TRAVEL INFORMATION

WELCOME TO INDIA WITH ARNFINN JOHANSEN

This document contains important information for your trip to India.

Please read through it carefully. If you have any questions afterward, feel free to contact Hans Elmqvist at Zoom Photo Tours by phone, +46 70 180 90 99 or via email info@zoomphototours.com

WELCOME TO INDIA WITH ARNFINN JOHANSEN

This document contains important information for your trip to India.

Please read through it carefully. If you have any questions afterward, feel free to contact Hans Elmqvist at Zoom Fotoresor by phone, +46 70 180 90 99 or via email info@zoomphototours.com

BEFORE THE TOUR

YOUR FLIGHT TICKET
Check that the spelling of your name matches the spelling in your passport.

BAGGAGE
Airlines usually allow two pieces of baggage per person: one carry-on and one suitcase. The suitcase can weigh a maximum of 23 kg, and the carry-on can weigh a maximum of 8 kg with dimensions of 56 x 45 x 25 cm. For Icelandair, the same rules apply except the carry-on can weigh a maximum of 10 kg with dimensions of 56 x 40 x 20 cm. For exact details about the airline you are traveling with, please refer to the respective airline’s website.

CHECK-IN
Check-in must be completed no later than one hour before departure. However, we recommend arriving at least two hours before departure, as there may be queues for passport and security checks.

PASSPORT
Don’t forget your passport, as airlines always require it at check-in. Without a passport, there is a risk that the airline will not allow you to board.

CURRENCY / EXCHANGE
The currency in India is the Rupee (INR). We recommend bringing USD and INR to use during your trip. It is possible to pay by card in Delhi at the hotel, but elsewhere, cash is generally required. Keep in mind that withdrawing cash from an Indian ATM can be costly, so it’s a good idea to exchange money before your trip.

VACCINATION
Before traveling to India, it is important to review your vaccination coverage. The basic vaccinations, including tetanus, diphtheria, and polio, should be up to date. It is also recommended to get vaccinated against Hepatitis A, and in some cases, Hepatitis B if you are not already protected. We recommend that you contact your local vaccination center well in advance of your trip for the most current information and personalized recommendations.

VISUM
Use the “eTourist Visa” service. This is suitable for most travelers on our trips to India. You are responsible for reviewing the information and ensuring that you are eligible to apply for the eTourist Visa. A visa is required to enter India. You can apply for a visa on the website https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/visa/tvoa.html.

Contact in India: Sanjay OjhaIBN ToursShop 114D, 1st floor Hari Nagar Ashram, New Delhi 110014, India. Phone: +91 956 002 99 27 Mail: info@inbtours.com

FACEBOOK GRUPP
We have created a Facebook group for the trip. Here, you can communicate, share photos, and exchange information with other participants and with Arnfinn before, during, and after the trip. Click the link below to join the group. https://www.facebook.com/groups/1941389836380429

If you are unable to access the website, email Alexander at the address below, and he will grant you access. alexander.elmqvist@zoomphototours.com

PARTICIPANT LIST
Below, you will find a link to the participant list for the trip. Note: If any participant has chosen not to share their information, only their name will be included.
List of participants

FLIGHT SCHEDULE
If you haven’t already sent a copy of the flight schedule so that we know how everyone is traveling, we kindly ask you to do so as soon as possible to info@zoomphototours.com

ITINERARY

15-27 MARCH 2025

DAY 1 (15/3) – ARRIVAL AND WELCOME DINNER
As all participants arrive at Delhi International Airport with Finnair, a transfer bus will be waiting to take you to the first-class Hotel Pride Plaza Aerocity. Upon arrival, there will be an opportunity to have breakfast (paid on-site). Please note: Rooms will not be available until approximately 3:00 PM. For those who wish, we will arrange an optional city tour as described below.

OPTIONAL CITY TOUR IN OLD DELHI
For those who would like to explore Delhi during the afternoon, we will (if the number of participants is sufficient) arrange a city tour of Old and New Delhi in the afternoon. This is an afternoon filled with endless photo opportunities. Click: Half day city tour for a description of the tour. Please email us at info@zoomfotoresor and inform us if you would like to join this city tour.

In the evening, you will meet Arnfinn Johansen and a local host from Zoom Fotoresor for a welcome dinner where we will get to know each other and listen to Arnfinn, who will share more about the photo adventure that lies ahead. (M)

DAY 2, (Mar. 16) – DELHI – KUFRI
Today, our journey to higher altitudes begins as we depart from the hotel early in the morning to take the modern and very comfortable Shatabdi Express train to Kalka. Here, we will load our luggage into cars that will continue to the hotel. We will experience one of UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites by changing trains to the famous Himalayan Queen train, which is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The train takes us slowly up the mountain towards Shimla. To make this part of the journey comfortable and to allow you to photograph the beautiful landscape we pass, we have booked first-class seats. When we arrive at Kufri, located just outside Shimla, we check into the first-class Royal Tulip Hotel situated at an altitude of 2,200 meters. (B, L, D)

DAY 3, (Mar. 17) – KUFRI – KALPA
Today, we continue by jeeps towards our destination Kibber, where we will stay at Hotel Grand Shambha-La Kalpa located at an altitude of 2,940 meters, to acclimatize to the higher altitude. (B, L, D)

DAY 4, (Mar. 18) – KALPA – TABO
After breakfast, it’s time to obtain the permits needed to visit the areas where we have the best opportunity to photograph snow leopards. We then continue our journey to Tabo, situated at 3,280 meters above sea level, where we check into Mud Huts. Just like our previous days, we will make stops to both photograph and enjoy the increasingly dramatic landscape as we go further. (B, L, D)

DAY 5, (Mar. 19) – TABO – KIBBER IN SPITTY VALLEY
Today, after about five hours of transportation, we reach our final destination Kibber in Spitty Valley high up in the Himalayas. We are now at an altitude of 4,270 meters above sea level and surrounded by a landscape that is as beautiful as it is dramatic. We check into our hotel Norling Homestay, which will be our base for the next five days as we explore the surroundings in search of the snow leopard, also known as “The Grey Ghost.” (B, L, D)

DAY 6-10, (Mar. 20-24) – IN THE REALM OF THE SNOW LEOPARD
During the days, we explore the surroundings in Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary, together with Arnfinn and our knowledgeable trackers, in search of snow leopards. Kibber is the perfect place to search for this beautiful cat, which often moves down to lower elevations in the valleys in search of prey. Just like with all animals, luck plays a role, but in recent years, it has become common to see and photograph the snow leopards in the area up close. During Arnfinn’s previous trip, he photographed snow leopards at distances ranging from 40-300 meters. Other subjects found here besides the magnificent landscape include yaks, ibex, Tibetan wolves, and the snow leopard’s favorite prey, blue sheep. Arnfinn is always available for personal guidance, as well as tips and advice, so that we are prepared when photo opportunities of the snow leopard arise. We will spend as much time as possible in the field to maximize photo opportunities, but when we are not out, we will work on image processing and receive feedback on the images we have taken. We will have local guides who are experienced in finding the animals. We will also have the assistance of local sherpas to carry your equipment. (B, L, D)

DAY 11, (Mar. 25) – KIBBER – RAMPUR
After a final photo session and breakfast, we leave the realm of the snow leopard and begin our journey back to Delhi. In the evening, we arrive at Rampur, where we check into the classic heritage hotel Nau Nabh. (B, L, D)

DAY 12, (Mar. 26) – RAMPUR – DELHI
We continue by bus and then by train to Delhi, where we arrive in the evening. Transfer to our hotel, Hotel Pride Plaza Aerocity, not far from the airport. After check-in, dinner is served in the hotel restaurant. (B, L, D)

DAY 13, (Mar. 27) – DEPARTURE
Breakfast is served at the hotel, after which the day is free for personal activities until it is time to depart for Delhi’s international airport for onward transportation on your own.

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ROGRAM FOR OUR TRIP TO THE KINGDOM OF THE SNOW LEOPARD

15-27 MARS 2025

DAY 1, (Mar. 15) – ARRIVAL AND WELCOME DINNER
Arrival during the day at Delhi’s international airport where a transfer bus to the first-class Hotel Pride Plaza Aerocity awaits. Upon arrival at the hotel, there is an opportunity to relax and rest after the long journey. In the evening, you will be greeted by Arnfinn Johansen and a host from Zoom Photo Tours for a welcome dinner where we get to know each other and listen to Arnfinn as he tells more about the photo adventure that awaits us. (D)

DAY 2, (Mar. 16) – DELHI – KUFRI
Today, our journey to higher altitudes begins as we depart from the hotel early in the morning to take the modern and very comfortable Shatabdi Express train to Kalka. Here, we will load our luggage into cars that will continue to the hotel. We will experience one of UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites by changing trains to the famous Himalayan Queen train, which is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The train takes us slowly up the mountain towards Shimla. To make this part of the journey comfortable and to allow you to photograph the beautiful landscape we pass, we have booked first-class seats. When we arrive at Kufri, located just outside Shimla, we check into the first-class Royal Tulip Hotel situated at an altitude of 2,200 meters. (B, L, D)

DAY 3, (Mar. 17) – KUFRI – KALPA
Today, we continue by jeeps towards our destination Kibber, where we will stay at Hotel Grand Shambha-La Kalpa located at an altitude of 2,940 meters, to acclimatize to the higher altitude. (B, L, D)

DAY 4, (Mar. 18) – KALPA – TABO
After breakfast, it’s time to obtain the permits needed to visit the areas where we have the best opportunity to photograph snow leopards. We then continue our journey to Tabo, situated at 3,280 meters above sea level, where we check into Mud Huts. Just like our previous days, we will make stops to both photograph and enjoy the increasingly dramatic landscape as we go further. (B, L, D)

DAY 5, (Mar. 19) – TABO – KIBBER IN SPITTY VALLEY
Today, after about five hours of transportation, we reach our final destination Kibber in Spitty Valley high up in the Himalayas. We are now at an altitude of 4,270 meters above sea level and surrounded by a landscape that is as beautiful as it is dramatic. We check into our hotel Norling Homestay, which will be our base for the next five days as we explore the surroundings in search of the snow leopard, also known as “The Grey Ghost.” (B, L, D)

DAY 6-10, (Mar. 20-24) – IN THE REALM OF THE SNOW LEOPARD
During the days, we explore the surroundings in Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary, together with Arnfinn and our knowledgeable trackers, in search of snow leopards. Kibber is the perfect place to search for this beautiful cat, which often moves down to lower elevations in the valleys in search of prey. Just like with all animals, luck plays a role, but in recent years, it has become common to see and photograph the snow leopards in the area up close. During Arnfinn’s previous trip, he photographed snow leopards at distances ranging from 40-300 meters. Other subjects found here besides the magnificent landscape include yaks, ibex, Tibetan wolves, and the snow leopard’s favorite prey, blue sheep. Arnfinn is always available for personal guidance, as well as tips and advice, so that we are prepared when photo opportunities of the snow leopard arise. We will spend as much time as possible in the field to maximize photo opportunities, but when we are not out, we will work on image processing and receive feedback on the images we have taken. We will have local guides who are experienced in finding the animals. We will also have the assistance of local sherpas to carry your equipment. (B, L, D)

DAY 11, (Mar. 25) – KIBBER – RAMPUR
After a final photo session and breakfast, we leave the realm of the snow leopard and begin our journey back to Delhi. In the evening, we arrive at Rampur, where we check into the classic heritage hotel Nau Nabh. (B, L, D)

DAY 12, (Mar. 26) – RAMPUR – DELHI
We continue by bus and then by train to Delhi, where we arrive in the evening. Transfer to our hotel, Hotel Pride Plaza Aerocity, not far from the airport. After check-in, dinner is served in the hotel restaurant. (B, L, D)

DAY 13, (Mar. 27) – DEPARTURE
Breakfast is served at the hotel, after which the day is free for personal activities until it is time to depart for Delhi’s international airport for onward transportation on your own.

For those traveling home in the evening, a city tour of Delhi can be arrange

PHOTOGRAPHER

Arnfinn Johansen – Wildlife photographer

Arnfinn Johansen is a professional nature photographer who lives in Lillehammer, Norway and is a member of the Norwegian Nature photographers (NN), an exclusive association for nature photographers who share a commitment to environmental protection and who have high ethical standards. Arnfinn has primarily concentrated his photography on the Nordic countries, including Svalbard, but also North and South America, India, Sri Lanka, and Africa. With his pictures, Arnfinn wants to show the magic of nature, communicate different moods, and let the pictures tell their own story. Some of his strongest images show animals and birds in their natural environment, often combined with a clean composition in which space is also given to the environment and the landscape.

www.arnfinnjohansen.com

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HOTELS

DELHI:

PRICE PLAZA AEROCITY*****

KUFRI:

KALPA:

TABO:

KIBBER:

At Norling, it is cold, but heated blankets and a fireplace help to keep you warm. If you want hot water for a shower, you will need to request it.

RAMPUR:

NAU NABH***+

USEFUL INFORMATION

TIPPING
All tips for shared activities and meals, as well as for porters, bus drivers, etc., are included in the trip price. If you eat anything outside this at the hotels or a local restaurant, it is customary to leave a tip of 5-10%. In taxis, it is usual to round up the fare.

ELECTRICITY
If you’re traveling from the USA to India, you will need a power adapter. The USA uses type A and B plugs and a voltage of 120V , while India uses type C, D, and M plugs with a voltage of 230V . To use your electrical devices in India, you will need an adapter for Indian plugs. You should also check if your devices can handle 230V.

We recommend bringing a power strip with 2-3 outlets so you can easily charge camera batteries, phones, and other electronic devices.

CHARGING
Since the temperature during the trip will range between -10°C and -30°C, it’s important to bring multiple batteries as they may discharge faster and take longer to recharge.

CLIMATE
In the Himalayas, the climate is very cold. Expect daytime temperatures in Kibber to range from -10°C to -30°C. This means that you will go from summer weather with around +25°C in Delhi to around -25°C as you ascend higher into the Himalayas.

STOMACH ISSUES
To avoid stomach troubles, drink bottled water and avoid ice in drinks. Use bottled water even for brushing your teeth. Wash your hands regularly with sanitizer, especially before meals. It’s also wise to bring medications like Imodium or similar in case of stomach upset.

LANGUAGE
The official languages in India are Hindi and English. In addition, there are many local languages. People working in the tourism industry generally have a basic understanding of English.

PHONE
The mobile network in India is well-developed, but since calls can be expensive, we recommend using services like FaceTime, WhatsApp, or similar when connected to Wi-Fi.

WIFI
Wi-Fi during the trip is limited and has weak connectivity. At Norling Homestay, Wi-Fi is available in the dining room. Our guide will bring a Wi-Fi hotspot device to provide internet access.

TIME DIFFERENCEI
In March, Wyoming is 11 hours and 30 minutes behind India. For example, if it is 12:00 AM (midnight) in India, it will be 00:30 AM on the same day in Wyoming.

WATER
Do not drink tap water in India. Use bottled water for drinking and brushing your teeth. Avoid ice in drinks unless you are sure it was made with purified water.

ACCLIMATIZATION PROCESS
To acclimatize to the high altitude and avoid altitude sickness and breathing issues, we will spend a few days acclimating before reaching Kibber. Drinking water is also essential to help adapt to the altitude. Make sure to stay hydrated during the day, even if you don’t feel thirsty

TRAFFIC
Traffic in India can be quite chaotic, particularly within urban areas where traffic rules often seem to be non-existent and pedestrians are rarely prioritised. It is crucial to stay vigilant while navigating the streets. Road conditions can be poor, especially on the smaller rural roads. When asking a driver about the distance between two points, expect an answer in hours rather than kilometres; for instance, a journey of 200 kilometres may take around four hours, translating to an average speed of 50 kilometres per hour.

IMPORTANT PHONE NUMBERS
Potographer: Arnfinn Johansen +47 976 71 870
Sanjay Ojha (Zooms locala agent in India): +91 9 810 553 937
Police: 119
Ambulance and fire department: 110

PACKING LIST

Here are some equipment tips. These are not mandatory, but more like guidelines:

CLOTHING
It is important to wear several layers of clothing that insulate, protect against wind and moisture, and keep you dry. Here are some key garments and materials to consider:

Base Layer (Next to the skin):

Function: Absorb moisture and keep your skin dry.
Garments: Long-sleeve shirt and long underwear. Wool is warm even when wet, while synthetic materials dry faster.

Mid Layer (Insulation):
Function: Retain body heat by creating air layers between the body and the surroundings.
Garments: Fleece jacket, down jacket, or insulated vest. Fleece is light and breathable, while down provides excellent warmth without becoming too heavy. Synthetic insulation also works well when wet.

Outer Layer (Protection from wind and water):
Function: Protect against wind, snow, and moisture.
Garments: Windproof jacket, shell jacket, and shell pants. A windproof hood on the jacket is also good to protect your face from wind and snow.

Gloves and Mittens:
Function: Protect hands from extreme cold.
Garments: Windproof and waterproof gloves, preferably with an extra insulating layer if needed. Finger gloves are recommended to allow you to use your camera.

Head Protection:
Function: Protect the head and face from cold and wind.
Garments: Balaclava (since it covers both face and neck, it protects against extreme cold), a hat, a scarf, or a buff.

Boots/Shoes:
Function: Protect feet from cold and wet conditions.
Garments: Thick, insulated boots with a wool or synthetic insert. The boots should go above the ankle for better protection against snow and moisture. They should also have good traction to avoid slipping on icy surfaces.

Other Tips:

Layering: The most important thing is to use multiple layers so you can adjust according to activity level and weather conditions.

Waterproof and windproof garments: Since Arctic environments are very windy, it is crucial to stay dry and protect yourself from the wind.

Heating options: In very cold conditions, electric heating systems for jackets or shoe inserts can be useful. Hand warmers are also great for extra warmth.

OTHERE EQUIPMENT

Sunglasses with UV protection.
Binoculars.
Mobile phone.
Laptop for photo editing with software such as Photoshop or Lightroom.
Power adapter for electrical outlets.
A small flashlight.
Sewing kit: Needle, thread, and some safety pins for emergency repairs.
A knife, such as a Swiss Army knife (must be checked in at security, as it will otherwise be confiscated).

MEDICAL SUPPLIES
We recommend bringing some of your own personal medical equipment, such as:

Plasters.
Antiseptic cream.
Paracetamol or similar.
Sunscreen.

CAMERA EQUIPMENT

A DSLR camera with a zoom or telephoto lens up to 600mm.
A short zoom lens, such as a 70-200mm.
A teleconverter, 1.4x or preferably 2x.
A polarizing filter is useful to increase saturation in your photos.
A tripod, if you have space in your luggage.
Extra batteries, at least 2-3.
Camera battery charger and charger for other electronic devices.
A power strip with 2-3 outlets so you can charge camera batteries, phones, etc. at the same time.
Memory cards as needed, as well as a portable hard drive or, if you prefer, transfer directly to a laptop.
Cleaning equipment such as cloths, compressed air, and other camera cleaning tools.
Additional batteries if needed.
A laptop for photo editing with software such as Photoshop or Lightroom.