Nestled along the Pangolakha Range in Sikkim, Pangolakha Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the newest sanctuaries of the state. It was established in the year 1999.

Flora
Vegetation covers: ideal alpine-temperate-subtropical forest with patches of bamboo vegetation.
Trees and plant species: silver fir, oak, juniper, rhododendron and oak.

Fauna
Flagship species: Red Panda (Sikkim’s State animal)
Other species: Yellow-throated Marten, Asiatic Black Bear, Red Fox, Hoary Bellied Squirrel, Himalayan striped squirrel, Takin, etc
According to a recent survey there are about 300 red pandas in the Pangolakha and Neora National Parks.

Avian Fauna
Kalij Pheasant, Chestnut-crowned Laughing thrush, Oriental Honey Buzzard, White-browed Fulvetta, Blood Pheasant, Red-tailed Minla, Whiskered Yuhina, Brown Dipper, Dark-rumped Rosefinch, Rusty-flanked Treecreeper, Bay Woodpecker, Speckled Wood Pigeon, etc.

Getting there
The nearest airport and bus terminal are at Gangtok. From Gangtok the tourists can hire buses or private vehicles and reach Pangolakha sanctuary through Jelepla Pass. The length of total journey is approximately 57 km and it takes about 1.5 hours drive.

Tourist Information
Pangolakha Wildlife Sanctuary, with its rough and uneven topography, is an ideal site for trekkers. Trekkers are always advised to wear strong trekking shoes with proper grips and comfortable clothes while trekking. Bird watching and nature trail are popular activities here. There are some hamlets located within the sanctuary, namely Phadamchen, Aritar, Zuluk, Kupup, Lingtam and Gnathang valley.

Staying option within the park is very scanty. Quality accommodation can be availed at different hotels, guest houses and resorts in Gangtok. Home stay facilities are also available.

Additional Information
Location: Pangolakha Wildlife Sanctuary, East Sikkim, Sikkim.
Area: 128 sq km
Best visiting time: October to November (preferably)
Elevation: 1760-4390m above sea level.

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