SINGHALILA BIRDING TRIP IN

Explore The Tour

The Singhalila Ridge in the Sandakphu area is predominantly cloaked in dense bamboo, pine, rhododendron, magnolia, and oak forests, forming a unique ecosystem that harbors rare bird species rarely seen elsewhere in India. The area’s signature features include the stunning diversity and beauty of Rhododendron and Magnolia blooms.

Bird enthusiasts are in for a treat as the region boasts a rich avian population. Among the notable species on the checklist are the Satyr Tragopan, Blood Pheasant, and Kalij Pheasant in the pheasant category, along with the vibrant Fire-tailed Sunbird. Additionally, the area is home to a variety of parrotbills, laughing thrushes, and woodpeckers, totaling over 160 species.

Our birding service is meticulously crafted to ensure an unforgettable experience for visitors. With seasoned local birding guides, comfortable accommodations, and tailored transportation arrangements, guests are guaranteed to immerse themselves fully in the beauty of this enchanting landscape.

About Singhalila

Nestled within the Indian state of West Bengal, Singhalila National Park sits gracefully at altitudes ranging from 7,000 to 12,000 feet, bordered by Sikkim to the north and Nepal to the west. Encompassing approximately 78.60 square kilometers of pristine terrain adorned with Rhododendron forests, alpine valleys, and rare orchids, the park stands as a sanctuary for diverse wildlife. Despite a decline in trekking activities due to road maintenance transitioning from gravel to concrete, Singhalila remains a coveted destination for nature enthusiasts, offering captivating experiences such as Singhalila trekking and vintage Land Rover safaris. Its allure lies not only in its scenic splendor but also in its reputation as a hotspot for Red Panda sightings and birdwatching, drawing visitors eager to immerse themselves in its natural wonders.

The View

What sets Sandakphu and Phalut apart from all other destinations in the eastern Himalayas is their unparalleled vistas. Singhalila stands as the sole vantage point offering a breathtaking spectacle: the simultaneous sight of Mount Kanchenjunga and Mount Everest. Visitors are spellbound by the sweeping 180-degree panoramic view of the eastern Himalayas, spanning from the majestic peaks of Kanchenjunga and its surrounding sisters to the formidable summits of Makalu, Lhotse, Nuptse, Chamlung, Chomolonzo, Machapuchre, and even glimpses of the Annapurna range and Bhutanese peaks. Locals from both India and Nepal hold the belief that the sight of the “Sleeping Buddha” mountains exudes a profound sense of divinity and power, adding to the awe-inspiring allure of the region.

Animals:  Red Panda, Yellow Throated Marten, Clouded Leopard, Barking Dogs, Pangolin, Wild Boars, Black Beers and other Himalayan mammals.

Birds: Kalij, Satyrtrogapan, Parvotbill, Fire Tailed Myzornis, Parvidges, Tree Creepers and 120 species of exotic Himalayan birds.

Flowers: Rhododendron, Magnolia, Primula , Aconitum, Snake Lily and many high altitude medicinal plant are found. 

Forest: Alpine and Banboo Forest

Weather & General Information: Minimum: -5 to 25 degrees

Itinerary:

Day 1: Guests will be picked up from Baghdogra/NJP and transferred to Maneybhanjang.
Day 2: Transfer to Tumling, followed by birding in Tonglu after lunch.
Day 3: Morning birding near the check post, then return to the lodge for breakfast. Proceed to Gairibans after breakfast, with birding opportunities along the way, particularly renowned for Satyr Tragopan sightings. (Stay at Gairibans)
Day 4: Stay at Gairibans and spend the whole day birding in the area.
Day 5: Visit Sandakphu and enjoy birding throughout the afternoon.
Day 6: Return to Maneybhanjang and departure. (Itinerary can be flexible upon guests’ request.)