The park’s history

Singalila National Park has a rich history dating back to the British colonial era. The region was purchased by the British Government from the Sikkim Darbar in 1882 and was initially declared a reserve forest under the Indian Forest Act of 1878. It was later officially opened up for tourism in 1992, when it was designated as a national park.

The Singalila Ridge was once a regular route for expeditions to Mt. Khangchendzonga or Mt. Kangchenjunga, with Sir Tenzing Norgay Sherpa felicitating the first Khangchendzonga summiters on their return from the mountain at Sandakphu in 1955. The name “Sandakphu” itself has Nepalese origins, meaning the “mountain of poisonous plants,” likely derived from the abundance of Himalayan Cobra Lilies in the area.

Over the years, Singalila National Park has become a popular destination for adventure seekers, trekkers, and nature enthusiasts, offering unparalleled views of the Himalayas and a diverse range of flora and fauna.

Flora and fauna

The park is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including the endangered Red Panda. Visitors can expect to see dense oak, bamboo, magnolia, and rhododendron forests, as well as rare orchids and over 120 species of Himalayan and Indo-Burma birds.

Activities

Adventure lovers can enjoy trekking, bike riding, mountain climbing, wildlife safari, camping, rock climbing, and paragliding in the park. River rafting on the Teesta River is also a thrilling experience. The park offers panoramic views of the eastern Himalayas, including Mount Everest, Kangchenjunga, Lhotse, and Makalu.