Singalila
A gorgeous high-altitude forest ranging between 7900 - 12000 ft. Singalila is one of the best-kept secrets in Himalayan wildlife.
The trekking trail to Sandakphu (on the border of India and Nepal) cuts through Singalila.
Oak, Rhododendron and Bamboo create a beautiful ecosystem which is home to crucially endangered species like the Red Panda, Yellow-throated Marten and the Pangolin.
The forest is thick with firs, ferns, and gorgeous flowers. It is particularly known for its wild orchids, especially in the months of September and October.
The Red Panda, with its compact body and rust-red fur, is one of the most engaging inhabitants living in Singalila.
A critically endangered species according to IUCN, there are less than 50 left in this park. The other bear in the park is the Himalayan Black Bear, a much larger omnivore. Another unusual carnivore that can be spied amid the tree-tops is the beautiful clouded leopard. These felines are much smaller than their other leopard cousins, and are extremely shy, preferring to live in the trees.
Singalila is also a terrific place to go birding. If you’re passionate about rare birds, then you’ll discover some prized avians in this park.
From the Satyr Tragopan to the Slender Bill Vulture, Singalila is home to several extremely rare species. The flora is equally fascinating and the wild flowers in this park are stunning. As you make your way through the park towards Sandakphu, you’ll find the entire Eastern Himalayan range in front of you, and the views of Kanchanzanga are absolutely breathtaking.
Accommodations in Singalila are rustic and comfortable, with warm service. The guides and trackers are extremely knowledgable and have an eye on the animals movements all the time.
Singalila is a beautiful park for wildlife photography or film, and Encounters Asia is happy to assist you with obtaining permission, and handling the logistics for your shoot. The best times to visit are either between March and May, when the rhododendron forest is in bloom, or in September-October when the wild orchids are flowering. The park is closed during the monsoon months.