Red Panda Tour
Singalila National Park, perched along the India - Nepal border around Darjeeling, West Bengal, is a high - altitude wonderland of ancient rhododendron and oak forests, mist - cloaked valleys, and panoramic Himalayan views. Once a trekking route and reserve forest, it was officially designated a national park in 1992, protecting its rare and fragile ecosystem. Ranging from 7,000 to over 12,000 feet, its trails wind through vibrant springtime blooms, golden autumn foliage, and snow - dusted winter landscapes.The contiguous forests of Singalila National Park in India and Tinchuley in Nepal are a biodiversity haven for some of the Eastern Himalayas' most elusive wildlife, including the Red Panda, Himalayan black bear, and Clouded leopard, alongside over 300 species of birds .
Beyond its rich biodiversity, Singalila is famous for providing one of the finest views of the world’s highest peaks, including Kanchenjunga, Makalu, Lhotse, and even Mount Everest on a clear day - making it as much a refuge for nature lovers as it is for trekkers and wildlife enthusiasts.Red Panda Tour – Program Overview & Route Map
Red Panda Tour Overview and Program
Singalila National Park , perched along the India- Nepal border around Darjeeling, West Bengal, is a high- altitude wonderland of ancient rhododendron and oak forests, mist- cloaked valleys, and panoramic Himalayan views. Once at trekking route and reserve forest, it was officially designated a national park in 1992 , protecting its rare and fragile ecosystem.
Ranging from 7 , 000 to over 12 , 000 feet, its trails wind through vibrant springtime blooms, golden autumn foliage, and snow- dusted winter landscapes. The contiguous forests of Singalila National Park in India and Tinchuley in Nepal are a biodiversity haven for some of the Eastern Himalayas' most elusive wildlife, including the Red Panda, Himalayan black bear, and Clouded leopard , alongside over 300 species of birds .
Beyond its rich biodiversity, Singalila is famous for providing one of the finest views of the world’ s highest peaks , including Kanchenjunga, Makalu, Lhotse, and even Mount Everest on a clear day - making it as much a refuge for nature lovers as it is for trekkers and wildlife enthusiasts.
Red Panda Tour Travel Itinerary Day by Day
Day 01: After arriving at Bagdogra airport, you will be driven to Red Panda Outpost (4-5 hours).
- The last stretch of the journey which takes 1 - 1.5 hours does not have any metalled roads. We will be travelling in comfortable 4 x 4 Boleros and arrive at our homestay by early evening.
- The evening is for leisure. Guests will receive a brief orientation, following which they can enjoy a sumptuous dinner and overnight at the property.
Day 02-05: Red Pandas, Bird Watching and More!
- For the duration of your stay, our expert tracking team will leave early each morning to look for signs of the Red Panda, in the contiguous forests around Singalila National Park in Nepal and India. Guests have the option of participating in this morning ritual and assisting these local trackers on established trails.
- Although there will be some flexibility in the main since the main goal of this expedition revolves around a particular species, the main focus will be to get enough time observing and photographing this elusive species.
- After a hearty breakfast, we spend the morning bird watching in the area, home to over 350 species of birds.
- Once the tracking team reverts with positive information of fresh signs or a sighting of the red panda, guests will move to the area with a naturalist. 4 x 4 Boleros are used to get to the location if the sighting is close to a motorable road. On certain occasions, or for a more active experience, we may hike to the site depending on the location. Usually the last leg involves trekking through dense forests to reach the sighting location.
- Depending on how the day unfolds, enjoy a picnic lunch on site or return back to Red Panda Outpost for lunch.
- Late afternoons are usually very misty. Use this time for reading, or indulge in bird watching in the area around Red Panda Outpost.
- Spend your evenings relaxing by the fire, and gather for dinner before tucking into a warm bed.
Day 06: Departure
- After an early breakfast to fuel for the day, we say goodbye to the mountains and depart for Bagdogra. We request guests to book their departure flights post 5 PM.
- Guests departing from India, including international guests with a valid Indian visa, can fly out from Bagdogra.
- For those traveling through Nepal, the exit airport would be Bhadrapur.
- 5 N & 6 days stay at Red Panda Outpost, Jaubari - Nepal.
- 4 D Red Panda Expedition with tracker support and a naturalist with extensive knowledge of the local flora, fauna and ecosystem.
- All meals are included at Red Panda Outpost + tea / coffee refills.
- Shared Porters & 4 X 4 Safari Boleros for entire duration of stay.
- Wildlife Permit Cost & Conservation Fees.
- Still camera permits, 1 per person.
- Trek or visit to Sandhakphu top / sightseeing in neighbouring villages. International guests are not permitted currently to Sandhakphu top.
- For foreign nationals, please email on salesdesk@pugdundeesafaris.com or call on +91-9540537711
- For Indian nationals, please email on sales@pugdundeesafaris.com or call on +91-8800637711
*This is an indicative program & can be tailor-made as per your requirement.
Red Panda Tour
Since you will be traveling to a remote location on the India - Nepal border with limited road connectivity and amenities outside our homestay, here’s a helpful packing list to refer to before you embark on your Red Panda Expedition.
ESSENTIAL GEAR
- Backpack – Lightweight, waterproof, and comfortable for short treks.
- Binoculars
- Camera with Zoom Lens, Extra Batteries and Data Cards
- Notebook and Field Guides
- Flashlight / Headlamp
- Trekking Poles – Helpful for steep and rugged terrain. Please note we can also provide locally made bamboo poles.
- Personal Medications – Prescribed meds, bandaids, painkillers, altitude tablets.
- Sunscreen & Lip Balm – For protection from harsh sun at high altitudes.
- Rehydration Salts / Electrolytes – To prevent dehydration.
CLOTHING & FOOTWEAR
- Waterproof & Windproof Jacket – To stay dry and warm in misty forests.
- Moisture-Wicking Base Layers – Lightweight for breathability.
- Insulated Fleece or Down Jacket – For warmth at higher altitudes.
- Hiking Pants – Durable and comfortable for long hikes.
- Gloves & Hat / Beanie – For warmth in chilly weather.
- Hiking Boots – Sturdy, waterproof, and with a good grip.
- Extra Socks – Wool or synthetic socks to keep feet warm and dry.
Travelling for Red Panda Tour
- For Indian travelers and inbound travelers, the preferred port of arrival and departure will be Bagdogra airport (IXB) in Siliguri, West Bengal.
- International guests traveling from within Nepal have the option to arrive in and depart from Bhadrapur airport (BDP), also known as Chandragadhi airport.
- International guests arriving for the expedition through India will have to go through immigration at the Kakarbhitta border in Nepal and will require a valid multiple entry tourist visa for Nepal and a multiple entry tourist visa for India.
- The Red Panda Outpost is located in the tiny village of Jaubari in Nepal, at the border that touches India. Guests are requested to arrive before 10AM as it can take up to 5 hours from / to Bagdogra and approximately 3.5 hours from / to Bhadrapur to cover the distance by road. We will be travelling to a remote location on the India – Nepal border so some buffer time is always helpful.
- Due to limited flight connectivity or logistics challenges, if you need to spend a night in Bagdogra upon arrival the previous day or departure the following day, we are happy to help you book a hotel at an additional cost.
PRECAUTIONS AND POINTS TO KEEP IN MIND
Altitude Sickness: Singalila’s altitude ranges from 7,000 to 12,000 feet, while Red Panda Outpost is located at 9,416 feet. Only a small percentage of guests encounter altitude sickness for the initial one or two days, but basic care and precautions can help avoid most issues. Rarely does a serious condition occur. A few of our staff members are trained in basic first aid. In case of a medical emergency, we have a vehicle available 24 x 7 and a doctor for consultation virtually. In case further medical assistance is required, guests would need to travel up to 2 hours away, and 4 hours to reach a big hospital.
Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to help your body adjust to the altitude and acclimatize. Avoid drinking alcohol during the first two days, and consume alcohol and caffeine in moderation for the rest of the trip.
Carry Essential Medicines: Since you will be traveling to a remote mountainous area, remember to carry any essential medication and personal prescriptions.
Layered Clothing: The weather can be unpredictable, with fluctuations in temperatures and strong winds. During winter, temperatures can reach - 5 degrees at night, while days are usually around 4 - 5 degrees.
Carry Cash over Cards: ATMs are available in and around Bagdogra airport and not after that, so carry enough cash for expenses.
Sustainable Travel: Carry refillable insulated water bottles, avoid plastic waste, and respect wildlife guidelines to minimize your impact on the fragile ecosystem.
Frequently Asked Questions about Red Panda Tour
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When is the best time for Red Panda Tour?
Singalila National Park is beautiful all year round, and barring the monsoons when the park is shut, every season offers its own delights.
The autumn months of October and November promise clear skies, pleasant weather with average temperatures between 10 - 15°C, and stunning views of the snow - clad Eastern Himalayas. Singalila is home to over 600 species of orchids, most of which can be found blooming amidst fall colours.
December to February is the peak winter season where temperatures can dip below 0°C, as snowfall transforms the park into a surreal wonderland. January to March is the mating season for Red Pandas.
From March to May, spring turns the forest into a colorful canvas with rhododendron, magnolia and azalea flowers in full bloom. This is an excellent time to observe the otherwise solitary Red Panda with its cubs. Spring turns Singalila into a paradise for trekkers and birdwatchers, with temperatures hovering between 10 - 15°C.
During the monsoon from June to September, our homestay and the park remain shut due to heavy rainfall in this hilly region.
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What vehicles are used during the Red Panda Tour ?
We provide well maintained Toyota Crysta for most part of the journey from the airport and back. 1 ½ hours short of the home stay guests will be transferred to non air-conditioned 4 x 4 Mahindra Boleros as they are most suited for off-roading. During the trip for short drives we will continue using the Boleros.
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What are my chances of seeing a Red Panda on this tour ?
Wildlife sightings cannot be guaranteed in any National Park for any species specially in parks with extreme weather conditions. Pugdundee Safaris guides are highly skilled and work hard to deliver good sightings and at the same time ensure the animals are not stressed and the fragile eco system of the park is not negatively impacted.
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What preparations are needed from health point of view?
General fitness for short hikes will keep you comfortable and make you enjoy the trip more. Rarely are there any serious cases due to high altitude sickness, but keeping precautions is very important. Our team at the homestay will brief you at every stage and will work hard for your well being.