Patenagi is one of the most underrated tourist destinations, which is not familiar to outsiders. In fact, it is always interesting to visit some unknown places that are hidden from the outside world. Patenagi is a hidden gem that is known only to the locals.
Undoubtedly, it will be an exciting journey for all nature lovers to discover the astonishing landscapes of the Ilam district. Patenagi is situated on the border of the Ilam and Pachthar districts, far from the human settlements. It is about 7 kilometers away from Baghkhor on the Mechi Highway.
Patenagi is the nearest destination for the people of the Ilam district to experience snowfall. After about 30 minutes of riding from Baghkhor, you will reach the destination. However, there is only a gravel road, so it will be quite difficult to travel during the snowfall.
Similarly, there are no lodges in the area. You can find some cow stables in Patenagi, where you can find shelter for the night.
Paragliding
Ilam is a major tourist destination in eastern Nepal. The main attraction of Ilam is its beautiful tea farm. In fact, it is one of the main sources of tea production in Nepal. Lately, locals from Ilam have started paragliding at Kanyam Tea Farm.
In fact, paragliding has been a major attraction for visitors nowadays. It will be a lifetime experience to overlook the mind-blowing scenery of a beautiful tea farm from the sky.
Patenagi – Deurali
About 10 minutes from the cow stables, you will reach Deurali. Deurali is one of the historical places in the Ilam district. In the old days, it was tradition for people traveling through Patenagi to place stones at Deurali.
Apart from this, Deurali is also a major tourist destination in the Ilam district. You can have a panoramic view of the Himalayan ranges, including Mt. Kangchenjunga, Mt. Kumbhakarna, and Mt. Everest. Similarly, the beautiful scenery of Q-Bhir along with Lohakil Dada can be seen from the area.
Lohakil Dada
Lohakil Dada is situated at an altitude of 3002 meters above sea level. It is about 30 minutes hike from Deurali. You can have a 360 view of the landscapes from the summit. Similarly, Lohakil Dada is popular for the sunrise view as well. Moreover, if you get lucky then you will be able to witness some rare wild species such as Red Panda and Himalayan Black Bear.
Naag Dhunga
After about a one-and-a-half-hour hike from Derauli, you will reach Naag Dhunga. It is situated at an altitude of 3020 meters above sea level. Naag Dhunga is also considered a holy place, and we can find several artistic natural stones in the area. Once upon a time, Mahaguru Falgu Nandan spent a certain period of his life meditating in this place.
There are lots of snake-like structures in the rocks in the area. In fact, Naag Dhunga itself got its name from the structures of these rocks. In the Nepali language, a snake is called a Naag, and Dhunga means rock. Similarly, many people from the nearby villages visit the place to worship Devi Than every year.
Didi Bahini Jharana (Sisters Falls)
Didi Bahini Jharana is one of the popular places in Baghkhor of the Ilam district. It is situated about 4 kilometers away from Baghkhor, Mechi Highway. The meaning of Didi Bahini in English is sisters, and Jharana means waterfall.
In fact, there are two amazing waterfalls in the same place, just a few meters apart. Therefore, the locals named them two sisters. Undoubtedly, the scenery of these waterfalls is worth seeing.
Conclusion
Overall, the trip to Patenagi will definitely be an adventure and a lifelong experience. The best season to visit Patenagi is from mid-September to early November.
Moreover, the maximum altitude in the area is around 3200 meters, so there are few chances of getting altitude sickness. Similarly, for better safety, it is highly recommended to bring necessary camping gear.