Nepali Adventure - Childrens Home Volunteer Program

Volunteering abroad has thus far been the highlight of my travels. I have traveled to 14 different countries, Nepal being the first country I actually became part of an organization and gave something back to the local community.
Arriving in Katmandu International Airport I was greeted by hundreds of locals all wanting to carry my bags and the view of a polluted city. My program was based in a village where I worked everyday in a Children's home. My part was to be the Didi, or big sister figure to the children. Helping them with homework, getting ready for school, playing with them on days off and maintenance around the home.
Life in the village was something I couldn't have expected and in fact while I was living there it was a great challenge getting through the days. I didn't shower in two weeks at one point, as the water was arctic temperature and I couldn't bear it. The 'Charpi' or Nepali village toilet was another experience in itself, and adjusting my palate to Daal Bhat twice a day, everyday,eaten with my hand, for a month was another thing that took some getting used too. In the end I became Daal Bhat crazy and would crave it like a mad man. Even coming home I still felt like the food. Looking back I would do it all again in a heartbeat. Nepal is beautifully scenic, taking hikes to the top of mountains with incredible Himalayan views was just breathtaking. Watching a wedding procession in the village and seeing Hindu rituals performed was something I couldn't have even imagined. Locals in both the village and city were always very interested in the volunteers and would love to have a chat. There was alot of poverty in Nepal which was not only heartbreaking but very eye opening and it felt amazing to be able to be part of the group of people that are trying to make a difference. The staff from the volunteer organization were amazing, helping us with anything and everything we asked. The whole experience was very relaxed being able to travel and sight see during our volunteering. Since the trip to Nepal I had booked another volunteering trip with GVN. Just cannot wait to get back out there and volunteer in a community in need once again. Definitely would recommend the GVN Nepal volunteer program to anyone considering volunteering abroad!