Only two thousand five hundred Red Panda survive in the wilds of India and SW China. It is one of the most exotic species surviving the in Eastern Himalayas. It is distantly related to the Giant Panda but is closer to weasel and skunks belonging to superfamily Musteloidea. It belongs to family Ailuridea and genus Ailurus the species found in India belongs to race fulgens.

The long bushy tail with ochre rings and body covered in reddish brown fur makes it an attractive mammal to watch in the dense canopy of temperate Himalayan forests. The tour is aimed to accord an exciting sighting of the Red Panda in the Singalila National Park near Darjeeling district of West Bengal in India.

Singalila National Park (Singalila Ridge)

Used as tracking route from Manebhanjang to Sandakphu and Phalut Singalila Ridge is home to a small population of red pandas along with other wild animals like, Himalayan Black Bear, clouded leopard, leopard cat, serow, takin, barking deer, yellow-throated marten, wild boar, pangolin and pika. More than hundred twenty species of birds are found some of them exotic and rare. The ridge comprises of thick bamboo, fir, rhododendron, magnolia and oak forests. The forests covering an area of 78.6 sq.km are home to an incredible variety of orchids that number more than six hundred.

Besides trekking the destination is becoming a hotspot for searching red pandas and other wild animals. It is a heaven for bird watchers.

Habre's Nest

Located at the quaint hamlet of KaiaKata on the border of Nepal Habre's Nest is a research cum tourism center. It provides accommodation in four double bedded rooms with a fantastic view of the Himalayas.

The accommodation is well appointed with all luxuries and amenities. It follows eco-friendly practices and is managed by a team of wildlife enthusiasts and researchers. Assisted by trained naturalists, field biologists, guides and porters the search for red panda becomes exciting. What more you take part in the conservation efforts of team as well.

Wildlife Awareness Trust for Environment and Research is an organization that is active in the conservation of the Ridge. Twenty percent of the profits from tourism goes to this trust. The benefit of tourism helps in providing medical care, employment, women empowerment, skill development and numerous welfare programs.

Location

Please believe us when we say Habre's Nest is situated at a place surrounded by enigmatic creatures in all the directions. Habre's Nest is situated in Tinchule Forest, Kaiakata Village, Illam, Nepal but just other side of the road of Singalila National Park, WB, India though both the side is perfect habitat for Red Panda and heavenly beauty of eastern Himalayas, it is very remote. This Village has only one House apart from our Homestay. The Best way to reach here is- Fly to Bagdogra then Inova till the Singalila National Park gate (Manebhanjan) takes around 4 hrs and then Safari Land Rovers to Habre's Nest which takes another 2-2.30 hrs through the National Park.

The unique Eastern Himalayan habitat makes this place exclusive for exotic Himalayan Birds, including Satyr Tragopan, Blood Pheasant etc. Other sightings possible in this area- Clouded Leopard, Black Leopard, Indian Leopard, Himalayan Black Bear, Yellow Throated Martin, Leopard Cat, Asiatic Golden Cat, Binturong, Wild Boar, Barking Deer, Himalayan Serow, Ghoral, Musk Deer and many more..

The facilities at the home stay include 4 double rooms with en-suite facilities, all rooms have balconies with a wonderful valley and sunset view, room fireplace, running hot and cold water, in-house bird studio, lounge and dining with a bar, trained naturalists and power back up.

Homestay & Facilities:

• 4 Double Bedded Rooms with Attached Western Toilets & Balcony
• Every Balcony is a Sunset Point.
• Fireplace in every room.
• Running Hot & Cold Water.
• Natural Himalayan spring water & Total RO drinking water.
• Room Service (Only morning & evening Tea)
• Library.
• STD & ISD call facilities.
• TV at the sitting area (only for presentations & documentary)
• Local & western Bar cum sitting area with a fire place; we call it Roosting Kuna
• Power supply (Generator) runs for 6 hrs. / Day + solar power.
• Perfect Blend of Local Food with a western touch.
• Toiletries.
• In house Bird Studio with a hide.
• Trained Naturalists, Field Biologist, Guides & Porters.
• Exclusive Red Panda Tourism.
• Directly taking part in the conservation, 20% of our profit margin goes to the Conservation fund. Be a part of Sustainable Tourism.

Sighting Chances:

Please find the recommended 6 Days 5 Nights package below. If you do not have sufficient time to spend 5 nights at Habre's Nest we can offer a per night rate, but we would like to inform you that the Red Panda being a rare species we require at least 5 nights or more for a high success rate for sightings.

Best Time to Visit:

• October-November: Red Panda's favorite Kiwi & Sarbus Fruit + Colors of Autumn+ Clear Sky.
• December-January: Mating season + Chances of Snowfall+ Fall Colors+ Mostly clear sky.
• February-March: Red Panda with Baby time+ Chances of Snowfall+ The Fragrance of Defny+ Mostly clear sky.
• April-Mid May: Singalila in Bridal Colors of Rhododendron & Red Panda+ Magnolia+ Orchids+ Cloud activity.
• Mid May-Mid June: Orchids + Cobra Lily Time+ Wild Strawberry Red Panda in Rain & into the Clouds.