Volunteering in Nepal

Make a meaningful impact while experiencing Nepal's rich culture and stunning landscapes

Popular Volunteer Opportunities

1. Teaching English

  • Locations: Kathmandu, Pokhara, rural villages
  • Duration: 2 weeks to 6 months
  • Requirements: Native/Fluent English, TEFL certificate preferred but not mandatory
  • Typical duties: Teaching basic English, creating lesson plans, teacher training

2. Childcare & Orphanage Work

  • Locations: Throughout Nepal
  • Duration: 1 month minimum recommended
  • Requirements: Background check, child protection training
  • Typical duties: Supervising children, teaching basic skills, organizing activities

Volunteer Program Costs

Program Type Duration Average Cost (USD) What's Included
Teaching English 1 month $500-$800 Accommodation, meals, orientation, local support
Medical Volunteering 1 month $600-$900 Accommodation, meals, hospital placement
Construction/Renovation 2 weeks $400-$700 Accommodation, meals, materials, supervision
Environmental Conservation 1 month $550-$850 Camp accommodation, meals, equipment, training

Important Note:

Reputable organizations should be transparent about how fees are used. Typically 40-60% goes to host families and local projects.

Requirements for Volunteering

  • Visa: Volunteer visa required (arranged through organization)
  • Age: Most programs require volunteers to be 18+
  • Background checks: Required for working with children
  • Skills: Some programs require specific qualifications (medical, teaching)
  • Insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance mandatory

Recommended Volunteer Organizations

Organization Focus Areas Website Rating
Volunteer Society Nepal Teaching, healthcare, construction volunteersocietynepal.org ★★★★☆
Nepal Orphans Home Childcare, education nepalorphanshome.org ★★★★★
Himalayan Volunteer Medical, dental, teaching himalayanvolunteer.org ★★★★☆
RCDP Nepal Variety of community projects rcdpnepal.org ★★★☆☆

Choosing a Responsible Program

  • Check how program fees are distributed (should benefit local community)
  • Avoid orphanage volunteering unless you can verify children are truly orphans
  • Look for long-term partnerships with local organizations
  • Prefer programs that provide cultural orientation and language basics
  • Check reviews from multiple sources (GoAbroad, Volunteer Forever, etc.)

What to Expect

  • Accommodation: Usually basic but clean (host families or volunteer houses)
  • Food: Typical Nepali meals (dal bhat) - vegetarian options always available
  • Work hours: Typically 4-6 hours/day, 5 days/week
  • Weekends: Free for travel and exploration
  • Connectivity: WiFi available in cities, limited in rural areas

Preparing for Your Volunteer Experience

Time Before Preparation Tasks
3-6 months Research programs, apply, arrange visa
2 months Get vaccinations, purchase insurance
1 month Book flights, pack appropriate clothing
2 weeks Learn basic Nepali phrases, confirm arrangements

Cultural Considerations

  • Dress modestly (covered shoulders and knees, especially women)
  • Remove shoes before entering homes and temples
  • Use right hand for eating and giving/receiving items
  • Avoid public displays of affection
  • Ask permission before photographing people