Singalila National Park
One of the popular national parks in the Indian Himalayan region and located in the Darjeeling district of West Bengal, Singalila National Park is well known for the trekking route to Sandakphu- Phalut that runs through it. The Park covers a vast area that stretches from an altitude of 1,800 meters to 4,000 meters (approximately) and falls in the Indo-Malaya eco-zone housing thick bamboo, oak, magnolia, and rhododendron forests. It is also an abode of several wild orchids including the poisonous Himalayan Cobra Lilies.
The forest trail starts after crossing Meghma and goes through Tonglu, Giribas, Kala Pokhri, Sandakphu, and Phalut. The Singalila National Park has a large concentration of mammals, birds, and reptiles. The most commonly sighted mammals include the Leopard Cat, Barking Deer, and Pangolin. Endangered animal species like Red Pandas, Himalayan Black bears, and Leopards are also found in the national park.
The Scarlet Minivet, Kalij Pheasant, Blood Pheasant, Satyr Tragopan, Rufous-vented Tit, and Golden-breasted Fulvetta are some of the bird species that are spotted throughout the forest trail. The best time to visit Singalila National Park is during the summer and winter.
Singalila Trek
Singalila National Park is very popular due to its trekking trails. Trekking in the region is popular during March and April as this is when the rhododendrons and orchids bloom, providing a marvelous outlook to the whole forest. There is s government-run hut in the park providing living accommodations to the trekkers. Within the park, tourists must be accompanied by trained and registered guides of the Wildlife Department. The guides are available at the entry point from any of the following places:
- Maneybhanjyang- Highlander Guides and Porters Welfare Association
- Dhotray - Nature Guides Association,
- Rimbick - Rimbick Guide Association.
One of the most popular treks is along the Singalila Ridge to Sandakphu and Phalut. It provides a grand vista of the Kangchenjunga range and the Everest range and you can also see the seasonal wildflower blooms and birding. This trek begins at Manebhanjan, 51 km from Darjeeling, and is divided into four stages.
Singalila National Park Jeep Safari
Jeep Safari through the Singalila National Park and the surrounding forest is the best and the most coveted way to get around and breathe in the beauty of this place. The Safari route is ringed by stretches of greenery, with lofty pine trees and vibrant rhododendrons.
It truly is a feast for the eyes, especially during October- January, when you can have a clear view of the surrounding peaks. The Safari begins at Manebhanjan, from where a landrover will drive you past unique landscape and local Gorkha villages, all the way to the highest peak of West Bengal and Phalut. Here, you can get a panoramic view of famous peaks like Mt. Everest, Kanchenjunga, and Makalu. Not to mention, you get to see the various species of flora and fauna living in their natural habitat. The trail passes through Tumling and Kalapokhri, where lodging facilities are available. The Safari finally ends at Sandakphu (4.5 hours) or Phalut (another 2.5 hours).
The fare for the Safari is published by the Land rover association which charges around INR 3000 for the same. The best way to go through with this adventure-filled ride is to contact a Darjeeling-based tour operator who will organize all logistics including vehicle, guide, stay, and entry permit. You can also plan the entire thing on your own.
