![]() Flora and Fauna of Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary has a close proximity with Tibetan Plateau thus the place the experiences a long winter. The coldest month is January and the chilling temperature continues from early November to end February. The entire valley receives heavy snowfall during this period, which is also a major attraction for the tourists. The valley becomes almost inaccessible due to heavy rain. The best time to visit the region is from November to mid June. The Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary covers an area of 43 sq kms. Several hot springs, alpine meadows, lush green forested hills with flowering bushes and high snow peaks are the main tourism attractions here. The entire valley is criss-crossed with several small glacial streams. The sanctuary is known for its unique abundance of Rhododendron trees and bushes. Almost 40 species of rhododendron are found here. Apart from Rhododendron the sanctuary is also rich with a diverse species of primulas, potentillas, gentians, saxifrages and poppies. The April and May sees the entire valley flourishing with a riot of Colour with blooming of these flowers. Shingba Sanctuary is also famous for a large faunal variation. The Serow, Goral, Blood Pheasant, Common Hill Partridge can be named among the many found in the region. The beautiful and highly endangered Spotted Linsang or Tiger-Civet is also found here. Brown Trout, exotic fish specie, was introduced in Yumthang Chu in 1978 and have been flourishing since then. |