Volunteer in Nepal!

Join thousands of volunteers on affordable programs helping to
change the world one family at a time…

Feel what it’s like when someone else’s life has been made better because YOU were there
Contribute in the way that is most meaningful to you... with many life changing projects
At $100, ours is the world’s most affordable volunteer program with no hidden fees-there are no middlemen
We feel proud to be a pioneering volunteer organization starting volunteer program in Nepal, a program trusted by over 8,000 since 1998
Right this moment, there are many people in Nepal who need your help. Will you answer the call?

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Volunteer in Nepal

Are you interested to volunteer in Nepal? Are you looking for a life changing volunteer program to share your love and passion to change the lives of other people? Do the mountains and mystery of Nepal intrigue you? Look no further! RCDP’s Nepal programs allow you to travel and immerse in local culture while volunteering in underprivileged communities and much more.

Nepal is an amazing country and a very popular volunteer destination. From the hot and sweltering region bordering India, the landscape of Nepal rises steeply and sometimes steadily to reach the mighty Himalayan Mountains. Within this captivating landscape, you will find green valleys with deep gorges, thick forests filled with exotic flora and fauna, and winding rivers that flow across the landscape.

Unfortunately, for decades Nepal has been crippled by the aftermath of decades of civil war and political instability. Multiple natural disasters and rugged mountainous terrain has proven difficult for the country to improve the basic transport infrastructure and economic growth has drastically slowed down. These dynamics along with government corruption have contributed to making Nepal one of the poorest developing countries in the world. Nepal is constantly looking for international volunteers like you to help out.

When you embark on volunteer opportunities in Nepal you will support local efforts by working in orphanages, teaching English in school or in Buddhist monasteries, supporting health and medical initiatives, participating in environmental and conservation projects, or documenting Nepal’s culture and customs though photo journalism. Through your dedication and the time you will spend volunteering in poor communities you will feel satisfied and fulfilled when achieving your life goals and passion to positively change the world.

Contact RCDP today to learn more about the volunteer opportunities awaiting you in Nepal, or take the first steps of enrolling in a volunteer program of your choice to realize your dream and make a difference in the world.

On-going Volunteer in Nepal Programs

No matter what is your volunteering passion, At RCDP, we offer a variety of programs and projects. When you volunteer with us, you will positively impact the world in a way that fits best with you. Take the first step by reading through our project descriptions below:

One or two week language and culture program

Are you looking to travel to Nepal and immerse in the Nepalese culture eating local foods attending local ceremonies and learning the language? Then, our weeklong intensive language and cultural immersion program includes language training, lessons on history, culture, ways of life, visits to local villages, towns, and markets, guided Kathmandu exploration, and local tourist attractions.

This extended orientation program aims to submerge you in Nepali culture, history, and ways of life ultimately enhancing your volunteer in Nepal experience. This experience is a life changing and opens your perspective about other cultures and traditions.


Charity Trek Nepal

Are you ready for the travel adventure of a lifetime? Does helping less-fortunate children also do your heart good? Then join RCDP highly affordable Charity Trek in Nepal benefitting a worthy orphanage. Since 1998, 8000 participants have helped us raise funds for needy children while marveling at some of the world’s most breathtaking scenery!

Nepal is very popular trekking destination in the world. Trekking in Nepal is an amazing opportunities that not to be missed. At RCDP Nepal, we offer highly affordable and amazing charity trek only to its volunteers so you can explore the beautiful Himalaya while you are in Nepal.


RCDP Nepal’s Nepal Program starts every Monday of each month.

You may be wondering why do I have to pay to volunteer. How much money should I expect to pay to volunteer with RCDP? Well, your questions are valid.

RCDP uses the majority of your Nepal volunteer opportunity feeto support your local program. Generally, your weekly fee is divided between your accommodation and meals, project donation, and support of local project staff. The allocation may be different depending up on your project and the location. However, for transparency and accountability, the program fees is paid directly to your host family or to the project coordinator, so there is no second-guessing if your money is going where it is needed most.

Learn more about our highly affordable volunteer fee in Nepal.

RCDP is responsible for looking after the accommodation and the meal of the volunteer during your program in Nepal. Volunteers will with stay either with a host family during their program or with other volunteers in a volunteer house.

Host Family

One of the most asked questions, RCDP gets from volunteers is “What should I expect from my host family?” A host family can make your volunteering experience in Nepal enriching and rewarding.

Let’s start first by explaining what host families are…

Host families are local families that have been vetted by RCDP and selected to host one or more volunteer and provide them with a bed and food. RCDP’s host families in Nepal are well screened and they are socially respected members of the community. The family will offer you a safe and secure place to stay. Living with a host family is a wonderful way to immerse in the local Nepalese culture. If you stay with a host family, you will receive three amazing home-cooked Nepali style meals daily.

Additional benefits of staying in a Nepali host family during your Nepal volunteer trip include having a more authentic and immersive experience, more opportunities for language practice, and a deeper look into Nepalese day-to-day lifestyles. What’s more, living with a local family will allow you to learn and positively make an impact in the community because they will be directly connected with the projects, and can therefore, they will guide you and give you a better insight.

Be ready to get comfortable because all homes have: Single or Shared rooms (same gender), shared bathroom, comfortable beds, electricity, a western toilet, regular supply of water (not hot), safe and sound living environment, and quality home-cooked meals.

Volunteer House

You also have an option to live in a volunteer house during your volunteer experience in Nepal. A volunteer house provides you with a different volunteering experience because you will be staying with other like-minded volunteers from different parts of the world.

RCDP’s volunteer house is located in Kalanki, Kathmandu, about five kilometers far from the most famous tourist destination of Nepal-Thamel. The house is a permanent two-story house reserve managed by a carefully chosen host family or by a local staff. You will be comfortable as the house is well equipped with modern facilities including comfortable bed rooms, single beds, fans, kitchen and relaxing bedding materials. Each of the rooms is shared with volunteers of same gender. For our Nepal volunteers who stay in volunteer house, our resident cook will prepare three local meals per day in Nepali style, very similar to host families.

Some benefits to staying in the volunteer house include living with other like-minded volunteers, sharing your experiences, making life-long friendships, and it lowers the overall cost of trip. Facilities include: Facilities: multiple shared rooms (same gender), comfortable beds, electricity, Wi-Fi, a western toilet, regular supply of water (not hot), a safe and sound living environment, easy access to all parts of Kathmandu, and most necessary services are available within 1 km.

Special Accommodations

When you volunteer in Nepal in an orphanage or teaching English to Buddhist monks, you will have alternative housing options.

If you are working in orphanage projects may stay in orphanage hostel. Several orphanages in Kathmandu have special rooms reserved for international volunteers, and by doing this you would get a more authentic experience of what these children go through. This would help you connect with them on a deeper level.

If you will be volunteering with Buddhist monks in Nepal, you may elect to stay in the monastery. The monasteries have special rooms reserved for international volunteers, and this option would allow you to become immersed in the Buddhist culture and traditions.

Food

Do you have any concerns about meal plans available for you in Nepal? RCDP got you covered! The best way to learn about a Nepal’s culture is through food, the preparation and cooking process, and how they eat it.

And just like the country, the people and the culture, the food in Nepal also reflects different influences that have amalgamated in Nepal from nearby reason. Rice and vegetables (Daal Bhat) is regarded as the national food of Nepal. Besides, Momo, Chow-men, noodle, dry bread, are favorite snacks for Nepalese, and are consumed with soups and fresh vegetables. Most of the Nepalese people do not use cutlery and eat with right hand.

Please provide all information while applying to Nepal volunteer program regarding your diet such as vegetarian, vegan, dietary allergy, etc. Your dietary needs will be addressed but we also request some flexibility from you. The food you eat will be local, fresh, and delicious! But it may be different than what you are used to, remember to keep an open mind during your time in Nepal and try to eat as much local cuisine as you can to make your trip rewarding.

Be advised that tap water is not safe for drinking in Nepal. Purified drinking water is available in many cases. You can also ask your cook or host family to provide with boiled water. Purified bottle water can also be bought from nearby grocery.

Learn more about your accommodation and meal plans in Nepal.

Supervision

Your RCDP project supervisor will be your support system during your stay in Nepal. If you need help with anything, our Nepal volunteer staff team will be there to help you out. They will know your project, the local area and community all way round. While you're finding your grounds, they will organize things quickly and easily and are always happy to do it for you.

Learn more about safety and in-country support while in Nepal.

Are you worried if you will have enough time to travel and explore while joining best volunteering Nepal? Are you concerned where you can travel in Nepal? No need to be concerned. There are plenty of options for exploring and sightseeing in Nepal while volunteering here. RCDP programs are designed to allow you enough free time to explore and experience the culture while you volunteer.

Volunteer in Nepal: Free Time

What will be the point of travelling all the way to Nepal if you cannot travel around? There are plenty of great places to see . While volunteering in Nepal programs, you can expect to work 4-5 hours a day, Monday through to Friday. You will have plenty of free time in the morning and evening to explore the surrounding places.

Kathmandu has exciting, and exhaustingly fascinating places to explore and experience. During your free time all these places are waiting for you to go and experience including the hidden temples overflowing with marigolds, courtyards workshops, friendly people and so much more.

Chitwan is known for its wildlife charm and abundance. It is one of the best national parks for viewing wildlife in Asia, with a second to none experience.

Pokhara is a nature’s paradise. Here spectacular sceneries will greet you, charming mountainous backdrops, and adventure unleashed and mouthwatering cuisines for food lovers. Pokhara is certainly the best travelling option during your free time during your Nepal volunteer work.

You can use your weekends to travel across the country for sightseeing and experiencing Nepalese natural attractions, cultural practices and traditions.

There are plenty of tourist attractions in Nepal for you to cover. The country is very diverse and picturesque with some of the greatest things and places to visit for every one regardless of interest and taste. You will experience majestic Himalayan views, ancient temples, charming hill villages, and diverse wildlife and river adventures. It is a trekker’s paradise and a real out-of-the body experience. Some of the most popular places of interest during your weekend visit while in Nepal volunteer trip include:

Nyatapola Temple

See this five-story temple that towers 30m above the square. Nyatapola is the tallest temple in all of Nepal and one of the tallest buildings in the Kathmandu Valley. The perfectly proportioned temple was built in 1702 during the reign of King Bhupatindra Malla.

Garden of Dreams

If you are nature enthusiast, go and check out Garden of Dreams. Field marshal Kaiser Shamser built this garden in 1920, andit is one of the most serene enclaves in Kathmandu. It is also one of best places to relax and regroup during your volunteer in Nepal program’s weekends.

Mul Chowk

If you’ve heard about any architecture in Nepal, you’ve probably heard of Mul Chowk. Mul Chowk is a spacious courtyard that lies to the South of the Patan Museum; it is one of the largest and oldest of the Royal Palace’s three main chowk (squares).

Asan Tole

A travelling experience is not complete without a little bit of shopping. Asan Tole is a sprawling market place in Kathmandu, and from dawn until dusk it is filled with vegetable and spice vendors selling everything from yak tails to dried fish. It’s the busiest square in the city and a fascinating place for you to linger on the weekends.

Durbar Square

Visit Durbar Square the traditional heart of the old town and Kathmandu’s most spectacular legacy of traditional architecture. The Durbar Square area is actually made up of three loosely linked squares. An exciting place for you to be in during the weekends.

Hanuman Dhoka

Go and explore Hanuman Dhoka, dates back to (4th to 8th centuries AD). It is an impressive palace, cloaked n red and sheltered by an umbrella, a Hanuman statue marks the dhoka (entrance) to the Hanuman Dhoka and has even given the palace its name. While taking part in Nepal volunteer programs this is an ideal visiting spot to get a spiritual palatial feeling.

The Swayambhunath Stupa

If you are fascinated by great architecture, this monumental structure remains to be one of the crowning glories of Kathmandu Valley architecture. The temple rises through whitewashed dome to a gilded spire. Also known as the monkey temple, the entire structure is deeply symbolic and the best place to be in while volunteering in Nepal programs.

As you see, you have plenty of options to choose from, the real question is where to start?

Learn more about your free time and weekend exploration options in Nepal.

Do you still have lingering questions? Please keep reading. In this section RCDP will review some of the most frequently asked questions with respect to various topics. If that doesn’t answer your concern, reach out to us! RCDP is here to support you in your journey however possible.

Nepal Projects & Locations

Where are the projects located?

RCDP Nepal projects are all based out of three locations: Kathmandu, Pokhara and Chitwan.

Kathmandu is the capital city of Nepal; it is visited by thousands of travelers each year. From shopping in Thamel to visiting the largest Buddhist stupa of Asia- Boudhanath there is no shortage of things to do in Kathmandu.

Pokhara: Popular for its spectacular mountain scenery, and outdoor adventure activities. If you’re looking for adventure, Pokhara may be the place for you.

Chitwan: Chitwan is famous for its national parks full of amazing wildlife and vegetation. Volunteers can escape the city and fully grasp the solitude while also learning about Tharu culture and traditions.

Is there a minimum or maximum stay for volunteer in Nepal programs?

Yes - you can stay for a minimum of 1 week to a maximum of 12 weeks. If you want to extend your stay, you have to acquire an additional tourist visa. See the FAQ section on visas for more information.

Can I extend my stay if I choose to?

Yes, you certainly can! If you are really enjoying your time in our volunteer program, please let RCDP know and we will work with you to extend your trip. We will also help you apply for a visa extension if one is required.

What types of volunteer opportunities are available in Nepal?

RCDP offers a variety of programs in Nepal that includes working with orphans, teaching English to school children or monks, working in conservation, supporting healthcare initiatives, building or rebuilding schools, and photojournalism efforts.

Will I have enough time to travel after work and in weekend?

Yes, international volunteers will have time to travel while volunteering with us, both after work and on weekends. We are also happy to help make recommendations or enroll you in one of our pre- or post- volunteer travel trips.

Who will guide me?

Even before you apply for volunteer opportunity in Nepal, we are here to support you. Once you’ve been accepted into your programs of choice and make your way to Nepal, out in-country coordinator will guide you throughout the entire duration of your trip. They will pick you up from the airport, give you an orientation, and be available for any issue or concern that arises. You will also feel supported by our volunteer house staff, local project partners, grateful community members, and host families.

Can I change projects if I don’t enjoy what I am doing?

Yes, when you volunteer with RCDP you may change your project, and there won’t be any hard feelings! You simply need to get in contact with our in-country coordinator and inform them of your desire and reason for wanting to change. Keep in mind that there must be an open volunteer project for you to join in order to switch.

Can I work in more than one volunteer project?

Yes, you can work in more than one Nepal volunteer opportunity. However, it is not recommended as it can create a stressful situation for you.You have to work for at least 4 to 5 hours a day in one single project alone and when you add another project in that daily routine, your daily schedule can really become tough. You also have to think about additional fees and how you would transport between the two programs. What may be a better fit if you’re interested in two projects, is to volunteer one week with one project, and volunteer a second week with the other project.

Who manages the volunteer projects in Nepal?

Our volunteer projects are managed by an experienced country coordinator who has an expert knowledge of handling volunteer projects and experience working with foreign volunteers. This person will provide you with daily support and visit you frequently throughout your trip.

Will I receive training before the start of the project?

Yes, our volunteers receive training before the start of their volunteer opportunity in Nepal. After your arrival, after you arrive, you will have an orientation where you will learn about cultural customs, safety measures, and your daily schedule. If you’re nervous about culture shock or settling into your abroad volunteer program, we may recommend signing up for our extended language and culture orientation program for the first week of your arrival.

Is there dress code formy project?

No, there is no dress code set in place for our volunteers. However, to respect local culture you should dress modestly and in a way that does not call attention. The one exception to this is that if you are participating in our medical volunteer program then you will have to wear a white apron.

Volunteer in Nepal: Costs & Dates

Why do I have to pay to volunteer abroad?

Payment is required for volunteer opportunities because local communities do not have the resources to provide free housing and food for you. Everything in life has a cost, and that’s no different when you travel to volunteer abroad.

You will also pay a small donation to support your local project, and a registration fee to support operating and managerial cost of your volunteer organization.

Why are RCDP fees so much more affordable than other volunteer organizations?

RCDP serves as a non-profit volunteer organization whose only aim is to provide affordable and meaningful volunteer opportunities. The fees of our volunteer programs are just enough to sustain the projects without any additional profit. RCDP is committed to offer the lowest possible cost for its high-quality volunteer programs.

How can I get help for raising funds for my Nepal volunteer program?

Get in touch with our office staff and ask for help regarding this, and we will make recommendations and support you how we can.

Volunteer in Nepal: safety and support

Is it safe to travel to Nepal?

Yes, Nepal is safe for travel. There are no immediate travel risks or warnings for those visiting Nepal, and you should rest assured knowing that during your program, you will have full support as a volunteer.

That being said, there are always safety precautions you should follow while traveling abroad such as not walking alone at night, keeping an eye on your belongings, and carrying only cash that’s necessary.

Please carry out your own research on the safety of your travel before leaving home.

What are some safety measures taken?

When you join a Nepal volunteer trip, you can be sure that an organization representative will pick you up from the airport the day of your arrival, and then transport you to your accommodation. We will give you an informative orientation that reviews safety situations, field conditions, local do’s & don’ts, and cultural norms.

What’s more local staff will be available throughout the duration of your time in Nepal. You can always count on us for any issue or concern.

What happens if I get sick?

If you get sick while abroad, our in-country staff will make sure to take care of you and get you access the medical services needed. We recommend taking preventative measures such as bringing all medications you normally use, avoiding eating questionable food, and maintaining proper sanitation. You should also make sure to eat well, rest when needed, and stay hydrated!

Why do I have to get travel insurance before beginning my volunteer trip to Nepal?

It is absolutely necessary that you purchase travel insurance before embarking on your volunteer journey in Nepal. Travel insurance can be tailored to your own needs and interests, and is very affordable. While it is not likely you will need to use your travel insurance while abroad, it will prove valuable in the case that something should happen.

What vaccinations do I need for Nepal?

For Nepal, the CDC suggests the standard vaccines of MMR, chickenpox, and your yearly flu shot. We also encourage you to get Hepatitis A and Typhoid vaccines as an extra precautionary measure.

You may also need vaccines for Malaria, Rabies, Polio, Yellow Fever, Hepatitis B and Japanese Encephalitis vaccination, but these risks depend on where you’ll be and what you’ll be doing during your volunteer project.

What are the principle health risks in Nepal?

Principle health risks during your Nepal volunteer experience revolve around water. Tap water is not good for consumption in Nepal, so you should watch what you eat and drink, especially if you go out to eat. You should also be mindful of stray dogs and they may have rabies.

Applying for the visa

Do I need visa to volunteer and travel in Nepal?

Yes, you do need a visa to travel and volunteer in Nepal projects.

How do I apply for the visa?

To obtain a Nepal travel visa, visit Nepal’s Immigration Department website. You will find instructions there that will tell you how to apply.This must be done in within 15 days of your planned arrival date in Nepal for volunteering, so it’s better to take care of your visa application shortly after you’ve been accepted into your program of choice.

Can I extend my visa while I am in the country?

Visas for Nepal travel are typically only valid for three to six months, but if you want to stay longer – its not impossible! You will need to visit the Nepal Department of Immigration to inquire about this request. We can help you extend your visa if necessary.

Keeping in touch: communication and the internet

How do I contact my local coordinator?

The best way to get in touch with your local coordinator is through phone. That’s why it’s a really good idea to arrive prepared to buy a Nepalese SIM Card and then use it on your mobile phone. You can also email them any time you need during your Nepal volunteer work.

How can I communicate with my family from Nepal?

You can use local phones to make long distance calls to your family and friends. However, if you buy a local SIM Card and install it in your mobile phone, you can call your family members directly and any time you want.

How can I get/purchase internet services on my cell phone?

To buy a local SIM Card, you will need go to a store in Nepal that sells SIM cards, and have your passport and one passport-sized photo ready.

Setting up the SIM Card for internet services can be complicated, so you should ask for help upon purchase or talk with your country coordinator if you’re confused.

If you purchase an“NTC” SIM card, you will set up your internet service by typing “DATA10MB” and then sendingservices through to the number “1415.”

If you purchase a“Ncell” SIM card, you will dial *123# to set up your internet, and then you will be given the option to choose different internet data packages.

Volunteer in Nepal: Packing List Recommendations

What do I need to bring with me?

Packing is a personal endeavor. Some things, you have to have with you – like your passport, travel insurance, flight confirmation, and visa. Other things are optional. We recommend packing the following:

  • passport, travel insurance, flight confirmation, visa, and any other important document
  • a photocopy of your passport
  • work appropriate clothing
  • cell phone
  • chargers
  • an adapter
  • personal first aid kit
  • pollution mask
  • toiletries
  • insect repellent
  • hand sanitizer
  • sun protection (hat, glasses, sunscreen)
  • lightweight backpack for day trips
  • comfortable sandals or slippers that are easy to take on and off
  • sturdy shoes
  • filtered water bottle
  • ear plugs/eye mask for sleeping

Volunteer opportunities in Nepal

RCPD arranges many amazing volunteer opportunities in Nepal. Please check out the following links for detail information.