The Himalayan Red Panda is one of the world’s most sought-after mammals. For a long time though, this species remained a pipedream for most people. Based in a comfortable homestay straddling the Indian and Nepalese border, our tour centred around the stunning Singalila Ridge puts us in prime position. The Red Panda is currently the subject of a research and conservation program in this region, and there is simply no better place to look for it. Assisted by local researchers and trackers, and with ample time, we have a very high chance of multiple sightings!
Other exciting Himalayan mammals may be found in these forests, and the birdlife is superb. Over the course of our visit here, we hope to see Blood Pheasant, Satyr Tragopan, Fire-tailed Myzornis and Golden-breasted Fulvetta to name but a few; and all in a glorious setting, with the world’s highest mountains towering above us. The friendly hospitality of the locals will round out this experience, which is sure to be something truly unique!
*2024 Prices are estimated and dates may change*
Blood Pheasant; Satyr Tragopan; Fire-tailed Myzornis; Golden-breasted & White-browed Fulvettas; Hill Partridge; Kalij Pheasant; Himalayan Vulture; Golden Eagle; Mountain Hawk-Eagle; Gould’s Shortwing; Yellow-billed Blue Magpie; Spotted Nutcracker; Himalayan Bluetail; Spotted, Grey-sided, Chestnut-crowned; Striated, Scaly & Black-faced Laughingthrushes; Fulvous, Great, Brown & Grey-headed Parrotbills; Stripe-throated & Rufous-vented Yuhinas; Hoary-throated Barwing; Green Shrike-Babbler; Rusty-flanked & Sikkim Treecreepers; Altai, Alpine & Rufous-breasted Accentors; Green-tailed & Fire-tailed Sunbirds; Himalayan White-browed, Himalayan Beautiful & Dark-breasted Rosefinches; Red-headed Bullfinch; Golden-naped Finch; Spot-bellied Eagle-Owl; Tawny Fish Owl.
Top Mammals Himalayan Red Panda; Assam Macaque; Northern Red Muntjac; Red (Himalayan) Serow; Yellow-throated Marten; Mainland Leopard Cat; Bhutan Giant Flying Squirrel.
Rare: Mainland Clouded Leopard; Asian Golden & Marbled Cats; Asiatic Black Bear; Chinese Pangolin.
Habitats Covered temperate forest including bamboo, oak, magnolia and rhododendron
Expected Climate cool to cold in the mountains
Max Group Size 8 with 1 Rockjumper leader & 1 local leader
Tour Pace & Walking moderate pace, you will need a reasonable level of fitness to enjoy this tour
Accommodation basic homestay with electricity and hot water
Ease of Birding generally easy with a few difficult species
Other Attractions photographic station at our homestay
Photographic Opportunities good to excellent
