XTERRA Nepal

• Getting to Nepal

  Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu serves as the primary gateway to Nepal, offering direct flights from various international destinations including Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Hong Kong, Dubai, Qatar, India, Sri Lanka, Turkey, South Korea, Bangladesh, and Bhutan. Conveniently, visa-on-arrival services are also available, making entry into Nepal hassle-free for travellers arriving from these locations.

• Getting to Pokhara

  Located approximately 200 kilometres away from Kathmandu, Pokhara presents itself as a picturesque destination, drawing travellers with its serene landscapes and adventure opportunities. While the journey by road via the National Highway offers a scenic route, spanning roughly seven hours, it currently faces challenges due to ongoing road expansion projects, impacting road conditions. To ensure convenience and efficiency, participants are encouraged to consider the alternative option of a domestic flight to Pokhara, which takes just 25 minutes. Recognizing the importance of the pre-race period, XTERRA Nepal organizers have curated an optional package for athletes, providing them with a seamless travel experience journeying from Kathmandu's airport to Pokhara.

• Once the payment is completed, there is no refund policy.

• Registrations are non-transferable once completed.

• Non-refundable processing fee: The processing fee for XTERRA NEPAL is non-refundable under any circumstances.

Nepal offers Visa-on-Arrival for citizens of many countries at the immigration except a very few. Check visa on arrival procedure here: https://crystalmountaintreks.com/2019/07/09/obtaining-a-nepal-visa-at-the-kathmandu-airport/

If getting visa on arrival, have the following amount in cash (exact change):

15 day multiple entry visa: US$ 30

30 day multiple entry visa: US$ 50

100 day multiple entry visa: US$ 125

Certainly! At the airport, acquiring a local SIM card is a breeze; all you need to do is present your passport with a passport-sized photo. You can change money to Nepali Rupees inside the airport after the baggage claim area.

Min/Max temperatures in November:

Kathmandu - 22 C - 7 C

Pokhara - 24 C - 9 C

Begnas - 23 C - 13 C

There are no required immunizations for travel to and from Nepal. Some are recommended including Polio, Tetanus, Typhoid, MMR, and Hepatitis A & B. A vaccination certificate for yellow fever is required for entry only if arriving from an infected country.

Seek independent medical advice from your physician or your county or city’s health service for the latest recommendations for immunizations or malaria prevention. Many county governments offer immunization clinics where you can obtain shots at a reasonable cost.

 Check out websites of the following for immunization that are recommended:

1. https://ciwechospital.com/

2. https://www.cdc.gov/index.htm

It is very easy to change foreign currency at Money Exchange shops that are spread out throughout Kathmandu and Pokhara. ATMS available at several locations in Kathmandu and at Lakeside in Pokhara (not easily available in the Begnas Lake area). Many hotels and larger souvenir houses will accept Credit cards but will also add a surcharge (up to 4.5%).

For Current exchange rates: https://www.nimb.com.np/forex

Money Exchange shops will give you lower rates though.

§  230 volts, 50 Hz

§  Scheduled power outages in Nepal are quite common. Expect outages of 8 to 12 hours a day. Always carry a headlamp or flashlight in the evening.

Most places that tourists frequent in Kathmandu and Pokhara are safe. There are incidences of petty theft and pick-pocketing. So just exercise reasonable caution as you would in your home country.

• Beware of pick-pockets. Use a money belt that goes under your shirt.

• We recommend the two wallet system – one wallet that you take out when you are paying a merchant that contains little money ($20-40), and a second wallet with your credit cards and backup cash contained in your money belt. As a sensible precaution, never take out large amounts of cash in public places.

Tap water in Nepal is NOT safe to drink. Use bottled water or sterilise your own water.

• Monasteries and Temples:
  Foreigners are allowed inside many Buddhist monasteries. When visits are allowed, photography is prohibited inside unless specified. Most Hindu temples will NOT allow entry. 

• Dressing

  Modest dress is required in monasteries and recommended in towns. Modesty is subjective depending on your cultural perspective, but in Nepal this means keeping shoulders and upper arms covered and wearing long pants or skirts that cover most of the lower leg.

• Photographs

  The Nepali people are generally hesitant to have themselves and their personal lives photographed by visitors.  This is because they have been “over-photographed” in the past.  If you would like to take a photo of a person, please always ask for permission first (you can use sign language and they will likely understand your intent).

Please DON’T use your finger to point, especially at deities or religious objects - instead, use an open hand with the palm up. Do not point your feet at anyone while seated as it is considered disrespectful.

Always use your right hand or both hands to give or receive an object.

You will undoubtedly experience some uncomfortable or confusing moments, but with a sense of humour and an open mind, it can only add to your unique experience.

Nepali cuisine showcases a delightful spectrum of flavours, where spiciness adds a distinctive touch without overwhelming every dish. Its spice levels fluctuate across regions and cater to diverse palates. For those preferring a milder culinary experience, there are plenty of options available. Begin your gastronomic journey with the gentler flavours, gradually acquainting yourself with the bolder ones over time. Seek guidance from locals or restaurant personnel for suggestions on dishes or ingredient inquiries, ensuring an enjoyable dining experience tailored to your taste preferences.

Cuisines from many countries of the world are available at restaurants in Kathmandu and Lakeside, Pokhara. Not many options in the Begnas Lake area. Be careful if you have food allergies and food restrictions - restaurants that serve vegan and gluten-free meals are very hard to find. 

Interested candidates can submit their CV detailing relevant experience. Once applications are submitted, XTERRA Nepal organizers will review them and select volunteers based on their qualifications and availability. Volunteers will be contacted by the event organizers to provide further details about their roles, responsibilities, training sessions, and scheduling for the event.          

Prospective applicants are invited to send in their resumes outlining pertinent experience. Upon receipt of applications, XTERRA Nepal coordinators will assess them and choose volunteers according to their suitability and availability. Selected volunteers will receive communication from event organizers regarding their assigned tasks, duties, training sessions, and event schedule.

To sign up to volunteer for XTERRA Nepal, you typically need to follow these steps:

• Review Volunteer Opportunities: Take some time to review the volunteer roles available for the event. Each role may have specific responsibilities, time commitments, and requirements.

• Attend Orientation or Training (if required): Depending on the event, volunteers may be required to attend an orientation session or training prior to the event. This session will provide you with important information about your role, responsibilities, and any procedures you need to follow.

• Confirm Your Volunteer Shift: After registering, you may receive confirmation of your volunteer shift via email or other communication channels. Make sure to mark your calendar and plan to arrive on time for your assigned shift.

• Volunteer on Event Day: On the day of the event, arrive at the designated volunteer check-in area at the specified time. Check in with event organizers, receive any necessary instructions or equipment, and be ready to contribute to the success of XTERRA Nepal.

If you're unable to find specific information about volunteering on the event's website, you can also try reaching out directly to event organizers through email or social media to inquire about volunteer opportunities and registration procedures.

The duties and responsibilities of volunteers at XTERRA Nepal are diverse and crucial to the smooth operation of the event. Volunteers play a vital role in various aspects of the event, including:

• Course Support: Volunteers may be stationed along the race course to provide direction to participants, ensure safety, and offer assistance as needed.

• Registration and Check-In: Volunteers assist with participant registration, packet pickup, and check-in processes, ensuring that participants are properly registered and equipped for the event.

• Aid Stations: Volunteers staff aid stations along the race course, providing participants with water, snacks, and other necessary supplies. They also offer encouragement and support to participants as they progress through the event.

• Transition Areas: Volunteers help manage transition areas where participants switch between different stages of the race, ensuring a smooth transition and assisting participants with any needs they may have.

• Medical Support: Trained medical volunteers may be on hand to provide first aid assistance and respond to medical emergencies that arise during the event.

• Finish Line Support: Volunteers help manage the finish line area, cheering on participants as they complete the race, distributing finisher medals, and providing post-race support.

• Event Setup and Cleanup: Volunteers assist with setting up event venues, signage, and equipment before the event begins, as well as with cleanup efforts after the event concludes.

Overall, volunteers at XTERRA Nepal play a critical role in creating a positive and memorable experience for participants, ensuring the success of the event.

• In case of an emergency during the XTERRA Nepal event, volunteers are instructed to remain calm and follow the directions of event organizers and emergency personnel.

• Volunteers should familiarise themselves with emergency exits, first aid stations, and communication points to swiftly respond to any unforeseen circumstances, prioritising the safety and well-being of all participants.

• In the event of an emergency, volunteers are instructed to immediately notify event organizers or designated personnel. 

• Depending on the nature of the emergency, volunteers may be directed to follow specific procedures such as evacuation protocols, providing first aid assistance, or contacting emergency services. 

• Prior to the event, volunteers are briefed on emergency procedures and provided with relevant contact information. Additionally, contingency plans are in place to address various scenarios, ensuring that volunteers are prepared to respond effectively to any unforeseen circumstances that may arise.