Tiger and Temple Tour

Essential Information for Tiger and Temple Tour

A. Must-Bring Documents

• Valid passport (recent, with at least 6 months validity)
  • Passport-size color photographs
  • Photocopies of your passport (recommended for hotel registration and checkpoints)
  • Cashless travel and medical insurance policy
  • Required health certificate (if applicable, depending on home-country regulations)

B. Hotel and Power-Related Matters

The Tiger and Temple Tour includes both wildlife regions and heritage cities. Please note:
• Hotels near wildlife reserves may have limited hot water and occasional power interruptions.
• In some lodges, water may be supplied only during certain hours.
• Not all jungle lodges have full generator backup—candles or backup lights will be provided during outages.
• Wi-Fi may be available but can vary in speed and reliability, especially near national parks.

We request that guests maintain realistic expectations in remote wildlife areas.

C. Flight Details

• Send your arrival and departure flight details as soon as you book your tour.
  • If there are any last-minute schedule changes, kindly inform us immediately via email.
  • Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, look for the Karnali Excursions signboardheld by our representative.

D. Passport and Visa-Related Information

• All foreign nationals must have a valid passport with at least6 months validity.
  • Nepal visas can be obtained from your nearest Nepal Embassy/Consulate oron arrival at Kathmandu Airport.
  • More information about visa fees and requirements is available on Nepal Immigration’s website.

E. Remaining Balance

• The remaining balance (if applicable) should be paidin USD or GBP (cash)upon arrival in Kathmandu.
  • Personal cheques are not accepted.

F. Additional Funds

• Please bring approximatelyUSD 800–1000or GBP 600–800 per person for personal expenses:
  – Extra meals or beverages
  – Laundry services at hotels
  – Snacks, mineral water, and soft drinks
  – Tips for guides, naturalists, drivers
  – Souvenirs, handicrafts, local purchases
  – Optional jungle activities not included in the itinerary

ATMs are available in cities, but may be limited in wildlife zones.

G. Travel Insurance – Mandatory

All participants must carry cashless travel insurance that includes:
• Emergency medical treatment
• Air or ground evacuation (especially important for wildlife zones)
• Repatriation
• Tour cancellation or interruption
• Loss or delay of luggage

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

H. Health and Medical Preparation

The Tiger and Temple Tour involves light walking in heritage sites and nature excursions in wildlife regions. Travelers should:
• Be generally healthy and fit for short jungle walks and safari activities.
• Consult a doctor if you have chronic medical conditions.
• Carry personal medications and prescriptions.
• Use sunscreen, insect repellent, and hydration salts.
• Drink at least 2–3 liters of water daily, especially in the warmer lowland regions.

Karnali Excursions provides a basic first-aid kit; medical posts are available in all major towns.

I. Karnali Staff

Karnali Excursions employs skilled staff with expertise in both cultural and wildlife tourism.
• Every group will be accompanied by a professional, English- and Hindi-speaking guide.
• At national parks, licensed naturalists and safari experts will accompany guests.
• Our drivers are experienced in both city and jungle terrains.

The team ensures safety, comfort, and a rich learning experience.

J. Risk and Liabilities

Karnali Excursions will make every effort to deliver a smooth and enjoyable tour. However:
• All programs in Nepal are subject to local regulations.
• The company is not responsible for disruptions caused by:
– Sudden weather changes
– Road closures or construction
– Wildlife movement or park restrictions
– Government regulations
– Political events or strikes
– Flight delays or cancellations

Any additional expenses resulting from such events are the responsibility of participants.

K. Tour Logistics

• Airport Pickup/Drop-off:Provided by Karnali Excursions. Please send flight details in advance.
  • Luggage: Store your main baggage at the Kathmandu hotel and carry valuables in your daypack.
  • Transportation: Comfortable private vehicles will be used for city tours and travel to wildlife regions.
  • Safari Arrangements: All jungle activities—jeep safaris, canoe rides, nature walks—will be coordinated with the national park authorities.
  • Power Adapters: Nepal uses 220–240 volts; bring adapters for Type C, D, or M plugs.
  • Communication:
  – Wi-Fi available in hotels; may be weaker in wildlife areas.
  – Local SIM card (NTC/Ncell) can be purchased at the airport.
  – International roaming works but may be costly.

L. Important Preparation Tips for a Successful Tiger and Temple Tour

• Wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for both city touring and jungle paths.
  • Drink plenty of water each day.
  • Carry a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect from sun exposure.
  • Dress modestly when visiting temples and heritage sites.
  • For wildlife excursions, wear neutral-colored clothing (avoid bright colors).
  • Follow park rules strictly—never approach wildlife or leave designated paths.
  • Maintain a respectful attitude toward local culture, people, and religious places.

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