The Panda Tour
Red Panda Tour: Discover the Hidden Treasures of the Eastern Himalayas
The Red Panda Tour is a unique journey into the pristine forests of the Singalila National Park, offering an immersive experience for wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, and nature lovers. Nestled in the Darjeeling hills, the tour combines birdwatching, trekking, and wildlife exploration, with the rare opportunity to spot the elusive Red Panda, one of the Himalayas’ most charming creatures.
Beyond wildlife, the tour allows you to experience quaint mountain villages, panoramic views of Kanchenjunga, and the tranquillity of Himalayan mornings and starlit nights. This journey is designed for those who wish to slow down, connect with nature, and capture unforgettable moments on camera.
About Tumling: The Gateway to the Red Panda
Your adventure begins in Tumling, a serene mountain village perched along the Singalila ridge. Tumling offers spectacular views of Kanchenjunga and the surrounding Himalayan peaks. The village is also a convenient base for exploring the dense forests where Red Pandas roam freely.
From NJP Rail Station or Bagdogra Airport, enjoy a scenic drive through rolling hills, lush tea gardens, and forested valleys before reaching Tumling. Along the way, local restaurants offer the chance to savour traditional Himalayan cuisine, setting the tone for your immersive journey.
Extended Red Panda Exploration
While the tour can be completed in five days, the Red Panda habitats span across multiple regions of Singalila National Park, offering opportunities for longer itineraries of seven to ten days. This allows for exploration of less-travelled trails, extended birding sessions, and photography excursions under different light conditions.
Some highlights of the extended Red Panda experience include:
Forest Trails and Wildlife
The forests of Singalila are home to a variety of wildlife, including:
Red Panda – elusive and shy, best spotted in early mornings or late afternoons
Himalayan Martens, Himalayan Serow, Barking Deer
Birdlife: Himalayan Monal, Scarlet Minivet, Rufous Sibia, Sunbirds, and more
Trekking through dense rhododendron forests, oak and pine groves, you may also encounter streams, waterfalls, and natural clearings—ideal spots for photography and observing wildlife.
Birdwatching and Nature Photography
Each day presents opportunities for birdwatching with expert guidance. Mornings are perfect for capturing the Himalayan sunrise over Kanchenjunga, while evenings offer chances for astrophotography in clear skies with minimal light pollution.
Villages and Local Culture
Along the Singalila ridge, small villages like Tonglu, Gairibans, and Sandakphu provide insights into local traditions and mountain life. Interactions with villagers and homestay stays enrich your understanding of the region’s culture and hospitality.
Optional Extensions
For travellers seeking a longer immersive experience, the Red Panda Tour can be extended to include:
Sandakphu or Phalut Ridge: Panoramic Himalayan views and additional trekking challenges
Birding excursions to spot rare Himalayan species
Photography workshops for sunrise, sunset, and night skies
Sample Itinerary: 5+ Days
Day 1: Arrival at NJP / Bagdogra → Scenic drive to Tumling → Sunset photography → Dinner & overnight stay
Day 2: Sunrise over Kanchenjunga → Red Panda forest trek → Birdwatching → Astrophotography in Tonglu
Day 3: Deeper forest exploration → Rare bird spotting → Photography and nature observation
Day 4: Extended Red Panda trek → Visit neighbouring villages → Evening bonfire & stories
Day 5: Final Red Panda tracking → Morning birdwatching → Return to Tumling → Drive back to Bagdogra / NJP
Optional Days 6–10: Sandakphu / Phalut Ridge → Additional trekking and photography → Cultural immersion → Departure
Each day is customisable based on your interests, fitness, and photography goals.
Participants Requirement
Participants of the Red Panda Tour should be prepared for an adventure in the wilderness. A moderate level of physical fitness is essential, as the tour involves trekking through dense forests and uneven terrains for extended periods. Participants are advised to carry warm clothing, as temperatures in Tumling can drop significantly, especially during early mornings and nights.
Good-quality trekking shoes, a sturdy backpack, binoculars, and a camera are recommended to enhance the experience. Since the tour focuses on wildlife spotting and photography, patience and a quiet demeanour are crucial to minimising disturbance to the wildlife. It’s also advisable to carry basic personal medical supplies and be open to the rustic charm of staying in mountain homestays. Above all, participants should come with a passion for nature and a willingness to embrace the serene and untouched beauty of the Eastern Himalayas.
Tariff
The Red Panda Tour is priced to reflect the involvement of a dedicated team of 8 to 10 naturalists and panda experts working behind the scenes to ensure a memorable experience. The cost per person ranges from USD 500 for a group of 6 participants to USD 800 for a smaller group of 2 participants.
This small group size helps keep noise levels low and allows for a more agile and immersive wildlife experience, enhancing your chances of spotting the elusive Red Panda in its natural habitat. For further information, fill the form below or WhatsApp us at +919733000590
Why Choose Our Red Panda Tour
Experienced local guides: Knowledgeable about Red Panda behaviour, flora, and Himalayan wildlife
Immersive nature experience: Slow-paced trekking and wildlife observation
Photography opportunities: Sunrise, sunset, starlit skies, and wildlife
Customisable itineraries: From 5-day trips to two-week explorations
With expert guidance, the Red Panda Tour is ideal for travellers who wish to experience the Eastern Himalayas deeply, connect with nature, and create lasting memories.
Call us at +919733000590 now or fill out the form below to plan your Red Panda Tour with personalised guidance.