🇳🇵 VOLUNTEER IN NEPAL 🇳🇵

Volunteer in Nepal with Plan My Gap Year – an award-winning, international volunteer abroad organisation with programs in Kathmandu, Nepal. PMGY provides safe, trusted and affordable programs, with a range of volunteer projects in Nepal, including Teaching & Teaching to Monks opportunities.

PMGY Nepal is located across three very unique locations – Chitwan, Pokhara and Kathmandu. The Nepal volunteer programs start on the 1st & 3rd Sunday of every month. Our projects in Nepal run throughout the year and volunteers can join the program for 2-20 weeks. Volunteers in Nepal are provided with an extensive pre-departure support service, airport pick-up and drop-off, in-country orientation, three meals per day, volunteer accommodation and local team support.

KEY FEATURES

PROGRAM FEE FROM 375 USD

PROGRAMS FOR 18+ YEAR OLDS

✓ 75% OF VOLUNTEERS ARE 18-22 YEARS OLD


✓ MEET LIKE-MINDED SOLO TRAVELLERS


✓ VOLUNTEER MON-FRI & TRAVEL SAT-SUN


✓ AVAILABLE TO WORLDWIDE VOLUNTEERS


✓ IDEAL FOR EXPERIENCED VOLUNTEERS

DESTINATION HIGHLIGHTS

LOCATED IN CHITWAN & POKHARA

1ST & 3RD SUNDAY EVERY MONTH

✓ 24 HOUR AIRPORT PICKUP


✓ ACCOMMODATION & MEALS


✓ SAFE, SECURE & TRUSTED COUNTRY SETUP


✓ CERTIFICATE OF COMPLETION


✓ 24 HOUR IN-COUNTRY, UK & US SUPPORT

NEPAL ENGLISH TEACHING TO MONKS VOLUNTEERS

Make an impact during your time in this country. Teaching in a classroom and informal setting as you live with Monks for a truly immersive experience.

FROM 435 USD

2-20 WEEKS

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NEPAL ENGLISH TEACHING VOLUNTEERS

Make a positive impact during your time in Nepal. Teaching English enables children to have a much better future and opportunities through education.

FROM 375 USD

2-20 WEEKS

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NEPAL INTRO EXPERIENCE

Sample the best Nepal has to offer across Kathmandu, Pokhara and Chitwan. From rafting and trekking to lake views you won't miss a thing!

FROM 675 USD

2 WEEKS

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REAL NEPAL EXPERIENCE

This epic adventure includes 28 days exploring colourful Kathmandu, trekking the Himalayas, bicycle tours in Chitwan and volunteering in Pokhara. Phew!

FROM 1,125 USD

4 WEEKS

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REAL ASIA ENCOUNTER – SRI LANKA, INDIA & NEPAL

Sri Lanka, India and Nepal! We can’t think of a more sublime combination of exotic and fascinating countries to volunteer in over 6, 9 or 12 weeks.

FROM 1,575 USD

6-12 WEEKS

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ULTIMATE ROUND THE WORLD ENCOUNTER

An epic journey across 10 enthralling destinations and 4 breathtaking continents. If you are looking for the ultimate trip, then this is your Encounter!

FROM 6,285 USD

20-40 WEEKS

MORE INFO

@planmygapyearofficial 🇳🇵 Our Nepal coordinator – Asim, giving you a quick tour of our PGMY Volunteer House in the capital of Kathmandu. One of three volunteering locations in Nepal! #pmgy #pmgynepal #planmygapyear ♬ Sia – Xeptemper


WHY VOLUNTEER IN NEPAL WITH PMGY?

Most Affordable – PMGY’s programs are accessible to everyone who wants to make a difference, through low fees and high-impact projects.

 

Best Support – Our international and local teams provide extensive around the clock services to assist you every step of your PMGY adventure.

 

Safety Prioritised – With safety a PMGY number-1 priority, we have taken all necessary precautions to ensure our programs are as safe and structured as possible.

 

Extraordinary Experiences – With PMGY, you have the opportunity to truly immerse yourself in amazing cultural and travel experiences, ensuring you leave with unforgettable memories.

 

Friendships for Life – Your PMGY experience not only opens up a doorway for new experiences and exciting memories, but also life-long friendships when meeting new people from around the world.

VOLUNTEER PROJECTS

NEPAL ENGLISH TEACHING TO MONKS VOLUNTEERS

Would you like to immerse yourself in a completely new culture, whilst teaching others your skills? As a volunteer teaching English to monks in Nepal, you will experience a fascinating culture. Live within a Nepalese Buddhist monastery and learn about a whole new way of life in this unique experience. You’ll be joining the monks’ daily routines and practising meditation before the sun rises, ready for a day of sharing knowledge and helping these communities to learn English.

 

Background to the Teaching Program

 
Although Buddhism is not the most practised religion in Nepal, the influence of this religion can be found throughout; well Nepal is the birthplace of Buddha! From the countless temples and stupas located around the country to the thousands of Tibetan Buddhists who have sought refuge, Nepal remains an important place for Buddhists.

 

Many young Nepalese men spend a period of their life training as a monk. The majority of the children at the monasteries are Tibetan refugees and impoverished children from ethnic hill tribes. Therefore becoming a monk offers many children the chance of a better life.

 

Training to become a monk starts at an early age. Firstly, young monks are taught about Buddhist practices and philosophies as well as receiving general mainstream education – including learning English. Consequently, the ability to speak English allows monks to translate religious text and communicate the teachings of Buddhism to all. As the Dalai Lama said, “To learn English is to spread the word”.

 

It is very important that monks receive a formal education as well as religious training. It is not totally uncommon for monks to leave the monastery when they get older, therefore it is important for them to learn English in order to boost their career prospects in mainstream society.

 

As a volunteer teaching English to monks in Nepal, you can enormously benefit their learning and language development. As a result, by working with international volunteers the monks can vastly improve their communication and pronunciation skills on a new level.

 

Teaching Volunteer Placement Example

 

If you would like to teach English to monks in Nepal you will be living at the monastery, in separate living quarters. The location of where you volunteer in Nepal will be at one of the monasteries that we support in either Kathmandu or Chitwan. The monasteries in Kathmandu are situated in various locations across the valley – some are close to the city centre and others are in more rural communities.

 

Nala Monastery – This monastery is a couple of hours outside of the main town of Kathmandu. It lays within a peaceful rural setting, close to the ancient Bhaktapur City. Here around 150 male monks of all ages are living at the monastery. Around 50 of the young monks are divided into four classes for teaching. The rooms are basic but comfortable with a modern ensuite. However, there is usually no hot water or Wi-Fi. In addition, there’s a snack shop on-site and a sports field to unwind with the monks next door.

 

Kwung Gumba Monastery – In contrast, your volunteer work in Nepal may take place with another monastery in Kathamandu, which is located amongst a small neighbourhood. This placement is close to the shops with easy access to the main town. There are western toilets and Wi-Fi available here, although the signal is often intermittent. Volunteers teaching English to monks in Nepal will be based in one of the three classrooms that surround the library. Each room is equipped with a whiteboard and benches, and the students will be split according to ability.

 

Daunne Monastery – The monastery placement in Chitwan, on the other hand, is very rural and located within a jungle environment. Monkeys will be your new neighbour on this Nepal volunteer program! Consequently, international volunteers are advised to note the Chitwan monastery offers a much more authentic experience, where facilities are very basic and general resources are more limited. Another unique aspect of the monastery in Chitwan is that participants will work with both male and female monks. The school here is also open to children in the local village and is a short walk uphill into the forest.

 

Your Volunteer Role & Typical Teaching Day

 

For every volunteer teaching English abroad to monks in Nepal, expect to be woken early each morning as the gong is sounded and morning prayers commence. What a unique opportunity to learn and get immersed in the Buddhist way of life!

 

You will generally be given a timetable for your classes for 2 hours a day. Due to the more limited hours on this particular program there is a lot of downtime at the monastery and therefore you should be able to occupy yourself with other personal activities. Above all, English teaching is the main way you will help whilst you volunteer in Nepal, but there may also be the chance to teach other subjects like Maths and Science.

 

As a volunteer in Nepal, you will follow a flexible curriculum syllabus when conducting your lessons, whereby most of the time you will plan your own lessons and activities, working independently or alongside a fellow participant. There is usually a government course guide book available according to class standards that focuses on English, Maths, and Science.

 

In Kathmandu expect there to be around 40-150 young monks, depending on your monastery. If your volunteer work in Nepal is based in Chitwan, then there are around 100 monks. The ages range from around seven years old to lower teen and average class sizes tend to be around 10-15 per class.

 

The level of English will vary depending on which class you’re assigned. Therefore, you should be prepared to spend time planning for each lesson. Anything that you can teach about your own culture will also be gratefully received. In the evening times, volunteers in Nepal are encouraged to help the monks with their homework and any one-to-one learning experiences formally or informally.

 

You will have a lot of free time on your Nepal volunteer program, which you can spend travelling, relaxing or learning about the Buddhist way of life. Meanwhile, this may be your opportunity to explore the local market or learn about the local community. Alternatively, you could spend the evenings playing sports, games or extracurricular activities with the young monks.

 

Depending on your Nepal volunteer program, you may be able to provide extra help like preparing meals or collecting firewood and wild mushrooms from the jungle. You will find the monks to be accepting and genuinely grateful for your help. As a result, they will be interested to teach you about their unique culture. As a volunteer in Nepal, this will give you an insight into the Buddhist religion not granted to tourists.

 

On arrival, young monks will be keen and excited to meet you. However, some will also be shy of you in your first few days at the monastery. You will get the chance to eat with the monks and have the opportunity to take part in some meditation rituals (Puja) if you are up early enough! Please note it is not possible for the monks to teach and of these practises and volunteers should be confident to get involved on a more pro-active basis.

 
 

NEPAL ENGLISH TEACHING VOLUNTEERS

As a volunteer teaching English in Nepal, you will make a positive impact at a community level. In addition, you will immerse yourself in a fascinating local culture. From kindergartens to primary schools, you can lead classes and assist lessons to educate and inspire the next generation, preparing them for a better future.

 

Background to the Teaching Program

 

PMGY Nepal English teaching volunteers encourage students to develop a skill that will help them to achieve their future goals. By conversing with fluent, native English speakers, their language skills will greatly improve, which is essential for future employment. Therefore, education is the key to driving economic, political and social development. With the help of your volunteer work in Nepal, you can help to achieve this via the younger generation.

 

However, the education system in Nepal is of an extremely low standard. It seriously lacks real investment and many teachers are under-qualified, particularly English teachers. The sad result is that 41% of the Nepalese adult population is illiterate, leading people to basic jobs involving labour and low pay.

 

Tourism is Nepal’s biggest industry and source of employment, aside from agriculture. In addition, working in tourism brings in serious money and offers huge employment opportunities. However, a key requirement for a job in tourism is the ability to speak English. As a result, being able to speak English opens up so many doors for young people in Nepal. Nonetheless, the level of English in government schools is poor, so effective English tuition is only a viable option for children from wealthy backgrounds in international schools.

 

If you want to volunteer teaching English in Nepal, you will be exposing the children to more opportunities in their future. Consequently giving hope and inspiration to the young minds who do not have access to private school education.

 

Teaching Volunteer Placement Example

 

On your Nepal volunteer program, you will be placed at one of the local schools or kindergartens that provide education to some of the most deprived communities. Depending on your placement location and needs of the projects at the time, there may also be the opportunity to get involved in working at a day-care centre, which involves providing care and basic education to children of pre-school age.

 

Smart Kids Kindergarten – Located within Kathmandu Valley, this kindergarten was set up in 2015 with a strong focus on education in a child-centred infrastructure. They aim to provide an enriching and exciting environment for young children aged 3+. Although, they often have minimal resources and limited English communication. As a volunteer teaching English in Nepal, you can offer your language skills and passion to help boost the children’s education from a young age. The activities here are focused on high interaction and engagement, underpinned with a focus of fun, as the children will not be so confident or able in English.

 

Chitwan Primary SchoolVolunteers teaching English abroad in Nepal may be based in the south, at a small local school within Chitwan town. The class sizes generally range from around 20 – 30 children, with ages varying from five years old up to lower teens. You will often be paired with one teacher for your whole placement, although this usually depends on the need and availability at the time. Additionally, there is usually a curriculum that you can follow at school. Otherwise, you may be free to design and lead your own classes. During your volunteer work in Nepal, you’ll find the resources at the schools can often be quite limited. Consequently, it’s good to find props and use your imagination!

 

Your Volunteer Role & Typical Teaching Day

 

You’ll be up early with your host family to get ready for the day ahead. Make sure you wake up with plenty of energy! Depending on your location, it will probably be a short walk from your homestay to your volunteer placement, Otherwise, transport will be provided.

 

Your main role as a volunteer in Nepal is to teach English, although, there is also the chance to teach other subjects such as Maths and Arts when required. The schools have local staff who will assist participants, but most of the time international volunteers lead their own lessons. In addition, the lessons are largely informal and participants have the freedom to be creative with their lesson plans.

 

During your lessons, we encourage volunteers teaching English in Nepal to use engaging educational activities to hold the student’s attention, as well as inspire their learning. Be creative, use exciting ways to learn new vocabulary and introduce interesting topics in a fun way. Use educational games like interactive word searches or Hangman to test the students. Or try a bit of class competition in Hot Seat or team quizzes. Games, songs, art, sport and music can all be great tools.

 

The schools usually have basic resources available. Some of the teaching project sites do have outdoor space and playground facilities as well as a range of toys and books to engage with the children. However, these can be limited at times so you may wish to bring some extra educational books or games to assist with your teaching whilst you volunteer in Nepal.

 

Flashcards and stickers are a good idea as well. Plus you’ll find it much cheaper to buy resources during your Nepal volunteer program, which puts money into the local economy too. Additionally, souvenirs from your home country can also be a great resource, especially for introducing yourself to the children and helping them learn about you and your culture.

 

As a volunteer teaching English in Nepal, you will typically be teaching around 3-5 hours a day from Monday-Friday, depending on which placement you have joined. School often starts around 9-10am, after a busy morning of cooking Dal Bhat to fuel your day! You’ll have a break for lunch and most projects will be finished between 2-4pm. Use your free time after your Nepal volunteer program to meet the local community in your neighbourhood, explore the local market or join in cultural activities.

FLIGHTS & TRAVEL INSURANCE

Flights

 

After confirming your place on a PMGY volunteer program, we strongly advise that you book your flights as early as possible. This is since it will help ensure that you get the lowest airfare. You can choose to book your flights independently or we can help you with arranging them. PMGY has a wealth of experience in travelling to and from our host countries. Therefore, we know the most affordable ways to travel and the best airlines to use. Therefore, if you would like any assistance booking your flight, you can request an optional flight quote during your online application. Alternatively, feel free to contact us on the phone or by email.

 

For your volunteer trip to Nepal, you should book your flights to Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu for your Sunday start date. The airport code is KTM. Participants travelling to Nepal can arrive at any time on their designated volunteer Sunday program start date.

 

Travel Insurance

 

Importantly, having an appropriate travel insurance policy during your time abroad is essential. Therefore, it is mandatory for all of our international volunteers to be appropriately covered across all of their trip dates. This includes your travel to and from the host country, as well as any onward travel. Although PMGY does everything to ensure your trip is safe, inevitably things can go wrong. Therefore, having a travel insurance policy in place helps you effectively deal with any problems you may encounter during your time away.

 

We have partnered up with the insurance company battleface to create an affordable and comprehensive optional policy. This has been designed with our international volunteers in mind, to cover our participants for all of their travel essentials. The policy is available to anyone across the globe, up to the age of 65 years. The document will cover you for your time on any PMGY destination and any onward travel (excluding the US and Canada). You can purchase PMGY Travel Insurance during your online application or you can contact us directly to arrange it.

PRE-DEPARTURE SUPPORT

Our International Team will work hard to provide extensive levels of support in the build-up to your trip. From our online chat service to email support and telephone conversations, our team are always ready to help. All international volunteers with PMGY will receive a Volunteer Handbook. This detailed hand guide will provide you with all you need to know in the build-up to your trip. From visa guidance to suggested packing lists, this will be the ultimate guide, helping you plan for your volunteer trip abroad.

 

We have Facebook groups for each of our destinations. Here you can find members of our international and local teams, as well as past, present and future participants. These pages, therefore, provide a great forum for participants to network, share experiences and community updates year-on-year.

 

Sometimes it can be difficult to picture yourself abroad without yet being there. We, therefore, do our best to further manage expectations before you arrive through a variety of informative and action-packed videos on our PMGY Vimeo channel. These clips help provide you with a visual perspective of what you can expect during your time volunteering with us. Our webinars are not to be missed either. Running on selected Tuesdays, at 4pm UK time, our International Team provides invaluable advice for your upcoming trip. Each webinar covers something different. Our pre-departure webinar covers all of the essentials you need to know and do before joining us abroad. Our program preparation webinar is more project-specific, with advice and information for the time you will spend on placement. Finally, our safety webinar offers you some top tips on how to manage your safety and wellbeing across the pond. For those who are simply interested in learning more about PMGY, our team also run an introductory webinar. This provides an introduction to the volunteer organizations, our background, goals and volunteer opportunities overseas.

 

Teaching participants may wish to take their program preparation even further, through a 60 hour online TEFL course. This is the perfect introductory course for working with children and teaching English abroad. Participation in this course enables international volunteers to acquire key skills whilst working towards an internationally accredited certificate.

PROJECT LOCATION AND DURATION

We have Nepal volunteer programs in Kathmandu, Chitwan and Pokhara. Each location is unique in its own way. Most placements are based in more rural communities but we do have projects closer to the cities.

 

Kathmandu

 

Kathmandu is Nepal’s capital and only major city. It is a bustling metropolis, rooted in history and rich in culture. Filled with temples, palaces and courtyards, the unique architectural heritage and religious influence make the city a fascinating location. Each volunteer in Nepal will arrive in Kathmandu and spend their orientation period and final night here.

 

During your orientation, you will be located close to the Thamel area, which is the tourist base of Kathmandu. Across your orientation days, you will have time to explore some of the area’s best attractions.

 

Chitwan

 

Chitwan is located in the vast flat and fertile Terai region, close to the Indian border. Its location offers a different landscape to that of Kathmandu and Pokhara, which are closer to the Himalayas. Paddy fields, ox-towed carts and an array of wildlife make this a perfect location for those seeking a quieter location.

 

Despite this, there is still plenty to get involved across your weekends! From bicycle tours to jungle safaris and white water rafting, there is definitely something for every adventure seeker.

 

Our programs are based in a number of villages in the Chitwan National Park district. Famous for its National Park, Chitwan offers a warmer climate and much more laid back experience than Kathmandu.

 

Pokhara

 

Pokhara is located 200km west of Kathmandu, a 7 hour bus journey away. Set around the Phewa Tel Lake and surrounded by mountains, Pokhara is a humbling location. The journey from Nepal’s capital is beyond breathtaking. In the Lakeside district, you are able to find everything you need, from western restaurants to International hospitals.

 

However, if you would prefer a more rustic experience, we have placements in quaint rural settings just outside of Pokhara. Pokhara is the starting point for the majority of the trekking trips in Nepal. It also offers each volunteer in Nepal with an ideal location for paragliding, canoeing and yoga!

 

All our programs in Nepal run from 2-20 weeks beginning on the first and third Sunday of each month. Our Nepal Intro Experience and Nepal Gap Year Experience programs run for 2 weeks and 4 weeks respectively, starting on specific start dates across the year.

PMGY NEPAL LOCAL TEAM

PMGY’s volunteer opportunities in Nepal program are run by our dedicated and experienced in-country local teams.

 

All staff have been fully vetted by our International Team. The committed local community network provides the structure for your stay with us as a volunteer in Nepal. Our local team will arrange your accommodation, meals, airport pick-up and drop-off, project transport, in-country orientation and 24/7 emergency support. Whether you are teaching English in schools or working with children, our local team will support you. Our team provides a great framework for you to enjoy a unique volunteering experience with us in Nepal.

ORIENTATION

Your orientation for your volunteer program in Nepal will begin on Monday. After a refreshing breakfast, your day will kick off with a 2 hour Nepalese language lesson. Learning Nepalese is not only a great cultural experience, but it is also an important preparation for your volunteer placement. Being able to readily communicate with the locals will make your experience all the more enriching.

 

You will then continue with an introduction to the transport system, safety advice and our Nepal volunteer programs. This theoretical part of the day will be based in your in-country director Asim’s house.

 

After lunch, we will then head into the heart of Kathmandu’s tourist centre. Our local team will take you sightseeing around the city. This will offer you the chance to check-out the famous Monkey Temple, Boudha stupa and Pashupati temple. You will be accompanied by a local team member who will teach you all about Kathmandu’s rich and diverse history.

 

You will also have the chance to change money, buy a local phone or SIM-card and visit the supermarket. You’ll then return back home for a home-cooked evening meal. The rest of the day is a further chance to better know your fellow participants.

 

You will complete your orientation the following morning with a cultural lesson. Our local team will teach you about life in Nepal, the “dos and don’ts”, the local culture and religion. After lunch, you can spend the rest of your day how you wish. Perhaps you’ll start your souvenir shopping early, or tick-off some more sightseeing locations.

 

The evening will be your time to pack and prepare before your journey to your volunteer placement location the next day. If the location is close by, you may be dropped off here this evening instead.

 

During your orientation period (Monday-Tuesday), your lunch is not included in your Program Fee.

ITINERARY

Please make sure you arrive into Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) in Kathmandu on the Sunday.

 

Day 1 (Sunday) Arrival

 

Welcome to Nepal! You will be greeted at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu by one of PMGY’s local coordinators holding a PMGY sign. We will transfer you to the volunteer host family accommodation, where you can relax and let home know you have arrived safely. In the evening you will get the chance to experience your first Nepalese dinner.

 

Days 2-3 (Monday-Tuesday) Orientation

 

Your orientation as a volunteer in Nepal will begin on Monday. After a refreshing breakfast, your day will kick off with a 2 hour Nepalese language lesson. Learning Nepalese is not only a great cultural experience, but it is also an important preparation for your volunteer placement. Being able to readily communicate with the locals will make your experience all the more enriching.

 

You will then continue with an introduction to the transport system, safety advice and our Nepal volunteer programs. This theoretical part of the day will be based in your in-country director Asim’s house.

 

After lunch, we will then head into the heart of Kathmandu’s tourist centre. Our local team will take you sightseeing around the city. This will offer you the chance to check-out the famous Monkey Temple, Boudha stupa and Pashupati temple. You will be accompanied by a local team member who will teach you all about Kathmandu’s rich and diverse history.

 

You will also have the chance to change money, buy a local phone or SIM-card and visit the supermarket. You’ll then return back home for a home-cooked evening meal. The rest of the day is a further chance to better know your fellow participants.

 

You will complete your orientation the following morning with a cultural lesson. Our local team will teach you about life in Nepal, the “dos and don’ts”, the local culture and religion. After lunch, you can spend the rest of your day how you wish. Perhaps you’ll start your souvenir shopping early, or tick-off some more sightseeing locations.

 

The evening will be your time to pack and prepare before your journey to your volunteer placement location the next day. If the location is close by, you may be dropped off here this evening instead.

 

During your orientation period (Monday-Tuesday), your lunch is not included in your Program Fee.

 

Day 4 (Wednesday) Travel to your Placement

 

On Wednesday morning you will move to your project location. If you’re a volunteer in Nepal placed in Chitwan or Pokhara, then you will take the tourist bus. Our local team will take you to the bus station and ensure you have your ticket and seat on the bus. The buses are comfortable, come with air conditioning and reclining seats.

 

On arrival into Chitwan or Pokhara bus station, each volunteer in Nepal will be picked up by one of our local coordinators who will take you to your accommodation. The cost of your bus ticket and transfer to/from the bus station is included in your Program Fee.

 

Each volunteer in Nepal is advised to note that depending on road, weather and traffic conditions the journey times from Kathmandu to Chitwan or Pokhara can take anywhere from 7-12 hours. Due to the longer orientation and travelling time, Nepal is one destination we would recommend for long term volunteers.

 

If your placement is in Kathmandu then one of our local coordinators will take you to your host family or project residence.

 

Days 5-6 (Thursday-Friday) Volunteering Begins

 

You will start your volunteer work in Nepal on Thursday morning. Should you need anything whilst at the project, remember our local team are only a phone call away.

 

Days 7-8 (Saturday-Sunday) Weekend!

 

The weekend is your time to explore the wonders of Nepal. Each volunteer in Nepal is offered a choice of rural and urban locations in this stunning and visually arresting country, with volunteer programs in Chitwan, Pokhara and Kathmandu. Each location is unique in its own way. These off the beaten track destinations offers such stark and beautiful scenic contrasts from mountains to jungles. There are few countries in the world that are as well set up for independent travel as Nepal. Wandering the trekking shops, bakeries and pizzerias of Thamel and Pokhara, it’s easy to feel that you have somehow landed in a kind of backpacker Disneyland. Alternatively, there are also plenty of local sites to explore too! From jungles to lakes to mountains – Nepal has it all.

 

As a volunteer in Nepal, our team both welcomes and encourages participants to explore the country’s wonderful treasures. They will be very happy to help you plan your weekend opportunities and outline any travel tips. There are also set dates across the year in which our local team run structured trips on a Chitwan National Park safari and Pokhara trekking trip.

 

The Following Weeks

 

Your next week(s) will follow a similar pattern, as you will be volunteering from Monday-Friday. Weekends will be free to travel. Time will fly so make sure you make the most of it. Our local team are there to support you throughout your stay. Whether you’ve lost your phone, want some advice for weekend travel plans or just need someone to talk to, they are there for you.

 

Last Days (Friday-Sunday)

 

Sadly Friday is your last day at the project residence but the good news is you’re heading back to Kathmandu.

 

Saturday is your last full day in Nepal and you will spend this in Kathmandu. You will have a full free day to explore this fascinating city further. Your transport costs back to Kathmandu are included in your Program Fee and you will be met at Kathmandu bus station to come back to our local teams’ accommodation.

 

Sunday is your last day in Nepal. We will arrange your return airport drop off. This is included in your Program Fee. A member of our local team will transfer you back to the airport at a time that is convenient for your travel itinerary.

SAFETY

If you have not travelled much before, it is really hard to know what to expect. When anticipating their time overseas, many international volunteers (and their loved ones) are often concerned about safety and security. Although we can never guarantee experiences to be 100% trouble-free, we have taken all necessary precautions to ensure our programs are as safe as possible. Every program that PMGY offers has been personally inspected and selected by a director of PMGY. We have lived in the accommodation, experienced the orientation and worked on the projects. Through our frequent visits and daily communications, we have built strong, trusting relationships with our local staff.

 

In the unlikely event that something was to happen, participants have various layers of support available to them:

 

• Volunteer in Nepal Local Team
• Project Staff
• PMGY International Team

 

Projects are monitored on an on-going basis to gauge participants’ experiences. With the help of feedback, we are able to continually improve our placements and opportunities. Security and safety are frequently assessed as part of this. We ask our participants to raise any concerns with our local or International Team. This ensures that these can be addressed and/or resolved as readily and appropriately as possible.

 

Through pre-departure and in-country guidance, we do our best to prepare our international volunteers for their time in Nepal. All participants are provided with a comprehensive safety briefing during their orientation period. Our local teams will go through everything from project introductions, to emergency procedures, how to use local transport and cultural differences. During this period, our team also provide participants with a full list of the important contact numbers.

 

Listed below are some general safety tips:

 

• Be modest with the amount of jewellery worn in public
• Do not drink tap water
• Be cautious of beggars or crowds. Incidents can occur when is confusion to distract you.
• Be cautious about removing money in public
• Always try to know where you are going before you attempt long journeys. Be especially careful at night
• Use reputable transport only. Our local staff will be able to recommend some during orientation
• Try to keep in groups at night and never walk alone along dark, empty streets
• The recognised tourist areas can be considered potentially high-risk areas for pickpockets and thieves
• Leave your valuables behind before a night out in the town
• For traffic safety, always keep looking to the left and right and walk slowly when crossing the road
• Do not accept drinks or food from strangers

WEATHER

It is always hot and humid in Nepal, with the time of year determining whether it is wet or dry! The dry season is December-May and the rainy season is usually June-November. The rain usually comes in short sharp bursts. All-day rain is also rare, so don’t let the monsoon season put you off coming to Nepal! In fact, the rainy season is quite refreshing as it brings some respite from the heat. Furthermore, the countryside is far greener and lush during the wet season. January to April is definitely the hottest time of year, with temperatures soaring over 35-degrees Celsius at times. The most moderate weather can be found between October and December when it is relatively cool, dry and not too humid.

ACCOMMODATION & MEALS

ACCOMMODATION

The first few days of your Nepal volunteer program will be based in Kathmandu, living with our host team in their family home. The accommodation here is nice and comfortable, has Wi-Fi and is a nice welcome to life in Nepal. Your accommodation after these few days will depend on which program you are joining. The host team will keep in touch with you throughout your stay, plus there will be local staff at your accommodation site as your main point of contact during your volunteer placement. Your final night on the program will be back in Kathmandu at the family home before you depart for the airport.

 

It is important to note that for your volunteer work in Nepal the accommodation will be comfortable but generally very basic; particularly in rural locations. Most accommodation will have western-style toilets, however, some options only have Nepali style squat toilets so be prepared! More rural placements have bucket showers. Most accommodation does not have Wi-Fi access and electricity is intermittent so it’s a good idea to bring a torch and plenty of books! It’s a wonderfully rustic way to live and a million miles away from today’s hectic, hi-tech lifestyle, so enjoy every peaceful second!

 

English Teaching to Monks – Monastery

 

During your time as a volunteer teaching English to monks in Nepal, you will live at one of the monasteries in Kathmandu or Chitwan. International volunteers will sleep in separate living quarters to the monks, where the accommodation is basic but comfortable, usually up to 4 people per room. Participants have their own space and privacy but are encouraged to only bring essential items during their volunteer work in Nepal and use a padlock to keep valuables safe.

 

The monastery in Chitwan is located in a rural setting so participants should not expect western-style toilets, hot water showers or internet access at this monastery. It is situated on a hillside within a jungle, a couple of hours bus ride from the local town.

 

The monasteries in Kathmandu tend to be more modern and are situated in various locations across the valley – some are close to the city centre and others are in more rural areas outside of town with only small shops nearby. Generally, you should expect not to have Wi-Fi or hot showers, but they usually have western-style bathrooms.

 

Living at the monastery is a truly unique experience that can bring with it some amazing views. You’ll hear the gong go off at 5am every morning to call the monks for prayer and meditation – something you’re welcome to take part in! Living life side-by-side with the monks and engaging in simple ritual life is definitely a once in a lifetime opportunity!

 

English Teaching Project – Host Family

 

If you are a volunteer teaching English in Nepal you will be staying with a host family close to your project, usually within easy walking distance. This is a great way to immerse yourself into the Nepalese way of life and get involved in the local community and cultural traditions. The more questions you ask and the efforts you make to socialise with the host family generally correlates to how much they interact with you and open their home to you. You can be sure you will be made to feel like part of the family!

 

You will either have a private room or share with fellow participants. In general, you will be provided with bedding, a mosquito net and fan. There may be intermittent Wi-Fi available, however, volunteers in Nepal can purchase a local SIM card in-country to use with an unlocked mobile phone. You are encouraged to only bring essential items during your volunteer work in Nepal and use a padlock to keep valuables safe.

 

Please note that some host families have Nepalese toilets. These are squat toilets with a bucket of water to flush, and in more rural locations it can be a hole in the ground. Usually, there will not be hot water and you may have a bucket shower. The level of facilities at the host family will vary depending on how rural the location is, including access to nearby shops.

 

It’s always handy to carry toilet paper and some hand sanitiser when you volunteer in Nepal – just in case. Toilet paper is easy to find in the shops but hand sanitiser is only available in the cities, so it’s worth bringing a couple of bottles from home.

MEALS

You will have your meals prepared for you, which will generally be traditional Nepalese food. You’re more than welcome to lend a hand in the kitchen and learn how to cook Nepalese dishes! Traditional food generally uses a variety of fresh, local ingredients including; lentils, potatoes, tomatoes, cumin, coriander, chillies, yoghurt and lots of rice, so it may take a little getting used to. Some dishes may typically be quite spicy too.

 

Dhal Bhat is the national dish and is usually served for breakfast and evening meal every day. It is a dish comprised of rice, lentils and seasoned vegetables.

 

Most meals are vegetarian with typical dishes being pasta or noodles complemented by locally grown vegetables. There is the occasional chicken, pork or fish dish served up from time to time.

 

Here is an example of the meals you can expect:

* Our team will do their best to cater for any dietary requirements. However, this cannot be guaranteed. This means that there may be instances where you need to purchase alternative ingredients at your own expense. Any dietary requirements should be noted within your application and re-iterated to the local team on arrival into the country. Any concerns for major requirements should be raised with the PMGY International Team before confirming your place on the program.

TRANSPORT TO PROJECT

Transport to and from your volunteer project is included in your Program Fee. However, most of the Nepal volunteer projects are in close proximity to your accommodation. This means that in many cases, each volunteer in Nepal can walk to and from the placement each day. The monastery projects are based on or next to the site of the accommodation. When participants are staying with host families, the project is usually around a 15-20 minute walk from the accommodation.

PHOTO GALLERY

VOLUNTEER IN NEPAL REQUIREMENTS

PMGY welcome participants of all nationalities and backgrounds. The minimum age to join the program is 18 and there is no upper age limit. All participants need to have a good level of English, although it does not need to be your first language. You do not need to speak Nepalese. However, you will find that learning a few words in your days with us in Nepal will go a long way!

 

All participants must be able to provide a clean criminal background check in advance of volunteering with us abroad. In general, no formal experience or qualifications are required for the projects, just lots of energy, enthusiasm and preparation!

 

In order to confirm your place on a PMGY program, you need to pay your Registration Fee of 249 USD. The remaining fee is then due no less than 60 days prior to your program start date. During this period if you need to make a change to your trip (destination, program or date) then this can be facilitated free of charge.

 

Please check out our Application Process for more info on how to join our volunteer projects overseas.