Nepal Volunteer Guide: A Comprehensive Handbook by VCD Nepal

1. Pre-Departure Preparation:
Ensure a smooth start by organizing necessary documentation with guidance from VCD Nepal. Obtain required visas and address any specific permits through assistance from the organization.

2. Visa Requirements:
Most travelers can obtain a visa upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu or at various land border crossings. Ensure your passport has at least six months’ validity and bring a few passport-sized photos for the visa application.

3. Visa Fees for Nepal
* 15 Days Multiple Entry Visa: USD 30
* 30 Days Multiple Entry Visa: USD 50
* 90 Days Multiple Entry Visa: USD 125
* For most travelers, getting a visa upon arrival in Nepal is a simple process. Just make sure your passport is valid for at least six months, and bring some passport-sized photos. You can also apply for a visa online through the Nepal immigration website at http://online.nepalimmigration.gov.np/tourist-visa. Upload a digital photo, print the form, and hand it to the visa officer when you arrive in Nepal. Enjoy your trip!

4. Airport Pickup:
Upon your arrival at Kathmandu airport, a VCD Nepal coordinator will warmly welcome you. Look for your name and the VCD Nepal logo for easy identification. Once picked up, our coordinator will escort you to your chosen accommodation, whether it’s a tourist-standard hotel or a local family stay.

5. Volunteer Orientation:
Before you embark on your project, VCD Nepal ensures you receive a comprehensive orientation. This includes cultural insights and language basics, offering you a valuable introduction to the local context. Project details will also be thoroughly explained, ensuring you are well-prepared for your volunteering experience.

6. Accommodation:
During your volunteering placement, stay with a local family in a village or city, enjoying a private room with basic furniture. Urban accommodations offer Wi-Fi, western toilets, and hot showers, while village stays may have limited facilities.

7. Food: Nepali Delights – Tasting the Local Flavors:
Experience the true essence of Nepal through mouthwatering dishes like MOMO (dumplings), DAL/BHAT (lentil soup with rice), and a variety of delicious curries and pickles. While tempted by street food, tread carefully to savor the authentic taste of Nepal without any surprises.

8. Food at the Placement:
Meals, including the Nepali staple Dal Bhat Tarkari, are provided twice daily, along with several cups of tea throughout the day.

9. Transportation:
Your Program Fee includes public transportation to and from your volunteer project. Most projects are within walking distance from accommodation, allowing volunteers to walk to and from placements daily. Monastery projects are conveniently situated on or near the accommodation site. For those staying with host families, the project is typically a 10-20 minute walk from the accommodation.

10. Nepal Weather:
Nepal is accessible year-round, offering travel opportunities without seasonal limitations.
* Experience hot and humid conditions, with the dry season from December to May and the rainy season from June to November.
* Embrace the refreshing monsoon season, transforming the landscape into a lush green.
* January to April is the hottest, with temperatures exceeding 35 degrees Celsius.
* Optimal weather for volunteering is October to December—cool, dry, and less humid. VCD Nepal ensures your comfort in Nepal’s diverse climates.
11. Volunteer in Nepal Requirements:
* VCD Nepal welcomes participants of all nationalities and backgrounds, with a minimum age requirement of 18 and no upper age limit.
* A good level of English is necessary, but it doesn’t need to be your first language. Learning a few Nepali words during your stay is encouraged.
* A clean criminal background check is mandatory for all participants.
* No formal experience or qualifications are required; enthusiasm, energy, and preparation are key for a fulfilling volunteering experience in Nepal.

12. Explore Diverse Opportunities:
Identify projects offered by VCD Nepal that resonate with your skills and interests. Whether your passion lies in teaching, environmental conservation, healthcare, or cultural exchange, VCD Nepal provides a range of diverse and impactful volunteering opportunities tailored to your preferences.

13. Embrace Nepali Culture:
Familiarize yourself with the rich tapestry of Nepali culture, customs, and traditions through guidance from VCD Nepal. Understanding the local way of life not only enriches your cultural exchange experience but also fosters deeper connections within the community you’ll be serving. VCD Nepal ensures you navigate and appreciate Nepal’s cultural landscape with respect and awareness.

14. Money Exchange and ATM Tips in Nepal:
In Nepal, all major international currencies are accepted and can be exchanged at the airport or other commercial banks throughout the country. Additionally, most hotels are authorized for currency exchange, providing convenient options for your financial needs.

15. Adventure Awaits: Explore Nepal’s Wilderness:
Embark on thrilling trails like Everest Base Camp, Annapurna Circuit, and Langtang Valley. Add sightseeing to enrich your journey. Get permits and licensed guides. Join us with SuperHolidayTrip for a tailored adventure package for VCD Nepal volunteers.

16. Altitude Challenges:
When trekking to higher altitudes, be mindful of the potential risk of altitude sickness. Prioritize proper acclimatization, stay well-hydrated, and consider using Diamox as a preventive measure to ensure a safer and more enjoyable trekking experience.

17. Explore Kathmandu’s Wonders:
Join our local coordinator for a guided tour of Kathmandu’s prominent tourist sites, including Swyambhu Nath Stupa, Kathmandu Durbar Square, Pashupati Nath Temple, and Buddha Nath. VCD covers transportation, while you are responsible for temple entry fees. Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of these iconic landmarks.

18. Power Up with Ease:
In Nepal, power outlets are of Type C, D, and M, with electricity typically at 230V/50Hz. Pack a universal adapter and a portable charger to keep your devices charged.

19. Embrace Local Customs:
Experience the warmth of Nepalese hospitality. Greet with “Namaste,” practice removing shoes when entering homes, and use your right hand (or both) for giving and receiving items.

20. Books:
For book enthusiasts, explore the second-hand stores in the Thamel area for a diverse selection. These stores offer a unique arrangement—they buy the book back at 50% of your initial purchase price. Additionally, they accept books you brought with you but no longer need. Dive into a literary journey while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of Nepal.

21. Laundry Solutions in Nepal:
In Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Chitwan, numerous places offer laundry services, typically charging by the kilogram. When staying with a local family, handwashing your laundry is common, and some host families may even have a washing machine for added convenience. Keep your clothes fresh and clean with the readily available laundry options in these regions.

22. Managing Daily Expenses:
Your daily expenses in Nepal can vary based on your choices! A one-liter bottled water typically costs about 25 Nepali rupees. For accommodation, a standard tourist hotel may cost around $15, while meals at local restaurants are budget-friendly, ranging from $2-3. If you opt for cafes and restaurants in touristy areas like Thamel, expect to spend between $6-10 per meal. In Kathmandu, a daily budget of around $25-30 should be sufficient for a comfortable experience. Keep in mind that trekking tea houses may incur higher costs. Plan accordingly to make the most of your daily expenses.