Maney Bhanjang, Gateway to Sandakphu | Local Guides • Homestays • Authentic Himalayan Experiences

Red panda expedition 5 Days / 4 Nights

📍 Tumling (India–Nepal Border)

The Red Panda with Birding Expedition is a carefully curated wildlife experience designed for nature lovers, birdwatchers, and wildlife photographers seeking one of the Eastern Himalayas’ most elusive species — the Red Panda (Ailurus fulgens). Based in the scenic ridge-top village of Tumling, this expedition blends responsible Red Panda tracking with immersive Himalayan birding across the rich forests of Tinchuley, adjoining the Singalila National Park.

Unlike typical trekking tours, this expedition follows a base-stay model, allowing deeper forest exploration without the pressure of daily relocation. Guided by experienced local trackers and birding experts, guests explore Red Panda habitats quietly and ethically, ensuring non-intrusive observation while supporting conservation efforts.

In addition to Red Panda sightings, the region is a paradise for bird enthusiasts, hosting rare Himalayan species such as the Fire-breasted Flowerpecker, Satyr Tragopan, Blood Pheasant, and Fire-tailed Sunbird. Even when the Red Panda remains hidden, the forest rewards guests with exceptional birding, landscapes, and cultural interactions with local Nepalese communities.

This expedition is ideal for travellers seeking wildlife-focused travel with purpose, patience, and deep forest immersion.

 

  • With Sandakphu and Beyond, every trek is fully customizable to suit your style and pace.

 

 

Key Expedition Features

🐼 Real-Time Red Panda Tracking

Local trackers share live movement updates, allowing quiet and ethical observation without disturbing the animal.

🐦 Exceptional Himalayan Birding

Over 200 bird species including rare pheasants, sunbirds, and flowerpeckers.

🌲 Core Habitat Exploration

Access to Tinchuley’s prime Red Panda zones near Singalila National Park.

🏡 Comfortable Base Stay

Stay in eco-friendly homestays and lodges at Tumling with panoramic mountain views.

📸 Wildlife Photography Focus

Slow-paced forest walks designed for observation and photography.

🌍 Conservation-First Approach

Responsible tourism supporting local Red Panda protection networks.

🤝 Cultural Interaction

Engage with Nepalese villagers and learn about mountain livelihoods and conservation challenges.

What Makes This Expedition Special?

• Real-time Red Panda tracking: Our local trackers inform us of
sightings, and guests are escorted quietly to the site without
disturbing the animal.
• Conservation-first approach: We prioritize non-invasive
observation and support the local Red Panda protection
network.
• Engaging birding experience: Even without panda sightings,
guests enjoy some of the best Himalayan birding throughout
the day.

Inclusions:
• All transfers including Bolero rides to/from Tumling
• 4 nights stay with all meals
• Entry permits for Tinchuley Forest (Nepal side)
• Expert wildlife trackers and birding guides
• Packed lunches during field activities

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival & Transfer to Tumling

Arrival at NJP/Bagdogra/Siliguri in the morning

Transfer to Manebhanjan by vehicle (approx. 4-5 hrs)

From Manebhanjan, transfer to Tumling by Bolero (approx. 1.5 hrs)

Check-in at a scenic homestay in Tumling

Briefing session with our wildlife guides and trackers

Overnight: Tumling

Day 2: Birding & Red Panda Tracking in Tinchuley Forest

Early morning birding walk in and around Tumling (SatyrTragopan, Blood Pheasant, Fire-tailed Sunbird)

After breakfast, enter Tinchuley Forest in Nepal adjoining Singalila National Park

We keep guests engaged in birding and nature exploration

As soon as Red Panda is sighted, guests are guided quietly to the location

Emphasis on non-intrusive observation and responsible tracking

Overnight: Tumling

Day 3: Deeper Forest Exploration & Wildlife Watching

• Full-day hike deeper into Tinchuley’s core Red Panda zones
• Continue birding and tracking other wildlife (Himalayan serow, Yellow- throated marten)
• Flexible plans based on fresh Red Panda activity and sightings
• Learn about the forest ecosystem and local conservation challenges
Overnight: Tumling

Day 4: Photography & Cultural Interaction

• Sunrise view of the Kangchenjunga range (optional photography session)
• Explore nearby trails, interact with local Nepalese villagers
• Evening session with our trackers on Red Panda conservation efforts
• Learn how responsible tourism directly supports protection of the species
Overnight: Tumling

Day 5: Departure

• Breakfast at the homestay
• After breakfast, departure from Tumling to Maney Bhanjyang by Bolero
• Drive onward to NJP / Bagdogra / Siliguri (approx. 4–5 hrs)
• Tour concludes

Trip Detail

Base Location: Tumling

Duration:

5 Days / 4 Nights

Stay Type:

Homestay / Eco-Lodge

Difficulty:

Easy to Moderate

Best Season:

March–May & October–December

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