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.

1

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.”

2

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.

3

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.

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

Alternative agriculture

Rural community

Development

Value added agriculture

Direct farm marketing

Agri-tourism

Figure 1. Agriculture and

Complete agri. destination

Temporary attraction or

special events

Part of a large agriculture oriented

destination

Agri-tourism

Part of a large non agriculture

oriented destination

Figure 2. Tourism and agri-tourism

4

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

5

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.

Total land area (ha) Geography

Agriculture Pasture Forest Others

Total

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.

6

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

7

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.

8

• 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.

9

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.

10

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

11

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

12

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.

13

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.

14

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

15

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

16

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.

17

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

18

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

19

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,

20

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.

21

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

22

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.

23

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.

24

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.

25