The Complete Free Guide to Volunteering in Nepal

If you are thinking about volunteering in Nepal, please feel free to take advantage of this volunteer in Nepal handbook. This short and sweet, but comprehensive handbook is filled with valuable information that you will find very useful when preparing for such an extraordinary adventure overseas in Nepal.

Within the book, you will find everything from why Nepal is a perfect destination to explore and volunteer in and where are the best places in Nepal to visit to the best time of the year to travel and some of the top volunteer abroad in Nepal programs available. This handbook also explores the topics of free volunteering, affordable volunteering, and paid volunteer in Nepal opportunities.

Chapter 1: Begin Your Journey to Volunteer in Nepal

Welcome to Nepal!

Nepal is a truly exceptional destination to embark on a volunteer abroad trip. Nepal is home to seven of the world’s highest peaks, all of which are over 20,000 feet tall. It is this dramatic landscape that makes Nepal such a humbling and serene place. The natural side of Nepal is exquisite.

There are 200 awe-inspiringly beautiful glacial lakes, some of the best trekking trails in the world, snow capped mountains, and flora and fauna rich forests. Nepal is also home to 35 different ethnic groups that practice different religions, have their own unique traditions, prepare sensory stimulating dishes, and speak several different languages. You could say that Nepal is an incredibly culturally rich country.

While Nepal is nature and culturally wealthy, the majority of the people in Nepal are not. There are countless different areas where you, as a volunteer, can make a real difference in the lives of the Nepalese people and communities. Volunteering in Nepal is an experience like none other and one that will be highly rewarding.

There are volunteer opportunities in Nepal that involve working with children, teaching English in local schools, teaching English to Buddhist monks at a monastery, or even helping to document local events and happenings through a photojournalism program. Regardless of which volunteer in Nepal project that you choose to join, you will make a significant and positive impact there.

Why should you volunteer in Nepal?

There are actually so many reasons why you should join a volunteer program in Nepal! Between the outrageously beautiful landscape, seemingly endless amount of ancient temples, monasteries, and historical landmarks, the deep sense of spirituality and serenity that exudes from all corners of the country, and the lovely Nepalese people, there really isn’t any reason why you shouldn’t volunteer overseas in Nepal. But, here are a few just to further inspire you.

Cultural Immersion

The Nepalese people are often described as being warm, welcoming, spiritual, and amicable. The bond within a community is quite strong, but also a bond that is bestowed upon visitors who spend time in the community. The Nepalese are proud of their culture and are more often than not eager to share it with those who are interested. Volunteering abroad in Nepal will be a unique and wonderful cultural experience.

Colorful culture and traditions

Hindu is the predominant religion in Nepal with Buddhism following in second. Religion in Nepal is more than just a belief system, it is a way of life that is celebrated and practiced through ancient traditions, ceremonies, and festivals. Nepal is the only Hindu Kingdom the world. There are hundreds of temples, statues, and monasteries that are devoted to the polytheistic religion.

Safe place to volunteer and explore

Nepal is a safe travel and volunteer destination. That being said, it is important that you are always aware of your surroundings and belongings, use common sense, and always show respect to the local people.

Breathtakingly beautiful scenery

Between the massive mountains, piercing blue glacial lakes, beautiful forests, charming towns, divine temples, and ancient monasteries, Nepal is an exquisitely stunning place to visit. When you join a volunteer program in Nepal, you will find yourself constantly in awe of your surroundings.

Culinary experience

While talk about the food in Nepal may often be overshadowed by talk about the Himalayas, it must be mentioned that traditional Nepalese food will make your taste buds dance. Nepalese cuisine typically includes curries, flatbreads, chutneys, dal, and dumplings that are called momos and are filled with all sorts of different things. Each region of Nepal has its own traditional dishes, but they usually include a lot of vegetables and lean meat. Don’t forget to try Nepali tea too when you are volunteering in Nepal.

Adventure

Nepal is full of adventures to be had! It is obviously very famous for its mountain trekking, but there are also opportunities to go on wildlife safaris, river rafting trips, paragliding tours, and even bungee jumping. For those who are serious hikers and climbers, the Himalayas and Annapurna mountain range offer some of the best mountain hiking and climbing journeys in the world.

Eye opening and perspective altering

When you leave the comfort of your home and home country to volunteer overseas in Nepal where your help is greatly needed, it is likely that your experience there will have a deep impact on you. Sometimes we forget how fortunate we really are.

We complain about our daily lives, stresses, work, relationships, family, and money, but when you spend time in a community that has significantly less than you do and is struggling in different ways, you might realize that your problems aren’t all that bad. Sometimes we all just need a little perspective in order to come back with a new and positive attitude and outlook.

Personal Growth

Spending time volunteering overseas in Nepal is a special opportunity for personal growth and development. It is here that you might find a new passion, embrace a new way of life, gain valuable career-related experience, or find a new sense of purpose and direction.

Friends

When you volunteer abroad in Nepal, you will be volunteering alongside likeminded individuals from all walks of life from all over the world. This is a rare opportunity to build some new and everlasting relationships with people whom you might never encounter otherwise. It is also probable that you will form some meaningful and deep relationships with the people whom you help during your volunteering in Nepal program.

Make a significant difference in the world

The children, adults, and communities in whole will be ever so gracious for your decision to visit their country and lend a helping hand. There is so much that you can do to positively impact the lives of the Nepalese whether through teaching, photography, community building, or healthcare. When you join a volunteer in Nepal project, you will be making a real impact on the lives of the less fortunate.

What are the best volunteer in Nepal opportunities?

There are so many fantastic and incredibly affordable volunteer programs in Nepal. Your decision should be based on what your personal interests and passions are guiding you toward. Whether you choose to volunteer in health, education, or photojournalism, the experience will be rewarding for all who are involved.

Volunteer in an orphanage in Nepal

Unfortunately, due to poverty, past conflicts, and natural disasters, thousands of children in Nepal are left to fend for themselves. Without a family and any guidance, many of these children migrate to the bigger cities in an effort to find work and a better life. Some end up finding work, but are heavily exploited by being forced to work fourteen plus hour days only to return to the streets to sleep. This is a grave situation for far too many children.

When you decide to volunteer in an orphanage in Nepal, you will have the choice of three urban locations. Your commitment to one of these orphanages and to the children who call it home, will make a significant difference in the lives of this wonderful and deserving children. You have the power to brighten the present and future lives of the orphans of Nepal.

During your volunteer in an orphanage in Nepal program, you will take on several important roles, such as teaching English, conducting creative activities (games, music, and art), and teaching and helping to encourage proper hygiene and good health. If you have prior sewing, tailoring, crafting, or computer skills, you can also help teach work skills that will open up more opportunities for these children in the future.

Volunteer teaching English in Nepal

The ability to communicate proficiently in English is critical if one is to find a decent paying job in the future. English is the second language in Nepal and also the one that is most often used in commerce and trade. Without the proper English skills, job security is very limited. Unfortunately though, the schools that teach English with qualified teachers and the necessary resources are often expensive private schools that are inaccessible to the majority of the population. Therefore, students from low-income families will likely grow up to pursue low-income careers; thus the impoverished lifestyle is perpetuated by lack of education.

Volunteering to teach English in Nepal is a gift to the children of Nepal that will keep on giving. You will help to teach oral skills including proper pronunciation and practice conservational skills with your students. You will also follow an official English curriculum, but will have the freedom to use some of your own materials and creative teaching methods too. Your students will be eager to learn and so grateful for your time and effort. There are three different locations where you can volunteer to teach English in Nepal: Kathmandu, Chitwan, and Pokhara.

You will work two to three hours a day and your students will range in age between six and thirteen. You also have the option to help teach math, science, and physical education at one of the local schools. This is a great opportunity to gain valuable teaching experience. When you join a volunteer teaching English program in Nepal, you will be helping to give your students a far brighter future.

Volunteer teaching English to Buddhist Monks

There is also a unique opportunity to instead teach English to Buddhist monks at a monastery in Nepal, if you are looking for something different. This rare experience is an incredible way to spend time at one of the beautiful monasteries where you will have the opportunity to learn all about Buddhism and the Buddhist way of life in exchange for helping the monks there to learn English.

As tourism is on the rise in Nepal, the ability to communicate in English is very valuable, as many tourists speak the language. If the monks can speak English, they can further more effectively share the rich culture, history, and religion with those who visit their monasteries. The Rinpoche, or high Lama, realized the value of being able to communicate in English and is encouraging all monks to learn the language. Volunteering to teach English to Buddhist Monks in Nepal is a meaningful and highly rewarding experience. It is also a wonderful opportunity to gain valuable teaching practice, especially if education is a career that you are involved in or want to be in the future.

Volunteer with a medical project in Nepal

If you are a medical professional or interested in the field of healthcare, volunteering with a medical project in Nepal is an amazing opportunity to not only help people in need, but to also gain valuable hands on experience. Sadly, for low-income individuals and families, healthcare is not also accessible or affordable. Private clinics are pricy and the few government-funded hospitals are poorly run, understaffed, and under-resourced. Everyone deserves at least basic healthcare.

When you join a medical volunteer project in Nepal, you will work alongside likeminded volunteers and medical professionals in a grand effort to bring healthcare to the marginalized communities in Nepal. Your work is invaluable to these sick, injured, or suffering individuals. Without your help and these programs, countless people would go on living in pain and illness. This might prove to be one of the most rewarding experiences of your life. It will also be a fantastic learning experience. You will get to tend to and treat a number of different conditions and learn from medical doctors and nurses a wealth of practices, methods, and treatment options.

As part of a medical volunteer program in Nepal, you will be assigned tasks based on your experience and education level, but will definitely have room to grow and expand your medical skills while you are here. Help take care of the Nepalese who don’t have anyone else to take care of them.

Volunteer with a photojournalism program in Nepal

Volunteering as a photojournalist in Nepal is a one of a kind experience. If you are interested in photography and want to improve your photography skills, this unique opportunity is calling your name. Nepal couldn’t be anymore picture worthy between the impressively tall and extensive mountain ranges, ornate temples, ancient statues, lively towns, annual festivals, constant ceremonies, and Buddhist stupas. There are endless things to take photographs of while in Nepal.

During your photojournalism volunteer program in Nepal, you will work closely with a professional photographer who will help to bring out your inner best photographer. You will learn valuable tricks of the trade, will be taken to a variety of photo worthy sights and events, and have constant guidance from your own personal mentor. This is an incredible way to really see Nepal while documenting every step of the way. This photojournalism volunteer project in Nepal takes place in the Katamandu Valley, which is a very photogenic and exciting location.

What is the ideal season to volunteer in Nepal?

The optimal time to join a volunteer program in Nepal is the time that works best for you. There isn’t a season when everything in Nepal just becomes perfect and volunteers are no longer needed. However, like any place, there are certain times of the year that are better for various reasons.

There is a great need for volunteers in all different programs throughout the year. The time of the year in which you decide to join a volunteer program in Nepal really just depends on the type of program that you are interested in being a part of and when you are available to take time off from your daily life and travel abroad. There are positives and negatives to each season of the year in Nepal, as there are in most places around the world.

December and January are considered the true winter months in Nepal. While it doesn’t snow in Kathmandu, the temperatures are quite chilly. For such a small country, Nepal’s landscape changes drastically in elevation ranging from 60 meters to upwards of 8848 meters. So you can imagine that the higher elevated places have more extreme climates. Volunteering in Nepal during the winter months are wonderful, if the cold isn’t a factor for you. The weather is typically consistent and the skies are clear, which offers beautiful views of the mountains.

February through the middle of April is considered the spring in Nepal. The temperatures are warmer and the days are longer than during the winter. Nepal’s national flower, the rhododendrons, is in bloom, which truly transforms parts of the landscape. These months are also the best times to see wildlife in Nepal. On the downside though, the skies are often hazy, which can obscure the mountain views.

The end half of April through June is considered the pre-monsoon season. If you have the freedom to pick any time to travel and volunteer in Nepal, it is recommended that you pick any other season. These months are extremely hot and humid, buggy, and it is more common to have stomach issues during these months in Nepal because the rains are just starting. However, this is a more affordable time to travel to Nepal because it is not peak tourist season.

The middle of June through the end of September is the monsoon season. Contrary to what you might assume about monsoon season, it is actually one of the most beautiful times to be in Nepal. The Nepalese welcome this season, as it brings an abundance of fresh fruits and vegetables and life into the valleys, forests, and mountains. Everything turns greens, all the flowers are in bloom, and butterflies fill the air.

During monsoon season, it typically doesn’t rain all day, but rather big storms come at night. The downside of this season is obviously rain-related. Mudslides, rock blockages, and cancellation of travel plans are more common. If you want to experience the picturesque and vibrant Nepal as you probably are imagining it, join a volunteer in Nepal program during the monsoon season.

The months following monsoon and before winter (what most would call fall) are when some of Nepal’s biggest Hindu festivals take place. Dashian and Tihaar are during the months of October and November. Volunteering abroad in Nepal during the festival season is incredibly special and will be a most memorable authentic cultural experience. However, make sure you plan far in advance if you are planning to come during this season, as it is very busy time of the year.

What are the best places to volunteer in Nepal?

There are three main areas where volunteer programs in Nepal are operating: Kathmandu, Chitwan, and Pokhara. All three regions are completely different and have their own unique things to offer. All three of these regions are excellent places to visit and volunteer in though and no choice is a bad choice.

Kathmandu

Kathmandu is the capital city of Nepal. It is also the largest city in Nepal. There are approximately 1.4 millions people living in Kathmandu and another 2.5 million living in the surrounding Kathmandu Valley, which includes Lalitpur, Kirtipur, Madhyapur Thimi, and Bhaktapur. Kathmandu is 1,400 meters above sea level and falls into the warm temperate climate zone in Nepal.

Kathmandu is a fascinating and sensory stimulating destination to spend time in while you are volunteering abroad in Nepal. There are tons of fabulous restaurants where you can enjoy authentic Nepalese cuisine, teahouses, local bazaars, workshops and tiny souvenir stores, museums, and cultural centers to explore. There are also ornate and picturesque temples, stupas, statues, and monasteries through the city. There is no place on earth quite like Kathmandu, Nepal.

While you are volunteering in Kathmandu in Nepal, you will have ample free time to explore. You can visit the Durbar Square, hike the Annapurna circuit, see red pandas at the Langtang National Park, or spend time at the Kopan Monastery, among countless other culturally captivating experiences and activities. On a clear day, you can even see the Langtang Himalayan mountain range.

Chitwan

Chitwan is located in the southern part of Nepal about a four or five hour drive from Kathmandu. The landscape here is very different from how you are probably imagining Nepal. Chitwan is a made up of vast grasslands and plains and sits at a much lower elevation. The predominant source of income in Chitwan comes from agriculture. Rice, mustard, maize, sesame, buckwheat, and wheat are all grown in this region of Nepal.

Cows, goats, chicken, and buffalo are also raised for meat, milk, manure, and farming help. In recent years, bee keeping has become a popular and profitable industry in Chitwan. Joining a volunteer program in Chitwan, Nepal will introduce you to a whole different side of the country.

During your free time from your volunteer project in Chitwan, Nepal, there are some really exciting opportunities available to experience the incredible nature of this area. The most famous point of interest in Chitwan is the Chitwan National Park. It is here that you might get lucky and see a Bengal tiger! The park is also home to elephants, rhinos, wild boar, deer, and a great variety of birds. You can take a jeep safari through the park with a professional wildlife guide. There are also waterfall hikes, tours of the local villages, and a chance to visit an elephant-breeding center when volunteering abroad in Chitwan, Nepal.

Pokhara

Pokhara is 200 kilometers from Kathmandu and is a nature and adventure-lover’s dream destination. Pokhara is the second largest city in Nepal and the ideal starting point for trekking through the Annapurna mountain region. Everywhere you look in Pokhara is picture worthy! If you decide to volunteer abroad in Pokhara, Nepal, there will never be dull free time moment. This region is home to a great number of beautiful lakes, waterfalls, and caves. If you love taking walks through nature, this is your spot. There are so many good walks and leisure hikes here.

There is also a wealth of cultural sights to see including the International Mountain Museum, Gurkha Memorial Museum, and the World Peace Pagoda. There are also plenty of yoga and meditation option, amazing restaurants and cafes, full moon parties, and annual festivals. Pokhara has been dubbed the adventure capital of Nepal too for its many adrenaline-pumping activities, such as bungee jumping, skydiving, paragliding, mountain biking, and white water rafting. Volunteering in Pokhara, Nepal will be an exhilarating experience where you will also have the opportunity to truly make a different in the lives of the people and communities there.

Chapter 2: Choosing Your Perfect Volunteer in Nepal Project

Nepal is an outstanding country to spend time in exploring and volunteering. There are multiple organizations that are offering volunteer abroad opportunities in Nepal. When you search for volunteer programs in Nepal, quite a selection will appear. It is necessary to weed out the organizations that aren’t reputable, professional, and ethically responsible, but this might seem like an overwhelming task. Here are some important factors to consider when choosing a volunteer organization to help you make your dream of volunteering in Nepal come true.

Tips on how to select the best volunteer in Nepal organization

Check out their numbers.

How long has the organization been operating? How many volunteers have volunteered with the organization in their history? Numbers are valuable. You want to choose a volunteer organization that has been operating long enough to be experts. With time, comes experience. A volunteer organization that has been operating for a number of years will most likely have programs that are well-organized, well-managed, and run smoothly because they have had time to sort out all of the glitches. A volunteer organization that has helped connect a solid number of volunteers with volunteer programs in Nepal and other parts of the world is also more likely to be reputable and professional.

Read the reviews.

Reading reviews from past volunteers is an excellent way to gain some insight into the volunteer organization and their programs. Past volunteers, whether they had a really good experience or a really bad experience, will typically share their feelings about the program that they joined. See what others are saying about the organization you are interested in volunteering with and take note of how those reviews make you feel. After reading through several reviews, how do you feel? Your gut feeling usually doesn’t lie.

Take notice of their online presence.

A reputable, responsible, and professional volunteer organization will have great online presence that includes a well put together and easy to navigate website and active and relevant social medias outlets like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter. You can tell a lot about a company or organization through their online presence. Be wary if the website isn’t well designed and doesn’t provide you with all the important initial information that you are seeking and if their social media pages aren’t active, up to date, and sharing engaging and inspiring content.

Check for transparency regarding your fees.

All volunteer organizations charge some sort of application fee and program fee. When picking a trust-worthy organization, the allocation of your fees should be made very clear. There shouldn’t be any hidden costs or obscure information. Most of the time application fees go toward the basic costs of running a business, which a volunteer organization is and the program fees go directly to your chosen volunteer project in Nepal and host family. The organization that you choose to volunteer for should be upfront with all of the costs of your volunteer abroad trip to Nepal.

Communication is key.

It is wise to choose a volunteer organization that responds to your e-mails or phone calls in a timely and professional manner. Communicating with them should be easy and provide you with the answers to all of your questions and concerns. If communication is faulty from the beginning, imagine what it will be like when you are all the way in Nepal. One of the major roles of a volunteer organization is to help facilitate your volunteer abroad in Nepal trip, not to make it harder.

Chapter 3: Important Pre-Trip Information

Prior to setting off on your grand adventure to volunteer overseas in Nepal, there are some things that need to be taken care of first. There are also some things that might help make your preparations a bit easier too. While traveling abroad is exciting, it is important to make sure you are completely prepared for your trip before you walk out the door, go to the airport, and get on your first plane.

Passport

Anytime that you are traveling outside of your home country, you need to travel with your passport. Your passport MUST be at least valid for six months from the date of your departure to Nepal. If you are planning to volunteer abroad in Nepal in November 25, 2017, your passport must be valid at least until May 25, 2018. Don’t let something so avoidable ruin your trip. Check your passport expiration date.

Visas

A visa is required to enter Nepal. However, a visa can be obtained upon arrival at the airport if you are a U.S, Canadian, British, Australian, or other EU country citizen. Other nationalities must obtain a visa prior to arrival and should check with the embassy for requirements and fees. Just make sure you have valid visa to volunteer in Nepal before you leave or as soon as you arrive and can obtain one at the airport.

There are 15, 30, and 90-day visas. A 15-day visa costs $25USD, a 30-day visa costs $40, and a 90-day visa costs $100. There is an option to extend your visa, but you must do so from the Department of Immigration or Pokhara Immigration Office for a total of 120 days. The maximum amount of time a visitor can stay in Nepal is 150 days. This additional 30 days is sometimes granted, if there is a reasonable reason why you want to extend your stay.

Vaccinations

Prior to traveling anywhere, you should be up to date on your vaccinations. Make sure that you are vaccinated for measles-mumps-rubella, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, varicella (chickenpox), polio, and your yearly flu shot. While these aren’t required to enter or volunteer in Nepal, it is better to be safe than sorry. It is highly recommended that you also get a Hepatitis A and Typhoid vaccination. You can get hepatitis A and typhoid through contaminated food and water in Nepal. Aside from that, you should ask your general physician what other vaccines, such as hepatitis B, Japanese Encephalitis, malaria, and yellow fever, you should have.

For more information about vaccinations and health concerns in Nepal, consult the Center for Disease Control and Prevention website:

Flights

Flight is one of the major costs of volunteer abroad Nepal. Most volunteers don’t live particularly close to Nepal. For this reason, airfare to Nepal can be rather pricy. However, with proper planning and searching, it is possible to find a reasonably priced airline ticket(s).

• Check out several different airline companies.
• Research what airports in Nepal you can fly in and out of according to the program that you decide to join.
• Use fare-compare websites.
• Play around with flying different routes to see what is the most affordable way to fly.
• If possible, avoid busy travel months.
• If you have airline miles, try and find an itinerary that you can apply them to.
• Book in as far in advance as you can.

Fundraising Opportunities

While the experience of volunteering abroad in Nepal is priceless, the reality of it has a price tag. You will need to pay for your application fee, program fees, airfare, vaccinations, visa, project donations, and supplies that you personally need for your adventure, among other things. There are ways to lessen the blow though! Here are some different ways that you can raise some funds for your grand adventure to volunteer and travel in Nepal.

• Start a crowd-funding campaign online.
• Organize a fundraising event.
• Have a garage sale.
• Pet- or babysit.
• Start a lawn mowing, private tutoring, or other small business venture in your neighborhood.
• Ask your family and friends for donations to help support your volunteer trip to Nepal.

Suggested Reading

It is a wonderful idea to read up on Nepal before you embark on your volunteer in Nepal trip . Through travel books about Nepal, you can learn a lot about the culture, traditions, religions, customs, history, geography, sights to see, activities to do, and foods to try. Learning about the country in which you are planning to visit will help you to feel more comfortable about your trip and will prepare you for what’s ahead. Sometimes it is also nice to read some non-travel guidebooks about Nepal to get you even more excited and inspired for your volunteer in Nepal trip too.

Here is a list of suggested reading for your volunteer in Nepal adventure:

• The Rough Guide to Nepal
• Little Princes: One Man’s Promise to Bring Home the Lost Children of Nepal by Conor Grenna
• Nepal-Culture Smart: The Essential Guide to Customs & Culture
• While the Gods Were Sleeping: A Journey Through Love and Rebellion in Nepal by Elizabeth Enslin
• Nepal (Culture Shock! A Survival Guide to Customs & Etiquette) by Jon Burbank
• House of Snow: An Anthology of The Greatest Writing about Nepal by Ed Douglas and Ranulph Fiennes

What to bring on your trip?

To avoid getting overwhelmed and forgetting something important for your volunteer in Nepal trip, it is a good idea to make a list of your must-bring items. It is also a good idea to research the specific area(s) in which you will be volunteering and traveling to in order to get an idea of what the typical weather conditions and temperatures are like, so you know what type of clothing to bring.

Here is a basic list to get you started:

• Original and copies of travel documents (visa, passport, travel confirmation, and travel insurance)
• Credit card
• Nepal guide book(s)
• Leisure reading book(s)
• Headlamp and or flashlight with spare batteries
• Comfortable shoes
• Light overnight or day bag for short trips
• Sarong, cotton wrap, or shawl
• Travel towel
• Wet wipes and antibacterial gel
• Camera (memory card and charger)
• Notebook or journal
• Cables for electrical devices
• Travel adapter
• Toiletries
• Medications
• Rain jacket
• Bathing suit
• Lightweight, mix and match clothing (pack for comfort and the weather) for warmer months
• Winter jacket, scarf, long sleeves (think layers), gloves for winter months
• Hat and sunglasses
• Sunscreen
• Insect repellant

Donations

It is a very nice idea to bring some small gifts from your home country to share with your host family as a symbol of appreciation. It is also highly appreciated when volunteers bring supplies to donate to their chosen projects. Projects that involve childcare, education, or healthcare, in particular, can always use educational resources, books, coloring books, art supplies, games, toys, and first-aid supplies. A lot of volunteer programs in Nepal are extremely underfunded and under resourced, so any donations are greatly appreciated. If you are not sure what to bring or what is needed, just ask your volunteer organization.

Chapter 4: Important Volunteer in Nepal Program Information

You are most likely experiencing all sorts of emotions about your upcoming volunteering trip to Nepal. It is probably a mix of excitement, anticipation, anxiousness, doubt, and certainty all mixed up and fluttering around like a bunch of butterflies in your stomach. This is totally normal! You are about to embark on a trip of a lifetime to a country that you have probably never visited and that is maybe half way around the world from where you live. Embrace it!

To help ease that mixture of feelings in your belly, there are some more things that you can inquire about that will only help to further prepare you for you volunteer abroad trip to Nepal.

Find out all the specific details about your volunteer program in Nepal.

It is a good idea to have all of the pertinent information regarding your volunteer trip to Nepal prior to your departure. Your volunteer organization should be able to provide all of the following information, if they have not already sent it to you. The more you know before you arrive in Nepal, the more at ease you will feel.

• Name, address, and contact information about your volunteer placement in Nepal
• Expectations, rules, and guidelines of the project and organization in which you are volunteering
• General responsibilities
• Volunteer work schedule (days/hours and break time/time off)
• Transportation to and from your project location (is this something that is arranged by the organization or that you are responsible for arranging for yourself?)
• Who is your supervisor?
• Who will you be working alongside? (Other volunteers, a mentor, project staff, etc.)
• Is there any pressing information or tips that you must know before leaving for Nepal?

Who is your host family?

If you have decided to stay with a host family during your volunteer abroad project in Nepal (excellent choice by the way), you might feel more comfort if you knew a bit about them before you walk into their home. Living with a host family is an experience like none other, but is understandably a little nerve wreaking when you have never met these people before yet you are committing to living with them for a period of time. Don’t worry though; your host family has been carefully chosen and will quickly become like your second family. You can ask your volunteer organization for information about your host family.

• Where do they live?
• How far away is their home from your project location?
• How many members of the family are there?
• What are the names, ages, and genders of the family members with whom you will be residing?
• Do they have any pets?
• What is your host family’s main occupation?
• What are some of their personal interests or hobbies?
• Will you be sharing a room or will you have your own private room?
• What areas of the house do you have access to? (The living room, kitchen, laundry room, etc.?)
• Are you permitted to have friends visit you at the house?
• What amenities are available within a close range of their house? Internet cafe, post office, pharmacy, food store, etc.
• Has your family hosted international travelers and or volunteers in the past?
• Are their any specific rules of the house that you need to be aware of so that you may follow them accordingly?

Reach out to your in-country support.

When you are in Nepal, you will have the support of an in-country team who works for your volunteer organization (this is part of what you pay for). Your in-country support will either be one specific person or several, but regardless will be available 24/7 and oftentimes will accompany you to your volunteer project and on cultural excursions. They will also be in charge of introducing you to your host family and volunteer project coordinator and staff.

You will develop a close relationship with your in-country support right off the bat. It is their job to make sure that everything runs smoothly, that you are always safe, and that you are happy. They are also there should any emergency or issue occur during your volunteer program in Nepal.

So, you might want to reach out to him or her (or they) prior to your volunteer abroad trip in Nepal departure date just to say hello and make a first connection. Starting your working relationship early on may help to make you feel more secure about setting off on your adventure. It’s always good to know someone or at least feel like you do.

Wrap up the final details.

Before you take off for your amazing volunteer overseas trip to Nepal, it is wise to double-check all the information regarding your trip. It is also a good time to ask any final pressing questions to your volunteer organization that might be lingering on your mind. Double-check the following details of your trip:

• Check your flight information and make sure that all of the details that you have received are correct. This includes airline(s), flight number(s), date, and arrival time.
• Ensure that arrangements have been made for your pick-up at the airport.
• Ask how you will identify the one who is transporting you from the airport to your accommodations. (Sign, uniform, name, company, type of vehicle, etc.)
• Make sure that you have the correct emergency contact information.
• Make sure that the emergency contact information that you gave the organization is correct.
• Check that there have been no changes with your project, host family, and or location.
• Ask any other questions that have been on your mind.

Chapter 5: Now You're in Nepal

How to have the most memorable and rewarding volunteer experience in Nepal

You have made one of the best decisions of your life thus far! The decision you made to spend time traveling and volunteering in Nepal will be life changing for not only you, but for those with whom you encounter and help. You are about to explore an incredible new culture and country where you will have the opportunity to challenge and learn about yourself, grow as a person, gain some valuable new insights and perspectives, try new food, and meet new people all while lending a helping hand to the people and animals that need you the most.

The decision you made and the time, effort, and money that you put into this volunteer abroad in Nepal trip will pay off in vast and unexpected rewards. However, to ensure that you have the most memorable and rewarding volunteer abroad trip in Nepal, make sure that you do the following:

Know before you go.

Unfortunately, we live in a world where conflict, social uprising, political and economic instability, war, health epidemics, natural disasters, and extreme weather conditions are present and always changing. It is wise to stay on top of what is happening locally in Nepal leading up to your trip there (or anywhere).

Learn about the culture and customs in Nepal.

When you are traveling outside of your home country, it is advised that you brush up on the local culture and customs of the place in which you are planning to visit. Having a basic understanding of the customs, salutations, manners, religion, and faux pas of Nepal will save you from unpleasant interactions and behaving in a disrespectful way. Fortunately, the Internet has an incredible wealth of information to help you out in this department. Also, later in this chapter there will be some valuable information about do’s and don’ts in Nepal.

Embrace a relationship with your host family, co-volunteers, and local community.

The relationships that you develop while you are volunteering in Nepal will be deep, meaningful, and ones that will likely last a lifetime. Part of the experience is making these special connections with people whom you might have never encountered otherwise. Your host family will be your family while you are completing your volunteer work in Nepal. The time you spend with your host family and the bond you form will make your experience extra special. The same goes for the bonds you make with the other volunteers, the people with whom you are helping, and the people of the local community.

Also, local knowledge is invaluable. Your host family and the local people with whom you interact will be able to share with you all sorts of information regarding the best places to visit, eat and drink at, and explore. They can also help you plan your free time adventures. Getting advice from a local is the best way to travel and experience a new place.

Don’t forget your purpose.

Remember that one of the main reasons that you are in Nepal is because you felt it in your heart that you wanted to help to Nepalese people and animals. You also had a yearning to experience a new culture and foreign land. Embrace the challenge and change of traveling outside of your comfort zone and remember that you are doing something extraordinary not only for yourself, but for others in need. Keeping this open-minded and heart-guided mindset will only further enhance your volunteer experience in Nepal.

Speak up.

If something isn’t right or doesn’t feel right, let your country coordinator know. If you have a problem or issue relating to you host family, accommodations, meals, volunteer project, or any other aspect of your volunteer abroad program in Nepal, alert your in-country coordinator immediately. If you feel in danger or have an emergency, your support team is 100% there for you. Your volunteer trip to Nepal should be a positive, rewarding, and happy experience. If for any reason it is not going in that direction, be sure to speak up so that your issues or concerns can be immediately addressed and solved.

Safety procedures and practices while volunteering abroad in Nepal

When you are traveling and volunteering in Nepal, or any other place in the world, it is critical that you are safe. It is your volunteer organization and in-country support team’s top priority. However, you must also take full responsibility for yourself and your actions. Common sense, awareness of your surroundings, self, and possessions, and the following recommendations will play a significant role in your safety and overall happiness during your volunteer abroad trip to Nepal.

Here are some safety recommendations:

• Always carry around a copy of your passport. You should never have your original document on your body, unless specifically required for a reason at some point.
• Make sure that you have your health insurance information in an easily accessible place. You can make a copy of this and keep it with you, as well. Your travel insurance should have a 24-hour support number. Make sure that you have this number.
• Keep up to date on any safety or travel warning advisories for Bali.
• Ensure that all of your vaccinations are up to date and you are traveling with any necessary medications.
• Send a copy of all of your important documents (passport, credit/debit card, travel insurance) and travel itinerary details to a family or close friend.
• Let your bank know about your travel and volunteer plans in Nepal. Also, write down or place in your device your bank’s fraud or stolen card department number, just in case.
• Register your Nepal travel and volunteer details with your home country’s embassy.

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• Keep all of the contact information for your volunteer organization, volunteer project, local support, host family, embassy, and emergency services in Nepal somewhere on you at all times.
• Don’t bring any valuables with you while you are out and about. Pickpocketing and petty theft are a concern in Nepal. Always be aware of your possessions and who is around you.
• If you are going to take a taxi, make sure that it is a registered taxi. Ask your local coordinator for recommendations for taxis, private shuttles, or any other type of personal transportation to ensure that you are traveling with a reputable and safe driver.
• Always try and travel around with at least one other person, especially at night. It is never a good idea to walk around alone at night.
• Always be aware of your surroundings and pay close attention to landmarks or street names, especially until you have a comfortable understanding of where you are and how to get around.
• Keep the address and directions to your accommodations with you.
• Listen and trust your instincts. If something doesn’t feel right or a person doesn’t seem trustworthy, just believe that to be true and remove yourself from that situation.

Dos and Don’ts while volunteering in Nepal

• Use both of your hands when receiving something, even if it’s just money. This is a sign of gratitude and respect.
• Remove your shoes before entering a temple, monastery, or home.
• Walk around stupas clockwise so that it is always on your right side. The same goes if you encounter a stonewall covered with Tibetan scripture.
• Get a receipt of authenticity and proof of purchase if you purchase any type of antique relic, otherwise you will not be able to take it out of the country.
• Carry a flashlight with you, since power outages sometimes occur.
• Make sure you exchange all of your Nepalese currency before leaving the country. It is illegal to leave Nepal with Nepali currency. Keep all of your receipts from any previously exchanged money during your trip, as you might need these later to exchange your money back.
• Eat everything on your plate. If you are served too much food, ask for some of the food to be taken away prior to eating. It is disrespectful to not finish the food you have been served.
• Ask before taking photographs of a religious ceremony, place, or person.
• Always be friendly and respectful.
• Enjoy every single moment of your time in Nepal.
• Don’t touch the women. When greeting or meeting a Nepalese woman, you don’t shake their hands or hug them. Instead you press your palms together in a prayer-like fashion called Namaste. This is the preferred method of greeting and meeting.
• Don’t engage in public displays of affection. Men and women do not hold hands or affectionately engage in public. It is best not to act out of public norm.
• Don’t wear any skimpy clothing. Nepal is religious and conservative. Be respectful and wear clothes that cover your shoulders, chest, and mid-section. Don’t show too much skin.
• Don’t eat with your left hand.
• Don’t eat unpeeled fruit or vegetables unless you are certain they have been properly washed in filtered water.
• Don’t drink unfiltered water.
• Don’t offer food from your plate to someone else.
• Don’t eat beef in front of Hindus or Buddhists. Cows are considered sacred.
• Don’t wear leather.
• Don’t raise your voice or get into a loud verbal confrontation, this is viewed as very bad manners in Nepal.
• Don’t do drugs. Drugs in Nepal are illegal and it is a serious offense if you get caught.

Be informed about culture shock when volunteering in Nepal.

Culture shock can occur when you are living, working, visiting, or volunteering in a foreign country, especially a third world country. It is something that can happen to anyone, even the worldliest of travelers. However, it is more likely to strike someone who hasn’t experienced ways of life that are drastically different from their own. Culture shock happens when you are in a place where the culture, customs, beliefs, living situations, and sanitation conditions are extremely different from how they are in your home country.

Don’t be scared of culture shock though. Immersing yourself in a totally new culture and world has far more benefits and rewards than the temporary discomfort of culture shock. The best thing that you can do is to remind yourself that you are in a new place and you will just need some time to adjust. Grant yourself all the time you need to adjust and just be patient with this adjustment period, as it will pass.

It might also be helpful to know and realize that a lot of volunteers who make the selfless and noble decision to venture out on an overseas mission to help others in need will most likely experience some sort of culture shock, especially if it is their first time volunteering abroad in a developing country. You can connect with other likeminded volunteers and learn more about culture shock and how to deal with a new environment by searching online forums and blogs relating to volunteering overseas in Nepal. You are not alone and realizing that can make a significant difference.

There are also some ways to prevent or at least lessen the severity of your initial shock when volunteering in Nepal by following these tips:

Learn about the customs, culture, traditions, living conditions, hygiene standards, and ways of life of the Nepalese people prior to your volunteer trip to Nepal.

The more you know about Nepal before you go, the better prepared you will be for the reality of Nepal. Nepal is a beautiful, friendly, and culturally fascinating country, however, there is a lot of poverty and a lot of people who are suffering and in need of your help. Having a general idea of what to expect will help make it less shocking.

Immerse yourself in the culture in Nepal.

Between all of the incredible religious and historical landmarks, festivals, ceremonies, natural wonders, and activities to do in Nepal, it should be relatively easy to have an authentic and rich experience while volunteering overseas in Nepal. The more you participate in Nepali culture, interact with the local people and communities, experience the temples, monasteries, monuments, and cultural and religious events, the more you will feel like you belong there. You can also seek out other types of cultural learning experiences such as language classes, cooking classes, or guided tours. There is so much to do and see in Nepal. Get out there and do and see as much as you can.

Embrace the entire experience.

While it may be a bit challenging at first to adjust, embrace the challenge. The greatest rewards sometimes come out of the biggest challenges. Take every moment for what it is and how you feel in that moment. Be present and positive. Volunteering abroad in Nepal is an incredible opportunity to do something to significantly improve the lives of others while also having a learning, growing, and wonderfully stimulating experience in a world that is so different from your own. With the right attitude, an open-mind, and a bit of patience, you will definitely find your comfort zone.

Make friends.

You are in a unique situation where you have the opportunity to meet people from all over the world who you might have not had the chance to meet outside of this volunteer abroad trip to Nepal. Spending time with others, especially when you are feeling a bit uneasy, is a great way to overcome culture shock. It is likely that other volunteers in your group are experiencing similar feelings too. You can also connect with your host family and learn to embrace their traditional ways of life. This will help you in your transition period too.

Activities and sightseeing recommendations while volunteering Nepal

Sights to see:

• Boudhanath Stupa in Kathmandu
• Swayambhunath Temple in Kathmandu
• Bhaktapur Durbar Square
• Annapurna Mountain Range
• Mount Everest base camp
• Phewa Tal Lake
• Kopan Monastery
• Pashupatinath Temple
• Peace Temple
• Garden of Dreams
• Patan Museum
• International Mountain Museum
• Hanuman Dhoka
• Chitwan National Park
• Golden Temple
• Gorkha Royal Palace
• Bardia National Park
• Langtang National Park
• Annapurna Sanctuary
• Elephant Nature Reserve

Activities to do:

• Mountain hiking/trekking
• Mountain biking
• White water rafting
• Kayaking
• Paragliding
• Yoga
• Zip lining
• Bungee jumping
• Village tours
• Jungle safari

Chapter 6: Completing Your Volunteer in Nepal Program

After you have completed your volunteer trip to Nepal, there are some follow-up things that you can do to help your volunteer organization, specific volunteer project, and future volunteers. When you were doing your initial search and research, you most likely utilized and benefitted from online reviews, forums, and blogs. You can contribute to these helpful online avenues now that you are an experienced Nepal volunteer. You can also provide your organization and program with constructive feedback too. Here are some detailed examples and ways you can continue to help.

Provide feedback

Now that you have completed your volunteer program in Nepal, there are probably some things that you can share with your volunteer organization and or volunteer project in Nepal that can help them to grow and improve. Maybe you have some ideas as to how to make things better or more efficient. Any constructive feedback, especially relating to accommodations, meals, transportation, orientation, cultural excursions, and your individually chosen volunteer project in Nepal is greatly appreciated. The goal is always to help those in need and to provide volunteers with an amazing and rewarding experience overseas. Your ideas for improvement are always welcomed.

Write a review.

Share you experience by writing an online review. Keep in mind that you want to share information and your experience in a way that will be helpful to others who are interested in doing what you just accomplished. Reading reviews are a very useful way to learn about a program through the firsthand experience of someone who has participated in it. Sharing your thoughts, opinions, feelings, and stories should be aimed at helping others feel confident about their decision to join the volunteer abroad program in Nepal the way you did.

Continue to support your volunteer program in Nepal.

As you know now, the work that is being done at the volunteer project in Nepal that you spent time volunteering at is never ending and highly necessary. While you might not be able to physically be there anymore, you can continue to help. You can raise awareness and or financial aid for your volunteer project in Nepal by hosting fundraisers and charity events. Share your story and experiences and inspire people to want to lend a helping hand too.

Create a blog.

Another amazing way to share your experience in Nepal and inspire others to do what you did is by creating a blog. It is in this space that you can upload your photographs, share your story and experiences abroad, connect interested readers with the volunteer organization that you worked with and volunteer project in Nepal you spent time at by providing links and contact information, and inspire the desire to reach out and help those who are in great need of it. You can also keep readers up-to-date on current news, fundraising events, and different ways to help in Nepal. Here are some blog post ideas to get you started:

• How did you end up choosing Nepal?
• What was the volunteer program in Nepal like that you joined? (Mission statement, location, responsibilities, daily schedule, etc.)
• What was your volunteer experience in Nepal like?
• Share some detailed stories and accounts of your time in Nepal (volunteering and exploring).
• Did you experience any culture shock? What was that like? How did you overcome it?
• Did you experience any challenging moments or events?
• Dos/Don’ts in Nepal
• What was your best day?
• What will you miss the most about being in Nepal?
• What was your host family experience like?
• Did this experience change you or your life in anyway?

Cherish your Nepal relationships forever.

Stay in touch with all of the wonderful people with whom you shared your volunteer experience in Nepal. The connections you made are special. You might also want to do another volunteer adventure to Nepal or a different country in the future and can reach out to your co-volunteers to see if anyone wants to join you. Most of the time, once you volunteer once, you will want to do it again!

Chapter 7: Most Frequently Asked Questions about Volunteering in Nepal

How will I get from the airport to my host family or volunteer home in Nepal?

When you arrive in Nepal, there will be an arranged picked up at the airport. This travel arrangement will be made prior to your arrival and you will have all of the details of this service prior to your departure for Nepal. The person who will be picking you up with be a professional and certified driver. You will be noticed as to how to identify your driver.

How many other volunteers will be volunteering with me?

The number of other volunteers that you will be volunteering with will vary depending on the time of the year and your chosen project in Nepal. You can ask for this number when you are applying for your volunteer program in Nepal.

If I volunteer with a friend, can we volunteer and reside together?

In most circumstances, this should not be a problem at all. It is best to make this request right away when applying, so that the necessary arrangements can be made.

Are my meals and accommodations included in my program costs?

Yes, you will receive three meals a day of typical Nepalese food. Your accommodations are part of the cost of your volunteering trip to Nepal. You will most likely stay in a hostel or with a host family.

Will my host family speak English?

English is the second language in Nepal. It is likely that your host family will be able to speak at least a little bit of English, since they have hosted international travelers in the past. If there is ever a communication issue, your local coordinator will be able to assist you.

Will I be able to travel around Nepal during my days off?

Absolutely! During your time off from your volunteer work in Nepal, you are highly encouraged to set off and explore. Your local coordinator and or program staff will be able to shed some local knowledge and recommendations on transportations and tours, if you need it.

How will I get to and from my volunteer placement?

This all depends on where your project is located and where are you living. Some host family locations will be within walking or biking distance to your project. Your volunteer organization will be able to coordinate your transportation with you.

Is it possible to speak to past volunteers?

Check to see if your volunteer organization has a volunteer community forum or database of past volunteers. You can also do a search online to see if there are any blogs about volunteering in Nepal.

What kind of food will I be eating while I am in Nepal?

Traditional Nepali meals consist of rice, lentils, curry, vegetables, and some type of lean protein (no beef). Nepali food is very flavorful and delicious. Your meals will always be fresh, healthy, and home cooked when dining at your accommodations.

How many hours per day will I be volunteering?

For most volunteer programs in Nepal, you will volunteer for 4 to 6 hours a day. This is completely dependent on your specific program though. It is best to inquire about your proposed schedule from your volunteer organization.

How much money do I need to bring?

The amount of money you need to bring to Nepal really depends on your personal budget and what you are planning to do in Nepal during your free time. If you are planning on going on a lot of tours, participating in adventure activities, dining out, and shopping, you will need more money than someone who is planning their trip on a stricter budget. It is recommended that you bring at least $50 a week for small personal expenses.

Chapter 8: Free Volunteer in Nepal Opportunities

You might be wondering whether or not there is a way to avoid paying a volunteer organization application and program fees. The way to avoid paying to volunteer is to just not use a volunteer organization to help you make your volunteer abroad in Nepal trip a reality. It is possible to do it by yourself. But you have to ask yourself, what does free really mean?

Are there actually free volunteering opportunities in Nepal?

Before answering this question, it is important to look at what you are actually paying for when you pay to volunteer overseas in Nepal. Most organizations that you came across and researched don’t actually own or operate the volunteer programs in Nepal, but rather acts as a mediator between the volunteer in Nepal program and the interested international volunteer. The volunteer organization also plays the role of travel agent. You are paying for a team of people who are experts in planning and organizing all aspects of volunteering in Nepal for you.

If you have never spent any significant amount of time in Nepal, it might be difficult or at least very time consuming to plan all parts of this incredible journey: airport pick-up and drop-off, homestay or other type of accommodations, daily transportation to and from your project, cultural outings, home cooked meals, and just signing up for the right volunteer in Nepal project. If the goal of your adventure is to have a meaningful, rewarding, safe, and affordable volunteering experience in Nepal, sometimes it is best to just let the experts do what they do best for a little extra money.

Most of your fees are directly allocated to the costs of your airport transportation, project transportation, accommodations, meals, travel insurance, and project donation, which you would be paying anyway if you decided to be your own “volunteer organization.” You are also paying for 24/7 in-country support and the security of knowing that you will be safe and taken care of while you are far away from your home country. So, is there really such a thing as a completely free volunteering trip to Nepal?

How to find “free” volunteer projects in Nepal?

If you are determined to do this entirely on your own, where there is a will there is a way. There are countless organization throughout Nepal that are in constant need of volunteers to come lend a hand, whether with orphans, animals, education, construction, or healthcare. Taking the “free” route means that you will need to do all of your own research and planning, which is totally doable and has been done many times before by past volunteers in Nepal. Keep in mind though, that you will still have costs that need to be covered in order to make this volunteer in Nepal adventure happen; but it is possible to avoid paying application and programs fees to an established volunteer organization.

The following steps will help guide your process of finding and signing up for a volunteer project in Nepal.

The Internet is your friend.

Can you imagine how difficult this would be without the Internet? Fortunately, there is a wealth of information that is easily accessible regarding volunteering in Nepal. You can start by doing simple Google searches. Search keywords such as free volunteering opportunities in Nepal, free volunteer programs in Nepal, how to volunteer for free in Nepal, free volunteer organizations in Nepal, or volunteer for free in Nepal. These initial searches should point you in the right direction. Bear in mind though, that while many programs and organizations will appear under these search topics, they might not actually be free. As mentioned above, most programs and organizations must charge some sort of fee in order to keep their business and programs afloat.

Go direct.

The next step you can take to find a free volunteer project in Nepal is to search directly for the official volunteer project website. This way you can directly contact the volunteer project in Nepal and cut out the middleman. Make a list of all of the volunteer projects that you might be interested in and then go back through each one individually to locate the contact information and send a direct email. This route will save you from paying application and program fees to a volunteer organization that is connecting you to the project of your choice. Remember though, without a professional and experienced volunteer organization to help you, you must do all of the research and planning on your own.

Inquire within your social, familial, and work network.

Ask the people whom you know if anyone has traveled to and or has participated in a volunteer program in Nepal. The best knowledge is firsthand knowledge. You can seek advice and recommendations from the people whom you know that have had a firsthand experience in Nepal. If you don’t know anyone directly who has done a volunteer project in Nepal, maybe someone knows someone who has. Any contacts or information will be helpful in your quest for finding a free volunteer program in Nepal.

Utilize social media.

Between all of the different social media outlets that most of us are connected to these days, it should be easy to reach out and connect. Use your social media platforms to ask if anyone has traveled to or spent time volunteering in Nepal and if they can shed any light on possible free volunteering opportunities in Nepal. Ask for project recommendations, locations, accommodations, transportation, and any other aspects of your trip that you are seeking advice while you are at it. Social media can be a wonderful tool for connecting us to other likeminded individuals who have maybe had experiences like the ones we are seeking to also have.

Read volunteer and travel forums and blogs.

There are some truly insightful and helpful travel blogs, websites, and forums. A simple search will give you some great options to look in to. Try typing in “best volunteer programs in Nepal,” “volunteer in Nepal recommendations,” “free volunteer projects in Nepal,” etc. You can also just do a more general search relating to travel and volunteering in Nepal. See what other travelers have done in the past and what past volunteers recommend.

Ask around in Nepal.

If you are already in Nepal, you are at a great advantage and ideal situation for finding a free volunteer project in Nepal. You can ask the local people or your hostel or accommodation employees if they know of any volunteer projects that are looking for volunteers. There may be projects that are so small that they don’t even have a website, but would love to have you as a volunteer. It might be easier to find free opportunities to volunteer in Nepal when you are actually in Nepal.

Ask the right questions before you join a free volunteer abroad project in Nepal

Before you get all excited that you have found the perfect free volunteer project in Nepal and book your ticket, it is important that you do all of the things that a volunteer organization that you would pay would do for you. Asking the right questions will save you from great disappointment, danger, and a significant financial loss. Deciding to go to Nepal to volunteer requires that you pay for things like a plane ticket, transportation, accommodations, and meals (not free), but you don’t want to pay for all of those things only to find out when you arrive that your project isn’t legitimate or isn’t what you thought it was.

Do your research! Here is what you should find out before you commit to a volunteer program in Nepal:

Is this free volunteer project in Nepal that you are interested in reputable, responsible, and legitimate?

Are they affiliated with a reputable and respected non-profit organization? Are they registered with the Nepali government? Are they well received within the local community? Are their online reviews from past volunteers available? Dig deep and find out as much as you can about the program that you are interested in to make sure they really are what they say they are. You are most likely traveling thousands of miles away from your home country and want to make sure that you are going into not only a safe experience, but also a rewarding and positive one.

How is their online presence?

Do they have a professional, well organized, and informative website? Are they on social media? Do they have a blog? Are they transparent? You should be able to find out the bulk of the important information that you need through their website, blog, and social media outlets. Their content should be up to date and provide you with all of the necessary information like project mission, location, accommodation options, any fees or donations required, project history, volunteer reviews, etc. You should get a sense that they are being honest, up front, and clear about their intentions.

Check reviews and forums.

Most past volunteers are keen to share their positive or negative experiences through online reviews and forums after they complete their volunteer project in Nepal. This is a very helpful resource for you. See what others are saying about the volunteer project in Nepal that you are interested in joining. It is fine if there are some negative remarks, as everyone will likely have a different experience and opinion, but the comments and reviews should be predominately positive.

How are their communication skills?

A trustworthy and professionally run free volunteer program in Nepal will reflect in their communication skills. Your emails should be responded to in a timely manner and with the appropriate information that you are seeking. You should feel that whoever you are communicating with is being honest, direct, and clear in their responses to your inquires. A credible organization will put everything on the table and not give off the vibe that they are trying to hide or withhold information from you. What is your gut feeling telling you when you talk to them?

What is your role going to be as a volunteer?

Before spending your money and traveling to Nepal to volunteer, you might want to find out exactly what you will be doing there. A volunteer program that is legitimate and has worked with volunteers in the past will be able to give you at least a general idea of your role and responsibilities during your volunteer commitment in Nepal. You want to know that your time, energy, effort, and money are being well utilized and spent. You don’t want to show up and be in a situation where they aren’t sure what to do with you.

Chapter 9: Finding Affordable Volunteer in Nepal Programs

Now that you have realized that there really isn’t such a thing as a totally and completely free volunteer opportunity in Nepal, you can broaden your search and options by instead looking for affordable or budget-friendly volunteer programs in Nepal. There are quite a few reputable, highly rated, positively reviewed volunteer opportunities in Nepal that are actually incredibly affordable. You can spend your days helping children, communities, or animals through childcare, education, community building, and conservation efforts, among many other avenues of volunteer work.

What makes paying a small fee totally worth it is that you can travel to Nepal knowing that you going to be safe, taken care of, and in a position to have the best possible experience. You are paying for an experienced organization to match you with a reputable and legitimate volunteer project in Nepal, as well as your accommodations, transportation, and meals. Think of all the time, energy, and stress you will save yourself by entrusting a volunteer organization with all of that work and planning. Search for a reasonably priced volunteer program in Nepal and check out all of the great options that appear.

How to reduce your costs of traveling and volunteering in Nepal

Take some time to evaluate your personal needs and financial status first.

Through adequate research, prioritizing, and planning, your volunteer trip to Nepal can be financially reasonable and not piggybank breaking. The opportunity to travel and volunteer in Nepal is truly priceless. The experiences that you will have, the memories that you will create, and the positive imprint that you will leave behind don’t carry a monetary value. Unfortunately, getting to Nepal and staying in Nepal does have a price tag.

There are countless volunteer organizations and projects that are constantly in need of adventurous, energetic, and compassionate volunteers. Most of these programs strive to make it affordable for volunteers like you to travel to places like Nepal to lend a helping hand. However, like most choices, some are better than others for all different types of reasons.

Two things that you should decide prior to investing your time into weeding through all of your options is to decide what your volunteer and travel priorities are and what your comfortable budget is.