Volunteer in Nepal: svaagtm!

About Volunteering in Nepal

Best known as the home to the tallest mountain in the world, Nepal is beyond Mount Everest and the Himalayan Mountains. Nepal is a land of Sherpas, stupas, yaks, and of course, the best trekking in the world. Regardless of its beauty, Nepal remains one of the poorest nations in South Asia and volunteers are always needed in the serene nation.

Nepal Fast Facts

• Capital: Kathmandu
• Population: 30 million
• Literacy Rate: 48.6%
• Poverty Rate: 30.9% (CIA Factbook)

Types of Volunteer Programs

Teach English: Unfortunately, most children living in Nepalese villages do not have access to a proper education. Due to tourism being such a large industry in Nepal, it is important for the Nepalese to learn English to improve their job prospects. As an English teacher, you will teach English and other subjects to Nepalese children who otherwise would not have an opportunity to learn.

Orphanage Work: Nepal is no different from other poor nations in that it unfortunately has many children who are orphans. As a volunteer in an orphanage, you have an opportunity to provide support for the administration as well as interact extensively with children by organizing activities for them and taking care of them.

Medical Work: Being a developing country, Nepal doesn't have adequate medical facilities for its residents. Thus, there is a serious need for medical volunteers. As a medical volunteer, you will most likely be working at a rural healthcare clinic, assisting doctors and helping take care of patients.

Volunteering Tips: Nepal

• Volunteer Support: Most likely, you will choose to volunteer in Nepal through a professional organization. Professional volunteer organizations normally have a support system you can turn to if you need guidance and help. Your home country's embassy or consulate is in Kathmandu, and you can go there for further information as well.
• NGO/Nonprofits: Due to its poverty and need for volunteers and support, Nepal has numerous Nonprofit organizations.
• Know Before You Go: Try to learn some Nepali before you visit Nepal. It will be extremely useful to know some before you actually visit Nepal, since you won't be as confused when you interact with locals. Additionally, read more about Nepal's culture since it is quite different from Western culture and it is very easy for the Nepalese to get offended by certain actions.
• How to Save Money While Volunteering: If you're on a tight budget in Nepal, try to shop and eat at small, local places. In large cities like Kathmandu, there are more luxurious options to choose from, but if you're on a budget, you cannot afford to regularly visit them, so be prepared to visit smaller restaurants and shops.

Health and Safety of Volunteers in Nepal:

As a volunteer in Nepal, it is recommended that you get certain vaccinations before you leave for your trip. These are Hepatitis A & B, Japanese encephalitis, and Rabies. For more info visit MD Travel Health.

Why Volunteer in Nepal?

Nepal is a beautiful, serene country in the midst of the Himalayan Mountains. It is a great place to volunteer in; since there is a tremendous need for volunteers, you truly will directly see the impact you are having on people's lives. With its friendly people and beautiful landscape, it is a country everyone must visit!

Do you think there is something missing in our guide to volunteering in Nepal? Contact us and let us know! We want to make sure our information is relevant and up to date.