Red Panda Tours

A Hidden Gem of the Himalayas: Red Panda Expeditions with Tigerwalah

When people think of Indian wildlife, tigers typically steal the spotlight. But deep in the mystical Eastern Himalayas, a more elusive, charming creature quietly roams the forests- the Red Panda. At Tigerwalah, we invite you to step off the beaten path and explore a world where “Firefox” reigns supreme. Welcome to the Red Panda expeditions- a journey into the heart of one of the most enchanting wilderness experiences India has to offer.

Meet the Himalayan Red Panda

The Red Panda (Ailurus fulgens), often called the “Firefox”, is a small but striking mammal native to the Eastern Himalayas and parts of China. Unlike its giant panda cousin, the Red Panda is far more elusive. Imagine a creature the size of a housecat, with thick reddish-brown fur, a bushy ringed tail and a signature slow gait. Weighing no more than 10 kg, this adorable animal is as agile in the trees as it is captivating.

Feeding primarily on bamboo, the Red Panda is a solitary creature, most active at dusk and dawn. These animals are not just adorable -they are rare. Listed as “Endangered” by the IUCN, fewer than 10,000 mature Red Pandas are thought to be left in the wild. In India, you will find them in the quiet corners of Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh and Darjeeling- most notably, in Singalila National Park. 

Singalila National Park: A Himalayan Haven

Tucked away in the Darjeeling district, at the tri-junction of West Bengal, Sikkim and Nepal, lies Singalila National Park. Perched on a high-altitude ridge, Singalila offers some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the Himalayas, with altitudes ranging from 7,000 to 12,000 feet. The park is a treasure trove of biodiversity, hosting not just Red Pandas but a plethora of other wildlife, including the Himalayan Black Bear, Clouded Leopard, Serow, Leopard Cat and more. Bird lovers will also be in paradise, as Singalila is home to over 300 bird species, including the Satyr Tragopan, Blood Pheasant and Kalij Pheasant.

The rugged terrain, interspersed with thick forests and panoramic views of Mount Everest and Kanchenjunga, makes every moment here a feast for the senses. 

Why Choose India for Red Panda Expeditions?

1. A Biodiversity Hotspot: Singalila isn’t just about Red Pandas. The park teems with wildlife, both mammal and bird species, making every trek or drive an exciting adventure.

2. Breathtaking Views: Imagine trekking through forests with snow-capped Himalayan peaks in the background. This is the kind of scenery you will be treated to on a Red Panda expedition.

3. Local Expertise: At Tigerwalah, we work with seasoned guides who not only know the terrain but are also committed to Red Panda conservation. You will gain deeper insights into these fascinating creatures, while also contributing to their preservation.

Our Red Panda Expedition Packages

At Tigerwalah, we have curated expeditions that cater to all kinds of wildlife enthusiasts:

1. Red Panda Sighting Expeditions: Journey deep into the forest with experienced guides and trackers to maximize your chances of spotting this elusive creature.

2. Photography Tours: Perfect for wildlife photographers, these tours offer extended time in Red Panda hotspots so that you can capture stunning images of not just Red Pandas, but the entire array of Himalayan wildlife.

3. Conservation-Focused Tours: Learn more about Red Panda conservation efforts and how sustainable tourism plays a role in protecting their habitat.

4. Tailored Itineraries: Every traveller is unique, so we offer customizable tours to suit your preferences- whether you want to focus on wildlife photography, birdwatching or trekking.

Suggested Itinerary: 6 Nights, 7 Days Red Panda Expedition

Day 1: Arrival at Bagdogra – Transfer to Singalila National Park. 

Morning Arrival: Fly into Bagdogra Airport. Your Tigerwalah naturalist and driver will meet you at the airport.

Transfer to Singalila: After a warm welcome, we will immediately head toward Manebhanjan, the entry point to Singalila National Park. The drive takes around 4-5 hours, winding through picturesque mountain roads that offer breathtaking views.

Vintage Land Rover Experience: Upon reaching Manebhanjan, you will switch to one of the famous vintage Land Rovers- an experience in itself. These vehicles are perfect for navigating the rugged terrain leading up to Kalapokhri, our base for the expedition.

Check-in at Chaweng Lodge: After reaching Kalapokhri, check in at Chaweng Lodge, your cosy mountain retreat for the next six nights. The lodge is located in a serene setting, offering panoramic views of the Himalayas.

Evening at Leisure: After settling in, take some time to relax and soak in the tranquil surroundings. Over tea or coffee, your guide will brief you about the upcoming days’ activities and what to expect on the expedition.

Dinner and Overnight Stay: Enjoy a delicious dinner at the lodge, prepared with local ingredients, before resting up for the adventure ahead.

Day 2: Wildlife Tracking Begins – Search for the Elusive Red Panda

Early Morning Start: Wake up to the crisp mountain air and enjoy breakfast while our expert trackers are already out in the field, scouting the area for Red Pandas.

Red Panda Tracking: Once the trackers pinpoint the location of a Red Panda, your guide will lead you to the spot. You can trek through the forest to get there, or, if the sighting is accessible by vehicle, hop on a Land Rover for a more comfortable ride. Trekking allows you to experience the untouched beauty of Singalila’s forests and their rich biodiversity.

Lunch in the Wild: Depending on the Red Panda’s location and the day’s activities, lunch will either be served in the field or back at the lodge.

Afternoon Safari: Continue tracking Red Pandas or explore other parts of the park for additional wildlife, including the Himalayan Black Bear, Clouded Leopard and Barking Deer.

Evening Back at the Lodge: Return to the lodge for dinner. Overnight stay at Chaweng Lodge.

Day 3 – 6: In-Depth Exploration of Singalila National Park

Daily Red Panda Tracking: Each day starts with our expert trackers heading out early to locate Red Pandas. Over the next few days, we will explore both the Nepal and Indian sides of the forest. You will spend your days trekking or driving through the dense forest and hilly terrain, depending on your fitness level and preferences.

Wildlife Sightings: Beyond Red Pandas, Singalila is home to a variety of wildlife. Expect to see Yellow-throated Martens, Wild Boar and Pikas. Leopard sightings are rare but not impossible. 

Day Trips to Tumling and Sandakphu: One of the highlights of this expedition is the opportunity to trek to Tumling and Sandakphu, the highest point in West Bengal. Both destinations offer panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks, including Mount Everest and Kanchenjunga.

Visit Dobate Village: For a change of scenery, we can take a day trip to Dobate, a village nestled in Nepal's lower altitudes. The surrounding forests here are also prime Red Panda habitat  and you may have another opportunity for sightings. Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst nature.

Evenings at Leisure: After each exciting day, return to the lodge for a relaxing evening. Enjoy a hearty dinner, share stories around a bonfire and prepare for the next day’s adventure.

Day 7: Departure – Farewell to Singalila

Final Morning in the Wilderness: Enjoy one last breakfast at the lodge, reflecting on the magical week spent in Singalila.

Transfer to Bagdogra: After checking out from the lodge, we will start the scenic drive back to Bagdogra Airport. Your driver will ensure you arrive with plenty of time to catch your flight home, carrying with you the memories of your Red Panda expedition.

Accommodations:

You will be staying in eco-friendly lodges that blend perfectly with the natural surroundings. While the accommodations are basic, they are clean, hygienic and offer breathtaking views of the Himalayas.

Embark on Your Red Panda Adventure with Tigerwalah

At Tigerwalah, we are passionate about providing you an exceptional wildlife experience. Our Red Panda expeditions aren’t just about sightings- they are about connecting with nature, learning about conservation and exploring the untouched beauty of the Himalayas.

Book your expedition with Tigerwalah today and experience the magic of the Himalayas like never before.