PASHUPATINAGAR: Mechi Tourism Mahotsav-2018 is taking place in Ilam from December 20 to 31.

Ilam Tourism Promotion Forum is organising the festival with a view of supporting sustainable development of tourism sector in the eastern hilly districts.

As told by Forum's general secretary Devi Poudel, the event to be held at Thulo Tundikhel in Ilam Bazaar will feature local products, ethnic cuisines, art and culture of Ilam, Panchthar, Jhapa and Taplejung districts.

Besides, national level artists will be there for their presentations and a gathering of hotel entrepreneurs from Province 1 will be held during the festival.

A literary programme, programmes targeted at senior citizens, children and students, as well as horse riding are other attractions of the festival.