Guided Nature Walks through Pristine Himalayan Forests
Experience Authentic Rural Village Life in Eastern Nepal
Explore the Scenic Tea Gardens of Ilam
Enjoy Spectacular Mountain Views on Your Flight from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur
Bird Watching with Opportunities to Spot Rare Himalayan Species
Visit Ilam Bazaar and Discover Local Culture, Food, and Markets
Overview of Red Panda Tour in Nepal
Red Panda Tour in Nepal
Red Panda is found in most of the Himalayas of South Asia. From Eastern Himalayas to Southwestern China its native area ranges around the Himalayas only. Like the giant panda, it is also mostly an herbivorous mammal that feeds mainly on bamboo. The red panda has reddish-brown fur, a long, shaggy tail, and a waddling gait due to its shorter front legs. It is only slightly larger than the size of a domestic cat, though with a longer body and somewhat heavier. Growing from 50-65cm in length and weighing up to 6kg.
Red Panda Tour in Nepal, itinerary focuses on Dobate Village of the Ilam district for seeing the lesser pandas. Red Pandas are skillful climbers that spend most of their time in the trees curled up with their long, bushy tails wrapped around their heads. Their thick reddish-brown fur offers additional protection from the cold, often harsh, mountain weather. We'll give you a guide while you're on this itinerary. You can also experience the day-to-day activities of the typical rural village in the Ilam district of Nepal.
Red Panda Habitat
Living in 36 different mountain districts, there are around 1000 red pandas in Nepal. It is one of the most endangered species in the country as well as the whole world. The majority of the red pandas of Nepal are protected inside the national park. Also, there are some communities of red pandas in Eastern Nepal in districts like Ilam, Panchthar, and Taplejung where there are not any national parks or wildlife reserves yet is home to one-fourth of pandas. Some non-profit organizations are working to save the pandas of this region.
The Red Panda Community and Red Panda Network are organizations that have been working since 2007 to spread awareness among local people and take action to protect the various endangered species through habitat management, sustainable livelihoods, and awareness building.
Red Panda Tour in Nepal itineraries are customisable; according to your choice & the number of days you want to stay.
See for yourself if all that you have read and watched on the internet, about the tranquil beauty of Nepal and the warm hospitality of Nepalese. After flying through the beautiful view of this trekkers; paradise, you will meet our company representative at the airport. You must have an impatient heart for a breathtaking adventure. Get ready to experience Nepal up close and personal. But first, we will transfer you to your hotel.
If you have an early arrival, you may stroll around the hippest and happening area in Thamel, where you can find restaurants with varieties of cuisine to dine. This first night in the country, you will be staying in Kathmandu.
Accommodation4/5 star hotel at Thamel
Transportation4WD Private Jeep
Maximum altitude1,350 meters/4,429 feet
Trek duration8 hours sightseeing tour
MealsB,L,D
On your second day, you can go sightseeing to some of the famous religious and historical sites of Kathmandu. After exploring this city of temples; you will meet your tour guide at the hotel. You will be briefed in detail about the wildlife adventure. The guide will also assist you with any last-minute shopping that you require for the safari.
Have a well-rested night at Kathmandu before heading off to the wildlife.
(You can dump the stuff you do not want during the trek at the hotel or our office store.)
AccommodationBest available Hotel
TransportationFlight and 4WD Private Jeep
Maximum altitude1,627 m (5,338 ft)
Trek duration45 minutes flight and 2 hours drive
Trek distance65 km drive
MealsB,L,D
Morning flight to Bhadrapur. Bhadrapur is one of the most beautiful flights in Nepal. If you are lucky enough then you can see 7 mountains over 8000m on a clear sky day including Mt. Everest. After arrival in Bhadrapur, you will be transferred to Ilam by road for about 3 to 4 hours.
Once you reach Ilam, you can enjoy the scenic beauty of that place. One of the most beautiful places of Nepal, you can enjoy the landscape of tea plantation-covered hills in most parts of the place. We will stay overnight in a lodge here in Nepal’s tea capital.
AccommodationLalbas Homestay
Transportation4WD Private Jeep
Maximum altitude2,660 meters (8,727 feet)
Trek duration3 to 4 hours drive
Trek distance40 km drive
MealsB,L,D
Today we will head toward the village of Dobate in the northern part of Ilam, driving 2 to 3 hours. Upon reaching the village, you will feel as if you have just been transported to paradise.
AccommodationLalbas Homestay
TransportationTrek
Maximum altitude2,660 meters (8,727 feet)
Trek duration12 hours including lunch and wildlife watching breaks
Trek distance10 km
MealsB,L,D
Begin your first full day of red panda tracking in the forests around Dobate. Accompanied by experienced local trackers, explore dense rhododendron, bamboo, and oak forests while searching for signs of this elusive Himalayan mammal. Along the way, keep an eye out for colorful birds, Himalayan squirrels, and other forest wildlife. Return to your lodge in the evening to share stories from the day’s adventure.
AccommodationLalbas Homestay
TransportationTrek
Maximum altitude2,660 meters (8,727 feet)
Trek duration12 hours including lunch and wildlife watching breaks
Trek distance10 km
MealsB,L,D
Today, venture into a different section of the forest to maximize your chances of finding red pandas. Your guides will follow fresh feeding signs, footprints, and other clues left behind by these shy animals. Spend the day enjoying the peaceful mountain wilderness, photographing the rich flora and fauna, and learning about local conservation efforts. Overnight in Dobate.
AccommodationLalbas Homestay
Transportation4WD Private Jeep and trek
Maximum altitude3,636 meters (11,930 feet)
Trek duration12 hours including lunch and wildlife watching breaks
Trek distance10 km
MealsB,L,D
Wake up early for an excursion to Sandakphu (3,636 m), one of the finest viewpoints in the eastern Himalayas. Witness a spectacular sunrise over four of the world’s highest peaks—Mount Everest (8,848.86 m), Kanchenjunga (8,586 m), Lhotse (8,516 m), and Makalu (8,481 m). After breakfast, continue your final red panda tracking excursion in another promising habitat. With several days dedicated to searching, you have an excellent opportunity to encounter and photograph this endangered species before returning to your lodge for the night.
AccommodationBest available Hotel
Transportation4WD Private Jeep
Maximum altitude1,627 m (5,338 ft)
Trek duration3 to 4 hours drive
Trek distance40 km drive
MealsB,L,D
We will spend a few times in the morning seeing the beauty of the village. After morning breakfast and speding few times, we will return back to Ilam bazar. Reaching Ilam bazar we have to say goodbye to our guide who helped and remained with us constantly during our red panda tracking period.
Accommodation4/5 star hotel at Thamel
Transportation4WD Private Jeep and Flight
Maximum altitude1,350 meters/4,429 feet
Trek duration45 minutes flight and 2 hours drive
MealsB,L,D
After this wonderful trip, drive to Bhadrapur and fly to Kathmandu.
Once you reach Kathmandu you will check-in at a nice hotel around the Thamel area. In the evening you can stroll around for souvenir shopping, drinks, and dinner. Walking around Thamel and nearby areas for shopping and self-exploring the narrow streets of this tourist hub is a good idea to spend your evening in Kathmandu.
TransportationFlight
Trek duration30 minute drive to airport
Trek distance5 km drive
We will drop you to the airport according to your flight schedule. Tiger Encounter hopes to take you to another exciting wildlife safari in Nepal soon.
Includes of Red Panda Tour in Nepal
International & domestic airport transfers as per the itinerary.
Flight ticket from Kathmandu- Bhadrapur- Kathmandu
Bhadrapur to Ilam bazar – Bhadrapur private transport
Ilam bazar to Dobate private 4wd jeep
Three night’s hotel accommodation in Kathmandu twin/single with breakfast at 4 stars hotel
Illam night’s hotel accommodation in Illam on twin sharing basis with AP plan at 3 stars hotel
Accommodation (local nice homestay) and 3 meals a day during the trekking (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner) as mention in the itinerary.
Tea, coffee, hot or cold drinking water entire the tracking period.
Professional government license holder English speaking trekking guide.
The required number of porters to carry the luggage during the trek (We assign one porter for every two guests).
All program as mentioned in the itinerary
All salary, allowance, food & accommodation for guides
Insurance which covers, medical, emergency evacuation, lost, etc.
Beverages, alcoholic drinks, mineral water, boiled water during the red panda tour.
Hot shower during the trekking.
All food and beverages are other than on the itinerary.
Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu because of early arrival, late departure, and early return from the mountain (due to any reason) than the scheduled itinerary.
Personal gear and expenses.
Tips and gratitude provided to staff.
Just Fill and Book
This is a pre-booking form for the lead traveler. We would send you the actual booking form after the confirmation
Additional Info of Red Panda Tour in Nepal
What to Bring
Neutral colored clothing is recommended.
Light clothing is needed for the daytime with a sweater and warm jacket for the evenings from November to March.
Pants / Trousers are recommended for safari and jungle walks.
Comfortable walking shoes, sun hats, sunglasses, etc. are essential.
Insect repellent and personal medical requirements should be carried.
It is highly recommended to travel light with only one small suitcase or duffle bag.
During the warmer months, swimming suits are recommended.
A small flashlight is recommended.
Binoculars add greatly to your enjoyment of bird and wildlife viewing.
Red Panda Behavior
The family life of this attractive animal is obscure. A weak unearthly whistling or squeaking note is given out when it is disturbed or separated from its mate. This resembles the chirping of a bird. The whistling and chirping sound thus may be a means of communication. The courtship mating behavior of this animal resembles that of cats. It has been observed that stress and excitement give out a strong odor produced from the anal scent glands. The odor may be the means of defense and sexual attraction. The panda in captivity rubs the glandular area of the anal gland against a rough surface over which it moves living a scent trail that might well serve as a single to another individual.
FAQs of Red Panda Tour in Nepal
The best seasons are March to May (spring) and October to November (autumn). During these months, the weather is pleasant, visibility is excellent, and red pandas are generally more active.
The tour takes place in the forests around Dobate in Ilam District, eastern Nepal, one of the country’s best community-managed habitats for wild red pandas.
Sighting success is high with experienced local trackers. Spending multiple days in the forest significantly increases the chances of encountering a wild red panda.
The tour is moderate in difficulty. Expect 4–7 hours of hiking each day on forest trails with gradual ascents and descents. A reasonable level of fitness is recommended.
A minimum of three full tracking days is recommended to maximize your chances of observing and photographing red pandas.
Besides red pandas, you may encounter Himalayan birds, barking deer, yellow-throated martens, Himalayan squirrels, and a variety of butterflies, orchids, and native plants.
Absolutely. Ilam is home to hundreds of bird species, making it an excellent destination for birdwatching alongside red panda tracking.
You’ll stay in comfortable local lodges or community homestays that offer clean rooms, traditional Nepali hospitality, and local cuisine.
Your tour operator will arrange any required entry permits and local conservation fees before the trip.
Yes. Anyone with a moderate fitness level and an interest in wildlife and nature can join. Previous trekking experience is helpful but not required.
Most operators offer private tours, but customized group departures can also be arranged upon request.
Ilam combines excellent red panda habitat, beautiful tea gardens, rich birdlife, authentic village culture, and stunning Himalayan views, making it one of Nepal’s most rewarding wildlife destinations.
Join a top-rated Red Panda Photography Expedition in Nepal. Expert trackers, ethical spotting, and high sighting success in Langtang & Eastern Nepal. Perfect for wildlife photographers and conservation travelers.
Track Bengal tigers in Bardia and red pandas in Langtang—an unforgettable blend of jungle safari and Himalayan trekking in the wildlife-rich heart of Nepal.
My wife and I wanted to visit Nepal at its best, living, feeling and enjoying this beatiful country and people, in the most possible comfort, safety and relax..but, at the same time, we were not looking for a trip of unnecessary and impersonal luxury, living all the time in an unreal “bubble”. After some research, Tiger encounters was our choice for a 2 weeks trip to Nepal, one week between Karhmandu and Pokhara, and one week safari in Bardia National park.
Mr. Ghanshyam, owner and director of Tiger Encounters, organized for us the best possible tours and experiences. He suggested and booked the proper premium hotels and lodges, visited the best places with top guides, fantastic choices! From the moment of booking the trip, until the very last minute before boarding our plane to come home, we always had a full and great support. Everything was seamless, spotless and perfect. We lived the best of the Himalaya and the wilderness of Bardia beeing always treated like royals, unbelievable !
Thank you very much for all the special moments we lived and enjoyed, we will come again for sure !
Dear Reader, if you are still here, means that you really wish to go to Nepal… in that case, do not hesitate any longer, contact Tiger Encounters right now, you will not regreat it !!!!
Nicola & MariaItaly
Snow Leopard Expedition in Nepal
I have to congratulate Ghanshyam on the great organization, from email communications, logistics and all the attention during the tour. Everything was organized in an excellent way and what I really appreciated was the availability and flexibility. I have travelled a lot, but few times have I met an agency so helpful to plan changes on site. Great drivers, careful driving.
Aashish, our guide, did everything to satisfy every request, always available and kind throughout the trip and very competent even during trekking in search of the Leopard. What about Tashi R. Ghale, a special person, tireless, did everything so that we could realize the dream of sighting the Leopard. It was an honor to meet him and be able to be with him, for me it was one of the best experiences of life. I would have hoped to see the Leopard more closely, but I realize how difficult it is and still being able to hear it during the calls of the mating season was exciting.
Thank you for everything and I can only recommend this agency “Tiger Encounter”!
Alessandra FarinaItaly
The most exciting journey of Snow Leopard and the most perfect service!
Together with Tiger Encounter we went to Nepal in the Annapurna National Park on the trail of the Snow Leopard and it was a magical experience where everything went smoothly. Organizing the trip of a lifetime is a wonderful challenge, but doing it with passionate, competent, and meticulous people who paid attention to every detail and our every wish, ensuring this was truly the trip of a lifetime, was truly fantastic! We were three of us along with me Alessan & Sandara.
These people really exist: they are the Tìger Encounter team.
Professionalism at the highest level, friendliness and respect, always open to any idea and always attentive to our safety.
You couldn’t ask for more.
Alberto CerioniReppubblica Italiana
One of the best tour companies I ever worked with
I’ve travelled to 50+ countries with dozens of tour operators – Ghanshyam and his team absolutely stood out. This was a demanding photography trip and everything was organised perfectly and flexibly when needed, with a lot of personal attention and excellent guides.
Florian KriechbaumerDubai
Bardia and Chitwan Photography Trip
I have traveled to many places in pursuit of photographing endangered species, and surprisingly, I did not have any images of the Bengal tiger. Many of my friends visited India for tiger safaris, but the crowded and hectic national parks discouraged me. After watching a BBC Planet Earth documentary, I discovered that Bengal tigers also exist in Nepal. Following many email exchanges with different tour operators in Nepal, I chose Tiger Encounter — and I am very happy that I made the right decision.
Ghanshyam was extremely flexible with my itinerary. I had to change my plans at least twice, and he accommodated every adjustment without hesitation or even a hint of frustration. He personally came to the airport to receive me and introduced me to my guide, Manju, who accompanied me throughout the entire trip. During the journey, Ghanshyam stayed in constant communication with the guide to ensure I was always well taken care of.
When I book a trip, I highly value creativity, resourcefulness, and flexibility. Not every trip goes perfectly smoothly, so when unexpected situations arise, the way they are handled matters greatly. Ghanshyam earned my trust because he managed every challenge in a way that exceeded my expectations.
Although I had to cut my trip short, I fully intend to return to Nepal, and Ghanshyam will absolutely be my first choice again.
With that said, I have no hesitation in highly recommending Tiger Encounter to anyone planning a trip to Nepal.
Ly DangUSA
Tiger Trip of a lifetime!
I spent 12 days exploring Nepal with Tiger Encounter and it was one of the most incredible trips in my life. They met us at the airport and didn’t leave our side the entire trip. Extremely organized and professional and I’m already planning on coming back. Best way to see tigers in the wild! Couldn’t recommend them enough.
Ryan ShirleyUSA
Tiger Safari in Bardia & Red Panda Trekking
I really wanted to find a local company who could make a personalised itinerary for my husband and I to do red panda trekking and a safari in Bardia National Park to see tigers (among other things). I would highly recommend Tiger Encounter for any trip to Nepal, but especially if you’re looking to encounter wildlife.
Ria & PeterNew Zealand
Outstanding Service
We recently returned from a 2 week private wildlife trekking and safari tour with Tiger Encounter, and couldn’t recommend them highly enough. We found them through a Google search and we are so glad that we did – we were so impressed! Tiger Encounter really offer such a personalised service and clearly care about their travellers.
Jessica & JamesUnited Kingdom
Great Experience with Tiger Encounter
Excellent safari in Chitwan and Bardia. Very professional company and we were looked after really well. Communication was easy and fast response. The guides on the safaris were brilliant and the accommodation was excellent. Can’t rate them highly enough.
Susan Joy BrownUnited Kingdom
The absolute best there is
I’ve been to 28 different countries and countless safaris over the world- let me tell you that this is the standard for every other safari I’ve been on since! The attention to detail, the absolute love and care of the guides, and the tour operator’s genuine wish for you to have the best experience possible made this one of the most amazing tours/safaris I’ve been on.
It was just as amazing to meet the locals and meet the Tharu people as it was to see the rhino and to be close up with an elephant!! (And That tiger that kept in front of our raft to cross the river!!) As an experienced traveler, take my word that you will have a genuinely wild and carefree adventure!!!???
Alison Michell HancockUSA
First Luxuries Jungle Safari Trip to Nepal
Had the most wonderful and life changing experience with Tiger Encounter. I had the wonderful opportunity to meet Mr. Sharma (owner) who had accompanied me as my guide throughout my adventure. They had planned everything so well and truly make you feel like family. Be it every step of the way from jeep safari, jungle walk, canoe ride, trek through the jungle, mountain trek Mr. Sharma is truly amazing guide, photographer and wonderful motivator. It goes without saying that your guide is your doorway to experiencing everything about the beautiful country you visit. Be it food, shopping, adventure or pleasure. I truly loved every moment of my time…and hope to return to this beautiful country with Tiger Encounter to many more adventures and celebrating a wonderful friendship. Hop you all have as amazing adventures and journeys with them. ?
Chithra SashiBahrain
Fantastic from beginning to end
Thank you Tiger Encounter team for another great experience in beautiful Nepal. We had amazing memories in Mt. Everest & Chitwan! We did wildlife safari, jeep safari, bird watching, village tour & cultural program. You are super professional, knowledgeable. Strongly recommend.