Singalila National Park is one of the most breathtaking and ecologically rich protected areas in India. Located in the Darjeeling district of West Bengal, this park sits at an altitude ranging from 2,100 to over 4,000 meters above sea level and is renowned for its stunning mountain views, high-altitude forests, rare Himalayan wildlife, and the famous Sandakphu trek. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a birdwatcher, a trekker, or simply someone seeking peace amidst pristine landscapes, Singalila National Park offers an unforgettable experience.
What Makes Singalila National Park So Special?
Singalila National Park is part of the Eastern Himalayan biodiversity hotspot and stretches over approximately 78 square kilometers. What makes it unique is its location along the Singalila Ridge, which forms a natural boundary between India and Nepal. From various points inside the park, you can witness panoramic views of the four highest peaks in the world — Everest, Kangchenjunga, Lhotse, and Makalu.
But the park’s beauty isn’t limited to mountains. It’s home to the elusive red panda, Himalayan black bear, barking deer, clouded leopard, and more than 120 species of birds including blood pheasants, satyr tragopans, and Himalayan monals.
Singalila National Park map
Best Time to Visit Singalila National Park
The park is open to visitors from mid-March to mid-June and then again from mid-September to mid-December. Each season offers a different charm:
- Spring (March to May): Ideal for spotting rhododendrons in full bloom. The forests are vibrant and colorful.
- Autumn (October to November): Offers the clearest skies, perfect for mountain views and photography.
The park remains closed during the monsoon and winter (mid-June to mid-September and mid-December to mid-March) due to extreme weather and poor trail conditions.
Also read: Vanvihar National Park: A Serene Wildlife Retreat in the Heart of Bhopal
How to Reach Singalila National Park
Reaching Singalila National Park is an adventure in itself:
- Nearest Railway Station: New Jalpaiguri (NJP), around 120 km away.
- Nearest Airport: Bagdogra Airport, about 115 km away.
- By Road: From NJP or Bagdogra, drive to Manebhanjan, the gateway to the park. Shared jeeps and taxis are available from Darjeeling and Siliguri.
From Manebhanjan, only 4×4 vehicles are allowed inside the park, particularly on the rugged trails toward Sandakphu and Phalut.
Entry Permits and Park Fees
To enter Singalila National Park, visitors need to obtain a permit from the forest department. Permits can be availed at the entry point in Manebhanjan or from the forest department office in Darjeeling.
Approximate Charges (subject to change):
- Entry Fee (Indian nationals): ₹100 per person per day
- Entry Fee (Foreign nationals): ₹200 per person per day
- Camera Charges: ₹100–₹200 depending on the device
- Guide (Mandatory): ₹700–₹1000 per day
It is compulsory to hire a registered guide to ensure the safety of both visitors and wildlife.
Also read: Ratapani Wildlife Sanctuary and Tiger Reserve: Madhya Pradesh’s Untouched Wilderness
Top Attractions Inside Singalila National Park
1. Sandakphu
The highest point in West Bengal at 3,636 meters, Sandakphu offers views of the “Sleeping Buddha” formation of the Himalayan peaks. It’s also a key stop on the Singalila Ridge trek.
2. Phalut
Further north from Sandakphu, Phalut provides an even closer view of Mt. Kangchenjunga. The trek from Sandakphu to Phalut is considered the most scenic part of the route.
3. Gairibas and Tumling
These small settlements within and near the park are great resting spots for trekkers. Tumling also offers an excellent chance to spot red pandas.
4. Wildlife Spotting
If you’re lucky, you might glimpse the shy red panda in the bamboo forests or hear the calls of rare Himalayan birds. Birdwatching is a major activity here, with migratory and endemic species filling the forest canopy.
Things to Do in Singalila National Park
Trekking
The Singalila Ridge trek is one of the most popular and scenic high-altitude treks in India. The trail runs from Manebhanjan to Sandakphu and further to Phalut, covering diverse landscapes, from alpine meadows to dense rhododendron forests.
Wildlife Photography
Photographers visit Singalila in hopes of capturing rare shots of red pandas, monals, and other Himalayan wildlife. Early morning and late evening are the best times for photography.
Camping and Homestays
Although camping inside the park is restricted in some areas, there are homestays and forest lodges in places like Gairibas, Kalipokhri, and Sandakphu. Staying with local families adds cultural depth to your adventure.
Responsible Travel in Singalila National Park
When visiting a fragile ecosystem like Singalila, it’s crucial to travel responsibly:
- Avoid plastic and carry reusable bottles and bags.
- Stick to marked trails and follow your guide’s instructions.
- Do not disturb or feed wild animals.
- Respect the local culture and traditions of mountain communities.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a seasoned trekker, a birding enthusiast, or simply someone in search of tranquil natural beauty, Singalila National Park offers a rare blend of adventure and serenity. Its high-altitude biodiversity, incredible mountain views, and rich cultural experiences make it one of the most rewarding national parks in India.
If you plan well and travel responsibly, your journey to Singalila will not just be a trip — it will be a story you’ll want to tell for years to come.
