Singalila National Park Travel Guide

Singalila National Park, located on the Singalila Ridge in the Darjeeling district of West Bengal, is a high-altitude sanctuary boasting an elevation range of 7,900 to 12,000 feet. Established as a wildlife sanctuary in 1986 and later declared a national park in 1992, it encompasses 78.6 square kilometers of pristine wilderness. The park shares borders with Sikkim to the north and Nepal to the west.The park's diverse terrain ranges from lush rhododendron forests to alpine meadows, harboring over 600 plant species and a rich variety of fauna. It is one of the last natural habitats of the endangered Red Panda, making it a crucial site for conservation efforts. Other notable mammals include the Himalayan Black Bear, Clouded Leopard, Barking Deer, and Yellow-throated Marten. With over 350 bird species, including rare Himalayan and Indo-Burmese birds, it is also an Important Bird Area (IBA).Singalila National Park is a trekker's paradise, offering trails to Sandakphu and Phalut, the two highest peaks in West Bengal. These peaks offer breathtaking views of the Himalayas, including Mount Everest, Kangchenjunga, Lhotse, and Makalu. The best times to visit are during spring (March to May) when rhododendrons and orchids are in full bloom, and autumn (October to early December) for clear skies and stunning mountain views.