The Teaching English to Monks Volunteer project is a unique cultural and educational volunteer opportunity that allows you to teach conversational and written English to young Buddhist monks living and studying in monasteries.

Our monk teaching placements are primarily based in and around Kathmandu, the vibrant capital city of Nepal. Some monasteries are located within the city itself, while others are nestled in peaceful surrounding valleys, providing a serene and culturally rich environment.

Most of the student monks you’ll teach are between 6 and 16 years old, although ages can vary depending on the monastery. The younger monks are often just beginning their monastic education, while older ones have a stronger grasp of English and Buddhist studies. This age diversity creates a dynamic learning environment where you can engage with students at different developmental and language levels.

Monasteries typically house between 50 and 150 monks, though the exact number can vary by location and size. Classes are usually small, averaging 10 to 12 students per group, which allows for more personalized teaching and interaction

Volunteers usually create their own lesson plans and teach basic conversational English independently. However, in some monasteries, two to three volunteers may share teaching responsibilities.

Anyone passionate about teaching and cultural exchange is welcome. No teaching certificate is required—just enthusiasm and a respectful attitude.

Teaching English opens doors for monks by giving them access to global knowledge, communication, and opportunities. Many young monks later serve communities where English is valuable, so your role makes a lasting difference.

You’ll gain firsthand cultural immersion, teaching experience, and a deeper understanding of Buddhist monastic life. It’s a personally enriching opportunity to make a tangible difference while learning mindfulness and compassion.

Not at all. Volunteers from all backgrounds are welcome. You will have the opportunity to learn about Buddhist culture and philosophy during your stay, but no prior knowledge is required.

You will stay either within the monastery grounds or at the volunteer house, depending on placement. Accommodations are simple but comfortable, with all the essential amenities. Volunteers receive three local meals per day.

You’ll receive three daily Nepali-style meals—typically rice, lentils (dal), vegetables, pickles, and tea. Vegetarian diets are easily accommodated, as most monastery meals are vegetarian.

Yes, our volunteer house and some of the monasteries offer Wi-Fi access, although connection speeds may vary. Many volunteers also purchase a local SIM card with a data plan for more reliable access.

The minimum program duration is 1 week, though most volunteers choose 2–4 weeks for a more meaningful impact. Longer stays allow stronger connections and noticeable student progress.

The program runs year-round. The most popular months are September–November and March–May, when the weather is pleasant. Please note that pujas, rituals, or festivals may occasionally affect class schedules. Please check with your country coordinator for updates.

We offer two accommodation options for volunteers: staying within a monastery or at our volunteer house. If you are placed at the volunteer house, you may need to use local transportation to reach the project site. However, if you stay within the monastery, your accommodation will be on-site, and no transportation will be required.

Absolutely! Volunteers are welcome to join daily rituals, chanting, meditation, and puja ceremonies if you wish to foster a deeper connection with monastic life.

Yes. Monastery life requires discipline and respect. Volunteers are expected to follow these customs:

• Abstaining from consuming alcohol and smoking during your time in the monastery
• Dressing modestly (shoulders and knees must be covered)
• Avoid physical contact with monks (especially children)
• Refrain from loud or disruptive behavior
• Maintain silence during ceremonies
• Do not play loud or outdoor sports within the monastery grounds

Yes. Many monasteries welcome volunteers to meditate with monks, attend Dharma talks, and engage in informal discussions about Buddhism. This is an excellent opportunity to deepen your understanding of Buddhist philosophy.

No prior knowledge is required. However, learning basic greetings and showing respect for traditions is highly encouraged. Communication in class is usually in simple English, supported by gestures and visuals.

When meeting monks, it is customary to bow slightly and greet them with respect, using a gentle tone and demeanor. It’s important to remain calm, avoid physical contact such as handshakes, and show humility in your interactions, reflecting appreciation for their spiritual role.

Yes, volunteers should avoid physical contact, such as handshakes or hugs with monks, unless initiated by the monks themselves. Maintaining personal space is important, especially with senior monks or children.

Yes, photography within monasteries can be sensitive and is often restricted in certain areas, particularly during prayer sessions or rituals. Always ask the head monk or your local coordinator before taking any photos of monks, ceremonies, or sacred spaces. Being mindful and respectful of these customs helps maintain the dignity and peaceful atmosphere of the monastery.

During ceremonies, volunteers are expected to sit quietly, observe respectfully, and avoid interrupting or moving around unnecessarily. Shoes should always be removed before entering temples, shrines, or prayer halls as a sign of respect. It’s also best to refrain from loud talking, pointing, or taking photos unless explicitly permitted.

If you wish to give a gift, it should be small, thoughtful, and culturally appropriate—such as school supplies, educational materials, or English books. Gifts should never be extravagant or personal, as simplicity and modesty are highly valued in monastic life.

In Nepal, becoming a monk is a deeply spiritual decision often made by those seeking a life of peace, simplicity, and devotion to Buddhist teachings. Many begin as novice monks and undergo initiation ceremonies where they take vows of discipline and simplicity.

Boys in Nepal can become novice monks as young as six or seven years old, although some join at a later age. Families often choose to send their children to monasteries to receive spiritual education, discipline, and moral guidance. Some remain monks for life, while others return to secular life after completing their studies and spiritual training.

When monks are not engaged in prayers, rituals, or studies, they often spend their free time reading scriptures, meditating, and helping with monastery chores. Younger monks especially enjoy spending time with their peers, while older monks may use their time for reflection or teaching younger students. Their lifestyle encourages balance between discipline, mindfulness, and community life.

Most monks in Nepal primarily speak Nepali and Tibetan, depending on their ethnic background and the monastery they belong to. In monasteries that host international volunteers, monks often learn and practice English to enhance their communication skills and broaden their education. Teaching English to monks is therefore one of the most meaningful and appreciated ways volunteers can contribute to their personal and educational development.

Monks in Nepal perform daily prayers and chanting of sacred mantras—often in Pali or Tibetan. These rituals help cultivate mindfulness, compassion, and wisdom. Monks also participate in special ceremonies during full moons, festivals, and important Buddhist occasions.

Monks live in monasteries to study, meditate, and live in a peaceful environment that supports spiritual practice. The monastery provides a community where they can follow a disciplined lifestyle under the guidance of senior monks. Living together fosters mutual learning, moral development, and collective devotion to Buddhist principles.

Volunteers should dress modestly and respectfully when entering monasteries. Shoulders and knees should be covered. Avoid wearing tight, transparent, or flashy clothing. Simple, neat attire shows respect for the monastic community and helps maintain the sanctity of the place.

People choose to become monks for many reasons—spiritual devotion, desire for inner peace, education, or service to others. For many families, sending a child to a monastery is a way to give them access to moral guidance, discipline, and education. For others, it’s a personal calling to live a life of compassion and detachment from material concerns

Yes, monks can choose to leave monastic life if they feel called to return to society. While many dedicate their entire lives to monastic service, others may leave after completing their education or fulfilling their spiritual goals. Buddhism teaches that choosing either path—spiritual or secular—should be guided by mindfulness and understanding.

Monks in Nepal celebrate many important Buddhist festivals, such as Buddha Jayanti (the birth, enlightenment, and death of Buddha), Lhosar (Tibetan New Year), and Ullambana (a day of gratitude and remembrance). During these festivals, monasteries come alive with prayers, chanting, butter lamps, and cultural rituals. Volunteers often get the opportunity to witness and even participate in these meaningful celebrations.