Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime Red Panda Expedition to the breathtaking Tinchule-Singalila Ridge, a remote haven in the Eastern Himalaya. Straddling the Nepal-India border, this pristine region is one of the world’s best places to spot the elusive red panda in its natural habitat. Along the way, you’ll stay at two remarkable properties: the iconic Dwarika’s Hotel in Kathmandu and the charming Habre’s Nest in Kaiakata.
Tinchule-Singalila: A Wildlife Paradise
The Singalila Ridge (7,000–12,000 feet) lies within the Singalila National Park in West Bengal, India, and extends into the adjoining Tinchule Forest on the Nepal side. Your base at Habre’s Nest in the quiet hamlet of Kaiakata places you right in the heart of red panda territory. With 32 wild red pandas recorded in the immediate area, this region offers unparalleled opportunities for wildlife encounters.
But red pandas are just the beginning. The forest teems with life, including clouded leopards, Himalayan black bears, golden cats, and more than 650 varieties of orchids, rhododendrons, and endemic cobra lilies. Bird enthusiasts will be delighted by the incredible array of Himalayan species, while stunning vistas of four of the world’s highest peaks add to the magic:
- Mount Everest (8,848m) – The tallest peak in the world, located on the Nepal-Tibet border.
- Kanchenjunga (8,586m) – The third-highest mountain, also known as the “Sleeping Buddha,” straddling the Nepal-India border.
- Lhotse (8,516m) – The fourth-highest peak, south of Everest.
- Makalu (8,485m) – The fifth-highest peak, a pyramid-shaped marvel near Everest.
Sunrises and sunsets here are unforgettable, with the peaks bathed in golden light.
Explore Nepal and the itinerary here.
Seasonal Highlights
Each season in Tinchule-Singalila offers its own unique charms:
- September-November: Clear skies, autumn colours, and abundant kiwi and sorbus fruits—red panda favourites. October and November are peak travel months due to favourable weather conditions.
- December-January: Red panda mating season, chances of snowfall, and great birding amidst lingering fall colours. Dry but chilly.
- February-March: Warmer days and longer daylight hours. Possible baby panda sightings, fragrant Defny blossoms, and excellent birdwatching.
- April-Mid May: The forest bursts into bloom with rhododendrons, orchids, and magnolias.
- Mid May-Mid June: Peak orchid season. Misty rainclouds which gather to signal the start of the monsoon in June provide an ethereal backdrop for red panda sightings.
The Journey
Kathmandu: Dwarika’s Hotel (1 Night)
Your adventure begins in Kathmandu, Nepal’s vibrant capital, with a stay at the extraordinary Dwarika’s Hotel.
The hotel’s story is rooted in the vision of Dwarika Das Shrestha, who, in the 1950s, sought to preserve Nepal’s rich architectural heritage amidst modernization. He set about salvaging carved wooden artifacts, creating a space that celebrates the cultural legacy of the Newari people. Today, Dwarika’s Hotel is an oasis of tradition and sustainability, combining heritage with modern comforts.
Highlights include:
- Proximity to UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Kathmandu Durbar Square and Swayambhunath Stupa.
- A serene courtyard with a pool and spa.
- A rich sense of Nepali craftsmanship and hospitality.
Journey to Tinchule-Singalila
From Kathmandu, take a scenic flight to Bhadrapur, followed by a 5-hour drive in a 4×4 to Habre’s Nest. The journey offers jaw-dropping scenery as you ascend into the Himalayas.
Habre’s Nest: A Conservation Homestay (5 Nights)
Habre’s Nest, located in the hamlet of Kaiakata, is community run. The homestay has four en-suite rooms with modern amenities and lovely balconies offering sunset views. Guests are treated to delicious organic meals, evenings by the fire, and a warm, personal atmosphere.
Highlights of Your Stay:
- Authentic Nepali Charm: Cosy accommodation with thoughtful touches like hot water bottles for chilly nights.
- Red Panda Tracking: Guided treks led by skilled community trackers, naturalists and field biologists, with an impressive 100% success rate for red panda sightings over eight seasons.
- Bird Studio: A hide offering excellent opportunities to observe Himalayan bird species, including laughingthrushes and parrotbills.
- Relaxation and Community Spirit: Sip tea with views of the Himalayas, or unwind at the ‘Roosting Kuna’ bar/lounge after a day of exploration.
Daily activities explore the local area both by Land Rover and on foot.
Supporting Conservation
This expedition supports vital conservation initiatives. Habre’s Nest dedicates 20% of its profits to preserving red panda habitats. Additionally, in 2024, EAE partnered with Red Panda Network to support reforestation efforts in the PIT Corridor (Panchthar-Ilam-Taplejung), a critical habitat linkage for red pandas in the Eastern Himalayas.
By joining this expedition, and booking through our network of travel specialists, you’ll be supporting the work of the charity.
Learn more about Nepal and our conservation efforts here
Images: Dwarika’s Hotel, Kathmandu; Habre’s Nest includng images of red pandas by Shantanu Prasad.
