Himalayan Lantern

Botanical Name: Agapetes serpens
Family: Ericaceae (Rhododendron family)

The Himalayan Lantern is one of the most enchanting shrubs of the Eastern Himalayas, admired for its distinctive, pendant blossoms that resemble tiny glowing lanterns. Growing 40–60 cm tall, the plant bears gracefully arching stems adorned with clusters of delicate, tubular flowers. These blooms—bright red, orange, or pinkish white—are beautifully accented with dark red zigzag bands, giving them a striking ornamental appeal.

This captivating species is native to the North-Eastern Himalayas, flourishing at altitudes between 1,200 and 3,000 metres. It is particularly abundant in the mist-laden slopes of Darjeeling and Sikkim, where its lantern-like flowers add a touch of colour and charm to the mountain landscape.

The plant blooms during May and June, a period when its vivid flowers stand out amidst the lush greenery. Through its inclusion in the commemorative stamps, India Post highlights the elegance and ecological significance of this rare Himalayan treasure, underscoring the need to conserve India’s fragile mountain flora.