WORTH KNOWING
THE LAND OF SNOW LEOPARDS
WELCOME TO INDIA WITH ARNFINN JOHANSEN
In this document you will find some important information prior to the trip.
Please read through the document carefully. If you then have any questions, you are most welcome to contact Hans Elmqvist at Zoom Fotoresor by phone at 070-180 90 99 or by email, hans.elmqvist@zoomphototours.com
WELCOME TO INDIA WITH ARNFINN JOHANSEN
In this document you will find some important information prior to the trip.
Please read through the document carefully. If you then have any questions, you are most welcome to contact Hans Elmqvist at Zoom Fotoresor by phone at 070-180 90 99 or by email, hans.elmqvist@zoomphototours.com
BEFORE THE TRIP
BEFORE THE TRIP
YOUR AIRLINE TICKET
Please check that the spelling of your name matches exactly the spelling in your passport.
LUGGAGE
Airlines normally allow two pieces of luggage per person: one carry-on bag and one checked suitcase. The checked suitcase may weigh a maximum of 23 kg, and the carry-on bag a maximum of 8 kg with dimensions of 56 × 45 × 25 cm. For exact information regarding the airline you are traveling with, please refer to the 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 at passport control and security screening.
PASSPORT
Do not forget your passport, as the airline will always ask to see it at check-in. Without a passport, there is a risk that the airline will not allow you to board and you will not be permitted to enter India.
CURRENCY / EXCHANGE
The currency in India is the Rupee (INR). We recommend that you bring USD and INR to pay during the trip. 100 INR is approximately 1.10 USD. Card payments are possible at the hotel in Delhi, but elsewhere cash is required. Please note that withdrawing cash from Indian ATMs can be costly, so take the opportunity to exchange money before the trip.
VACCINATIONS
Before traveling to India, it is important to review your vaccination status. Basic vaccinations, including tetanus, diphtheria, and polio, should be up to date. Vaccination against Hepatitis A is also recommended, and in some cases Hepatitis B if you are not already protected. We recommend that you contact your local vaccination clinic well in advance of the trip for up-to-date information and personal recommendations.
VISA
We suggest using 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 an eTourist Visa. A visa is required to enter India. You can apply for a visa at: https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/visa/tvoa.html
You should indicate that you are visiting India as a tourist. You must also enter the first hotel of the trip under the section regarding hotel accommodation.
You will also be asked to provide contact details in India, which are:
Sanjay Ojha, IBN Tours
Shop 114D, 1st floor, Hari Nagar Ashram
New Delhi 110014, India
Phone: +91 956 002 99 27
Email: info@inbtours.com
WHATSAPP GROUP
We have created a WhatsApp group for the trip. Here you can communicate, share photos, and exchange other information with fellow participants and with Niclas before, during, and after the course. You will receive an invitation to the group via your phone.
If you are not connected to WhatsApp, we suggest that you download the app from the App Store or Google Play. Once you have done so, please inform us at alexander.elmqvist@zoomphototours.com and we will send you an invitation to the group.
If you have any problems joining the group, please email us and we will assist you.
PARTICIPANT LIST
As we are missing some information, you will receive a participant list closer to the departure date. NOTE: If any participant has chosen not to have their information shared, only their name will appear on the list.
SEND FLIGHT SCHEDULE
If you have not already sent a copy of your flight itinerary so that we know how each participant is traveling, please do so as soon as possible by emailing it to info@zoomphototours.com
ITINERARY
ITINERARY
FEBRUARY 14-26, 2026
DAY 1, (14/2) – ARRIVAL AND WELCOME DINNER
Arrival during the day at Delhi International Airport, where a transfer bus will be waiting to take you to the first-class Hotel Pride Plaza Aerocity. Upon arrival at the hotel, there will be time to relax and recover after the long journey. In the evening, you will meet Arnfinn Johansen and a host from Zoom Fotoresor for a welcome dinner, where we get to know each other and listen to Arnfinn as he tells us more about the photographic adventure that awaits us. (D)
OPTIONAL CITY TOUR IN OLD DELHI
For those arriving the day before or in the morning of 14/2 and who would like to experience Delhi, we will (if there are enough participants) arrange a city tour of Old Delhi in the afternoon. This is an afternoon with endless photographic opportunities. Please email us at info@zoomfotoresor.se to confirm your participation in this city tour, and we will get back to you with the exact price, which depends on the number of participants.
DAY 2, (15/2) – DELHI – KUFRI
Today our journey to higher altitudes begins. We leave the hotel early in the morning to take the modern and very comfortable Shatabdi Express train to Kalka. Here, our luggage is loaded into vehicles that continue on to the hotel.
We ourselves will experience a UNESCO World Heritage Site by changing trains to the famous Himalayan Queen, which is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage railway. The train slowly takes us up the mountain towards Shimla. To make this part of the journey comfortable and to allow you to photograph the beautiful landscapes we pass, we have booked first-class seats. Upon arrival in Kufri, located just outside Shimla, we check in at the first-class Kufri Heritage Resort & Spa, situated at an altitude of 2,200 meters. (B, L, D)
DAY 3, (16/2) – KUFRI – KALPA
Today we continue by jeep towards our final destination, Kibber, with an overnight stay at Hotel Grand Shambha-La Kalpa, located at an altitude of 2,940 meters. This is to help us acclimatize to the higher altitude. (B, L, D)
DAY 4, (17/2) – KALPA – TABO – KAZA
After breakfast, it is time to obtain the permits required to visit the areas where we have the best opportunities to photograph snow leopards. We then continue our journey to Kaza, located at 3,650 meters above sea level, where we check in at Hotel Kora Spirit. As on previous days, we make stops along the way to photograph and enjoy the scenery, which becomes increasingly dramatic the further we travel. (B, L, D)
DAY 5. (18/2) – KAZA – KIBBER IN SPITI VALLEY
After an early breakfast, we begin our adventurous journey to Kibber (4,270 m), our final destination (20 km / approx. 1½ hours). Since we are only about 20 km from Kibber and already within snow leopard territory, we may—depending on observations from our trackers in nearby areas—head directly out for our first encounter with the snow leopard. You should therefore be warmly dressed and have your camera with a long telephoto lens easily accessible. The rest of the day will depend on whether we spot one or not; otherwise, we continue to our accommodation in Kibber. We check in at 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)
DAYS 6–10, (19–23/2) – IN THE REALM OF THE SNOW LEOPARD
During these days, we explore the surroundings of the Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary together with Arnfinn and our knowledgeable trackers in search of snow leopards. Kibber is the perfect place to look for this beautiful big cat, which often descends to lower elevations in the valleys here in search of prey. As with all wildlife encounters, luck plays a role, but in recent years it has become increasingly common to see and photograph snow leopards in this area at relatively close range. On Arnfinn’s previous trips, he photographed snow leopards at distances ranging from 40 to 300 meters. Other subjects found here, in addition to the fairy-tale landscapes, include yak, ibex, foxes, birds of prey, and the snow leopard’s favorite prey, blue sheep.
Arnfinn will always be on hand to provide personal guidance, tips, and advice so that we are well prepared when photographic opportunities with snow leopards arise. We will spend as much time as possible out in the field to maximize photographic opportunities, but when we are not in the field, we will discuss photography and review images we have taken. We are assisted by local guides experienced in locating the animals, and we will also have the help of local sherpas who will carry your equipment. (B, L, D)
DAY 11, (24/2) – KIBBER – RAMPUR
After a final photo session and breakfast, we leave the realm of the snow leopard and begin our journey back toward Delhi. In the evening, we arrive in Rampur, where we check in at the classic heritage hotel Nau Nabh. (B, L, D)
DAY 12, (25/2) – RAMPUR – DELHI
We continue by bus and then by train to Delhi, arriving in the evening. As we arrive late in the evening, dinner will be served on the train. Upon arrival in Delhi, a transfer awaits to our hotel, Hotel Pride Plaza Aerocity, located close to the airport. (B, L, D)
DAY 13, (26/2) – DEPARTURE
Breakfast is served at the hotel, after which the day is free for personal activities until it is time to depart for Delhi International Airport for onward travel on your own.
For those traveling home in the evening, a city tour of Delhi can be arranged. (B)
Read more about the itinerary.
READ MORE
FEBRUARY 14-26 2026
FEBRUARY 14-26, 2026
DAY 1, (14/2) – ARRIVAL AND WELCOME DINNER
Arrival during the day at Delhi International Airport, where a transfer bus will be waiting to take you to the first-class Hotel Pride Plaza Aerocity. Upon arrival at the hotel, there will be time to relax and recover after the long journey. In the evening, you will meet Arnfinn Johansen and a host from Zoom Fotoresor for a welcome dinner, where we get to know each other and listen to Arnfinn as he tells us more about the photographic adventure that awaits us. (D)
OPTIONAL CITY TOUR IN OLD DELHI
For those arriving the day before or in the morning of 14/2 and who would like to experience Delhi, we will (if there are enough participants) arrange a city tour of Old Delhi in the afternoon. This is an afternoon with endless photographic opportunities. Please email us at info@zoomfotoresor.se to confirm your participation in this city tour, and we will get back to you with the exact price, which depends on the number of participants.
DAY 2, (15/2) – DELHI – KUFRI
Today our journey to higher altitudes begins. We leave the hotel early in the morning to take the modern and very comfortable Shatabdi Express train to Kalka. Here, our luggage is loaded into vehicles that continue on to the hotel.
We ourselves will experience a UNESCO World Heritage Site by changing trains to the famous Himalayan Queen, which is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage railway. The train slowly takes us up the mountain towards Shimla. To make this part of the journey comfortable and to allow you to photograph the beautiful landscapes we pass, we have booked first-class seats. Upon arrival in Kufri, located just outside Shimla, we check in at the first-class Kufri Heritage Resort & Spa, situated at an altitude of 2,200 meters. (B, L, D)
DAY 3, (16/2) – KUFRI – KALPA
Today we continue by jeep towards our final destination, Kibber, with an overnight stay at Hotel Grand Shambha-La Kalpa, located at an altitude of 2,940 meters. This is to help us acclimatize to the higher altitude. (B, L, D)
DAY 4, (17/2) – KALPA – TABO – KAZA
After breakfast, it is time to obtain the permits required to visit the areas where we have the best opportunities to photograph snow leopards. We then continue our journey to Kaza, located at 3,650 meters above sea level, where we check in at Hotel Kora Spirit. As on previous days, we make stops along the way to photograph and enjoy the scenery, which becomes increasingly dramatic the further we travel. (B, L, D)
DAY 5. (18/2) – KAZA – KIBBER IN SPITI VALLEY
After an early breakfast, we begin our adventurous journey to Kibber (4,270 m), our final destination (20 km / approx. 1½ hours). Since we are only about 20 km from Kibber and already within snow leopard territory, we may—depending on observations from our trackers in nearby areas—head directly out for our first encounter with the snow leopard. You should therefore be warmly dressed and have your camera with a long telephoto lens easily accessible. The rest of the day will depend on whether we spot one or not; otherwise, we continue to our accommodation in Kibber. We check in at 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)
DAYS 6–10, (19–23/2) – IN THE REALM OF THE SNOW LEOPARD
During these days, we explore the surroundings of the Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary together with Arnfinn and our knowledgeable trackers in search of snow leopards. Kibber is the perfect place to look for this beautiful big cat, which often descends to lower elevations in the valleys here in search of prey. As with all wildlife encounters, luck plays a role, but in recent years it has become increasingly common to see and photograph snow leopards in this area at relatively close range. On Arnfinn’s previous trips, he photographed snow leopards at distances ranging from 40 to 300 meters. Other subjects found here, in addition to the fairy-tale landscapes, include yak, ibex, foxes, birds of prey, and the snow leopard’s favorite prey, blue sheep.
Arnfinn will always be on hand to provide personal guidance, tips, and advice so that we are well prepared when photographic opportunities with snow leopards arise. We will spend as much time as possible out in the field to maximize photographic opportunities, but when we are not in the field, we will discuss photography and review images we have taken. We are assisted by local guides experienced in locating the animals, and we will also have the help of local sherpas who will carry your equipment. (B, L, D)
DAY 11, (24/2) – KIBBER – RAMPUR
After a final photo session and breakfast, we leave the realm of the snow leopard and begin our journey back toward Delhi. In the evening, we arrive in Rampur, where we check in at the classic heritage hotel Nau Nabh. (B, L, D)
DAY 12, (25/2) – RAMPUR – DELHI
We continue by bus and then by train to Delhi, arriving in the evening. As we arrive late in the evening, dinner will be served on the train. Upon arrival in Delhi, a transfer awaits to our hotel, Hotel Pride Plaza Aerocity, located close to the airport. (B, L, D)
DAY 13, (26/2) – DEPARTURE
Breakfast is served at the hotel, after which the day is free for personal activities until it is time to depart for Delhi International Airport for onward travel on your own.
For those traveling home in the evening, a city tour of Delhi can be arranged. (B)
PHOTOGRAPHER
PHOTOGRAPHER
ARRNFINN JOHANSEN – Wildlife photograper
Arnfinn Johansen is a professional nature photographer based in Lillehammer, Norway, and a member of Norske Naturfotografer (NN), an exclusive association for nature photographers who share a commitment to environmental protection and uphold high ethical standards. Arnfinn has primarily focused his photography on the Nordic countries, including Svalbard, as well as North and South America, India, Sri Lanka, and Africa.
Through his images, Arnfinn aims to reveal the magic of nature, convey atmosphere, and let the photographs tell their own stories. Some of his strongest images depict animals and birds in their natural environments, often combined with a clean composition that also allows space for the surrounding environment and landscape.
Read more about Arnfinn Johansen.
LÄS MER
ARNFINN JOHANSEN – Wildlife photographer
Arnfinn Johansen is a professional nature photographer based in Lillehammer, Norway, and a member of Norske Naturfotografer (NN), an exclusive association for nature photographers who share a commitment to environmental protection and uphold high ethical standards. Arnfinn has primarily focused his photography on the Nordic countries, including Svalbard, as well as North and South America, India, Sri Lanka, and Africa.
Through his images, Arnfinn aims to reveal the magic of nature, convey atmosphere, and let the photographs tell their own stories. Some of his strongest images depict animals and birds in their natural environments, often combined with a clean composition that also allows space for the surrounding environment and landscape.
ACCOMODATION
KAZA:
KIBBER:
At Norling, it can get cold at night, but heated blankets, a sleeping bag, and a fireplace help to keep you warm.
If you would like hot water for showering, it must be requested in advance.
Most rooms have shared toilets located in the corridor.
RAMPUR:
WORTH KNOWING
WORTH KNOWING
TIPPING
All tips for joint activities and meals, as well as for porters, bus drivers, etc., are included in the tour price. If you eat anything outside the included meals at hotels or at a local restaurant, it is customary to leave a 5–10% tip. In taxis, the fare is usually rounded up.
The only tip not included is for the main guide who accompanies the group throughout the entire trip. A tip of approximately USD 10 per day is recommended. It is suggested that participants collect this together and present it during the final evening’s dinner.
ELECTRICITY
220 volts. No adapter is required. However, we recommend bringing a power strip with 2–3 outlets so you can easily charge camera batteries, phones, and other electrical equipment.
BATTERY CHARGING
As temperatures during the trip will range from -10°C to -30°C, it is important to bring several batteries, as they may discharge more quickly and take longer to recharge in the cold.
CLIMATE
High up in the Himalayas, the climate is extremely cold. Expect daytime temperatures in Kibber to range between -10°C and -30°C. This means you will go from around +10°C in Delhi to around -25°C as you ascend higher into the Himalayas.
Although the hotel in Kibber is heated, the rooms can become cold at night. You will therefore be provided with heated blankets and a sleeping bag, and a fireplace will also help to keep warm. We still recommend bringing warm clothing to sleep in.
STOMACH ILLNESS
To avoid stomach problems, drink bottled water only and avoid ice in drinks. Use bottled water for brushing your teeth as well. Wash your hands regularly with disinfectant, especially before meals. It is also wise to bring medication such as Imodium or similar in case of stomach illness.
LANGUAGE
The official languages of India are Hindi and English. In addition, there are many local languages. People working in the tourism industry generally speak basic English.
TELEPHONE
The mobile network in India is well developed, but calls can be expensive. We therefore recommend making calls via FaceTime, WhatsApp, or similar services when connected to Wi-Fi.
WI-FI
Wi-Fi during the trip is limited and often has a weak connection. At Norling Homestay, there is connectivity in the dining room. Our guide will also bring a portable Wi-Fi hotspot.
TIME DIFFERENCE
If the time in Delhi is 12.oo, it is:
07.30 in Sweden.
16.30 in Sydney.
06.30 in London.
01.30 (the same day) in Boston, US.
02.30 (the same day) in Chaplin, US.
WATER
Do not drink tap water in India. Use bottled water for drinking and brushing your teeth. Avoid ice in drinks unless you are certain it is made from purified water.
ACCLIMATIZATION PROCESS
To acclimatize to the high altitude and thereby avoid altitude sickness and breathing difficulties, we have several days before reaching Kibber. Another important factor for adapting to high altitude is hydration, so make sure to drink water throughout the day even if you do not feel thirsty.
There are also medications for altitude sickness, but these require a prescription.
TRAFFIC IN INDIA
Traffic in India is chaotic, especially in cities. Traffic rules are loosely followed, and little consideration is given to pedestrians. Be very alert when moving around on the streets. Road conditions are often poor, especially on smaller rural roads. If you ask a driver how far it is between two places, the answer is usually given in hours rather than kilometers. For example, a 200 km journey may take about 4 hours, corresponding to an average speed of 50 km/h.
IMPORTANT PHONE NUMBERS
Photographer: Arnfinn Johansen – +47 976 71 870
Sanjay Ojha (Zoom’s local agent in India): +91 9 810 553 937
Police: 119
Ambulance and Fire Brigade: 110
PACKING LIST
Below are some equipment suggestions. These are guidelines rather than requirements.
CLOTHING
It is important to dress in layers that insulate, protect against wind and moisture, and keep you dry.
Base Layer (next to the skin):
Function: Absorbs moisture and keeps the skin dry.
Garments: Long-sleeved top and long underwear. Wool stays warm even when wet, while synthetic materials dry faster.
Mid Layer (insulation):
Function: Retains body heat by creating air pockets.
Garments: Fleece jacket, down jacket, or insulated vest. Fleece is lightweight and breathable, while down provides excellent warmth without bulk. Synthetic insulation also works well when wet.
Outer Layer (wind and water protection):
Function: Protects against wind, snow, and moisture.
Garments: Windproof jacket, shell jacket, and shell pants. A windproof hood is also recommended to protect the 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. Finger gloves are useful for operating your camera.
Headwear:
Function: Protects head and face from cold and wind.
Garments: Balaclava (excellent as it covers both face and neck), beanie, scarf, or buff.
Shoes / Boots:
Function: Protect feet from cold and wet conditions.
Garments: Thick, insulated boots with wool or synthetic insoles. Boots should extend above the ankle for better protection against snow and moisture and have good traction to prevent slipping on ice.
Additional Tips:
-
Layering is key so you can adjust to activity level and weather.
-
Waterproof and windproof clothing is essential due to strong winds in alpine environments.
-
Heating options such as electrically heated jackets, hand warmers, and heated insoles can be useful in extreme cold.
OTHER EQUIPMENT
-
Sunglasses with UV protection
-
Binoculars
-
Mobile phone
-
Laptop for photo editing with Photoshop or Lightroom
-
Power adapter (if needed)
-
Small flashlight
-
Sewing kit: needle, thread, and safety pins for emergency repairs
-
A knife (e.g., Swiss Army knife) – must be checked in luggage or it will be confiscated at security
MEDICAL SUPPLIES
Bring some personal medical items such as:
-
Band-aids
-
Antiseptic cream
-
Painkillers (e.g., paracetamol)
-
Sunscreen
CAMERA EQUIPMENT
-
DSLR or mirrorless camera
-
Telephoto lens up to 600–800 mm
-
Short zoom lens such as 70–200 mm
-
Teleconverters (2× and preferably also 1.4×)
-
Tripod
-
Extra batteries (at least 2–3)
-
Battery chargers for camera and other electronics
-
Power strip with 2–3 outlets
-
Memory cards as needed and a portable hard drive, or direct transfer to a laptop
-
Cleaning equipment such as microfiber cloths, compressed air, and other camera-cleaning tools
-
Laptop for photo editing with Photoshop or Lightroom
NYHETSBREV
Bli först med att höra om nya resor, erbjudanden och reseinspiration från Zoom.
KONTAKTA OSS
E-post: info@zoomfotoresor.se
Telefon: +46 (0)470 – 466 40
Följ våra fotoäventyr på sociala medier!
Foto: Serkan Günes
NYHETSBREV
Bli först med att höra om nya resor, erbjudanden och reseinspiration från Zoom.
KONTAKTA OSS
E-post: info@zoomfotoresor.se
Telefon: +46(0) 470 – 466 40
Följ våra fotoäventyr på sociala medier!
Foto: Hans Strand