The ingenious assortment of cool climate, generous precipitation, and the right mix of warmth and humidity throughout the year have shaped the unique ecosystem of Singalila National Park in the northernmost reaches of Darjeeling district of West Bengal and the adjacent forest in Ilam, Nepal. The wide range of vegetation ranging from subtropical forests and temperate coniferous forests which exist in the altitude range 2000 to 3500 meters has made the Singalila National Park a prominent biodiversity hotspot. This sub-temperate Himalayan broadleaf ecosystem is home to a wide array of elusive Himalayan wildlife such as Red Panda, Asiatic Black Bear, Clouded leopard, Common Leopard, Melanistic Leopard, Leopard Cat, Himalayan Serow, Himalayan Musk deer, Melanistic Barking deer, Himalayan Brown Goral, Yellow-throated Marten, Himalayan Palm Civet and many more.
Singalila is also home to more than 250 bird species. Satyr Tragopan, Blood Pheasant, Fire-tailed Myzornis, Red Crossbill, Rosefinches, Bullfinches, Grosbeaks, Parrotbills, Yuhinas, Laughing Thrushes are among the most notable ones. The highest point of the Singalila Ridge is Sandakphu (3636m ) which is the highest peak of West Bengal as well. Sandakphu offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the majestic Himalayan mountain range including Mt. Everest and Mt. Khangchendzonga in a single frame. The extremely rare Red Panda is the crown jewel of this natural heaven, with the Singalila National Park being one of the few last remaining refuges for the incredible animal.
Day 1: 10th April: ARRIVAL BAGDOGRA, BAGDOGRA - SINGALILA NATIONAL PARK
Assemble at Bagdogra Airport at 1000 hrs. Departure to Manebhanjang. After the necessary permissions, proceed to the Base Camp using 4x4 Landrovers (A heritage Car, since 1956). Check in to the campsite around 1600 hrs through the mesmerizing Eastern Himalayan forests. Time-permitting, explore the nearby forests for a short birding session. Dinner and overnight stay at a homestay in Singalila N.P. Meals included - Lunch & Dinner.
Day 2 - Day 5: 11th - 14th April: EXPLORE SINGALILA NATIONAL PARK.
Full-day exploration of the various forested areas for Red Panda and birding. Food will be served at the homestay or on the Field, depending on the Activity. (A day trip will be organized (weather permitting) in Sandakphu during one of these days). Dinner & overnight at a homestay near Singalila National Park. Meals included - Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.
Day 6: 15th April: SINGALILA NATIONAL PARK - BAGDOGRA
Full-day exploration of the various forested areas for Red Panda and birding. Food will be served at the homestay or on the field. Transfer to Bagdogra for overnight stay. Meals included - Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.
Day 7: 16th April : DEPARTURE TO BAGDOGRA AIRPORT
Transfer to Bagdogra Airport to board the Homebound flight. End of services. Meals included - Breakfast.
What is included in the tour
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Transportation to and from Bagdogra airport using Innova / similar vehicles.
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4x4 vehicles for exploring Singalila N.P.
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Accommodation on a twin-sharing basis at Siliguri and inside the Singalila N.P.
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All meals as indicated in the itinerary.
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All entry fees and permit charges for Indian Nationals.
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Local guides and trackers.
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Services of an expert naturalist from Team Foliage.
What is NOT included in the tour
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Any airfare / railfare.
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Personal expenses.
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Porterage.
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Medical expenses if incurred during the expedition.
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Bottled Water / any kind of beverages.
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Insurance of any kind.
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Goods and Services Tax.
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Anything not specifically mentioned under ‘Charges Include’.
