Volunteer Opportunities in Nepal!

To which airport do I need to fly?

As a small landlocked country, Nepal's flying options are quite simple. There are three international airports in Nepal; volunteers are requested to arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu.

Do you organize airport pick-up?

Yes, we do arrange for your airport pick-up upon arrival for the volunteering in Nepal programs. With prior trip information, our airport representative will meet you at the arrival gate and safely transport you to your respective destination.

What happens if I miss a flight or arrive late?

No need to worry about that. If you miss the scheduled flight or your arrival is delayed, the necessary adjustments will be made. You will be provided with the contact information in your placement packet. Please contact us as soon as possible so that we can arrange for a new pick-up time. At all times, we make sure that your volunteer experience goes smoothly without too much hassle.

Who will come to pick me up? How do I recognize the person at the airport?

You will have provided your flight information to us before your departure, and we will arrange for our representative to be waiting for you at the arrival gate holding a sign with your name on it, so you will easily be able to recognize them. We will also give you his or her contact information in case you are unable to locate the representative when you come out of the gate, so you needn’t worry about connecting with them.

If my assignment begins on Monday, when should I arrive? If I want to arrive earlier than the day that my assignment begins, where do I stay and who will organize the accommodations? Does it cost me extra?

It is always advisable to arrive early if possible. Therefore, we suggest you arrive one day before the beginning of the program. All our programs start on Monday. You can arrive on Sunday and rest for the day, and then begin the project the next day in a better physical and mental state. If you arrive on Friday or Saturday, you can stay at our hostel, which costs $30 for each additional day for food and accommodation.

Who will bring me to the airport for my departure?

Volunteers will be responsible for their own transportation to the airport after completion of their project. Our local team will help you arrange a local taxi to the international airport.

What do I need before departure from my home country?

You should pack all your necessary documents: passport, copy of passport, and at least one other form of picture ID. Prepare yourself financially to cover unforeseen expenses. It is wise to budget around $50-75 USD per week for extra expenses and travel to your project each day. Prepare your mind and spirit. Get informed about your host country/city, study the culture and language(s), and learn about food and customs.

Is there a formal orientation before starting the project?

Yes. All incoming volunteers receive a comprehensive orientation before beginning nay project, involving project expectations, safety procedures, daily schedules, and cultural norms. You will also get a chance to connect with fellow volunteers in this phase.

Where are the projects located?

The volunteer opportunities in Nepal are primarily located in the cities of Kathmandu and Chitwan. Kathmandu, the capital city, is an amazing place to travel and volunteer. While volunteering in Kathmandu, Nepal, you will get an opportunity to serve underprivileged communities and simultaneously marvel at medieval temples, fascinating cultures, historical landmarks and much more.

By contrast, Chitwan is perfect for experiencing the diverse jungle life. You can visit the Chitwan National Park and get a closer look at the wild inhabitants of the park.

Is there any minimum or maximum stay? Can I extend my stay if I choose to?

The minimum volunteer stay is one week, and the maximum is 12 weeks. You will have to extend your tourist visa to stay longer. Staying 150 days within a calendar year is allowed.

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

Yes! You will get sufficient time to travel after work at your Nepal volunteer program and during the weekend. During your spare time, visiting historical landmarks, monuments, and museums in Kathmandu is ideal. Alternatively, you can opt for river rafting, trekking in the majestic Himalayan Mountains, observing elephants in the wild, or you can find spiritual peace at Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha!.

Who will guide or support me in the project?

IFRE’s in-country Coordinator and other staff members will be responsible for giving you guidance and support during your volunteer experience abroad.

Can I change projects if I do not like the one that I chose?

99% of our volunteers are happy with most of our projects. However, if you are not satisfied with your choice, you might be able to change the project while volunteering in Nepal. It will largely depend upon the availability, type, and needs of the project. Reach out to your in-country coordinator to discuss this possibility.

Can I work in more than one volunteer project?

Depending on the proximity of another project, you may be able to choose to work in more than one volunteer project at a time. However, you will need to be aware that this will be incredibly challenging. Each project will require a minimum of four to five hours of work daily, so to take on two projects at once can be exhausting. A better choice might be to split your travel time between two projects so you can devote yourself fully to each while you are there.

What is the minimum age to take part in these projects?

To volunteer in Nepal on your own you need to be at least 18 years of age. However, if you are under 18 you can join the project with your parents’ consent. In some cases, we can accept minors whose parent/guardian is willing to submit their written consent.

Who manages the volunteer projects in Nepal?

IFRE’s in-country Coordinator is responsible for managing all of the projects there. He is solely authorized to allocate the project as per the qualifications, skills, and interests of the applicants.

Will I receive training before the start of the project?

Yes. An orientation program will be organized upon arrival and before starting your Nepal volunteer work. This orientation program will be guided by our in-country coordinator and field staff. You will get familiar with our representative and get accustomed to the Nepalese customs, cultures, and etiquette at a fair pace.

Is there a dress code in the project?

Volunteers are expected to dress conservatively during their assignments. Miniskirts and tank tops are considered inappropriate in Nepal. Remember to consider and respect the religious beliefs of the country. Due to Nepal’s conservative nature, revealing outfits are most often unacceptable. Kissing and hugging in public places are also regarded as improper activities. Following these conventions will help you to respect the culture of the country you are visiting.

What kinds of projects can I join in Nepal?

You can choose from a variety of volunteer projects offered by IFRE that match your skills and interests, including work in orphanages, teaching in rural schools, healthcare and dental assistance, monk teaching, and photojournalism.

Do I need prior experience or specific skills?

Most projects do not require prior work experience, although it is an advantage. Certain projects, such a medical and dental volunteering, require you to be a student or professional in the field.

How isolated will I feel while I am in the placement?

You will not feel isolated at all during your volunteer placement in Nepal; IFRE’s local team, your host family, and fellow volunteers will be there keeping you company and supporting you. You will also most likely befriend local people during your stay.

Do I receive a certificate of completion?

Yes. IFRE will provide you with an official certificate upon the completion of your volunteer placement.

Can I stay in Nepal after my volunteer program as a tourist?

Yes. Volunteers can easily extend their stay independently, subject to visa requirements. IFRE also offers general guidance on visa options, but additional accommodation and travel arrangements must be handled personally by the volunteer.

How can I stay involved or support IFRE after I leave?

Volunteers are encouraged to remain part of IFRE’s community through alumni networks, social media, and by sharing their experiences. You can also contribute by fundraising, volunteering again in the future, or recommending IFRE to others, helping to sustain and expand the organization’s positive impact.

Why pay to volunteer abroad in Nepal?

Generally, volunteer organizations do not get any funding from the government and are entirely dependent on the program fees that you pay to support their programs. Your money is vital to cover the expenses of office maintenance, rent, salary, and other expenses.

Why are IFRE’s fees so much more affordable than other volunteer organizations?

IFRE does not operate for profit and has low overhead; it is here to provide meaningful programs to volunteers at an affordable price. Therefore, the prices offered are always affordable (50% to 75% more affordable than other organizations). IFRE remains devoted to maintaining both the high quality of our programs as well as the safety of all volunteers at the lowest prices.

What additional costs should I budget for?

The associated costs to your volunteer trip to Nepal, except program fees, are visa fees, travel insurance, local transportation, personal items, shopping, and optional activities or excursions during your stay.

Is my program fee tax-deductible?

Yes. IFRE is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Volunteers can claim their fees, and sometimes related expenses, as charitable deductions. Since tax rules differ by country, please check with your tax advisor. IFRE will be happy to support with this and provide you with any needed documentation.

Can I get help to raise funds?

Yes, we help volunteers to raise funds for their volunteer trips to Nepal by sending supporting documents. You can raise volunteering funds through various campaigns, such as GoFundMe, etc. You can also ask for donations from different organizations and volunteering-related campaigns, among others.

For further readings:
Cost /money matter
Why to pay for volunteer abroad
How to reduce the cost of volunteer abroad
Pay fee directly to host family

What meals are included?

Freshly prepared meals with locally sourced ingredients will be served to volunteer, which typically includes traditional Nepali dishes. Most volunteers enjoy dal bhat (lentil soup with rice), tarkari (vegetable curry), achar (pickle), and sometimes roti or chapati. Breakfast may include items like tea, bread, biscuits, or porridge. In some placements, lunch may need to be arranged independently, giving you the chance to explore local eateries and try Nepali favorites such as momo (dumplings) or thukpa (noodle soup).

What if I have dietary restrictions (vegetarian, allergies, halal, kosher, etcetra)?

IFRE makes every effort to accommodate the dietary preferences and restrictions of our volunteers. Please inform IFRE about your dietary preferences beforehand, so that we may arrange meals accordingly for you.

Is it safe to travel to Nepal?

Yes, by all means, Nepal is a safe country to travel in. We provide support to our volunteers from the time of their arrival through to the end of the project to ensure that they are safe. Your safety is our paramount concern.

What safety measures should I take?

During orientation, before the start of your volunteer experience in Nepal, we inform you about the safety measures, project sites, local etiquette and culture, and various do’s and don’ts to make your volunteering stay comfortable and productive. You should also exercise general precautions as you would when traveling anywhere, such as not carrying large quantities of cash on your person, not walking alone at night, etc.

What happens if I get sick?

You don’t need to worry at all. Your health will be closely assessed and monitored. If you get sick, our in-house coordinator and support staff will do what is necessary to take care of you and bring you to a clinic or hospital if needed.

Why must I get travel insurance before beginning my volunteer trip?

IFRE requires all volunteers to obtain reliable travel insurance before leaving for their volunteer work abroad in Nepal, or IFRE can purchase a comprehensive travel insurance at an affordable cost.

This gives you a safety cushion should something happen to you. You will feel more protected in case your trip is cancelled, if you need medical attention, if you need to return home, if you become seriously ill, if your belongings are stolen or if you have any kind of accident. IFRE can help you obtain your policy.

Do I need to get vaccinated?

Yes, you will need to be up to date on certain vaccines. We advise you to use the Center for Disease Control traveler's health recommendations The main recommended vaccinations for Nepal are Hepatitis A and B, and Typhoid. For your personal health precautions and extra safety, you can also consider vaccinations for Japanese Encephalitis depending on your travel plans. Make sure you are also up to date on your routine vaccinations. Talk to your doctor about your vaccination needs.

Who is my point of contact in Nepal once I arrive?

The in-country coordinator will be yout main point of contact. He/She will be responsible to who assist you with any project-related, personal, or emergency issues, ensuring you feel safe and supported throughout your stay.

What is the principle health risks for volunteering in Nepal?

The principle health risks for volunteers in Nepal are traveler’s diarrhea, illness or parasites derived from unsafe drinking water, and hepatitis A & B. Avoid street dogs and other animals. Never drink tap water, and exercise caution when eating food from street vendors or other questionable sources. Traffic can be quite hectic, and accidents are common, particularly in the frenetic streets of Kathmandu. Exercise caution when navigating roadways, and only use reliable and safe forms of public transportation.

For further readings:
Vaccination
Volunteer Health and Safety
Safety Tips for Your Volunteer Abroad Trip

Do I need a visa to volunteer and travel in Nepal?

Yes, you need to obtain a tourist visa to travel in Nepal. You can contact your local Nepal embassy to learn more about the procedures to obtain a visa, the visa fees, visa extensions, and more.

How do I apply for the visa?

Applying for a visa to volunteer in Nepal is an easy procedure. Depending on your nationality, you may be able to apply for a visa upon arrival at the airport. You can request 15,30,60 and 90 days visa. In this case, you just need to fill out a form that is provided to you upon arrival at the airport in Nepal. Upon completion of the form, you can give it to the immigration officer. After scrutinizing it, the officer will grant you a tourist visa.

You can also apply for the visa well in advance, depending on your interest and time; you can apply for it through the Nepalese Embassy or Consulate located in your home country. Do your research online to see what the requirements are for travelers coming from your home country.

Can I extend my visa while I am in the country? Can you help me with this?

Yes, you can always extend your visa while in Nepal and stay 150 days in one calendar year. We can help you extend your visa. You can get a 90-day visa at the airport upon arrival, and you can prolong it for two months as per your desire. However, to extend your visa, you will have to go to the Immigration office located in Kathmandu and Pokhara.

How do I contact IFRE’s local coordinator?

You can reach the country coordinator by phone or email while participating in volunteer programs in Nepal.

How can I communicate with my family from Nepal?

You can always be in touch with your friends and family back home via WhatsApp, viber, MSN messenger, local phones that are readily available.

Can I use my phone?

Yes, it is always handy and wise to carry your own phone. If you have your own phone, you can buy a local SIM card and use it. This will save your time and money during your travels in Nepal. Make sure you will unlock you phone to use international SIM card.

Can I buy a SIM card in Nepal?

Yes, you can always purchase a SIM card during your Nepal volunteer program journey. However, to purchase the SIM card you need to submit the copies of your passport and visa as an identity proof. NTC and NCELL are two of the most popular companies that provide quality SIM cards for communicating worldwide.

How can I get/purchase internet?

Internet may be available at your project site, or you can purchase a SIM card and data pack to access the internet using your mobile phone.

Is there internet available everywhere?

You will find internet facilities available for communicating in all our project locations in the cities. However, if you are placed in a homestay facility, your internet access will depend on the availability of the internet service acquired by the host. Alternatively, you can make use of the local SIM card or mobile data to access the internet while volunteering in Nepal.

What do I need to bring?

What you will choose to bring on your trip will vary depending on the season, the type of project you are volunteering at, etc. Bedding will be provided, but if you feel a sleeping bag is needed, you are welcome to bring it along. Make sure you have packed your passport, visa, and proof of your health insurance policy, along with communication devices and any toiletries or amenities you will need for your own comfort. Pack comfortable, modest clothing.

For further readings:

Packing Tips