Overview

Be a part of the 1 Week Special Short Term Volunteer Program in Kathmandu, Nepal, with Volunteering Solutions and contribute effectively towards renovating the schools and making them more kids' friendly. In a span of just a week, this would be the best way to explore Nepal and make a difference. This volunteering opportunity is meant for high school/ college students, gap year travelers and backpackers as well as for families who are looking forward to something different and unique.

A tiny landlocked country surrounded by the mighty Himalayas, Nepal is undoubtedly one of the most gorgeous countries in the world, known for its untapped natural beauty and the undying spirit of the people. While not many would know this, but Nepal is that auspicious land where Buddha was born. Travel to this country and volunteering for the people would be an enriching experience for one and all.

Want to see other ways to make an impact? Check out our Volunteer in Asia programs.

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu & Cultural Evening

Welcome to Kathmandu - the capital city of Nepal. You'll get to meet our coordinator at the airport who would take you to the accommodation in Kathmandu followed by refreshment and a brief orientation session about the schedule of the trip.
An exciting traditional dance and dinner await participants at night to kickstart a memorable journey of Nepal.

Overnight at a volunteer house/guest house in Kathmandu.
Meals: Dinner

Day 2: Kathmandu City Tour

The second day begins with a Kathmandu city tour and encompasses visits to the Pashupatinath Temple, Durbar Square, and Boudha. While Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a must-see and hard to miss location in the heart of the capital city Kathmandu, Pashupatinath Temple, and Boudha are religiously significant sites in Kathmandu.

Overnight at a guest house in Kathmandu.
Meals: BD

Day 3: Volunteering Program in Kathmandu

You'll start working at the project site from today. Placed in a local school/community center, you'll get to renovate the center which caters to children from underprivileged communities and paint murals and art pieces along with them. All the materials shall be provided and you can help in giving a new fresh look to the school classrooms.
It'll be a great learning opportunity for you, as you'll work as a team with your fellow volunteers.

Optional Activity

In the evening, you can learn Momo making. Momo is a dumpling made of all-purpose flour and filled with either meat or vegetables. Inspired by Tibetan dumplings, the dish is a very popular Nepali street food. In Nepal, the most common type of momos is buff (buffalo) momos followed by chicken.

Overnight at guest house in Kathmandu.
Meals: BD

DAY 4 – Day 7: Continue with Volunteer Work in Kathmandu

You'll be continuing with your work at the school, adding your creative ideas and making a perfect kid's friendly environment. You can write alphabets and numbers on the walls, so that kids can see them and learn. You'll have to find what new you can do! Once the program ends, you'll surely be satisfied with your contributions.

Overnight at guest house in Kathmandu.
Meals: BD

(On Day 5, there’s an Optional Tour for Exploring Patan
You can choose to travel and explore the beautiful historic city of Patan, and soak in the old world vibes.)

Day 8 - End Of Program

As this incredible journey comes to an end, it’s time head back home (or continue with your adventures on the roads!).

Meals: B

Project Requirement

Volunteers must be 17 years or older at the time of joining the project. You need to have an open mind and a flexible attitude for working in a new and different environment. The volunteer should bring energy and enthusiasm to make a difference. Participants must be fit and healthy at the time of joining the program. Participants should have no criminal convictions and should provide a clean criminal background check report. A parental consent form shall be required for Under 18 participants joining the program.

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Living

Airport Transfer
Volunteers and interns are picked up from the Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu by a member of the local coordinating staff. Those volunteers who will be already in Nepal will be met by the staff at a designated meeting point decided beforehand.

Accommodation
The volunteer/intern house in Nepal provides a comfortable and welcoming environment for participants during their stay. It is located in Bafal, a peaceful residential area just a 10-minute drive from Thamel, the lively heart of Kathmandu known for its tourist attractions, shops, and restaurants. This location offers the perfect balance of tranquility and accessibility.

Volunteers can enjoy homemade meals, giving them a taste of traditional Nepali cuisine while ensuring their dietary needs are met. The house is equipped with high-speed Wi-Fi, allowing for seamless connectivity with family and friends or managing any personal or professional commitments. A television is also available for relaxation and entertainment during free time.

The accommodation includes all basic amenities needed for a comfortable stay, such as running water, hot water during winters, clean western style toilets and electricity. The living spaces are cozy and inviting, providing a great opportunity for volunteers to unwind and build connections with fellow participants. The house is managed by a dedicated coordinator based in Nepal, ensuring that all aspects of the accommodation are well-maintained and that volunteers have support for any queries or concerns.

This setup allows volunteers to focus on their projects and enjoy their experience while feeling at home in a supportive and well-facilitated environment. Private room requests can be accommodated at a nearby guest house for an extra charge.

Orientation
Your local program coordinator will provide an orientation and briefing upon your arrival. Depending on your arrival time, the orientation may be conducted on the same day or the following day. Typically, it lasts about half a day and covers essential topics such as local culture, greetings, key locations, transportation options, and other important details to help you settle in and navigate the area with confidence.

Meals
Two Nepalese meals (Breakfast and Dinner) will be provided to all volunteers depending on your work schedule. Breakfast typically consists of Bread, Butter, Jam, Sandwich, Tea etc. Typical meals provided include Dal (Lentils), Rice, Vegetables, Chicken and meat etc. The staple meal for most Nepalese people is dal bhat, which consists of lentil soup (dal), rice (bhat) and vegetables in curry (tarkari). If you have any special dietary requirements, you can let us know in advance and we can try our best to accommodate that.

During your Free Time
On weekends, participants in Kathmandu often take advantage of the city's prime location to explore Nepal's stunning natural beauty and cultural richness. Many choose to visit Chitwan National Park, renowned for its thrilling safari experiences and wildlife, including rhinos, elephants, and tigers. Another popular weekend getaway is the picturesque town of Pokhara, known for its serene lakes, breathtaking Himalayan views, and opportunities for adventure sports like paragliding and trekking.

During weekday evenings, when free time is limited, volunteers frequently spend time in Thamel, a vibrant and bustling area famous among backpackers. Thamel offers a variety of cafés, restaurants, shops, and cultural experiences. Volunteers can also explore Kathmandu’s rich history by visiting iconic landmarks such as the Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple), Durbar Square, or the Garden of Dreams, immersing themselves in the city's unique heritage and atmosphere.

Dates

January

February

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December

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Costs

Duration	Program Fee	Choose your currency
1 Week	$450

Please Note: An application fee of is charged over and above the program fee as an application payment. A 5% international banking fee is charged for credit card payments of program fee in USD/AUD.

what's included

All transfers and transport as per program
All accommodation as per program
Local team support
All meals as mentioned (B=breakfast, L=lunch, D=dinner)
All entrance fees on tour
Cost for the Project/Project Materials
Service work coordination
Pre Departure Guidebook and Support

what's not included

International/Domestic Airfare
Vaccinations
Any monument entry fee
Visa fees
Any personal expenses
Meals not mentioned

FAQ's

Accommodation, Meals and Daily Life

Can I know more about accommodation and food arrangements?: The volunteer and intern house in Nepal offers a comfortable and friendly stay in Bafal, a quiet residential area just 10 minutes from Thamel. Volunteers enjoy home-cooked Nepali meals, high-speed Wi-Fi, and common areas for relaxation. The accommodation includes all basic amenities such as running water, winter hot water, electricity, and clean western-style toilets. A local coordinator manages the house and provides on-ground support throughout the stay. Private rooms are available at a nearby guesthouse for an additional cost. Living with other like-minded volunteers from around the world is a great experience in itself. Two meals a day are provided to the participants (Breakfast and Dinner).
Can vegetarians be accommodated?: Yes – please do ensure that you inform the local team about your food preference and they can guide you so that you get to taste the best food available out there! Also, please do mention your specific food preference in the application form as well.
Are there more expenses once I arrive in Nepal?: Yes, we recommend volunteers to bring $80-100 for personal expenses for every week.You need to pay for visa on arrival, one meal a day, snacks, bottled water, local transportation and any shopping expenses.

Connect with Past Volunteers

Can you put me in contact with other volunteers who have done this program?: We can only provide contact details for former volunteers who have consented to having their data shared. However, there is a Facebook group for past and current volunteers which you are welcome to join. There are also hundreds of reviews online from our former volunteers as well as social media posts on Instagram, TikTok and our You Tube Channel.
How can I connect with past Volunteering Solutions Nepal alumni as well as other former and current volunteers?: We encourage volunteers to get in touch with former Volunteering Solutions participants and also other program participants joining our projects. You are recommended to join the Volunteering Solutions Facebook Page or Facebook Group to connect with other participants and our team.
You can also visit the Nepal Program Reviews page to view the testimonials and feedbacks of our past participants.

To read alumni interviews and experiences, visit the ‘Meet a Volunteer’ section on our website.

Flights, Arrival and Visa Information

When do I need to arrive in Nepal for my program? What will happen once I arrive in Nepal?: All volunteers need to arrive in Kathmandu on the mentioned program starting date.All volunteers are provided with the airport pick up from the Tribhuvan International Airport (Airport Code: KTM) by the local coordinator or representative. Those who are arriving overland or are already in Nepal will be picked up at a meeting point decided beforehand.
Can you tell me about the visa requirements for Nepal ?: Most travelers require a tourist visa to enter Nepal, which can be obtained on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. To apply, travelers must have a passport valid for at least six months, at least one blank page, a completed visa application form, payment of the visa fee, and in some cases a passport-size photograph. Tourist visa fees are USD 30 for 15 days, USD 50 for 30 days, and USD 125 for 90 days, and visas can be extended while in Nepal at the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu or Pokhara. Citizens of certain countries, including Nigeria, Ghana, Zimbabwe, Swaziland, Cameroon, Somalia, Liberia, Iraq, Syria, and Afghanistan, are not eligible for visa on arrival and must apply in advance at a Nepalese embassy.
What are the recommended inexpensive airline options to reach Nepal?: Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) is the major international airport serving all flights arriving in Nepal. It is well connected with direct flights from major Asian and Middle Eastern countries. If you are arriving from North America or Europe, you will probably need to book a flight with a stopover at a Middle Eastern city such as Abu Dhabi or Doha.

The major airlines flying into Kathmandu are:
Qatar Airways
Etihad Airlines
Air Arabia
Air India
Air Vistara
Silk Air
Dragon Air
Thai Airways
Fly Dubai

Free Time and Weekend Travel

Would I have free time during my program? Can I do sightseeing during my program?: Typically, volunteers are required to put 5-6 hours every day, 5 days a week. However, work timing is dependent on the project chosen by the volunteers and can vary. You will get free time in the evenings and on the weekends. You can utilize this time to explore the local market streets of Thamel, visit Durbar Square, see evening prayers at the “ghat” of the Pashupatinath Temple and also visit Swayambhu temple. During the weekend, you can visit Chitwan National Park or go visit the famous tourist destination Pokhara.

We encourage our volunteers to travel. We have designed various weekend tours which can be booked under the ‘Add-on Tours’ section in your ‘My Account’. Your in-country coordinator will also help you book and organize the tours once you are in the country.

Health, Safety and Support

Do I need to buy a health insurance?: Yes, for all participants it is mandatory to have a travel medical insurance. To provide the best option to our participants, we offer insurance coverage in collaboration with a leading insurance provider at a very nominal cost. To view more details about the insurance policy, click here
How safe is Nepal and Kathmandu in particular?: Nepal is generally considered a safe country for travelers, and Kathmandu, the capital, is one of the safest cities in the region for tourists, students, and volunteers. The country is well known for its hospitality, and violent crime against foreigners is rare.
Kathmandu is lively and busy, especially in areas such as Thamel, Boudha, Patan, and Bhaktapur, which are popular with visitors and well accustomed to international travelers. Most safety concerns involve petty crime, such as pick pocketing or bag snatching, particularly in crowded markets and tourist areas. Keeping valuables secure and being aware of your surroundings usually prevents issues.
Travelers should take normal precautions, such as avoiding poorly lit areas late at night, using registered taxis or ride-hailing services, and not displaying expensive items.
What immunizations/vaccinations will I need?: Carry general medicines with you, other than that consult your doctor before flying. We recommend these basic vaccinations for your safety:
Hepatitis A and B
Typhoid
You are also requested to consult your doctor before traveling to Nepal to get a list of recommended vaccinations.

Program Overview and Application Process

How do I apply for a program and when do I need to pay?: You can book your slot by filling the online application form and pay the application fee. You can pay your program fee later and also, in installments, however, the complete payment should be made 45 days prior the start of the program. If you are volunteering in a group, you can also fill a group application form. The initial application fee is refunded in the unlikely event that we’re not able to offer you a place on the program, and you have the flexibility to request a change of start date up until the 45 day payment deadline (this is subject to availability for other dates).
How long will it take to process my application? Will my application be accepted ?: Usually, it takes around 10-12 working days for your application to be processed and placement to be confirmed by our team. After your application is accepted, your placement document will be updated in your ‘My Account’ online and you can view the information in your account. The application acceptance depends on the availability of seats in the project as well as the eligibility criteria of the program (age, skills and experience etc).
Are there any necessary requirements to participate in the Nepal volunteer programs?: The minimum age requirement for programs in Nepal is 17 years. Participants should be flexible and willing to adapt to a new environment and culture. All participants must be in good health. Families are also welcome to join the programs in Nepal.All adult participants need to provide a clean criminal background check report prior to joining the program.
Can I volunteer as part of a group?: Yes, you are welcome to take part in any of the volunteering projects in Nepal as a group. It is a popular destination for group participation. Our Nepal programs have hosted large student groups from around the world including that of schoolies coming for short term volunteering programs. Also, we can design special group programs for groups of 5 or more. Our programs are designed to be safe, affordable and offer a great group volunteering experience to the volunteers.We have facilitated volunteer program placements for college groups, university groups, high school groups, group of families, group of couples as well as groups of colleagues.
What are the Program Locations in Nepal?: In Nepal, all our volunteering programs as well the accommodations are based in and around the capital city, Kathmandu.
Does VolSol provides with a reference or a certificate after program completion?: Yes, we will provide you with the Certificate after successful completion of your program. The certificate is provided on request.
Does VolSol provides discount if I choose more than one program or if I am a returning volunteer?: If you are planning to come for multiple programs in your trip, you will have to pay the application fees just once. Your application fee is valid for a year's time (from the date of application). You will not have to pay the application fees again if you come within the mentioned time frame.For our returning volunteers, $50 discount is provided for the application fee for their next VolSol program.
What will be my usual working hours?: Volunteers usually work for 5 to 6 hours a day, however. It can vary depending on your final placement. You will have the weekend off so you can go and travel on weekends. However, in some placements, you will need to work on some Saturdays as well.
How do I get to the accommodation and the program location?: Your in-country coordinator will take you to your placement location from the airport and introduce you to everyone after giving you a basic orientation about the program, city, culture etc. You will be told about the daily mode of transport that you will need to take to go to your project location. Usually, the projects are within short distance from your accommodations. Some projects are within walking distance while others are a short ride away by taxi.