In search of Red Pandas & Fishing Cats

IN SEARCH OF RED PANDAS & FISHING CATS

Imagine venturing into the wild to spot two of Asia's most elusive creatures - the adorable Red Panda and the sleek Fishing Cat. This unique wildlife safari is more than just a thrilling adventure; it's a chance to support conservation efforts while immersing yourself in the breathtaking diversity of two distinct ecosystems. Get ready for an unforgettable journey that brings you up close and personal with nature'swonders!

Highlights

Visit Kolkata- A living heritage of the Colonial Past

The exclusive eastern Himalayan forest of Singalila

Spot the elusive Red Panda in its natural habitat

Discover the rare Fishing Cat on a unique safari

Witness diverse wildlife including Clouded Leopards and exotic birds

Enjoy panoramic views of the world's highest peaks

Kolkata – Bagdogra – Singalilla National Park – Bagdogra – Kolkata

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the itinerary

Embark on an extraordinary journey that offers the rare privilege of witnessing two of the most elusive and ecologically significant mammals in Asia – the Red Panda and the Fishing Cat. This one-of-a-kind wildlife safari is not just a tour, but a conservation-driven experience that brings you face-to-face with the rich biodiversity of two vastly different ecosystems.

The Red Panda, an iconic and endangered species, serves as the indicator of a healthy Eastern Himalayan forest. Found in the lush, moss-laden rhododendron forests of Singalila National Park, India and Ilam, Nepal, this shy and enchanting creature is a symbol of the fragile montane ecosystem it inhabits.

In contrast, the Fishing Cat, a secretive and powerful wetland predator, is the flagship species of the floodplains and mangroves of eastern India. Found near Howrah and Kolkata, West Bengal, this rare felid thrives in marshlands, riverbanks, and estuarine ecosystems, acting as a barometer for the health of aquatic habitats.

Meals B: Breakfast & D: Dinner

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Day 01 - Arrival Kolkata

Departure from your home country to Kolkata.

Day 02 - Kolkata

Arrive in Kolkata, the City of Joy. Owing to its aristocratic past, Kolkata has an incomparable spirit and majestic charm that invokes the feeling of awe and reverence equally. Experience it with afternoon sightseeing, including visits to the Jain Temple, Victoria Memorial, Kali Temple and Mother Teresa’s Orphanage. Overnight at Taj Bengal.

Day 03 - Fly to Bagdogra and drive to Singalilla

Morning transfer to airport to board your flight to Bagdogra (Indigo Airlines 6E-6785 departs Kolkata at 07:50 hrs and arrives Bagdogra at 08:55 hrs). On arrival in Badgogra Habre's Nest via the Kakarbhitta international border crossing gate. Check in to Habre’s Nest after about 5.30 hrs drive through the exclusive eastern Himalayan forest of Singalila. Habre’s Nest will be your home for the next 5 Nights.

(Note: Tourists are allowed entry into Singalila no later than 2:00 PM. If guests want to proceed directly to Singalila they MUST ensure that their flight reaches into Bagdogra no later than 9:00 AM. If such a flight is not available, then we would recommend reaching Bagdogra a day before and spending a night at Siliguri or Darjeeling.)

(Singalila Mountain Ridge is one of the most remarkable wildlife habitats in the Eastern Himalayas and is widely regarded as the best place in India—and across the species' global range—to see the endangered Red Panda in the wild. This high-altitude ridge, with its pristine forests and rugged landscapes, offers a unique ecological haven not only for Red Pandas but also for a rich diversity of flora and fauna.

Singalila is a birdwatcher's paradise, home to over 300 species of birds, including some of the most sought-after Himalayan species such as the Satyr Tragopan, Fire-tailed Myzornis, Blood Pheasant, Fire-tailed Sunbird, Kalij Pheasant, Golden Bush-Robin, Rufous-throated Wren-Babbler, Brown Parrotbills, Rosefinches, Bullfinches, Laughing Thrushes, Treecreepers, Yuhinas, Minivets, and many more.

The forest is also a sanctuary for elusive and rare mammals, including the Clouded Leopard, Marbled Cat, Asian Golden Cat, Himalayan Black Bear, Leopard Cat, Serow, Barking Deer, Yellow-throated Marten, Pangolin, Wild Boar, and the small, mountain-dwelling Pika.

(The Red Panda (Ailurus fulgens), also known as the “firefox,” is a small, arboreal mammal native to the Eastern Himalayas and Southwest China. Characterized by its reddish-brown fur, bushy ringed tail, and distinctive waddling gait caused by shorter front legs, it measures up to 2 feet in length and weighs no more than 10 kg. Primarily active from dusk to dawn, the Red Panda leads a solitary and largely sedentary life during the day. Its diet consists mainly of bamboo, though it also feeds on fruits, eggs, insects, and small birds. Classified as Endangered by the IUCN, its global population is estimated at fewer than 10,000 mature individuals, declining due to habitat loss, fragmentation, poaching, and inbreeding. Although protected by law in its range countries, conservation challenges persist. Singalila National Park remains one of its last strongholds and is considered the best place in India to observe this rare and elusive species in the wild.)

The evening will be at leisure. Wildlife discussions and some orientation about the activities planned for the next few days. Drinks, Soup, Dinner will start from 6.30 pm. D

Day 04, 05 & 06 - Wildlife activity – Search of Red Panda & Birding

For the first 2-3 days we give preference to Red Panda sightings and suggest all our guests stay close to Habre's Nest. All our trackers will be out looking for Red Panda during daylight with necessary breaks. In case of sightings, we will start our journey from home with all the necessary field support. Along with our expert naturalist, guests can also participate in tracking using established trails in search for Red Panda.

• Enjoy the early morning views of the enchanting Himalayas with a cup of Morning Tea.

Birding around till Breakfast at 8.30 am.

• After Breakfast enjoy the in-house Bird Studio. Very good to remain hidden and watching or documenting elusive Himalayan Birds. Singalila is home to several species of birds and guests can also engage themselves with bird watching, while the trackers are out looking for Red Panda. Our bird hide hosted 45-50 different species over the years. Apart from different birds like Parrotbills, Fulvettas, Laughing thrushes, Yellow throated Martine also visit often.

Lunch will be served at the Dining.

• The Second half is generally affected by clouds. Depending on the current situation we can start the afternoon activity at 3.30 pm.

• Apart from wildlife, Singalila National Park is also quite popular for the scenic vistas that one can see. The Kanchendzonga peak along with other surrounding peaks form the sleeping Buddha.

In evening wildlife discussions, Drinks, Soup and Dinner.

Night stay at Habre's Nest. BLD

Day 07 - Red Panda & Jungle Trek

After the first Red Panda sighting now we can focus on other things. and go exploring different jungle routes 1-3 times a day.

• Enjoy the early morning views of the enchanting Himalayas with a cup of Morning Tea. Birding/ trekking before breakfast.

• We will start our wildlife activity from Habre's Nest pre & post breakfast looking for birds & other wildlife, difficulty levels 5 to 8.

• Will do Birding (Including the in-house Bird hide setup) and Red panda searching the whole day with necessary breaks.

• Food will be served at home or on the Field, depending on the Activity and weather conditions.

• In evening wildlife discussions, Drinks, Soup and Dinner.

Night stay at Habre's Nest. BD

Day 08- Singalila to Baghrol Basa

Enjoy the final morning views of the enchanting Himalayas with a cup of morning tea and early breakfast. After breakfast, check out from Habre's Nest around 7.30 am and drive to Bagdogra airport. Board flight to Kolkata (Indigo Airlines 6E-292 departs Bagdogra at 1415 hrs, arrive Kolkata at 1535 hrs). Upon arrival at the Kolkata Airport you will be transferred to Baghrol Basa (Approx 2 hrs drive). Baghrol Basa will be your home for the next 3 nights.

(The name Baghrol Basa comes from Bengali—Baghrol meaning Fishing Cat, and Basa meaning nest or home. True to its name, Baghrol Basa Homestay is a unique research and conservation-driven initiative dedicated to the protection of the Fishing Cat (Prionailurus viverrinus), a rare and elusive wetland predator.

These remarkable cats are specially adapted to life in watery, swampy landscapes. The floodplain surrounding Baghrol Basa is a rare and inspiring example of peaceful coexistence between wild cats and millions of people. In this human-dominated landscape, harmony with wildlife is not just possible-it's already happening.

Observing wildlife in such settings can be challenging, but at Baghrol Basa, we've developed a unique and low-impact safari model tailored to this ecosystem. As most wildlife here is cryptic and nocturnal, our safaris take place at night, using silent, battery-operated ToTos (eco-friendly vehicles). These are combined with short guided walks and strategically placed hides, allowing guests to observe wildlife from a close yet respectful distance.

Our safaris offer a rare opportunity to see Fishing Cats in their natural habitat, moving stealthily through the swamps under the cover of darkness. Revered locally as the "Fish-Eating Tiger" or Mecho Bagha, the Fishing Cat is the apex predator of this ecosystem.

The surrounding wetlands are also home to a rich variety of wildlife, including Jungle Cats, Golden Jackals (with occasional sightings of melanistic individuals), Asian and Golden Monitor Lizards, Small Indian and Asian Palm Civets, and numerous rodent species. Birdwatchers will be delighted by the chance to spot rare and elusive birds, including the Critically Endangered Yellow-breasted Bunting).

After short rest, your will be taken for a pre & post dinner night safari by Safari Toto (a soundless & emissionless battery operated Customized car, best for navigating the narrow village roads).

Night stay at Baghrol Basa. D

Day 09 & 10 - In search of Fishing Cat & wildlife

After the late night safaris we will start a little late, around 9 am Tea and 9.30 am breakfast will be served (the timing may change depending on different Activities and plans).

• Wildlife watching inside Baghrol Basa till lunch.

• Afternoon Wildlife safari / Heritage & Cultural Safari.

• Night Safaris will start again followed by Tea and snacks and after dinner.

Night stay at Baghrol Basa. D

Day 11 - On the final day

Final morning birding around Baghrol Basa looking for Chestnut Capped Babbler & the Jungle Cats. Check out by noon from Baghrol Basa around noon and transfer to the Kolkata airport for departure to home country.
(*Note : Based on international departure flight if room is required at Kolkata Hotel will advise supplement cost for the same)

THE COST:

Per Person based on 2 pax traveling
Per person sharing a double / twin room - Enquire us for quote

Supplementary cost for domestic flight
Per person (Kolkata-Bagdogra-Kolkata) - Enquire us for quote

Please advise us your date of travel, number of people travelling, children, if any, with their age, and room requirements, and we will advise you the cost of the holiday.

ACCOMMODATION:

Taj Bengal, Kolkata: Located in the heart of Kolkata's historic Alipore district, Taj Bengal is a landmark of refined elegance and timeless charm. Designed by renowned architect Bob Fox, the hotel blends classical colonial architecture with contemporary sophistication. Its dramatic five-story atrium, adorned with local art and terracotta sculptures, reflects the rich cultural heritage of Bengal. With 200 luxurious rooms and 29 suites, Taj Bengal offers world-class hospitality alongside curated culinary experiences at signature restaurants like Sonargaon, Souk, and Cal27.
(Incase require hotel of choice in Kolkata will advise supplement/ reduction for the same).

Habre's Nest homestay: Located in a remote area in the heart of the best Red Panda habitat, offers an authentic local experience with essential modern comforts and basic, clean, and hygienic facilities—perfect for enjoying magical sunrises and sunsets.

Baghrol Basa: Homestay features authentic and stylish clay suites, built using locally sourced natural materials and designed to offer modern-day comfort in a rustic setting. Set amidst serene surroundings, the property includes freshwater ponds that serve as a natural haven for fishing cats and other wildlife.

Tour Cost Includes:

Assistance upon arrival and departure at airports and railways stations.
Accommodation on full board except in Kolkata where only on bed & breakfast basis.
English Speaking Guide and entrance charges as indicated in the itinerary.
Expert Naturalist with immense local knowledge.
Wildlife permit cost for both India and Nepal.
Sandukphu day trip for sunrise & birding.
Electricity & charging at Habre's Nest for 6 hours.
All domestic transfers within the country.
Complimentary drinking water.

Cost Does not Include:

Visa Fee for India: E- Tourist visa facility is now available for India. We have enclosed a step by step guide how to apply for E-tourist visa online.
Any expenses of a personal nature like laundry, telephone calls, beverages, gratuities etc.
Camera fees at monuments and other places of interest.
Travel Insurance: It is essential to have adequate insurance in place before your departure. This should be appropriate for your age, health, and the destination you are visiting.
Tips and gratuities.

How to Book:

We are committed to creating the perfect holiday itinerary for you. If you wish to make any change to this itinerary or you wish to include any particular place of your interest, please write to us. If you wish to book, please contact us and we will send you a booking form and booking terms and conditions.

enquires@indusdiscoveries.com

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In search of Red Pandas & Fishing Cats

itineraries