Ramayana Trail Pilgrimage

Essential Information for Ramayana Trail Pilgrimage Tour:

A. Must Bring Documents:

1. Recent and Valid Passport:

1. • Ensure that your passport is up-to-date and valid for at least 6 months from your travel date.

2. Passport-Size Color Photos:

1. • Carry passport-size color photographs (typically 4-6 photos) for any required documents, permits, or applications during the tour.

3. Photocopies of Passport and OCI Card or Indian Visa:

1. • Bring photocopies of your passport along with your OCI card or Indian visa (if applicable) for easy reference.

4. Cash-Less Travel and Medical Insurance Policy:

1. • A cash-less travel and medical insurance policy should be arranged prior to departure to ensure safety and coverage during the tour.

5. Health Certificate:

1. • A health certificate from a certified medical professional (as required by the tour organizer) should be presented, confirming that you are fit for travel, especially for any high-altitude or physically demanding areas.

 B. Hotel and Power-Related Matters:

• Basic Infrastructure:
  In some areas, infrastructure may not be as developed as other more urbanized regions. Expect basic facilities, and it is important not to compare the accommodations to those of more developed destinations.
• Water & Power Availability:
  There may be occasional water shortages in some regions, and water supply could be provided only at certain times, typically in the morning and evening.
• Power Outages:
  Some hotels may not have generator facilities. In case of power failure, the hotels will provide candles for lighting.

C. Flight Details:

• Flight Information:Once you have booked your flights, please share your flight details with us immediately. This is crucial for the proper arrangement of your airport pick-up in Kathmandu.
  • Last-Minute Changes:
    If there are any last-minute changes to your flight details, notify us immediately by email.
  • Airport Pick-Up:
    Upon arrival at Kathmandu, look for the Karnali Excursions signboard outside the airport to identify your pickup.

D. Passport and Visa-Related Issues:

• Visa Requirement:All foreign passport holders require a valid visa for India, Nepal, and Sri Lanka. You can obtain this visa by contacting the nearest Indian Embassy or Consulate in your home country.
  • Indian Passport/OCI Card Holders:
    Indian Passport holders or those with an OCI card do not require a visa for India, but they must travel with their valid passport and OCI card.
  • Passport Validity:
    Ensure your passport is valid for at least 8 months beyond your arrival date in India.

E. Remaining Balance:

• The remaining balance for the tour must be paid in USD (US Dollars) or GBP (Sterling Pounds) in cash upon arrival in Kathmandu.
• Cheques:
  Unfortunately, personal cheques are not accepted by Karnali Excursions.

F. Additional Funds:

• Personal Use Funds:We recommend bringing an additional USD 1500 (or GBP 950) per person for personal expenses during the Yatra. This will cover expenses like:
  • Phone calls
  • Mineral water
  • Souvenirs
  • Tips, etc.

G. Travel Insurance – Mandatory:

• Insurance Requirement:All participants must carry cash-less travel insurance that covers the following:

• Emergency rescue(both by air and ground)
• Repatriation
• Tour cancellation
• Medical expenses
• Documentation:Please bringtwo hard copies of the insurance policy, which must contain the policy number and emergency contact details.

• • • One copy should be handed over to our representative upon arrival in Delhi.
    • Keep the second copy with you for your reference during the journey.

H. Preparation, Health, and Medical Related:

• General Health:Although most of the journey will be by vehicle, participants are expected to be in relatively good health. If you have any chronic health conditions, please consult your doctor before departing for India.
• Medical Facilities:Medical facilities will be available throughout the journey, but it’s essential to take personal health precautions.
• Health Preparation:We recommend the following:
  • Exercise regularly and prepare by walking or hiking.
  • Develop a habit of drinking at least three liters of water daily. This will help maintain your health and energy levels during the Yatra.

Karnali Excursions (P) Ltd. will provide a first-aid medical kit for the journey.

K. Karnali Staff:

• Experienced Team:Karnali Excursions employs only experienced professional staff who have successfully led excursions across India, Tibet, and the Nepal Himalayas.
• Guides:Each trip is staffed with an experienced guide who is proficient in English and Hindi, ensuring that communication is smooth and your journey is comfortable and informative.
• Commitment to Quality Service:Karnali Excursions is committed to providing the best and most reliable service, making the Yatra an unforgettable experience.

J. Risk and Liabilities:

• Efforts to Ensure Smooth Journey:While Karnali Excursions will make every effort to ensure a smooth and pleasant journey, there are factors beyond our control that may affect the itinerary.
• Unavoidable Circumstances:Please be aware that Karnali Excursions is not liable for any changes in the itinerary caused by unavoidable circumstances, including but not limited to:

• Government restrictions(including changes in local laws or regulations)
• Landslides, road blockades, or flooding
• Snowfall, political disturbances, flight cancellations
• Illnesses or accidents
• Additional Costs:Any additional costs incurred due to such unforeseen circumstances must be borne by theYatris(participants).

K. Yatra Logistics:

• Airport Pickup and Drop-off:You will be picked up from the airport on your arrival and dropped off at the end of the Yatra. To ensure smooth arrangements, please provide yourflight details well in advance.
• Duffle Bag and Personal Backpack:Every Yatri will receive areasonably sized duffle bag for the duration of the Yatra. This will be provided to you on the evening of your arrival day. In addition, each Yatri should bring a personal backpack/rucksack for carrying valuable personal items and other handy supplies. Please transfer your necessary travel items into the backpack from your main suitcase and make sure to remember your duffle bag number.
• Baggage Storage:Your normalbaggage and suitcase will be safely stored at the hotel in Delhi or another designated location while you are on the Yatra.
• Snacks and Supplies:Ensure you pack somesnacks and essential supplies in your backpack as your duffle bag might be traveling separately with a support vehicle.
• Adapters for Electronics:If you plan to charge any electronic devices during the Yatra,bring an adapter for 220-240 volts. This is necessary for charging your gadgets.
• Wi-Fi and Internet Connectivity:Wi-Fi andInternet connections are available throughout most of the Yatra. You can buy local SIM cards at the airports in India, Nepal, or Sri Lanka. If you prefer to use your home-based phone, please ensure that roaming is activated for India, Nepal, and Sri Lanka.

L. Important Preparation Tips for a Successful and Memorable Yatra:

• Physical Preparation:Consider incorporatinghiking and breathing exercises into your routine before the Yatra. This will help improve your stamina and overall well-being for the journey.
• Stay Hydrated:Make it a habit todrink at least 3 liters of water  Staying hydrated is crucial, especially when traveling through diverse terrains and climates.

Mental and Physical Readiness:
This pilgrimage is a memorable journey that requires both mental focus and physical health. Preparing in advance will ensure you remain energized, healthy, and ready for a truly rewarding experience.

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