RED PANDA OUTPOST - JAUBARI, NEPAL
Tucked away in the tiny Buddhist village of Jaubari near Singalila National Park, Red Panda Outpost is a remote sanctuary for those drawn to the untamed beauty of the Himalayas. Once a humble teahouse run by a local Gorkha family, it has been thoughtfully reimagined as a homestay - simple, warm, and deeply connected to its surroundings. Located at an altitude of 9,400 feet, this space was inspired by the numerous army outposts that offer warmth, comfort, camaraderie and a sense of discovery in the remotest of locations around India’s borders. The heart of the space is the old wooden house, where guests gather around a bukhari-fire. The landscape beyond is home to one of the Eastern Himalayas' most elusive and endangered treasures - the red panda. As dawn breaks, the forest stirs with birdsong, inviting travelers to set out on mist-laden trails in search of its rare inhabitants. And when the day winds down, the Red Panda Outpost offers the comfort of a homecoming, with hot water, electricity, and wholesome food made with fresh, seasonal ingredients. As the stars come out to play, tuck into bed in one of six intimate rooms, each with an attached bathroom.
An Eco Tourism Initiative by Pugdundee Safaris
Committed to sustainability, Red Panda Outpost has eliminated all single-use plastic and packaged foods, ensuring that the fragile ecosystem of Singalila remains pristine. Here, adventure and conservation go hand in hand, offering travelers not just a place to stay, but a way to engage deeply with the land, its people, and its wild inhabitants. The eco-village of Jaubari has been developed on the lines of a community tourism model, where the residents are engaged in meaningful employment, and are committed to playing an active role in safeguarding this precious paradise.
FOOD AT Red Panda Lodge
Meals here are an extension of the region’s rich culture. A variety of regional thalis are served for lunch, with dishes inspired by the tea gardens that populate Darjeeling - the queen of the hills, and the mountain towns of Nepal. A thoughtful selection of Indian and global flavors are served for dinner.
Experiences We Love
Singalila National Park offers more than just breathtaking views. We curate special experiences with seasoned local guides to help our guests uncover the beauty, culture, and quiet adventure of the region, so they return not just with red panda sightings, but with stories, moments, and memories that linger long after the journey ends. Whether you're a trekker, birdwatcher, or seeker of quiet moments, the region has something for every kind of explorer.
SHORT HIKES AND FULL DAY TREKS
The trails of Singalila are rewarding and scenic - offering panoramic mountain views of four of the five tallest peaks in the world, including Mount Everest and Kangchenjunga. While the classic Sandakphu-Phalut trek is an iconic trek that covers the two highest peaks in West Bengal, there are several other trails catering to different interests and durations. The Tonglu and Tumling trails are excellent short hikes for those seeking forested paths and highland views without the full ascent. The Khangchendzonga range, famously resembling a reclining figure and called the Sleeping Buddha, is a breathtaking presence along much of the route.
Short to Full Day Hikes
BUDDHIST CHANTING
Step into the quiet sanctity of nearby monasteries steeped in Tibetan Buddhist culture. Here, monks chant ancient mantras and recite spiritual texts, offering visitors a glimpse into the spiritual fabric that runs through the Eastern Himalayas. The area is dotted with monasteries, like the 19th century Ghoom Monastery (Yiga Choeling), just outside Darjeeling, and Thupten Sangag Choling Monastery. The Chitre monastery located at the start of the Sandakphu trek is surrounded by fluttering prayer flags. Visitors can also visit the monastery at Meghma and the Samten Monastery in Rimbik to experience the spiritual traditions of the land.
Buddhist chanting
Bird Watching
With over 300 species of birds, Singalila National Park and the surrounding forest are a delight for both seasoned birders and curious beginners, thanks to its rich and exotic Himalayan avifauna at varied altitudes. It is renowned for its colourful pheasant diversity - including the elusive Satyr Tragopan with its iridescent feathers, blood pheasant, Himalayan monal and more. November to May see migratory birds arriving, while spring, being the breeding season, is a treat for bird watchers, who can witness birds amidst the blooming rhododendrons.