Volunteering Adventure in Nepal

Thursday August 10: Arrival in Kathmandu

Welcome to Nepal! Start your volunteering adventure by arriving in Kathmandu, the capital city. In the morning, visit the sacred Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world. In the afternoon, explore the narrow streets and vibrant markets of Kathmandu's old town, Durbar Square. As the evening sets in, enjoy a traditional Nepali dinner and experience local culture at one of the city's cultural shows.

• Boudhanath Stupa: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2 hours
• Durbar Square: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 3 hours
• Traditional Nepali Dinner and Cultural Show: Estimated cost - NPR 1500, Time spent - 3 hours

Friday August 11: Volunteer Orientation and Sightseeing in Kathmandu

Start your day with a volunteer orientation to learn about the project you'll be working on. In the morning, visit the Pashupatinath Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the holiest Hindu temples in the world. In the afternoon, explore the beautiful gardens and ancient structures of the Kathmandu Durbar Square. As the evening approaches, enjoy a peaceful walk along the banks of the Bagmati River.

• Pashupatinath Temple: Estimated cost - NPR 1000, Time spent - 2 hours
• Kathmandu Durbar Square: Estimated cost - NPR 1000, Time spent - 3 hours
• Bagmati River Walk: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1 hour

Saturday August 12: Volunteer Work in Rural Village

Today, embark on your volunteering work in a rural village outside Kathmandu. Spend the morning and afternoon engaging in community development projects such as building schools, teaching English, or helping with sustainable agriculture. In the evening, immerse yourself in the local culture by participating in traditional dance and music performances.

• Volunteer Work: Estimated cost - Included in program fee, Time spent - Full day
• Traditional Dance and Music Performance: Estimated cost - NPR 500, Time spent - 2 hours

Sunday August 13: Hiking in the Himalayas

Embark on an exciting day of hiking in the Himalayas. Travel to the beautiful town of Pokhara and begin your trek to Sarangkot. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Annapurna and Machhapuchhre mountain ranges. In the evening, relax and unwind by the tranquil Phewa Lake.

• Hiking in Sarangkot: Estimated cost - NPR 2000, Time spent - Full day
• Phewa Lake: Estimated cost - NPR 500, Time spent - 2 hours

Monday August 14: Volunteering in Pokhara

Spend the day volunteering in Pokhara. Engage in educational activities, environmental initiatives, or healthcare projects, depending on your interests and skills. In the evening, explore the lively Lakeside area with its shops, restaurants, and vibrant nightlife.

• Volunteer Work: Estimated cost - Included in program fee, Time spent - Full day
• Lakeside Exploration: Estimated cost - NPR 500, Time spent - 3 hours

Restaurants

• A popular breakfast spot in Pokhara is The Juicery. They offer a variety of fresh juices, smoothie bowls, and healthy breakfast options. Average cost for a meal is about 500 Nepalese Rupees per person.
• For lunch, head to Moondance Restaurant which serves a mix of international and Nepali cuisine. Their menu includes delicious burgers, wraps, and traditional Nepali thalis. Average cost for a meal is about 800 Nepalese Rupees per person.
• In the evening, enjoy a delectable dinner at Kinjali Restaurant. They specialize in Nepali and Asian fusion dishes, with options for both meat lovers and vegetarians. Average cost for a meal is about 1,200 Nepalese Rupees per person.

Tuesday August 15: Cultural Immersion in Bhaktapur

Take a day trip to the ancient city of Bhaktapur, known for its traditional architecture and rich cultural heritage. Explore the well-preserved Bhaktapur Durbar Square and visit the Nyatapola Temple. Immerse yourself in the local lifestyle by observing pottery making and indulging in delicious Newari cuisine.

• Bhaktapur Durbar Square: Estimated cost - NPR 1500, Time spent - 3 hours
• Nyatapola Temple: Estimated cost - NPR 500, Time spent - 1 hour
• Pottery Making Experience: Estimated cost - NPR 300, Time spent - 1 hour
• Newari Cuisine Tasting: Estimated cost - NPR 1000, Time spent - 2 hours

Wednesday August 16: Farewell and Departure

Say goodbye to Nepal as you depart from Kathmandu. Reflect on your volunteering experience and the memories you've made. Take one last stroll through the bustling streets of Thamel and pick up souvenirs to remember your time in Nepal.

• Thamel Shopping: Estimated cost - Variable, Time spent - 2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For off the beaten path attractions, consider visiting the village of Bandipur, known for its well-preserved Newari architecture and stunning mountain views. You can also explore the serene beauty of Rara Lake, located in the remote Karnali region. These lesser-known destinations offer unique experiences away from the tourist crowds.

Check hotel and flight prices for your Nepal adventure here.