Entering into Nepal: The capital city of Nepal, Kathmandu, is linked by air with the major cities of the world and many major air companies operate scheduled flights including Royal Nepal Airline.
BY LAND – China has a linked friendship border with Nepal as does India at Sunauli, Birgunj and Kankaribhitta.
The River System of Nepal
The antecedent system of river drainage partly explains why the rivers of Nepal are good for river rafting and kayaking; they were here before the mighty Himalayas. Instead of rushing straight down the mountains to the plains, they follow a convoluted path, traversing the midland valleys of Nepal. As they traverse the rivers are actively down cutting mighty gorges through the Mahabharat Range. The profile of the Kali Gandaki River provides a typical example of many Nepalese rivers in that the gradient eases off at an altitude of around 1000m (3500ft). This explains why most of the rafting occurs at relatively low altitude.
All Himalayan Rivers are actively down cutting by moving a lot of sediment and boulders along the bottom of the river bed. Hold a paddle shaft to you ear and you may hear it. There are tremendous variations in the volumes of water in the rivers depending on the time of year. Typically the monthly flow in the monsoon will be over ten times the low water flow and the instantaneous highest flow may be 80 times! These are some of the mightiest rivers of the world! That’s why we avoid rafting trips in the rainy season.
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Fitness Level of Participants:
Basic day rafting trips: Take place mainly on low volume flatter water. These rafting trip are quite a bit shorter in the river they descend. There is no specific pre-rafting preparation required for these trips but you should aim to have a reasonable level of general fitness.
Introductory rafting trips: You will descend by raft or be actively involved in an activity for up to six hours per day, excluding some of our relaxed shorter multi-day rafting trip. Some months prior to your rafting you should take some opportunity to do some paddling, although this is not required.
Moderate rafting trips: You will be rafting for 3-5 continuous days (in most trips) six to seven hours per day. Your preparation will be much the same as the introductory trip but should include some harder paddling if possible.
Challenging rafting trips: These trips will involve very high-intensity activity, paddling hard and bouncing through rapids, 6-7 hours per day. It is important to be aware of the physical and mental needs of this type of trip. You will need to be fit and prepared for a high level of fitness as this will increase your enjoyment of the trip.
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About Your Health in Nepal:
Your enjoyment of your time in Nepal will depend a great deal on how healthy you are when you arrive and how healthy you stay during your visit. All of our guides are experienced in dealing with ailments, which is possible to encounter during your tour (although most likely you will not experience anything worse than a mild case of diarrhea). If at any time you feel unwell, let your guide know. Also inform the guide of any medication you are taking and ask his advice before taking any other medication. If you are on a trek, some medication may have different reactions when used at higher altitudes.
Personal hygiene is very important. Wash your hands using disinfectant soap before any meals. Toilet facilities throughout Nepal are usually very basic and toilet paper and soap are not often provided - except in hotels and some restaurants. We erect a 'pit' toilet tent at the campsite during camping trips. We also supply you with rolls of toilet paper.
It is advisable to carry with you a container of "wet-ones" for cleaning hands during the day. The Nepali people generally do not use toilet paper; they use water to wash themselves. Consequently, the left hand is not used for eating or passing things to each other. Worth remembering!!
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Stomach Aches
There is a departure airport tax of Nepalese Rupees 1700.00 per person for all destinations on the all-International flights and .00/person to destinations of SAARC member Countries such as Delhi, Dhaka and Karachi.
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Water
Be very careful about the water you drink. Even some bottled soft drinks can be suspect. Do not drink or clean your teeth with untreated water from the taps or from rivers and streams. The water may look clean and refreshing, but there are many bugs lurking, waiting to catch the unwary traveler. This goes for ice too (best avoided). The water can be treated in a number of ways to make it fit for drinking. Boiling the water vigorously for about five minutes is the best method, but remember at high altitude water boils at a lower temperature and all of the bugs may not be killed. The use of iodine to purify the water is recommended both as an effective and environmentally sound method of treatment. The tablet form is the most effective but you may desire something to give cover the taste of the iodine after (powdered drinks work great for this). The use of bottled water is being discouraged because of the problem with the discarded plastic bottles. We provide you with boiled water for drinking and teeth cleaning. If you are not sure please ask your guide.
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Food
They say that if you can't cook it, boil it or peel it don't eat it. Salads and fruit should be washed in treated water or peeled where possible. Some restaurants advertise the fact that they use treated water in their food preparation. There is no need to become overly concerned but do choose carefully. Normally the food you are served is hygienically prepared and should cause you no problems. You may experience some stomach discomfort until your digestive system gets used to the change in diet. This should last only a few days.
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First Few Nepali words:
namaste - hello/goodbye (most common greeting)
bistarai - slowly:
chitto - quickly:
oraalo - downhill:
ukaalo - uphill:
jaujaum - let's go:
thakailagyo - tired
Additional Information
Bring a photocopy of your passport's main page and visa. We are best contacted by telephone, fax or email once you have an idea in mind on the type of trip you wish to do. We will arrange all the necessary and time consuming details. On confirmation of your booking, we will require a 50% deposit. For your convenience and security, this can be paid into a direct deposit account. Details will be sent when you make your booking with us.
While you need to arrange is:
- Your transport to and from Kathmandu,
- Visa for Nepal
- Your travel/medical insurance (including rescue cover)
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Currencies:
Most major international currencies can be easily converted into Nepali Rupees with the Euros and American dollars perhaps being the most popular currencies. There is an exchange booth at the international airport. Also most major hotels have money-changing facilities and there are a number of official money-changers in the cities and larger towns.
You may want to shop around for the best exchange rate on the day, but remember to check the commission they charge. Traveler’s cheques can be difficult to change outside of large centers. Watch out for unofficial money changers and keep a record of the money you change as you will be required to produce your receipts if you want to change Rupees back to hard currency on leaving Nepal. Your guide can advise you on money changing facilities available while on the trip. Visa and credit cards can withdraw cash from some banks. It is important to check the holidays and festivals as these day banks are closed (problem if you arrive on a holiday or festival time and require money). Moneychangers do not offer ATM’s.
Banks are generally open from Monday to Friday, 10 am – 3.30 pm except on Government holidays and festivals. Official money changers are open seven days a week, have longer opening hours than banks and process is often quicker than at banks, but check on the commission charged as some don’t charge any. Most major hotels offer money changing services as well. Further details of banking timings are given on the Currency hard copy page. Credit cards can be used in many business places but do not rely on being able to use them everywhere. There can be a great variation in the minimum purchase amount allowed. There are now many ATM machines that you can withdraw money from at most banks as well as on the streets.
Nepali currency is rupee with bank notes of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 25, 50, 100, 500 and 1000 rupees. There are also coins with the values of 1, 2, 4, 25, and 50. It can be very difficult to change the larger denomination notes especially away from the main centers. Always have some small denomination notes for taxi drivers, traders, etc. as they are often unable to give change if you offer large notes. On a trip organized by us, you will require money for items of a personal nature, souvenirs and tips. This avoids the need to carry large sums of money with you. At the end of a trip, or each segment where a different crew is used, 1-2 Euros per day is collected from each participant. This money is pooled and divided amongst the crew as their bonus and presented by you at the end of the trip –a time of great singing and dancing.
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Airport Departure Tax:
There is a departure airport tax of Nepalese Rupees 1700.00 per person for all international destinations excluding destinations to SAARC member flights such as Delhi, Dhaka and Karachi.
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Customs
All baggage must be identified and has to pass through customs inspection at the port of entry or departure.
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Language
Nepali is the official language of Nepal. English is understood & spoken by the majority of people involved in the tourism related business. Once outside of Kathmandu Nepal has over 26 different spoken dialects as each community often speak their own language (lucky you have a guide with you who understands the local language)
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Cultural Considerations:
Nepal is a country in culture and tradition. As a visitor, it is important that you respect the rights and beliefs of the local people and that you minimize your impact both culturally and environmentally.
The Nepali people are a friendly and proud people who will thank you for saying something positive about their country. Always remember that life for many of the people in Nepal is extremely hard, they have very few material possessions and there is little or no alternative to doing things the hard way. Nevertheless, you will find many of their qualities put the western ‘developed’ world to shame. The influx of visitors to Nepal is bound to have an impact on the country. In the cities and larger villages where tourist are frequently seen, you will find the locals to be more aware of the western ways and in some cases will have picked up on the less favorable attributes. Of course, being in a totally different culture, you can expect to make some mistakes and most of the locals will make allowances for this. It is, however appreciated when visitors make a genuine effort to observe local customs.
Let Nepal change you – not you to change Nepal!
It has to be remembered that Nepal is home to the Nepali people. Their lifestyle and conditions dictate that much of their living is conducted in open view of everyone.
Bathing often has to take place at a communal tap out in the open. Most doors and windows in the homes are invariably open. Visitors should respect the privacy of the local people by “not seeing” these activities. Avoid looking into the homes as you pass by and do not enter a home unless invited to do so, be sensitive when using your camera, and avoid making judgmental comments based on western cultural norms.
Avoid public displays of affection –it is rare and frowned upon to see couples of the opposite sex holding hands. You will, however, see Nepali men walk hand –in –hand or with an arm around each other as is customary in many Asian countries it is a sign of good friendship and does not have the same connotations as it may have in most western societies.
Nepali people will usually greet you by placing their hands together in front of the face and bowing slightly while saying the familiar greeting “Namaste” or the more respectful form “Namaskar”. It would be customary for you to reply in same manner.
If you are unsure, let the local Nepali person take the lead and follow their example.
- Nepali people avoid exposing too much of their body in public and it would be appropriate for tourist to observe this custom by wearing suitable clothing. It is not suitable for women to wear shorts, short skirts or brief tops.
- Shorts are acceptable for men when walking but going around without a shirt or top is not. Nudity is definitely not acceptable. It is considered extremely bad manners to raise your voice to or shout at a person. Nepali people do not like offending and can be easily embarrassed by your reactions. However, in the larger centers frequented by many tourists and where some of the locals have become more ‘western –wise’ in their attitudes, you may find a difference in the way you are treated. Remember that patience is a virtue and that you may be on the receiving end of what are, after all, introduced changes.
- Some Hindu temples are not open to non-Hindus. Please ask for permission before entering.
- Giving money to street beggars or the village children is discouraged.
Nepal is 5hrs 45 minutes ahead of GMT, 4hrs 30minutes behind Australian standard time, 10hrs 30 minutes ahead of American Eastern times, 3hrs ahead of Japan and 4hrs 30 minutes ahead of French.
Climate:
The climate of Nepal varies from area to area depending upon your altitude. Visiting Nepal is possible throughout the year, but activities like mountain flights, Jungle safari, rafting and trekking are best through October to May. It is very difficult to predict mountain weather, especially the Himalayas, (we use to say fashion in Paris and weather in the Himalayas are same) meaning weather can be change any time without notice. In any season at any altitudes above 3000m, night temperatures can drop to - 0ºC and may cause high altitude passes to be closed and treks to be rerouted.
Maximum and Minimum Temperatures
(In degrees Celsius; * rainy season)
|
Jan |
Feb |
Mar |
Apr |
May |
Jun |
Jul |
Aug |
Sep |
Oct |
Nov |
Dec |
KTM |
19-2 |
20-4 |
25-8 |
30-11 |
30-16 |
30-20* |
30-21* |
29-20* |
27-19 |
23-15 |
23-4 |
20-2 |
Pokhara |
20-8 |
21-8 |
27-11 |
30-16 |
30-20* |
30-20* |
30-21* |
30-21* |
29-20* |
27-18 |
23-11 |
20-8 |
Chitwan |
24-7 |
26-8 |
33-12 |
35-18 |
35-20 |
35-23* |
33-23* |
33-24* |
32-22* |
31-18 |
29-12 |
24-8 |
Clothing:
Warm cloths are required from mid October through February. Once mid-February comes the weather is warmer and tropical wear from March to September is suitable. However as stated before the climate can change drastically depending on where you are and this will need to be taken into consideration.
Electricity:
220volts Ac-50 cycles.
Visa Regulations:
Visas will be issued by Nepalese Embassies abroad or can be obtained on arrival on Kathmandu airport. To obtain a visa, tourists need to fill out a visa application form and provide 2 Passport size photographs.
A Tourist may stay in Nepal up to 150 days in a visa year (January- December)
Visa Fees: For those visitors who are entering into Nepal first time in a visa year:
Single Entry Visa: US$30 or any other equivalent convertible foreign currency for 60 days.
Multiple Entry Visa: US$ 50 or any other equivalent convertible foreign currency for 60 days
Visa Fees for those who are entering into Nepal second time and thereafter within the same visa year
Single Entry Visa: US$ 50 or any other equivalent convertible foreign currency for 30 days
Double Entry Visa: US$ 75 or any other equivalent convertible foreign currency per month.
Multiple Entry Visas: US$ 110 or any other equivalent convertible foreign currency.
Sample Packing List for Rafting (autumn and spring day trips):
- T-shirt (or long sleeves and collar if it you need sun protection)
- Shorts (or loose, light cotton trousers for sun protection)
- Sports sandals or old trainers,
- Light Thermal top,
- Woolen socks, (in case it gets cold)
- Light nylon waterproof jacket, (…and wet/windy)
- Swimsuit,
- Sun hat with brim,
- Sunglasses (plastic lenses are safer) and tie,
- Suntan cream (high factor)
- Personal water bottle,
- Some small amount of Money (for cold drinks and perhaps tips to Staffs)
- Towel and a complete warm Change of clothes,
- Shoes (for the return drive and camp wear).
- In addition, for camping trip:
- Sleeping bag,
- Washing kit,
- Light sweater or thermal tops for camp wear extra Shorts and shirts,
- Flashlight or headlamp.
- Optional extras:
- Reading and writing materials,
- Personal medications,
- Camera and film Binoculars,
- Pocket -knife,
- Walkman and tapes.
Additional gear for winter trips:
- Extra thermal tops,
- Thermal long trousers,
- Light nylon waterproof trousers,
- Wet suit boots or thick pair woolen socks,
- Warm trousers and warm jacket (Pile, pelt or down)
Optional equipment:
- Camera +different lenses + film or memory cards for digital Camera
- Lens cleaning equipment
- Perhaps altimeter and binoculars
Other Services:
In additions to river rafting we organize trekking, mountaineering, peak climbing, expeditions, jungle safari, air ticketing, hotel reservation, sight seeing, mountain flight etc.
Inclusions...Once you arrived in Kathmandu almost everything for trip is included.
- Accommodation in good hotels on a B/B basis when in cities
- Two people tents.
- Sleeping bags and mattress
- All meals on trip prepared by our local staff
- All transportation/transfers
- Domestic flights where specified are in the itinerary
- One of highly experienced local guide
- Porters to carry your gear where it's necessary
- basic First Aid Kit
- Entrance Permits and National park fees
- Farewell Dinner, if there is overseas booking groups
Exclusions...Travel Insurance, Emergency Airlift evacuate personnel medical, meals in Kathmandu, airport taxes and tips.
Liability:
For your kind information’s, Raft ‘n Rivers (P) Ltd. Act only as agent for carriers, transportation companies, with hotel and all other contractors. As such, this company is not responsible for any loss, damages, accidents, and change of schedule or any other irregularity nature caused or arising from circumstances beyond its control.
