Red Panda Trail
The Red Panda Trail takes you to the broad leaf forests of Singalila National Park on the Indo Nepal border, in search of the elusive Red Panda
Snapshot
- Dates: 19 Nov – 26 Nov 2022
- Region: Darjeeling
- Duration: 8 days
- Activity: Nature
- Grade: Moderate
- Price: Rs.64,500 + GST
The Red Panda Trail takes you to dense broad leaf forests on the Indo-Nepal border, in search of the elusive Red Panda. This rather shy mammal is found only in the Eastern Himalayas. Even in these parts it prefers to live in microhabitats dominated by fallen logs , tree stumps with mixed bamboo forests.
The Singalila range which runs through West Bengal, Sikkim and Nepal is one of the last remaining refuges of the Red Panda. With help from expert trackers we scout these forests dominated by oaks, birch, maple and bamboos, to try and get a glimpse of the handsome Red Panda. This habitat is conducive to avain life as well, giving us plenty of opportunity to do birding alongside.
Leaving behind the forests, our journey continues up to Sandakphu – the highest point on the Singalila ridge. The views of Khangchendzonga range from here are sure to leave you spell bound. A mesmerising end awaits as you witness the first rays of the sun paint Khangchendzonga and Everest in a golden halo.
- Get an opportunity to see the Red Panda in the wild
- Many varieties of birds
- Learn about the ecology of Himalayan broad leaf forests
- Enjoy magnificent views of the Khangchendzonga range
Photos
Day 1: Bagdogra to Kurseong
Pickup from Bagdogra airport and drive to Kurseong, a quaint hill station in the Darjeeling Hills. It is a major tea growing belt, producing some of the finest teas in the world. O/n at Cochran Place or similar
Day 2: Kurseong to Tumling
After breakfast drive to Manebhanjyang , the gateway to Singalila National Park. Over here we will change vehicles to a 4X4 , continuing on to Tumling a small hamlet in Nepal. In the second half we will do some bird watching around the area. O/n at a guesthouse in Tumling
Day 3, 4 & 5: Tumling
Start the day with a pre breakfast birding session where we have the probability of seeing Fire-tailed Myzornis, Yuhinas and different Laughing Thrushes. After breakfast we start on the Red Panda Trail, driving towards the forest in the Nepal side to get sightings of the Red Panda. A team of trackers will be continuously monitoring the forests for Red Panda activity and will inform us as soon as one is seen. During the process we will learn a lot of the forest and its entire ecosystem.
Alongside we will be doing a good deal of birding in the hope of seeing some avian beauties like Bullfinch, Grosbeaks, Parrotbills and various Laughing thrushes. O/n at a guesthouse in Tumling
Day 6: Tumling to Sandakphu
Drive up the road towards Sandakphu. Those who are interested can trek up the route from Kalpokhri all the way to Sandakphu. In the evening set out for birdwatching in the surrounding areas. O/n at a lodge in Sandakphu
Day 7: Sandakphu to Darjeeling
Wake up pre dawn to get mesmerised by the magical sunrise unfold over the Khangchendzonga range. Far behind we will also get views of Mt. Everest and Makalu. Post breakfast commence our drive down to Manbhanjyang , and further to Darjeeling . O/n at Villa Everest or similar
Day 8: Darjeeling to Bagdogra
After breakfast drop to Bagdogra airport
Cost per person(for Indian nationals): Rs.64,500/- (+ 5% GST)
Included
- Accommodation on a twin sharing basis
- All meals from dinner on Day 1 to breakfast on Day 8
- Transportation
- A knowledgeable Naturalist
Not Included
- Flights
- GST
- Excess stay & meals due to bad weather conditions or strikes, resulting in delay of flights or any other form of transport
- Soft drink charges, table drinks, bottled water, laundry, cigarettes, telephone expenses, liquor charges, and tips
- Any other item not mentioned in “Cost Includes” section above
Submit your review | |
