Mai Pokhari Ilam

Mai Pokhar (माईपोखरी) i is a famous wetland located at 15 km north from Illam district of Nepal, which was designated as Ramsar site in 2008. The wetland is situated in the middle hill ranges of the Himalayas at an elevation of 2,100 meter covering the area of 90 hectares. It is believed that this wetland was created due to ground subsidence and its source of water is from natural springs and precipitation.

The circumference of Lake (Mai Pokhari) within the wetland is about 1 kilometer and there is a beautiful Maipokhari Botanical Garden around the lake which houses a rock garden, an orchid house, a greenhouse and plants collected from many regions of eastern Nepal. This place is also known for the lush greenery surrounding providing perfect place for boating and fishing. This Lake is considered as a pilgrimage center for both Hindus and Buddhists and sacred place for local people and boats are also operated there.

Mai Pokhari is a place housing rare variety of flora and fauna like orchid, porcupine, etc. and other varieties including white-rumped vulture, leopard cat, goldfish, water lily, etc. Beside Lake and its importance, this place also provides beautiful view of snow-capped mountains surrounding it.

Nevertheless, the Lake has nine corners and believed to be paying tribute to nine different Gods. Nearby this place there are many attractive places to visit including Hyatung Falls (highest fall if Nepal), Kanchendzonga National Park, Goecha La (located in Sikkim) and many more which have their own significance and importance.