LOCAL LANGUAGE
Local language is Nepali, however there is numerous cast languages which are still used across Nepal. English is spoke by many Nepali people working in tourist areas where you will also find signage in English.
LOCAL CURRENCY
The local currency is Nepalese’s Rupee or US dollar. Best to use Rupee for small cost items such as taxi’s and food. US Dollar is usually used to pay for larger items such as tours or expensive accommodation.
ATMs are easy to find in tourist locations of Kathmandu and Pokhara, however you will not find them in small towns, villages, during the river journey’s or many local areas of the cities. You will develop an understanding with your local ATM machines as you may need to try a few before you are successful, but don’t worry, locals and travellers alike all play this ATM game
Local language is Nepali, however there is numerous cast languages which are still used across Nepal. English is spoke by many Nepali people working in tourist areas where you will also find signage in English.
LOCAL CURRENCY
The local currency is Nepalese’s Rupee or US dollar. Best to use Rupee for small cost items such as taxi’s and food. US Dollar is usually used to pay for larger items such as tours or expensive accommodation.
ATMs are easy to find in tourist locations of Kathmandu and Pokhara, however you will not find them in small towns, villages, during the river journey’s or many local areas of the cities. You will develop an understanding with your local ATM machines as you may need to try a few before you are successful, but don’t worry, locals and travellers alike all play this ATM game
WHERE TO MEET IN NEPAL - POKHARA
You will need to arrange travel to Pokhara, Nepal. We will be based at the Rapid Runner office in Centerpoint, Lakeside, Pokhara (altitude 827m), which is situated on the banks of Fewa Lake with views of the Annapurna Range, Himalayas.
Pokhara is Nepal’s second biggest city, although its hard to notice this once you are settled in its main tourist centre of Lakeside. Traveller friendly with many locals speaking English at some level, western and local dinning and loads of little shops. It is often easy to find all those little things you might need on just the main street. Pokhara operates at a relaxed pace, with easy access to day activities, great view and friendly people.
We will arrange your transfers from Pokhara Airport or Tourist Bus Station. So please remember to email your arrival details.
KATHMANDU – NEPAL’S CAPITAL (All international flights land here)
Kathmandu is the international airport which you will need to fly into from your respective countries. From here you can catch a local flight, which departs regularly to Pokhara or catch a taxi into town and explore the city.
If you wish to visit Kathmandu we suggest visiting before your return flight rather than upon arrival, as it’s a great last minute shopping location and good to have a day or two spare in case of any travel issues which can happen in Nepal.
The main tourist centre (like a suburb) is Thamel. If its your first time to Nepal we recommend staying in Thamel as this area is use to tourism and many locals speak English. It will be easy for you to find accommodation, places to eat, and transport. In non tourist places of Kathmandu most people will only speak Nepali, and your accommodation options may become very limited.
GETTING FROM THE INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT TO KATHMANDU:
1. Taxi, you will find many taxi/drivers at the front of the airport. (1000rp approximately, but the driver will most likely ask you for more as you have just arrived)
2. Arrange a private driver/tour guide for your time in Kathmandu. They will meet you with a sign out the front of the airport and you will already have an agreed price. The Paddle Nepal offie or your Kathmandu hotel can help you arrange this.
Note: Kathmandu airport is relatively small compared with airports you may be use to. Most signs are in Nepali and English, which will be very helpful to you. Many of the staff at the airport will have basic to advanced English language skills.
GETTING FROM KATHMANDU TO POKHARA
So here is your first challenge. If you find it a bit daunting don’t worry, I am going to give you numerous options and information!
1. FLY - Regular connecting flights depart Kathmandu through out the day and it is by far the easiest way to get to Pokhara. You should be able to connect your international flight with a local flight on the same day. Flights are 1 hour duration however flight in Nepal are not the most reliable due to weather.
2. Tourist Bus (recommended) – Departs at 7am in the morning, which will mean that you will probably need to stay a night in a hotel in Kathmandu. If its your first time to Nepal, easiest to book a hotel online, write the address down and bring that with you to Nepal so that you can show the tax driver at the airport. In Thamel you will be able to find a taxi or rickshaw (guy riding a bike where you sit in the back) to take you from your hotel to the Tourist bus centre. Get your hotel to book you a seat on a tourist bus (There are many companies, all off which depart around the same time from the same location. The hotel will sort it out for you, just make sure you have a receipt). You will have your own seat and many have air-conditioning (a luxury in Nepal). Approx. cost $10 - $25 (1000rp - 2500rp) depending on the bus company. Road transport is the most reliable transport in Nepal. 8 hour duration.
3. Local Buses and mini buses– If you have travelled in Nepal or developing countries and feel comfortable with this transport. You may have someone on your lap, or a chicken, no air-conditioning and fast driving. Approx. cost is $6-$10 depending on baggage (600rp-1000rp). 7 hours duration.
4. Private Car – This can be arranged through our office and is very cost effective if you are travelling in a small group. Prices range from $150 to $250 USD depending on the size of the car and if you wish to have air-conditioning.
You will need to arrange travel to Pokhara, Nepal. We will be based at the Rapid Runner office in Centerpoint, Lakeside, Pokhara (altitude 827m), which is situated on the banks of Fewa Lake with views of the Annapurna Range, Himalayas.
Pokhara is Nepal’s second biggest city, although its hard to notice this once you are settled in its main tourist centre of Lakeside. Traveller friendly with many locals speaking English at some level, western and local dinning and loads of little shops. It is often easy to find all those little things you might need on just the main street. Pokhara operates at a relaxed pace, with easy access to day activities, great view and friendly people.
We will arrange your transfers from Pokhara Airport or Tourist Bus Station. So please remember to email your arrival details.
KATHMANDU – NEPAL’S CAPITAL (All international flights land here)
Kathmandu is the international airport which you will need to fly into from your respective countries. From here you can catch a local flight, which departs regularly to Pokhara or catch a taxi into town and explore the city.
If you wish to visit Kathmandu we suggest visiting before your return flight rather than upon arrival, as it’s a great last minute shopping location and good to have a day or two spare in case of any travel issues which can happen in Nepal.
The main tourist centre (like a suburb) is Thamel. If its your first time to Nepal we recommend staying in Thamel as this area is use to tourism and many locals speak English. It will be easy for you to find accommodation, places to eat, and transport. In non tourist places of Kathmandu most people will only speak Nepali, and your accommodation options may become very limited.
GETTING FROM THE INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT TO KATHMANDU:
1. Taxi, you will find many taxi/drivers at the front of the airport. (1000rp approximately, but the driver will most likely ask you for more as you have just arrived)
2. Arrange a private driver/tour guide for your time in Kathmandu. They will meet you with a sign out the front of the airport and you will already have an agreed price. The Paddle Nepal offie or your Kathmandu hotel can help you arrange this.
Note: Kathmandu airport is relatively small compared with airports you may be use to. Most signs are in Nepali and English, which will be very helpful to you. Many of the staff at the airport will have basic to advanced English language skills.
GETTING FROM KATHMANDU TO POKHARA
So here is your first challenge. If you find it a bit daunting don’t worry, I am going to give you numerous options and information!
1. FLY - Regular connecting flights depart Kathmandu through out the day and it is by far the easiest way to get to Pokhara. You should be able to connect your international flight with a local flight on the same day. Flights are 1 hour duration however flight in Nepal are not the most reliable due to weather.
2. Tourist Bus (recommended) – Departs at 7am in the morning, which will mean that you will probably need to stay a night in a hotel in Kathmandu. If its your first time to Nepal, easiest to book a hotel online, write the address down and bring that with you to Nepal so that you can show the tax driver at the airport. In Thamel you will be able to find a taxi or rickshaw (guy riding a bike where you sit in the back) to take you from your hotel to the Tourist bus centre. Get your hotel to book you a seat on a tourist bus (There are many companies, all off which depart around the same time from the same location. The hotel will sort it out for you, just make sure you have a receipt). You will have your own seat and many have air-conditioning (a luxury in Nepal). Approx. cost $10 - $25 (1000rp - 2500rp) depending on the bus company. Road transport is the most reliable transport in Nepal. 8 hour duration.
3. Local Buses and mini buses– If you have travelled in Nepal or developing countries and feel comfortable with this transport. You may have someone on your lap, or a chicken, no air-conditioning and fast driving. Approx. cost is $6-$10 depending on baggage (600rp-1000rp). 7 hours duration.
4. Private Car – This can be arranged through our office and is very cost effective if you are travelling in a small group. Prices range from $150 to $250 USD depending on the size of the car and if you wish to have air-conditioning.
VISAS
Many nationalities are able to purchase a tourist visa upon arrival and a few will need to apply for visas online. You will need US Dollars in cash, as there may not be a working ATM between your plane and immigration so make sure you have cash on you when you arrive.
For more information and visa costs depending on the amount of time you would like to spend in Nepal please visit: http://www.nepalimmigration.gov.np, then click on Visa Info which is located below the header photo. Make sure you check the dates on the visa stamp, as lost in translation moments can occur and will become problematic if its to do with visas.
Generally this is a very easy affair. You jump off the plane, follow the crowd, tell the immigration office you would like a tourist visa and how long you would like a visa for. They may ask you what you are doing in Nepal for conversation purposes and just let them know you are on a paddling holiday with Paddle Nepal in Pokhara. They will stamp your passport and take the amount in US Dollars (cash) and then you will move onto collect your bags and discover Nepal.
Many nationalities are able to purchase a tourist visa upon arrival and a few will need to apply for visas online. You will need US Dollars in cash, as there may not be a working ATM between your plane and immigration so make sure you have cash on you when you arrive.
For more information and visa costs depending on the amount of time you would like to spend in Nepal please visit: http://www.nepalimmigration.gov.np, then click on Visa Info which is located below the header photo. Make sure you check the dates on the visa stamp, as lost in translation moments can occur and will become problematic if its to do with visas.
Generally this is a very easy affair. You jump off the plane, follow the crowd, tell the immigration office you would like a tourist visa and how long you would like a visa for. They may ask you what you are doing in Nepal for conversation purposes and just let them know you are on a paddling holiday with Paddle Nepal in Pokhara. They will stamp your passport and take the amount in US Dollars (cash) and then you will move onto collect your bags and discover Nepal.
IMMUNISATIONS AND MEDICATIONS
Please check with your local travel doctor regarding immunisations. If you require medication, please bring enough for your entire trip.
KEEPING YOUR VALUABLES SAFE
Please do not bring your passport and credit cards on the river. We are able to keep them safe in our office.
Please check with your local travel doctor regarding immunisations. If you require medication, please bring enough for your entire trip.
KEEPING YOUR VALUABLES SAFE
Please do not bring your passport and credit cards on the river. We are able to keep them safe in our office.
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THINGS TO PACK · Sleeping bag (We can lend you a sleeping bag, however its much nice to have your own).. · Sleeping mat (We provide a foam mat for sleeping but due to the length of the trip we recommend to bring a lightweight inflatable mat if you have one. You can also purchase one for about $25 locally if you would like however quality is not amazing.) · River shoes · Shoes for in camp – something that packs small such as Vollys. (We have the occasional scorpion) · Head torch (with AA or AAA batteries as the battery selection may be limited locally) · Waterproof camera · Thermal, top and bottoms · Swim wear, rashi, and board shorts · Long sleeve clothes, and pants for evening · Warm jumper · Towel (small one for the river, larger one for hotel accommodation) · Clothes for camp (long pants and long sleave shirts for bug protection) · Hat and sunglasses · Clothing for in town Things you can purchase in Pokhara or bring from home · Toiletries · Repellent and Sunscreen |
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CLOTHING - On and off the river and for being culturally sensitive.
To be culturally sensitive: For women to be fully respectful it is best to wear long pants/skirts (at least below your knees), and shoulders covered. When you are in the tourist areas of Pokhara or Kathmandu many travellers will wear all sorts of clothing, and you may find wearing a singlet ok (I wear this occasionally, but not to my local families home), but please do not wear short skirts, really short shorts, or bikini tops around town, you will draw unwanted attention to yourself. Gentlemen please wear a shirt when you are in town.
On River - We provide you a wet suit and a splash top, if you have a dry top you can bring that, but no need to go and buy one. We recommend you bring a thermal layer or two for the river as an extra. Please bring your own river shoes. The instructors/guides work with foreign guests daily and are respectful and understanding of western clothing. However both to respect the culture of the guides and the locals who many come and visit us, please be considerate. Sunbaking in a tiny bikini is not the goal of the trip, we recommend to wear at least a rashi on the river (also for sun protection) and longer board shorts (its not comfy to paddle with short, short shorts anyway.
To be culturally sensitive: For women to be fully respectful it is best to wear long pants/skirts (at least below your knees), and shoulders covered. When you are in the tourist areas of Pokhara or Kathmandu many travellers will wear all sorts of clothing, and you may find wearing a singlet ok (I wear this occasionally, but not to my local families home), but please do not wear short skirts, really short shorts, or bikini tops around town, you will draw unwanted attention to yourself. Gentlemen please wear a shirt when you are in town.
On River - We provide you a wet suit and a splash top, if you have a dry top you can bring that, but no need to go and buy one. We recommend you bring a thermal layer or two for the river as an extra. Please bring your own river shoes. The instructors/guides work with foreign guests daily and are respectful and understanding of western clothing. However both to respect the culture of the guides and the locals who many come and visit us, please be considerate. Sunbaking in a tiny bikini is not the goal of the trip, we recommend to wear at least a rashi on the river (also for sun protection) and longer board shorts (its not comfy to paddle with short, short shorts anyway.
WEATHER & WATER TEMPERATURE
Dry Season – March to May
Most of our trips operate in this season and is perfect for exploring all the rivers of Nepal.
Wet Season – June to September
We do not operate paddle trips between June and September due to high water levels.
Dry Season – October to November
Fantastic season fro trips! Clear sky's, beautiful mountain views, great water levels.
Winter - Dec to Feb
We avoid running paddling trips in January due to the cold. Early December has warmer days and cooler nights.
Discounted off peak trips December to Mid March.
Nepali varies widely in climates due to altitude and due to the length of our rivers we can find temperature differenced from the start to the finish of a river journey. Every month has different benefits and challenges in regards to weather, temperatures, and river levels.
The Lower Seti river has a thermal input which will makes the river a great temperature for role practice. No its not like a heated pool, but it is comfortable for swimming and rolling your kayak. All the other rivers come from the mountains so can be rather fresh, but you will appreciate this between April and November where air temperatures are warm. April to October air temperatures can be quiet hot and our guests are often found swimming at camp.
Dry Season – March to May
Most of our trips operate in this season and is perfect for exploring all the rivers of Nepal.
Wet Season – June to September
We do not operate paddle trips between June and September due to high water levels.
Dry Season – October to November
Fantastic season fro trips! Clear sky's, beautiful mountain views, great water levels.
Winter - Dec to Feb
We avoid running paddling trips in January due to the cold. Early December has warmer days and cooler nights.
Discounted off peak trips December to Mid March.
Nepali varies widely in climates due to altitude and due to the length of our rivers we can find temperature differenced from the start to the finish of a river journey. Every month has different benefits and challenges in regards to weather, temperatures, and river levels.
The Lower Seti river has a thermal input which will makes the river a great temperature for role practice. No its not like a heated pool, but it is comfortable for swimming and rolling your kayak. All the other rivers come from the mountains so can be rather fresh, but you will appreciate this between April and November where air temperatures are warm. April to October air temperatures can be quiet hot and our guests are often found swimming at camp.
BARTERING
Yes
· Taxi
· Clothes
· Equipment
· Fruit and veg at the little stalls or markets
No
· Food
· Drinks and alcohol
· Supermarket items
· Tourist bus and local bus
Situation Dependent
· Local bus with longer trips (especially when you take a kayak!)
· Tours – depends on the company
· Services (such as massage) - Depending on the establishment.
TIPPING LOCAL ESTABLISHMENTS
Tipping is much appreciated for guides and meals. Some establishments will have a surcharge and then there is no need to tip.
TIPPING JOIN ADVENTURES NEPALI CREW
If you feel that our crew did a great job, you are invited but not obligated to offer a personal tip. All tips to Join Adventures crew will be shared amongst the Nepali team. It is the whole team that makes our trips possible so we make sure we include everyone from the junior who makes tea in the morning to the Trip Leader who makes it all happen.
Yes
· Taxi
· Clothes
· Equipment
· Fruit and veg at the little stalls or markets
No
· Food
· Drinks and alcohol
· Supermarket items
· Tourist bus and local bus
Situation Dependent
· Local bus with longer trips (especially when you take a kayak!)
· Tours – depends on the company
· Services (such as massage) - Depending on the establishment.
TIPPING LOCAL ESTABLISHMENTS
Tipping is much appreciated for guides and meals. Some establishments will have a surcharge and then there is no need to tip.
TIPPING JOIN ADVENTURES NEPALI CREW
If you feel that our crew did a great job, you are invited but not obligated to offer a personal tip. All tips to Join Adventures crew will be shared amongst the Nepali team. It is the whole team that makes our trips possible so we make sure we include everyone from the junior who makes tea in the morning to the Trip Leader who makes it all happen.
WATER
Drinking from the tap is not recommended. You can buy bottes water in most places, however to be considerate to the environment please consider using filtered water (available to purchase at some locations in Pokhara and free at our office). You can also treat your water with a treatment such as iodine, chlorine, aqua tabs, or mircopure. I recommend bringing some from home although iodine and sometimes chlorine can be bought locally. We treat our water on the river.
Drinking from the tap is not recommended. You can buy bottes water in most places, however to be considerate to the environment please consider using filtered water (available to purchase at some locations in Pokhara and free at our office). You can also treat your water with a treatment such as iodine, chlorine, aqua tabs, or mircopure. I recommend bringing some from home although iodine and sometimes chlorine can be bought locally. We treat our water on the river.
ELECTRICITY AND CHARGERS
Electricity come in block times for some areas that do have electricity, and many areas do not have electricity at all. Your accommodation will have electricity in block times, which will allow you to charge your phones/cameras. You will need an adaptor. Nepalese sockets take plugs with two round prong, I recommend purchasing and international adaptor, which will allow you to adapt for multiple countries (great for transit airports too).
INTERNET – Is slow and unreliable, bring patience for internet speeds
Electricity come in block times for some areas that do have electricity, and many areas do not have electricity at all. Your accommodation will have electricity in block times, which will allow you to charge your phones/cameras. You will need an adaptor. Nepalese sockets take plugs with two round prong, I recommend purchasing and international adaptor, which will allow you to adapt for multiple countries (great for transit airports too).
INTERNET – Is slow and unreliable, bring patience for internet speeds
- Local internet kiosk
- Wifi in many restaurants in Lakeside, Pokhara and Thamel, Kathmandu
- WiFi is available for participants in our office.
TOILETS
Squat toilets are the traditional use toilets in Nepal. Western restaurants and most tourist accommodation will have western toilets. In Nepal it is traditional not to use toilet paper, and to use your left hand. Please do not place toilet paper in any toilet (including western toilets) most places that service travellers will have a bin provided for toilet paper. It is suggested you carry a pack of tissues with you if your would like to use toilet paper as it in not often provided. You can buy tissues and toilet paper from local shops.
Squat toilets are the traditional use toilets in Nepal. Western restaurants and most tourist accommodation will have western toilets. In Nepal it is traditional not to use toilet paper, and to use your left hand. Please do not place toilet paper in any toilet (including western toilets) most places that service travellers will have a bin provided for toilet paper. It is suggested you carry a pack of tissues with you if your would like to use toilet paper as it in not often provided. You can buy tissues and toilet paper from local shops.
SUPPLIES ON THE RIVER
Along you may at some camps be able to purchase items such as beer and chocolate from locals who kindly hike the items in and bring them down to the river at some campsites.
LOCAL SERVICES and things to do in Pokhara
· Shops for basic food items, batteries, toiletries, clothes.
· Many places to eat
· Massage
· Shopping for clothes or many other items
· Day walks
· Day paddle on the lake
· Viewing locations of Annapurna Range, Himalayas (taxi or hike)
You will receive more information in your welcome pack upon your arrival.
SUPPLIES ON THE RIVER
Along you may at some camps be able to purchase items such as beer and chocolate from locals who kindly hike the items in and bring them down to the river at some campsites.
LOCAL SERVICES and things to do in Pokhara
· Shops for basic food items, batteries, toiletries, clothes.
· Many places to eat
· Massage
· Shopping for clothes or many other items
· Day walks
· Day paddle on the lake
· Viewing locations of Annapurna Range, Himalayas (taxi or hike)
You will receive more information in your welcome pack upon your arrival.
ADDITIONAL TOURS / TREKKING / ADVENTURES
If you are interested other aspects of Nepal and would like suggestions, please feel free to email Laura anytime.
If you are interested other aspects of Nepal and would like suggestions, please feel free to email Laura anytime.
Join Adventure Nepal expeditions are operated by Rapid Runner Expeditions PVT LTD
