared from milk is famous and
unique milk product of Ilam. It is prepared in all sweet shop
within Ilam which may be one of the productsfor agri-
tourism.
Butter is prepared almost every house through out the
district. Separation of butter from yogurt is also interesting
to see.
Periodic market of agri-produce
Ilam has traditional system of periodic market for selling and buying of agriculture produce.
Almost all VDCs have such system. The market is operated in fixed interval like weekly in
fixed day, and fortnightly as well. A large number of farmers come to the market with their
produce and sell them directly to the consumer. The farmers also buy other types of
agriculture produce as per need and non agriculture items as well. There is no existing of
middlemen/broker who takes unnecessary profit from both seller and buyer. This is unique
system and both the seller and buyer are benefited equally without being cheated. The name
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23. of the market place is also given as per the marketing day, like Budhabare, Mangalbare,
Sombare etc. This system of local market enhances the friendship, relation and harmony
among the users. Such local market can be one of the tourism products for the tourist of
agriculture interest.
Agrobased small scale cottage industries
Besides farming there are several small scale cottage industries which are entirely depend on
the agriculture for raw materials. Below are some of the cottage industries in rural areas
which may attract tourists.
Sweets from milk : Women groups in many VDCs are involved in the production of various
sweet items from milk. They are delivering the products to the local as well as external
market after appropriate packaging. Such activities can be observed in Ilam municipality,
Sakhejung, Fikkal, Pashupatinagar VDCs.
Hand made tea : Almost all tea grower within Ilam prepare hand made tea in their own
house for domestic as well as for selling in the market. The processing of tea is much
interesting.
Pickle from vegetable : Some women groups in Ilam municipality
and surrounding VDCs are involved in pickle production and sale.
It is also interesting to see the pickle making process.
Potato chips : The VDCs nearby Ilam municipality are producing
potato chips and delivering to the local market and outside. The traditional techniques of
chips making is interesting and can attract tourist.
Noodles making : Many women in Fikkal, Pashupatinagar, Barbote VDCs and Ilam
municipality are involved in noodles making from wheat flour. The process is interesting
activities to see.
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24. Gundruk and Sinki making : The southern belt of Ilam is producing gundruk and sinki in
commercial scale. Gundruk and Sinki making activities is really an interesting activities and
it can easily attract tourist. The Mahamai and Danabari VDCs are famous for making
gundruk and Sinki during the winter season.
Brewing : In Ilam home made beer and alcohol (Jand and Raksi) is widely used. Almost all
mongol households prepare Jand and Raksi in their houses for domestic use and for sale. The
food grains, root crops, fruits and spices are used for the preparation of the same. It is
interesting to see this activities for foreigner who do not know the brewing method developed
locally.
Use of crop residues and by-products : Farmers are producing nice mats and mattress by
weaving paddy straw, maize sheath, wheat straw etc. Almost all households in rural areas
prepare such things. The weaving activities is also interesting to see.
Woolen product : The northern belt of Ilam is producing nice carpet made up of wool
produced locally. The spinning of woolen thread and weaving of carpet (RADI) is interesting
activities. Similarly many women groups are involved in the hosiery by producing woolen
sweater, shawl and other knit wears.
Agro-processing Industries
Ilam has some industries for agro-processing in which tea
factories and cheese factories are major. The processing
to tea can be seen in Kanyam, Fikkal, Panchakanya,
Sakhejung, Jitpur, Barbote, Chisapani, and Danabari
VDCs and Ilam municipality. Tea processing is
interesting to see and can attract tourists easily. Similarly
the cheese production in Pashupatinagar, Puwamajhuwa,
and Maipokhari can also attract tourists.
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25. Recent development in the field of tourism
Recently the Ministry of Tourism, Nepal Tourism Board, and District Development
Committee Ilam jointly organized a all level stakeholder consultation meeting cum workshop
to discuss various issues regarding the promotion of tourism in Ilam. This meeting was
organized from 19th to 21st December, 2007 at DDC Ilam. The meeting was ended with
common consensus for developing 5 year periodic plan for the promotion of tourism in Ilam.
The plan will definitely include the agri-tourism as one of the promising tourism sectors in
Ilam and explore the appropriate way to promote the same.
Conclusion
Agri-tourism is a hybrid concept that merges elements of two complex industries i.e.
agriculture and tourism. It has been flourishing rapidly globally. Nepal, because of large
agricultural bases, is one of the best destinations for agri-tourism. The districts where there
exist appropriate infrastructures, agricultural bases, and tourism history are feasible for agri-
tourism, and Ilam is one of the promising districts for the same.
Agri-tourism, though the term is new, has been in existence in Ilam since long. The existing
infrastructures, the geographical diversity, wide varieties of crops, traditional agriculture
knowledge and technology, and other several features have enabled the district suitable for
agri-ecotourism. These features have also opened unlimited opportunity for the promotion of
agri-tourism in the district. The recent initiative from NGOs and different level line agencies
are also contributing for the promotion of agri-tourism in Ilam. Despite of large ground for
the development of agri-tourism Ilam has been still experiencing various challenges which
are responsible for slow rate of development of agri-tourism.
To develop agri-tourism, Ilam needs a collaborative, and coordinated efforts from all level
stakeholders. Besides, a visionary plan is also essential to go effectively. These seem possible
in the changed political scenario and the restoration of peace in the country. Recent
declaration of stakeholders to develop periodic plan for 5 year period is really a positive
initiative for the promotion of agri-tourism in the district.
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