Tell me more about Nepal?
For many of us the Himalayan Kingdom conjures up images of snow-capped mountains and rolling green hills. Indeed, eight of the world’s 14 eight-thousanders lie in Nepal, making it a mountaineer’s dream.

But Nepal has more to offer than just the high Himalaya. Small as the country may be, the land is diverse geographically as well as ethnically. You will find rich cultures and vibrant traditions, exquisite temples and monuments as well as fast flowing rivers and tropical jungles teeming with wildlife, making your trip an unforgettable one. It is a country where people of different races and religions live in relative harmony. For more information I suggest you purchase the Lonely Planet's guide to Nepal.

What is the climate like in Nepal?
Nepal's climate is typically monsoonal with a wet and dry season. The dry season runs from October through to May with the monsoon season lasting the rest of the year. May and the start of June is the hottest time of the year and the temperature in Kathmandu often reaches as high as 30C and in some placements the mercury can rise upwards of 45C. During the winter temperatures can still be as high as 20C but beware of near freezing conditions once night falls. Even though Nepal is well known for the Himalayan mountain range it never actually snows in the Kathmandu valley.

What kind of volunteer work is available?
The volunteer opportunities are in Journalism,teaching English,home stay/cultural exchange and working in an orphanage. Your placement will be tailored according to individual requirements of the program and volunteers.

Do I need to speak English to become a volunteer?
Yes it would be helpful if you speak English. You may have English as your second language and that is also fine.

What immunizations/vaccines will I need?

Diphtheria and tetanus
Polio
Hepatitis A & B
Typhoid
Yellow fever (not necessary unless you are coming from or going on to countries where a Yellow Fever certificate is required)
Rabies (this immunization is very expensive and is not necessary when medical attention is readily available)
Japanese B Encephalitis (only suggested if spending time in the Terai area during monsoon. No placements are available in this area)
Tuberculosis
Malaria (needs to be closely discussed with doctor)
Some of these can be taken in oral form so please discuss with your doctor to see what is best for you. Some people can be affected quite differently to others by medication.

Can family accompany me to the program?
You may take family members with you on the program if you are taking part in the Homestay program. Older children who are more independent will be considered on a case by case basis if you are thinking of taking part in an alternative program. Partners will also need to apply if they wish to take part in the program.

Who organizes my visa for my volunteer placement?
You will purchase your Visa (US$30 for the two months and extensions are US$30 for 30 day extensions) at Kathmandu airport when you arrive. You can stay for a maximum of five months per year in Nepal.

What is the criterion for volunteers to be accepted into the program?
Each applicant is considered by the information they provide on the application. If further information is required applicants will be emailed to request this. Please refer to the program requirements listed on the program page which outlines the minimum expectations of what is required for volunteering in this specific program. We also look further at your application as to skills and experience specifically related to the program you have applied to. We look at volunteer experiences, travel experience and also your particular interest in the program to make our decision.

How do I get from the airport to the host family or guest house?
You will be met outside the airport terminal by an Internship Nepal representative holding a placard with your name on it who will then escort you to the host family or guest house . Please provide us your flight information as soon as possible. So that a puntual pick-up can be assured.