The Illam Sandakpur Red Panda Tour is a unique journey that combines the thrill of trekking with the rare opportunity to observe one of the most elusive and endangered species as listed in WWF. Since 2020, the Sandakour rural municapality has started the Red Panda breeding and conservation campaign with Red Panda Network.
This tour takes you to the tea capital of Nepal, Ilam. This hill town is in eastern Nepal. The teas produced in Illam are said to be of high grade and the most sought after since the 1800s. Here, you can take in the sights of pristine landscapes featuring rolling tea gardens, mountain streams, dense forests and distinctive cultural experiences. Starting from the charming town of Ilam, this trek takes you through dense forests, terraced fields and traditional villages, offering an immersive experience of Nepal’s rich cultural and natural heritage. Ilam, located at an altitude of 1,500 meters (4,921 feet), is a well-known destination for tea lovers, famous for its sprawling tea gardens that produce some of the finest tea in the world.
The tour culminates at Sandakpur, a stunning vantage point located at an altitude of 3,636 meters (11,929 feet), offering panoramic views of the majestic Himalayan range, including the mighty Kanchenjunga and Mount Everest. The region is home to over 400 species of birds, 30 species of mammals and 100 species of butterflies making this wildlife experience even more immersive. However, the star attraction is the Red Panda, a shy and solitary creature that inhabits the temperate forests of this area. Known for its distinctive reddish-brown fur and bushy tail, the Red Panda is often called the “Firefox” and is a symbol of biodiversity conservation efforts in Nepal. This tour provides a rare chance to spot these adorable animals in their natural habitat while contributing to their conservation. As you ascend towards Sandakpur, the landscape changes dramatically, from lush green hills to alpine meadows and finally to the rugged mountain terrain. Along the way, you will be surrounded by the serene beauty of rhododendron forests, bamboo groves and the distant snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas. The highlight of the tour is the Todke Waterfall and the chance to spot Red Pandas, an experience that is both thrilling and humbling, as these creatures are notoriously difficult to find.
The Illam Sandakpur Red Panda Tour provides an excellent an opportunity to connect with nature, contribute to wildlife conservation and immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of one of Nepal’s most pristine regions. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a wildlife photographer, or simply someone looking for a peaceful retreat, this tour offers something for everyone.
Duration: 45 Minutes flight , Drive: 4 hours’ drive
Today after having your breakfast you will to Tribhuwan Airport, here you will catch a domestic to Bhadrapur. After taking off you can catch glimpse of the important sites in Kathmandu and the views of Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Mt. Kanchenjunga etc from above. After, 45 minutes of flight you will reach Bhadrapur. Our representative will pick you up and drive towards Illam. You can see the various tea estates and sloped farms making this trip scenic and enjoyable. We will spend the night at a hotel alongside the excellent views of the tea garden.
Overnight stay at a hotel in Illam.
Enjoy your breakfast and the early morning view of the tea gardens. Today you will stroll around the tea farms, our guide will take you through the process of making and cultivating teas. The tea leaves farmed and cultivated in these altitudes are some of the most sought after in the world. Later you can head to the Illam bazar and shop for the teas, cardamom, silk and various goods found in the market.
Overnight stay at a homestay in Illam.
Today on the third day of the trek you will be heading to Dobato a remote village situated in the forested hill, far-east of Illam. After a 6 hours’ drive you will reach the village. The locals are welcoming and friendly, you will have the opportunity to experience the local rural lively hood and culture of the people. After resting, you can go to observe the birds and animals in the surrounding areas. In the evening you will have a briefing with the forest guard and make your schedule increasing the chances to spot the endangered pandas and other mammals the following day. Spend the night at the local homestay.
Overnight at a homestay in Dobato.
After having your breakfast, you will be heading deep into the jungle with experienced wildlife trackers and forest ranger to track the Red Pandas and other tropical birds. After spending the day traversing through the dense forest tracking the various animal species, head back to the homestay for overnight’s rest.
Overnight stay in Dobato.
Duration: 4-6 hours , Drive: 1 hours’ drive [10km approximate]
Today, you will wake up early and head towards the jungle once more to see the Red Panda which you might have missed earlier. Explore the various flora and fauna and enjoy the beauty of nature during your walk. The forest ranger will be accompanying you so, you will not miss anything today. After your exploration of the forest you will drive to Sandakpur.
Overnight stay at Sandakpur.
If you choose to wake up early you will get to see the panoramic sunrise views of the Himalayan mountain range such as the Mt. Everest, Mt. Lhoste, Makalu and Mt. Kanchenjunga. After having your breakfast with the view head to Maipokhari a wetland situated in the middle hill range of the Himalayans at an elevation of 2,100m. The Mai Pokhari houses a variety of flora and fauna and other wildlife. The main lake has 9 corners believed to be paying tribute to the nine different Gods. You can choose to go to the nearby waterfall for relaxation.
Overnight stay in Mai Pokhari.
Duration: 3-4 hours , Walking Distance: 14 km approximate
Today on the 7 day of your trek you will be heading to Todke waterfall. A warm breakfast prepared by the host of the homestay get you ready to trek to the forest trail to Todke Fall. The 85m (280ft) waterfall falls on the lap amid Rocky hill, its staggering height is able to capture the attention of many domestic and international travelers alike. After enjoying in the waterfall hike back to Mai Pokhari and explore the village visiting the tea farms and orchid garden. You can also get a glimpse of the local cheese factory.
Overnight stay at Mai Pokhari.
Duration: 110km; 4 hours
On the 8th day of your trek you will have completed the Illam to Sandakpur-Red Panda Trail. Bid farewell to the locals and drive to the Bhadrapur airport and fly back to Kathmandu. After reaching Kathmandu head back to your hotel and rest for the day.
