FAQ


Volunteering to Learn – Nepal

Volunteer in Nepal – Homestay Program, English Teaching, Organic Farming, Orphanage Support & more…

FAQ

Why do I have to pay a registration fee?

The registration fees goes towards the running of the organization (office space, staff, computers, email/internet, stationery, etc.). VLN has a central office in Kathmandu and a branch office in Chitwan.

What kind of volunteers is VLN looking for?

VLN has worked with other volunteer organizations, community schools, women groups, farmers co-operatives, clubs, youth groups and individuals. You do not need any specialized training to work with us. We will provide you with appropriate orientation and training for your prospective program, although experience in teaching, organic agriculture, health work, social mobilization or environmental project can be advantage.

When should I arrive in Nepal?

We are very flexible and as such you can arrive at a date which is best suited to your needs. You are welcome to arrive a few days earlier than the start of your program. Our representative will meet you at the airport holding a sign with your name. He will take you to the hotel. We can arrange your accommodation if you arrive a couple of days earlier, but you will need to pay the costs for the extra time yourself, and for any non-VLN activities. In some cases, the dates of your program can be adapted if you contact us.

Do I meet any VLN staff at the airport?

Yes, one of our representatives will meet you at the airport to pick you up holding a sign with your name and take you to the hotel.

Where will I be staying during my training period?

During your training period, you will stay at Guest House and Homestay (that will be walking distance from the office) in Kathmandu.

How much money do I need?

If you prefer to come before starting the progrram, you can get a room for $5- $8 a night, regular food for about $4 to $8 a day, internet access for about $1 per hour, laundry for about $3 for a medium-sized of load (they charge by the item). Transportation is relatively inexpensive too. We recommend that you purchase the Lonely Planet guide to Nepal. The travel guide for Nepal will help you estimate how much money you may need.(Remember that you need money for your visa and your flight tickets as well).

What kinds of thing do I need to bring with me?
  • Sleeping bag
  • Warm clothes (during winter months)
  • Sun cream
  • Mosquito net/repellent
  • Water purification tablets and water filter
  • Flashlight
  • First aid kit
  • Any other personal items which you might need
What other useful items can I bring with me?
  • Children’s books and other goods
  • Stationary and sport materials
  • National flag, local currency, stamps
  • Your photo albums
  • Any other things which you might consider useful for VLN and its programs.
Is there an age limit in the program?

Yes, the prospective volunteers should be at least 18 years old.

What types of immunization/ vaccines do I need before coming to Nepal?
  • Tetanus
  • Diphtheria
  • Polio
  • Hepatitis A & B
  • Typhoid
  • Rabies
  • Tuberculosis
  • Malaria (but first consult with your doctor)
Do I need any travel medical and accident insurance?

Yes, we highly recommend that you have travel, medical and accident insurance.

Does VLN pay for my trekking and other activities?

No, these are non-VLN activities so you need to pay for them yourself. However, we can organize and recommend some trekking, rafting, travel agencies who will help you to arrange these activities.

Is Nepal safe?

Nepal is the land of Buddha. A couple of years ago it was one of the most peaceful places on the earth but these days because of political unbalance crime is increasing and there is some violence but, unlike many developing countries, Nepal is quite safe. Every year hundreds of thousands of tourist visit Nepal. These days the situation is getting better.

What’s the weather like in the placement areas?

Nepal’s climate is seasonally changeable and different in different regions. Geographically Nepal is divided into three parts. The mountain region of Nepal is very cold in winter while the mid-hill region (Kathmandu and Pokhara) and mid-terai region (Chitwan) have different climate in different seasons. The weather is cold from December to March, humid and quite hot in the summer. The spring and fall are cool and pleasant. Please bring your winter clothes if you are coming in November, December, January, February and summer clothes for the rest of the months. We advise female volunteers not to wear short skirts in villages, and male volunteers not to wear shorts. It is traditional for Nepali people to dress modestly and for girls to cover most of their body.

Emergency contact

In case you miss our representative at the airport or if your flight schedule changes suddenly, please give us a call at 9841787136 or 9841538578. If you dial from outside of Nepal, please dial the country code 977 before making the call.

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