International Institute of Field Studies
444 Mountain Street, Hinton, Alberta, T7V 1K2, CANADA
HIMALAYAN FIELD STUDY PROGRAM (HFSP) – NEPAL
A Program of the
International Institute of Field Studies (IIFS)
in collaboration with
The International Center for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD),
Kathmandu, Nepal.
PROGRAM HANDBOOK
Prepared by
Sharad C. Karmacharya, Ph.D.
Program Coordinator
International Institute of Field Studies
(For the use of participants only. Not to be copied or circulated)
Himalayan Field Study Program in NEPAL
A program of the
International Institute of Field Studies
in collaboration with the
International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development
1. Group size:
2. Duration:
3. Cost:
4. Program includes:
5. Program does not include:
6. Places to visit in Nepal:
7. Program:
Maximum of 20 including leaders.
May 2 - 23 (excluding international travel time).
$4,900 Cdn. (possible bursary of up to $300
available for students taking this course for
credit and writing a paper).
Air travel from major Canadian cities; all
ground transportation in Nepal; 2 days of
rafting; 3 days in wildlife resort; 5 days of
trekking; academic program and field visits;
hotel accommodation; all meals.
Visa fee; airport taxes; telephone/fax/email; any
personal expenses (including
medical/medicine); alcoholic drinks and
beverages, etc.
Kathmandu, Patan, Bhaktapur, Nagarkot, Royal
Chitwan Nationa Park, Lumbini (birth place of
Lord Buddha), Palpa/Tansen, Pokhara, trekking
in the Annapurna region, Manakamana.
The program includes 10 days of academic
program in Kathmandu and 13 days of field trip.
a. Academic part: Kathmandu
b. Trekking (Annapurna conservation area)
c. Wildlife viewing (Royan Chitwan
National Park)
d. Rafting (Trisuli river)
e. Sight-seeing (temple, monasteries,
sacred/historical sites)
f. Visit government, NGO and Canadian
project offices and field sites.
For registration and detailed information, write/call/e-mail to:
Sharad C. Karmacharya Ph.D.
Program Coordinator, IIFS
444 Mountain Street, Hinton, Alberta T7V 1K2 CANADA
Telephone: (780) 817-3239 E-mail: sharad.iifs@shaw.ca or himalayan.iifs@shaw.ca
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ABOUT THE PROGRAM
Introduction
The International Institute of Field Studies (IIFS), in collaboration with the International
Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD), is offering an environmental
field study program in Nepal.
The main focus of the program is the study and experience of environmental,
developmental, ecological and cultural issues of the Himalayan region of Nepal. The
academic component of the program is conducted through a series of seminars,
workshops and discussions with international experts and assistance from local experts.
Activities include visits to the Institute of Forestry, and other governmental and NGO
field activities such as a biogas project, community forestry, watershed management and
environmental management. Other activities include trekking in the Annapurna region,
rafting on the Trisuli river, an elephant ride to watch wildlife (rhino, tiger, deer) in
Chitwan National Park, trip to view Mt. Everest, and visits to temples, monasteries,
palaces and other historical international heritage sites.
This program is designed for environmental studies students, but it is open to everyone
such as teachers, environmentalists, development aid workers and others interested in
Himalayan environmental issues. Participants must be in good health, and be open to a
variety of cross-cultural experiences.
The HFSP is sponsored by IIFS in collaboration with the ICIMOD, a regional
international non-governmental organization (INGO) which has its headquarters in
Kathmandu, Nepal and will be conducted in the Kingdom of Nepal under the direction
and supervision of Dr. Sharad C. Karmacharya, President of International Institute of
Field Studies, and an expert in forestry science and environmental economics.
The Himalayas
Stretching over 2500 kilometres, the Himalayas constitute on of the most complex
ecological and cultural system in the World. The Himalayan region, broadly defined,
provides the life-support base for some 50 millions mountain people and an estimated
400 million people in the plain.
Politically, the Himalayas include Nepal and Bhutan, parts of China, Pakistan and
Bangladesh, the border region of northern Myanmar and Thailand, and many diverse
parts of India. In the past 30 years, unprecedented political tensions have beset most of
the Himalayan region, resulting in a large-scale military presence in many areas, putting
special pressures on the ecology of the mountain massif.
Culturally, the Himalayas are a region traversed by three of the major linguistic, racial
and cultural dividing lines of Asia. In some parts there is predominance of Tibetan
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Buddhism culture; in others, Hindu, Nepali and Indian culture; and in still others a
splattering of Islam and Christianity. These cultures “meet, combine, and collide in the
nooks and crannies of the world’s highest mountain mass, creating not so much
boundary, border, or buffer, as a zipper which stitches together these densely textured
cultural fabrics.” In addition, for centuries, the Himalayas – real or mythic – have held a
special sway on the minds and imagination of the people: they are part of the “Sacred
geography”, a “landscape of the imagination”, the “abode of Gods” and the “origin and
fountainhead of spiritual and poetic fulfillment.” The Himalayas are thus an integral part
of the cultural and spiritual heritage of millions of people on the Indian subcontinent.
Focus of the HFSP
The focus of the HFSP is the Himalayan Kingdom of Nepal. Its emphasis is on “field
observation.” Hence, all participants are encouraged to do the following:
1. To observe with a variety of people – children, women, officials, doctors, nurses,
etc.– life in its various facets; often the various organizers of the Program will act
as interpreters and translators.
2. To observe the state of the environment – forest, agriculture fields, sanitation
conditions, water supplies, use of energy, etc. – and make notes to be shared with
each other and at informal seminars and meetings that are regularly organized for
this purpose.
3. To learn about tourism and its social and environmental impacts.
4. To learn about health care systems, family planning programs, childcare schemes
and needs, etc.
5. To learn about various development projects, such as road construction,
television, cinema, radio and tourism.
6. To understand the social and political pressures on young people for migration to
the lowlands.
7. To learn about various environmental or development movements at grass-root
levels.
8. To observe the architecture and construction materials of various structures on the
way and their relationship to geography and other conditions.
The program is directed and supervised by Sharad Karmacharya, Ph.D., and assisted by
another co-leader. Both the Program Coordinator and Co-leader will lead the Group for
the entire duration of the Program.
Participants in the Program are selected on the basis of their academic and intellectual
accomplishments, cultural and social adaptability, physical fitness, commitment to
learning about the developing countries and willingness to travel in a Group.
Logistics of the Program
HFSP is conducted in the central Himalayas, in the Kingdom of Nepal. The area of study
is environment, development and human ecology of the Himalayas. All travel and other
arrangements for the group are made by IIFS, in consultation with ICIMOD, Tourism
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Nepal, Forest Department, National Parks and Wildlife Department, and the Canadian
Cooperation Office. When ever possible, a number of scientists, environmental groups,
government officials, foresters, teachers, journalists, healthcare workers and politicians
will be invited to meet with the participants in the program to share their views and life
experiences, and to lead field visits to specific sites and projects.
The Group will under take trekking and hiking trips in the Annapurna range at heights of
up to 3,000 metres. The trips are on well-travelled routes. No “mountain climbing” is
involved and no special skills are needed. At no stage is anything undertaken that can be
considered dangerous or risky. The Group is accompanied by the course coordinator and
an associate of the Program, as well as by a leader employed by reputable trekking
company who is familiar with the geology, physical geography and life in the region.
The trek leader will also act as a translator and interpreter. Most of the ground travelling
of the Group will be in a specially hired bus. The trekking company is a private agency
in Kathmandu, especially licensed by the government; it also arranges all the meals,
overnight stays in tents and transportation of all the baggage during trekking.
About the Coordinators and Associates of the Program
Sharad Karmacharya, Ph.D.
Dr. Karmacharya, a Canadian and native of Nepal, has completed advanced studies in
forestry, environmental economics and community development from American
Universities, and operates a consulting practice. He has extensive experience in forestry
and the environment. He has, among others, undertaken several projects for UNDP,
FAO, CIDA, the World Bank, the Nepalese Government and several private firms in
Canada.
J. G. Campbell, Ph.D. and ICIMOD team of Experts
Dr. Campbell is the Director General of the International Centre for integrated Mountain
Development (ICIMOD), a regional international NGO based in Kathmandu, Nepal ,
with focus on mountain ecology of the entire Hindu-Kush Himalayan region. ICIMOD is
governed by an international board of directors and supported by the governments of
countries in the region and countries in Europe and North America. Dr. Campbell has
decades of experience in Nepal and the region, heads a staff of professional experts from
ICIMOD in various aspects of mountain ecology. Dr. Campbell and the following
experts from ICIMOD will provide academic support for the Program: Prof. Li Tianchi
(Mountain Risk Engineering); Dr. Duresh Raj Chalise (Mountain Natural Resources);
Suraj B. Thapa, Farm manager, Godavari; and Dr. Ya Tang (Agroforestry and soil
conservation).
Mr. Narayan Poudel
Mr. Poudel, Deputy Director General, Department of National Parks and wildlife
conservation, will provide support and deliver a talk program on “History of National
parks and wildlife management in Nepal and community forestry in wildlife
management.”
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Dr. Narayan Khadga
Dr. Khadga, former Chief Advisor to the Prime Minister and VC of Planning
Commission, will deliver a talk program on “Politics, Development and Environment in
Nepal.”
Mr. Krishna Bahadur Shrestha
Chief Community Forestry, Department of Forest, will deliver a talk program on History
and the present status of Community Forestry Development program in Nepal.
Dr. Madhav P. Ghimire
Joint Secretary, Foreign Aid Division, Ministry of Finance, will deliver a talk program in
Environment and Foreign aid in Nepal.
Mr. Kapil Chitrakar
Executive Director, C-FORD
C-FORD is a forestry consulting form based at Kathmandu.
Dr. Binod Bhatta
Forestry and environmental education in Nepal.
The presenter for the following talk program is yet to be determined:
 Health and family planning
 Eco-tourism
 Hinduism/Buddhism and nature
And from representative of the following organizations.
 WWF
 FAO of United Nations
 NGOs
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PPEPARING FOR THE TRIP
All HFSP participants are expected to act in a manner that does not, in any way, hamper
the harmonious functioning of the Program or interfere in the life and pursuits of anyone
else in the Group. Specially, the following Code of Ethics shall be adhered to:
1. No participants will engage in excessive drinking of alcoholic beverages that may
lead to undisciplined behaviour.
2. No participant will consume, buy, sell, exchange or ship any illegal drugs at any
time while in the country.
3. All participants are expected to dress appropriately and in a manner that is not
immodest, shabby or dishevelled.
4. All participants are expected to be punctual and regular for various academic,
social and other engagements. To make a habit of keeping others waiting or not
keeping an appointment will be regarded as undisciplined behaviour.
5. All participants are expected to contribute to various activities of the Program.
It should be noted that in the past all Groups have worked harmoniously and with great
enthusiasm, a sense of cooperation and good will.
Preparing for the Trip
1. Documents to bring: A passport is essential. An International Certificate of
Vaccination should be kept with your passport at all times. See below for more
details. Student or youth hostel cards may help you get occasional discounts.
2. Passport: All foreigners require a valid passport to travel to Nepal, and if you
plan to include Tibet, Bhutan, or India, to those countries as well. The passport
must be valid for at least for two months after the trip is to end. Make two
photocopies of the first page of your passport (the page with passport number,
picture and other relevant information). Keep one copy at your home in Canada,
and give the other to a coordinator of the Program. All information in this page is
crucial in the event of loss of a passport.
3. Obtaining a passport: If you don’t have a passport, or if yours has expired, you
can obtain an application form at any Post Office. For a Canadian passport, you
need to include two recent photographs, proof of citizenship, the signature of a
guarantor (both on the form and on one photo), and the fee (currently $60).
4. Visa for Nepal: In order to enter Nepal, a visa is required. The fee for the visa
depends on the length of stay. Nepal has a consulate office in Toronto (Mr.
Kundar Dixit, Honorary Consul) where a visa can be obtained (Tel: [416] 4841838) but a visa can also be obtained at the Tribhuban International Airport upon
arrival. The visa form can also be obtained from the International Institute of
Field Studies office. It is the responsibility of each participant to obtain the visa.
You will need two small photographs. (A few copies of additional photographs
may come in handy.) If you are planning to extend your trip to India you will
have to obtain a visa in Canada itself. Indian consulates are located in Ottawa,
Toronto and Vancouver.
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5. Immunization: Before leaving Canada you should ensure that you have been
vaccinated against common tropical illnesses.
6. Medical Insurance: All HFSP participants must make their own arrangements
for medical and health insurance during the Program. Blue Cross offers one such
plan. You may find it worthwhile to make enquiries regarding this with your
present insurance company. Travel Cuts offers travel insurance with medical
coverage and may be worth looking into. Call around a number of travel agents
who can give you an idea of the types of travel insurance available, their coverage
and cost. Blue Cross has a toll-free number: 1-800-688-6262.
7. Property Insurance: All participants must make their own individual
arrangements for insuring valuable belongings (camera, laptop computer, tape
recorder, etc.). Sometimes these items could be attached as a “rider” on your
home insurance policy with an additional premium. Judging from past
experiences, having such insurance save a lot of unhappiness in case of loss,
damage or theft.
8. Luggage: On international flights you are allowed two pieces of luggage and one
piece that can be carried on board, provided it fits in the overhead compartment or
under the seat in front of you. (Check the maximum dimensions and weight
allowed by the airlines.) All of your luggage must have a name and address tag
on it. It would be advisable to have one inside as well. This very important step
should be taken before leaving the country. High value items should be declared
upon entry in Nepal. If they are imported items which look new, you should carry
a receipt for purchase to avoid headaches at Canadian Customs.
9. Clothing: In summer months, most of southern and central Nepal gets quite hot,
and in some places extremely hot. So bring light clothing for the hot days.
However, the Himalayas have a very different climate from the lowlands. At the
height of 1,500 m (about 5,000 ft.) or more it is never very hot. In fact in the
evening it gets quite chilly. June to August is the rainy season, when there can be
heavy rains for many hours. The program ends before the rainy season
(monsoon) starts, but during the month of May occasional pre-monsoon rains are
quite common. So, having a raingear can be very helpful. Since we trek up to the
height of 3,000 metres, it can be very cold at night, possibly with temperatures of
5 degrees Celsius. So be prepared. In view of all these weather conditions, in
addition to usual personal clothing your travel clothing should include a sweater
or pullover, shorts, long skirt/dresses (for women), a light jacket and a warmer
jacket (ski jacket), swimwear, walking/hiking shoes, a bush hat or baseball hat, a
boy-scout whistle, a mask against dust, and some semi-formal clothing for special
occasions. As far as possible, clothes should be washable drip-dry. For
emergency washing, a bar of soap would be useful. Take along fairly tough
clothes. Dress well and modestly. In general, women participants should avoid
too much revealing clothing. During trekking, shorts and sleeveless shirts are
generally acceptable. In towns, women are advised to keep their upper arms,
chest and back covered at all time. By paying close attention to local standards of
dress, many problems can be minimized. When invited for dinner or tea,
participants are advised not to be dressed too casually, or in a dishevelled manner.
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Please always take your shoes off before entering any temple, Stupa, monastery
and private home unless instructed otherwise.
10. Other Items: Tents, sleeping bags, mats for sleeping on, spoons, forks and other
utensils will all be provided while camping during trekking and rafting. Other
personal items to bring: towels; soap; wash cloths; toothbrush and toothpaste;
toilet paper and/or tissue; shaving set; items of feminine hygiene for women;
insect repellent; sun blocks; water bottle with water purification apparatus or
medications; flashlight with extra batteries; plastic sandwich boxes of the
Tupperware variety; Ziploc bags; first aid kit; altimeter, compass, binoculars (all
optional); large plastic bag for protecting camera, clothing, and other valuables;
and snow goggles/sunglasses. During trekking all baggage will be carried by
porters; all meals will be cooked by cooks; guidance will be rendered by the
Guides; and tents are pitched at campsites by the camping crew. If you don’t
wish to share a tent provided by the organizer, you would need to pack your own
tent which should be able to withstand fairly cold weather and windy conditions.
When trekking, you carry only those items that you may need for 5-6 hours of
trekking (e.g., camera, film rolls, toilet paper, journal, reading material, water and
special food items, first aid kit, etc.) – this all should not weigh more than 6 – 8
lbs. ( 3-4 kg). When not trekking, we will have our chartered bus. Again, you
will not be carrying baggage yourself.
In view of the above, a backpack would be most convenient (consider the type
that has zip-away or hideaway straps). A small bag for your passport, air ticket,
cash, traveller’s cheques and other valuables, with plastic bags to keep them dry
and organized, is strongly advised. Before you leave, reinforce your backpack to
prevent having to do repairs on the road. Treat it with waterproofing material
such as Scotchguard for water repellency. Bring along a repair kit containing
safety pins, a sewing kit, and rope or string for emergencies or use as a
clothesline. It is also a good idea to bring along few large garbage bags. You can
easily slip your pack into one of the garbage bags, protecting it from moisture.
Overall, if you think in terms of what one would take on a one or two week
camping trip to Jasper National Park in Alberta or Algonquin Park in Ontario, you
are probably on the right track.
11. Health Concerns:
1. Shots: To travel in Nepal or any other tropical country, you need certain
vaccinations. Travel clinics can advise you as to which vaccinations are
recommended and at what intervals before travel they should be taken.
2. Meningococcal meningitis: This shot requires one injection about 4/6
weeks before departure.
3. Typhoid fever: Two injections are required about 4 weeks apart. If you
are in a hurry they can be taken as soon as 2 weeks apart, but this is not
recommended.
4. Hepatitis A: One injection shortly before travelling.
5. Malaria: Malaria tablets could be obtained by prescription. They are
essential. Instructions for use are provided with the tablets. (Other
precautions, such as use of mosquito netting or insect repellent are also
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6.
7.
8.
9.
advisable.) However, the Himalayan region we will be travelling in is a
relatively low-risk area for malaria.
Avoiding dirty needles: A kit of sterile needles and other medical
supplies designed to minimize risk of infection for travellers in Third
World countries would be helpful. Each participant is also advised to
have the following information available: blood type, any health
problems, any allergies or reactions to any drugs, name of your family
doctor in Canada, medical insurance number, etc.
First aid kit: A basic first aid kit should include: Band-aids, gauze pads,
cotton bandage, sterile dressing, adhesive tape, antiseptic and burn creams,
a low reading thermometer, scissors and tweezers.
Medical kit: You may never need it, but you are advised to take along
medication for headaches, a general course of antibiotics, a solution to
cure severe gastro problems, moleskins (for blisters), UV and blockout
(sunburn) cream, lip seal and heat rub for aching limbs. (Refer to:
Medicine for Mountaineering, ed. James Wilkerson. Publisher:
Mountaineers, Washington, DC.)
Sickness prevention: While trekking, it is very important that certain
precautions be taken at all times. These are:
a. DON’T DRINK WATER from the streams, however “clear” the
water may appear. You must use your water purifier all the time,
without fail. Bottled water is generally available along the
trekking routes but one back-up plan to access pure water is
strongly recommended.
b. WASH YOUR HANDS thoroughly before each meal, and wash
you body every day to counter prickly heat or skin infection
(during treks, bathing might not be possible).
c. DONT PUT YOUR FOOD (bread, cookies, etc.) on any surface
before eating.
12. Some common problems:
a. Gastroenteritis: Gastro problems are the main concerns for travellers in
Nepal, and particularly for trekkers. Since we will have good deal of
control on our food on the treks, we are likely to safeguard ourselves quite
well. However, if you should get diarrhea, don’t panic – it happens to
almost everyone. Usually bowel movements normalize within 24 hours,
and diarrhea should subside within a few days. Remember to keep up
fluids, rest sufficiently on the trek and take medicine such as codeine for
stomach cramps.
b. Altitude sickness: This occurs when a trekker ascends too quickly
beyond altitudes of 3000-3500 metres without adequate time for
acclimatization. Since our trekking involves only low altitude (below
3000 metres), we should not experience this problem.
c. Keeping healthy: Before visiting the Himalayas, a thorough medical
check-up is advisable. This is your personal responsibility and should be
done without fail. People with a history of chest pain, asthma, bronchial
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or heart problems are advised not to apply for this Program. A visit to the
dentist is also recommended before departure.
d. Having made the decision to go to the Himalayas, GET FIT! Jogging,
swimming, cycling – in fact any regular exercise is a good preparation.
Begin your program of regular exercise at least three months before
departure. The fitter you are, the more you will enjoy the Himalayas. It is
also equally important to approach the Himalayas with a sound and
tolerant attitude. Health instructions will be provided at various points
during the trip. Please follow them closely. You have a social
responsibility to remain healthy. If you are sick you will hold back the
entire Group.
13. Some general notes on health when travelling in Nepal:
a. Glasses and contact lenses: Owing to the dust and heat in Nepal, you’d
be better off with glasses if you currently wear contacts. It is also hard to
keep the lenses clean, and saline solution isn’t fun to cart around. If you
do wear glasses, carry two pair in case the one you wear gets broken or
lost. Also bring your lens prescription.
b. Health suggestions: Keep in mind that the most common illnesses you
might encounter are those transmitted through water. Hence, DO NOT
DRINK ANY WATER (restaurants included) unless you know it has
been boiled for 20 minutes or treated with tablets. The same holds true
when you brush your teeth and when taking a shower. Carry with you a
spare bottle with you and fill it with known clean water whenever
possible. Portable water purifies are also available in Thermos form (e.g.,
Water Tech water purifier – it is a device the size of a drinking glass
which contains a purifying resin that destroys bacteria, viruses and
parasites when water is poured through it. Each unit is good for 500 litres
of water, or 3300 fillings). (Note: This device has been found to be very
useful on the past trips. It is small and portable, two very important
considerations for a field trip. Many participants have used the device in
the past at a number of streams and water resources without any
detrimental effects. IIFS however does not endorse it in any way.)
c. It is absolutely essential that every participant has some safe water
purifying system at all times and no water is consumed at any stage
without the use of this system. The only alternative to this is bottled water
which costs 50 cents to a dollar. As you travel away from the town or city
centres, bottled water gets more expensive. If you drink pop, don’t drink
anything that does not look like it was bottled properly, as it may have
been put together in a backyard operation. Don’t drink straight out of the
bottles of pop or juice. Use a straw.
d. Avoid ice and ice cream. They are particularly notorious for infecting
unsuspecting travellers. It may seem tempting to indulge in something
cold, but a lot of nasties can survive low temperatures. If everything looks
suspicious, go for HOT TEA.
e. Don’t eat pre-sliced fruit sold by street hawkers. Thick-skinned fruits
(oranges, bananas) are good bets, as they are naturally pre-packaged.
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f. Be sure to bring a hat (or cap), sunglasses (polarized and ultraviolet [UV]
lenses are recommended) and suntan lotion.
g. Bring thick woolly socks. Shoes are forbidden in temples and stupas, but
socks are allowed.
h. Many travellers recommend multi-vitamin pills to supplement your diet,
and suggest increasing your protein intake (eggs, peanuts, etc.) if you find
yourself somewhat tired. IF YOU FEEL EXTREMELY TIRED, REST!
i. Lactobacilus Acidophilus (or Yogurt) capsules are very useful to
increase the number of lactic bacteria in your stomach and make you a
little more resistant to changes in diet. It is a good idea to start taking
these capsules at least once a day six weeks before starting the trip. They
can be obtained at any good health or natural food store.
j. Power Bars: Some travellers have found these and similar food items
very useful and energizing on trekking trips. Some participants may also
like to carry with them their favourite snacks, like peanut butter,
chocolate, raisins, nuts, almonds, cashews and other such items. Such
things are not available on trekking routes in the Himalayas, and you do
get very hungry when trekking.
k. Medical check-up on return: Make an appointment with your doctor for
a complete medical check-up, especially for stomach bacteria, etc. upon
your return from your trip.
l. Shoes/Boots: It is highly recommended to have a pair of comfortable
walking, hiking and trekking shoes/boots. To bring with you new shoes
with not much experience is not a very good idea. New shoes should be
tried out enough to make sure they are comfortable. Blisters are very
common during trekking. One way to avoid them is to have comfortable
shoes. Make sure you have something for blister if you get one.
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TRAVEL INFORMATION
Time
Nepal is 5 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) or 10 hours ahead of Eastern
standard time in Canada. This means that 8 PM in Toronto or Ottawa is 6 AM next day
in Nepal or when it is 5 PM in Vancouver it is 6 AM next day in Nepal.
Electricity
Nepal’s electricity runs at 230-240 volts, 50 cycle (50 Hz) AC, which is different from
Canada’s 110 volts, 60 Hz AC current. Adapters will be necessary unless your appliance
has a two-position “international” switch. Electricity is widely available but black-outs
and failures are not unusual. For this reason, battery-powered equipment is more
convenient.
Money
The Nepalese rupee is the basic unit of currency in Nepal. One Canadian dollar is worth
about 50 Nepalese Rupees. Participants will need spending money for personal use, such
as telephone calls, postage stamps and gifts. Traveller’s cheques in denominations of $20
and $50 are recommended. Keep two copies of numbers on the cheques, one in Canada
and one with a friend on the trip. You will need these numbers in case of loss. Many
shops accept credit cards for more expensive items in the cities. In small villages and
during trekking, cash (Nepalese Rupees) is the only currency that can be used. There is
no black market for Canadian or American dollars in Nepal. Even if you are offered a
little more for dollar exchange, it is not worth the risk. You are strongly advised to
exchange dollars through a bank or authorized money exchange agency.
Money Exchange
To exchange money or cash traveller’s cheques you need your passport. Also, your
signature on the cheques and in the passport must tally closely. In addition you must
keep all receipts for exchange of money. You may be asked to present them when
leaving Nepal or to convert back Nepalese Rupees to dollars. Please remember that all
transactions at the banks and other institutions in Nepal take much longer than they do in
Canada, so be patient. Try to exchange as much money at a time as you are comfortable
carrying and take many small denomination notes. It is very advisable to carry a light
money belt or pouch with you. Money belts made up of canvas or lighter material can be
worn inside your clothing around the waist, and so avoid undue attention which a fanny
pack or external pouch attracts. Small pouches of canvas/leather that can hang from the
neck would also be useful.
Film or X-Rays: Despite the reassuring notices next to the X-ray machines at airport
security gates, film has been known to fog up after being X-rayed. Whenever possible
have your camera and film manually searched and do not let it go through the machine.
If you are particularly concerned, lead-lined bags offer some protection. The fogging
effect is cumulative: the more times through the X-ray the worse the film may look.
Buying film in Nepal is expensive, so bring as many rolls as you need with you. Printing
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and developing are also expensive, so take the exposed film back home for developing
and printing.
Taking Pictures
Most travellers take usually large numbers of pictures – far more than they expect – so
you are advised to take lot of rolls.
Pictures to Avoid
Many Nepalese are sensitive about foreigners photographing beggars, slums and
unsavoury sights, so be highly discreet about this. Don’t take indiscriminate picture of
funeral pyres, the inner sanctums of temples or of women.
Video Equipment
You may take a video camera with you. However, it will be marked on your passport
when you enter the country and you must take it back when you leave. You must carry
with you a good supply of videocassettes and batteries, as they are not readily available in
the Himalayas. The easiest and most convenient camera to take is the one-piece
camcorder with a tape transport mechanism built into the body.
Food
Nepali food is very different from the food consumed in North America; nevertheless,
many of the standard items like milk, tea, coffee, fruit, eggs, grains and bread are readily
available. Undoubtedly everyone in the Group will get many opportunities to taste and
live on Nepali food, but it is imperative that no one feels rushed about it. Do make extra
efforts to eat nutritious and satisfying foods.
Drinks
Chiya or tea is the most popular drink, although it is decidedly different from the tea
served in the west. Chiya is usually prepared by boiling water, tea, milk and sugar
together; although it is almost addictive once you begin to like it, it may take some
getting used to. Western-style tea, with tea, sugar and milk in separate containers, is
served at higher price in most relatively fancy restaurants. Coffee and carbonated pop are
readily available, as are hard drinks (alcohol) and beer.
Things that Fly
As in Northern Ontario, you can’t avoid flies and mosquitoes. Coating yourself with
insect repellent might help a little bit, but won’t hold them off for long. It may be good
idea to take a mosquito net along, however; it is small, easily carried and offers some
protection. Remember that mosquitoes are attracted to soap, shampoos, etc. Some
people recommend washing in the morning and going to bed with the day’s dirt on to
reduce the mosquito bite count.
Toilet
Most toilets in Nepal are of the “squat” style, although Western-style sit-down toilets are
increasingly being used in hotels and cities. Except in hotels with star ranking, you are
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expected to provide your own toilet paper, which is generally rather expensive in Nepal.
It is advisable to carry one or two rolls from Canada. When travelling in the mountains
or villages, toilet facilities are almost non-existent. This poses difficult problems for
women in particular. Women participants should be aware of this fact and should always
carry with them a small wrap-around sheet or long skirt.
Tipping
As in most countries there are no clear-cut rules in Nepal about tipping in restaurants and
other services. In cities and towns a 10 to 15 percent tip is generally expected, and it is
equally true of many other services. There are, of course, many other ways of expressing
your appreciation for various services and for hospitality – a small gift or a word of
thanks are gestures of courtesy and good will.
Washing Clothes
Laundry facilities are available in most hotel and lodges. They will take your clothes in
the morning or evening and bring them back the next day. They are quite expensive. It is
a good idea to take along a few clotheslines or lengths of strong nylon-based string for
drying clothes.
Telephone Calls
Nepal’s international call code is 977; the city code for Kathmandu is 1, and for Pokahra
it is 61. Telephone charges from Nepal to Canadian cities are quite high, hence it is
advisable to make prior arrangements with your family to call you in Kathmandu or
Pokhara. Hotel phone numbers will be provided to participants before leaving on the trip.
E-mail
E-mail facilities are available in most cities in Nepal. So, it is recommended that you
have a Hotmail.com or Yahoo.com e-mail address before leaving Canada.
Things to Buy
Nepal has some very beautiful handicrafts, carpets and all kinds of garments/clothing at
most reasonable prices. It might be a good idea to pick one or two pieces here and there
instead of keeping everything to buy at the last minute. In and around most tourist sites
you will be followed by number of men and women wanting to sell their products. The
best way to avoid them if you are not at all interested is not to answer any question (even
if it sounds rude) and to avoid eye contact. Any kind of conversation or eye contact will
be regarded as your interest in the product.
Entertainment
All participants are advised to carry some reading material with them, especially for
times when moving outdoors may not be possible. Consider bringing one or two
paperback novels, a deck of cards and Walkman/CD player. Some board games like
checkers, chess and others would be very ideal. Frisbee has always been very popular
among the participants and the local people. You may expect others in the Group to also
bring a few, so swapping would be possible.
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Women Participants
In general, Nepalese people are gentle and very friendly. They especially enjoy talking to
foreigners – both men and women alike. But be careful about getting involved in private
conversation with a man by yourself, as this could be considered a turn-on. Open eye
contact, too, indicates aggressive interest. The most believable “NO” is to turn away
with a certain dignity. It is definitely within your right to tell someone who is hassling
you to go away. Do whatever you have to do to protect yourself. Different cultures have
different sets of norms regarding personal space, gender, and the relationship between
men and women. The idea of men and women being ”just friends” is not one shared by
every culture, and so being “friendly” may be taken as an indication of being flirtatious.
In general, all participants – men and women alike – are advised to move in groups of
three or four, the classic “buddy” system.
Losing Something
If you lose something, don’t panic, as The Hitch-Hikers Guide to the Galaxy suggests. If
it is a valuable or an insured item, then make a report to the local police. They will make
out a report. Be sure to get a copy of this. In this report, you give your version of how
something was lost, and when was the last time you had it in your possession. If
necessary, take someone along to the police station to translate for you. You can take
someone from the organizing group or from the hotel or tour organizing staff. IIFS staff
will be glad to assist you in any way possible.
If it is your passport, and you have lost it when away from Kathmandu, telephone the
Canadian Cooperation Office (1- 415- 193/389/391 or Fax 1-410-422), and upon return
back to Kathmandu go to its office at Lazimpat, Kathmandu.
Airport Tax
All travellers have to pay N Rs. 650.00 departure tax at the airport at the time of
departure, so be sure to have this money available since it has to be paid by each
participant personally. You may exchange dollars at the airport if necessary.
Keeping a Journal
One of the most rewarding activities that participants can engage in, even those who are
not submitting a paper as part of a credit program, is to write about the experience in
Nepal for a campus or local newspaper. This is a wonderful means of sharing your ideas
and impressions on the Nepalese culture, environment and lifestyle that you experienced.
This also allows other persons who might be interested in such a program, or who are just
interested, to read about life in Nepal from your perspective.
Major Canadian cities Major Canadian cities include Toronto, Montreal, Ottawa,
Vancouver, Calgary, Edmonton, Federicton and Saskatoon.
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Language
Nepali is the main language in Nepal, with dozens of other ethnic dialects. Newari is
predominant in Kathmandu for the reason that the majority of the population in
Kathmandu is of Newari origin, the original inhabitants of Kathmandu valley. English is
spoken by many, particularly by the well-heeled and educated, and in the cities. Even
though someone may be speaking English, the way the language is used can vary greatly
from one culture to another. The following are some very basic Nepali words and
sentences to start with:
Na-mas-te
Ta-pai-lai
Tim-lai
Ta-pai-lai kasto cha?
Ta-pai-ko nam ke ho?
Na-mas-te or Feri ve-tau-la
Bhok la-gyau
Ram-ro
Na- ram-ro
Hello, Good Morning, Good Evening, Good Bye.
You or to you (respectful).
You or to you (friendly).
How are you?
What is your name?
Good Bye!
I am hungry.
Nice, beautiful, bravo!
Not nice, ugly.
Chi-ya
Coffee
Pa-ni
Bhat
Dal
Tar-kari
Ma-su
An-da
Cha?
Cha
Bathroom kaha cha?
Ma-lai sancho chaina
Ukalo
Oralo
Thik Cha
Thik Chai-na
Tea.
Coffee.
Water.
Rice.
Lentil soup.
Any kind of vegetable curry.
Meat.
Egg.
Do you have? (An-da cha? = Do you have eggs?)
Yes, I have. (Cha or An-da Cha = Yes, I have eggs)
Where is the toilet?
I am not feeling well.
Uphill.
Downhill.
Okay, all right, or I am fine.
Not okay, not all right, or I am not fine.
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Some Recommended Readings:
Bista, Dor Bahadur. 1991. Fatalism and Development: Nepal’s Struggle for
Modernization.
Chamoli, S. P. 1983. The Great Himalayan Traverse – Kanchendzonga to Karakoram.
Denniston, Derek. 1995. High Priorities: Conserving Mountain Ecosystem and Cultures.
Gerald, John. 1990. Mountain Environments: An Examination of the Physical
Geography of Mountains.
Goode, P. M., Martin F. Price, and F. M. Zimmerman. 1994. Tourism and Development
in Mountain Regions.
Ives, J. D. and others. 1994. The Himalayan Dilemma: Reconnecting Development and
Conservation.
Karan, Pradyumna and Hiroshima, Ishi. 1966. Nepal: A Himalayan Kingdom in
Transition.
Lall, J. S. (ed). 1981. The Himalaya: Aspects of Change.
Savada, A. M. (ed). 1993. Nepal and Bhutan: Country Studies.
Stevens, Stanley F. 1993. Claiming the High Ground: Sherpas, Subsistence and
Environmental Change in the Highest Himalayas.
Wahab, Salah and Pigram, John J. 1997. Tourism, Development and Growth. The
Challenge of Sustainability.
Note: ICIMOD (www.icimod.org) web site, under publication, has a number of very
relevant and interesting articles, reports and newsletters on Nepal and Hindu-Kush
region. Furthermore, under links there are other web sites covering number of relevant
topics, together with On-line material – books, journals, papers, etc.
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