With its dramatic landscape and ancient traditions, Nepal, the roof of the world, truly is a world wonder. The world's highest mountain ranges plunge into lush valleys teeming with exotic wildlife and throughout, remote monasteries and villages adorn the landscape. From the savannah plains in the south to tropical jungles, temperate coniferous forest and desolate plateaus of the Himalayas, Nepal is one of the most geographically diverse countries on earth. Here, you'll find over 800 species of birds, bears, monkeys, and even royal Bengal Tigers.
Nepal's human population is no less fascinating and comprises a mix of Hindu and Buddhist cultures, where ancient traditions and nomadic lifestyles bring vibrant colour and personalities.
WHAT WILL I BE DOING?
You will arrive into Kathmandu, the heart of Nepal, where you will gain an insight into a society unique in today’s world. Throughout your time on this programme you will be bringing your own strengths and skills to the table whilst learning new ones helping to support local communities and children through your voluntary work at local schools and orphanages. Undoubtedly throughout your time on the project you will draw creative inspiration and ideas from the landscapes and livelihoods of the local communities that surround you. Your time on this exciting project will be split into three different phases:
Orientation and Culture
Upon arrival into the spiritual city of Kathmandu, you will spend the first phase of the programme exploring this vibrant and atmospheric city. You will learn basic Nepali which should help you make friends throughout the rest of your stay here and which will immerse you further into this spiritual culture. There will also be plenty of time for sightseeing, shopping and relaxing in local cafes.
Volunteering
Once you have settled fully into the Nepali way of life, you will then get the opportunity to help out at a local school or orphanage in a number of different capacities, whether that be teaching English, getting involved in environmental awareness programmes or simply playing with the children. You can take this opportunity to visit some of the absorbing holy shrines in the surrounding area such as Buddhanath or the famous Monkey Temple, or the enigmatic Durbar Square in the old city, containing palaces from four different dynasties.
Adventure
The final phase of the programme sees you escaping from Kathmandu to the rural area of Chitwan, five and a half hours south of the capital where the heat is turned up. Chitwan is a haven for wildlife, and is home to the famous one horned rhinoceros. The jungle adventure may involve wildlife spotting elephant rides, canoeing trips and jungle treks, as well as visiting baby elephants.
Continued Adventures………..
For those of you joining the 4 week programme you will then go on to visit Nepal’s wonderful second city, Pokhara, the city that wins a thousand hearts. From here you will enjoy a 3/4 day trek into the Himalayas, staying in local Tea Houses en route, and join a breathtaking white water rafting expedition down the majestic Trishuli River.
Finally you will end your adventure by making your way back to Kathmandu to spend your last few days and enjoy a well earned farewell dinner with the countless friends that you will have made on your travels.
