Kathmandu Day Tours

Essential Information for Kathmandu Day Tour

A. Must-Bring Documents

• Valid passport (most recent, with at least 6 months remaining validity)
  • Passport-size color photographs
  • Photocopies of your passport (recommended for internal checkpoints)
  • Cashless travel and medical insurance policy
  • Any required health certificate (depending on home-country regulations)

B. Hotel and Power-Related Matters

Kathmandu Valley has well-developed tourism infrastructure, yet occasional disruptions can occur:
• Some hotels may experience temporary shortages of hot water or limited water-supply hours.
• Scheduled or unscheduled power cuts may occur—most standard hotels have backup systems, but not all.
• In places without generators, candles or backup lights will be provided.
• Internet/Wi-Fi is widely available but may vary in speed.

Travelers are kindly requested to maintain realistic expectations, especially in heritage areas or older hotels.

C. Remaining Balance

• The remaining tour balance (if applicable) must be paidin USD or GBP (cash)upon arrival in Kathmandu.
  • Please note that personal cheques are not accepted.

D. Additional Funds

• We recommend carrying approximatelyUSD 800–1000or GBP 600–800 per person for personal expenses such as:
  – Meals not included in the package
  – Entry fees to cultural heritage sites
  – Mineral water, snacks, tea/coffee
  – Tips for guides and drivers
  – Souvenirs and optional activities
  • Credit cards are accepted in many establishments, but ATMs may sometimes be unreliable.

E. Travel Insurance – Mandatory

All participants must have cashless travel insurance that includes:
• Emergency medical treatment
• Evacuation (air or ground)
• Repatriation services
• Trip cancellation or interruption
• Loss or damage of luggage

Please bring two printed copies of your insurance policy with emergency contact details.

F. Health and Medical Preparation

While the Kathmandu Day Tour does not involve strenuous trekking, travellers should still maintain good health:
• Consult your doctor if you have chronic medical conditions.
• Carry personal medications and any required prescriptions.
• Kathmandu medical facilities are widely available, and a first-aid kit is provided by Karnali Excursions.
• Stay hydrated, especially when touring heritage sites and walking around the city.

Light walks and breathing exercises before the trip are recommended to enhance comfort during daily excursions.

G. Karnali Staff

Karnali Excursions employs only experienced, licensed professionals with decades of expertise in Nepal’s cultural and heritage tours.
• Every group will be accompanied by a knowledgeable, English- and Hindi-speaking guide.
• Our guides are trained in Nepalese history, culture, Buddhism, Hinduism, UNESCO heritage sites, and local etiquette.
• Drivers are experienced and familiar with Kathmandu’s traffic and safety protocols.

H. Risk and Liabilities

Karnali Excursions will make every effort to ensure smooth travel arrangements. However, please note:
• All tours in Nepal are subject to local rules and regulations.
• We are not responsible for disruptions caused by:
– Government restrictions
– Road closures
– Political events or strikes
– Earthquakes or natural disasters
– Flight delays or cancellations
– Lost or damaged luggage
• Any additional expense arising from such circumstances will be borne by the participants.

I. Tour Logistics

• Airport Pickup/Drop-off:Provided by Karnali Excursions. Please share your flight schedule in advance.
  • Luggage: For convenience, travelers may leave larger luggage at the hotel. Carry valuables in your personal daypack at all times.
  • Transportation: All sightseeing will be conducted using private, comfortable vehicles.
  • Power Adapters: Nepal uses 220–240 volts. Bring appropriate plug adapters (Type C, D, or M).
  • Communication:
  – Wi-Fi is available in most hotels and restaurants.
  – Local SIM cards (NTC or Ncell) can be purchased at the airport with your passport.
  – International roaming works but may be expensive.

J. Important Preparation Tips for a Successful Kathmandu Tour

• Wear comfortable walking shoes, as cultural tours involve extensive walking.
  • Keep a reusable water bottle and drink 2–3 liters of water daily.
  • Dress modestly when visiting temples, monasteries, and heritage sites.
  • Respect local customs—always remove shoes in sacred spaces.
  • Stay mentally prepared for crowds, especially in popular sites such as Durbar Squares and Boudhanath.
  • A positive attitude, patience, and cultural sensitivity will enhance your experience of Nepal’s living heritage.

Trip Preparation Guide
Nature & Culture Travel Experiences in Nepal

By Karnali Excursions

(Applicable to: Lumbini Tour, Red Panda Tour, Tiger & Temple Tour, Bird Watching Tours, Wildlife Safari Tours, Multi-Adventure Tours, Kathmandu Day & Half-Day Tours)

Introduction: Welcome to Nepal

Nepal is a land of extraordinary diversity, where sacred heritage sites, subtropical forests, wetlands, grasslands, and Himalayan foothills coexist within a compact geographical space. Karnali Excursions designs nature and culture itineraries that are immersive, ethical, and thoughtfully paced, allowing travelers to experience Nepal’s wildlife, spiritual landmarks, and living traditions with comfort and insight.

This guide provides essential pre-departure and on-arrival information to help you prepare for a smooth, safe, and enriching journey.

1. Nepal Visa Information

Most international travelers can obtain a Tourist Visa on Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu.

Visa Requirements:

• Passport valid for at least 6 months
• At least one blank page
• Passport-size photograph
• Visa fee payable in cash (USD preferred)

Visa Options:

• 15 Days
• 30 Days
• 90 Days

Travelers may also apply online in advance through Nepal’s official immigration portal to speed up airport procedures. Entry regulations may change, so we advise checking official government updates shortly before departure.

You can obtain a visa from your nearest Nepal Embassy or Consulate, or upon arrival at Kathmandu Airport. For more details, visit Nepal Immigration.

1. Department of Immigration, Government of Nepal – main portal for visa information & online services
https://www.immigration.gov.np/

2. Online Visa Application Portal (Official)
https://nepaliport.immigration.gov.np/
(Used for pre-arrival tourist visa forms)

2. Entry & Arrival in Nepal

• Arrival airport: Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM)
• Karnali Excursions representatives will meet guests for pre-arranged airport transfers
• Most tours begin in Kathmandu Valley, unless otherwise specified

3. Health & Travel Insurance

Comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended for all travelers and mandatory for multi-day adventure programs.

Insurance should cover:

• Medical treatment and hospitalization
• Emergency evacuation (especially for wildlife or remote areas)
• Trip interruption or cancellation
• Loss of baggage and personal belongings

4. Physical Requirements & Activity Levels

Nature and culture tours are non-technical and suitable for most travelers.

Activity Levels by Tour Type:

• Cultural Tours (Kathmandu, Lumbini): Easy walking, city sightseeing
• Wildlife Safaris: Jeep safaris, short nature walks, boat rides
• Bird Watching Tours: Gentle walking, early mornings
• Red Panda Exploration: Moderate hiking in forested hills
• Multi-Adventure Tours: Rafting, walking, and short trekking (e.g. Poon Hill)

No prior trekking or wildlife experience is required unless specified.

5. Accommodation Overview

Accommodation varies by destination and itinerary:

• Kathmandu / Pokhara / Lumbini: 3–5 star hotels or heritage boutique hotels
• National Parks & Wildlife Reserves: Eco-lodges and jungle resorts
• Hill Regions (Ilam, Sandakpur): Comfortable lodges or guesthouses
• Short Treks: Tea-house lodges

Accommodation is generally twin-sharing, with single supplements available.

6. Transportation in Nepal

• Private tourist vehicles for sightseeing
• Domestic flights where applicable
• 4WD jeeps for wildlife safaris
• Boats (Koshi Tappu, Chitwan)
• Rafting equipment and certified river guides for adventure tours

Road conditions may vary due to terrain and weather; flexible timing is essential.

7. Food & Dietary Needs

Nepal offers a diverse cuisine influenced by Himalayan, Indian, and Tibetan traditions.

• Meals are provided according to itinerary
• Vegetarian, vegan, and special dietary needs can be accommodated with advance notice
• Bottled or purified drinking water is recommended

8. Climate & Best Travel Seasons

• Spring (Mar–May): Flowers, wildlife activity, pleasant temperatures
• Autumn (Sep–Nov): Clear skies, ideal for culture and nature
• Winter (Dec–Feb): Mild in lowlands, cooler in hill regions
• Monsoon (Jun–Aug): Lush landscapes, fewer crowds, excellent birding in wetlands

9. Packing Essentials

Recommended items include:

• Comfortable walking shoes
• Light jacket or fleece
• Rain protection (especially during monsoon)
• Sun hat, sunglasses, sunscreen
• Binoculars (for wildlife and birding tours)
• Camera with zoom lens
• Reusable water bottle
• Personal medications
• Power bank and universal adapter

10. Wildlife & Nature Ethics

Karnali Excursions follows responsible tourism principles:

• No wildlife disturbance or feeding
• Maintain silence during safaris and birding
• Respect park regulations and guides’ instructions
• Photography without flash in sensitive areas

11. Cultural Etiquette

• Greet locals with “Namaste”
• Dress modestly at temples and monasteries
• Remove shoes before entering religious sites
• Ask permission before photographing people
• Walk clockwise around stupas and shrines

12. Safety & Local Support

• All tours are led by trained local guides
• Wildlife safaris are conducted with licensed naturalists
• Emergency support is coordinated through Karnali Excursions’ Kathmandu office
• Medical facilities are available in major cities and park headquarters

13. Currency & Practical Information

• Local currency: Nepalese Rupee (NPR)
• ATMs widely available in cities; limited in remote areas
• Credit cards accepted in hotels and major restaurants
• Carry small denominations for tips and local purchases

14. Responsible & Sustainable Travel

Your journey supports:

• Community-based tourism
• Conservation of wildlife habitats
• Local employment and heritage preservation

Final Note

Nepal is not only a destination—it is an experience of living culture, sacred landscapes, and remarkable biodiversity. With thoughtful preparation and the guidance of Karnali Excursions, your nature and cultural journey will be enriching, comfortable, and deeply memorable.

Recommended Readings

Fixed Departure Dates