Phidim

Phidim sits on a spur above the Hewa and Kabeli valleys, on the Mechi Highway that climbs from Jhapa to Taplejung. It is the main market of Panchthar, where Limbu, Rai, Brahmin and Chhetri villagers come to trade, and a good place to hear the Limbu language and see the chyabrung drum dance at festivals.

Around it lie quiet walks through cardamom groves and rhododendron forest; the highway itself is one of the most scenic drives in the east, with Kanchenjunga visible on clear mornings.

What to see and do

Explore the bazaar and the Limbu cultural sites around town, and time a visit with Chasok Tangnam (the Limbu harvest festival in Mangsir) or Maghe Sankranti to see traditional dances and dress. Short drives lead to viewpoints on the ridges above, and the Mechi Highway continues north to Taplejung and Pathibhara.

Good to know

Phidim is a convenient overnight stop between Jhapa and Taplejung, with a range of simple hotels. The district is known for cardamom, broom grass and tongba; try local Limbu dishes such as kinema (fermented soybean) and pork preparations.