Red Panda Tour

Essential Information Related to Red Panda Tour:

A. Must-Bring Documents:
• Valid passport (most recent)
• Passport-size color photos
• Photocopies of your valid passport
• Cashless travel and medical insurance policy
• Health certificate (required)

B. Hotel and Power-Related Matters:
Please note that the infrastructure in certain areas may not be as developed as in other destinations. Expect occasional shortages of water and power, with water available only at specific times. Some hotels may not have generator facilities, but candles will be provided during power failures.

C. Flight Details:
Kindly send us your flight details immediately after booking. Any last-minute changes should be communicated promptly via email to ensure timely airport pickup in Kathmandu. Look for the Karnali Excursions signboard upon arrival.

D. Passport and Visa-Related Information:
Foreign passport holders must have a valid visa for Nepal (at least 8 months). You can obtain this from your nearest Nepal Embassy or Consulate, or upon arrival at Kathmandu Airport. For more details, visit Nepal Immigration.

E. Remaining Balance:
The remaining balance should be paid in USD or GBP (cash) upon arrival in Kathmandu. Unfortunately, personal cheques are not accepted.

F. Additional Funds:
Please plan to bring approximately USD 1000 or GBP 800 per person for personal expenses, such as phone calls, mineral water, souvenirs, tips, etc.

G. Travel Insurance – Mandatory:
All participants must carry cashless travel insurance that covers emergency rescue (both air and ground), repatriation, tour cancellation, and medical expenses. Bring two hard copies of your insurance policy with the policy number and emergency contact details.

H. Health and Medical Preparation:
While most of the trip will be by vehicle, all participants must be in good health. If you have chronic health conditions, consult with your doctor before departure. Medical facilities will be available throughout the journey, and a first aid kit will be provided. Regular exercise and staying hydrated (at least 3 liters of water daily) will help you stay in good shape during the Trekking.

I. Karnali Staff:
Karnali Excursions employs only experienced professional staff with years of successful leadership in India, Tibet, and Nepal’s Himalayan regions. Every group will have an experienced guide fluent in English and Hindi to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.

J. Risk and Liabilities:
While Karnali Excursions will make every effort to ensure your journey is smooth and pleasant, please understand that all programs in Nepal are governed by local regulations. We are not responsible for any changes due to unforeseen circumstances, such as government restrictions, landslides, road blockages, flooding, snowfall, political disturbances, or accidents. Any additional costs incurred due to such circumstances will be the responsibility of the participants.

K. Travel Logistics:
• Airport Pickup/Drop-off: You will be picked up and dropped off at the airport. Please provide your flight details in advance.
• Luggage: You will be provided a duffle bag for the duration of the trek. Store your main baggage at the hotel. Ensure your personal valuables are in your rucksack.
• Supplies: Bring snacks and minimal supplies in your rucksack for convenience.
• Power Adapters: Bring a suitable adapter for 220-240 volts for electronic devices.
• Communication: Wi-Fi is available throughout the Trek. You can buy a local e/SIM card at the airport or use your home-based cell phone (ensure international roaming is activated).

L. Important Preparation Tips for a Successful Trek:
• Practice hiking and breathing exercises to enhance your endurance.
• Maintain a healthy habit of drinking at least 3 liters of water per day.
• Stay mentally focused and physically prepared for the journey of a lifetime.

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

Several western and local Nepalese authors have written significantly important guide books on Nepal’s flora and faunas. This reading list has been created for your enjoyment and information on Nepalese reality, history, culture, flora and faunas.

Fixed Departure Dates