Are you ready to immerse yourself in a completely new culture while sharing your skills? As a volunteer teaching English to monks in Nepal, you’ll step into a fascinating way of life. Live within a traditional Nepalese Buddhist monastery and embrace this unique experience. Join the monks in their daily routines, start your mornings with peaceful meditation before sunrise, and spend your day sharing knowledge and helping these communities improve their English skills.
Teaching Volunteer Program Highlights
- Support The UN’s Sustainable Development Goal No. 4 Through Education
- Gain A Unique Teaching Experience Living On Site At A Buddhist Monastery
- Teach English & Support Young Monks Through Learning & Creative Activities
- Explore More Of Nepal With Weekend Trips To Pokhara & Chitwan National Park
- Experience Nepalese Culture Through Temples, Yoga & Language Lessons
Background to the Teaching Program
While Buddhism is not the most widely practised religion in Nepal, its influence runs deep throughout the country’s history and culture, and Nepal is the birthplace of Buddha. From the numerous temples and stupas scattered across the land to the Tibetan Buddhists who have sought refuge, Nepal holds a significant place in the Buddhist world.
Many young Nepalese men dedicate part of their lives to training as monks. Most of the children in monasteries are either Tibetan refugees or come from disadvantaged ethnic hill tribes. For many, becoming a monk provides the opportunity for a brighter future.
Training as a monk begins at a young age. These young monks learn about Buddhist philosophies and practices while also receiving a general mainstream education, which includes learning English. The ability to speak English is crucial, as it allows monks to translate sacred texts and share the teachings of Buddhism with a wider audience. As the Dalai Lama famously said, “To learn English is to spread the word.”
Providing monks with both formal education and religious training is essential. Many monks leave the monastery as they grow older, and strong English skills significantly enhance their career opportunities in mainstream society.
By volunteering to teach English to monks in Nepal, you can play a key role in their educational journey. Working alongside international volunteers, you’ll help monks improve their communication and pronunciation skills, opening doors to new opportunities and enabling them to share their wisdom with the world.
Teaching Volunteer Placement Examples
If you are keen to teach English to monks in Nepal, you will live within the monastery in separate living quarters. The location of your placement during your volunteer in Nepal experience will be at one of the monasteries we support in Kathmandu, Pokhara, or Chitwan. Monasteries in Kathmandu are located across the valley, with some near the city centre and others in more rural, tranquil areas.
Sundarijal Monastery - Situated in the eastern Kathmandu Valley, Sundarijal Monastery is about an hour’s drive from central Kathmandu and is home to around 50 monks. These monks range in age from 6 to over 20, with approximately half aged between 6 and 15. Volunteers here lead educational classes for around three hours each day, working closely with the monks. Beyond teaching, volunteers are encouraged to immerse themselves in the monastery’s daily rituals and join the monks in games, creating a truly enriching cultural exchange.
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Daunne Monastery – The Daunne Monastery in Chitwan offers a more rural experience, nestled within a jungle environment where monkeys are your neighbours! This Nepal volunteer program provides an authentic setting with basic facilities and limited resources. Volunteers here teach both male and female monks and support a local school that also caters to village children. The school is a short uphill walk into the forest, providing a serene backdrop for a rewarding teaching experience.
Shree Urgen Choling Buddhist Monastery – Located in the picturesque Pokhara region, Shree Urgen Choling Buddhist Monastery offers a unique and flexible experience in a more informal setting. As there is no local teacher, volunteers tutor young monks in the early mornings before accompanying them to a nearby government school. During the day, volunteers can relax by the lakeside or help with general monastery tasks. In the afternoons, volunteers support the children with tutoring and spend evenings engaging in games, singing, and dancing. This immersive role allows volunteers to bond closely with the young monks while experiencing life at the monastery.
Your Volunteer Role & Typical Teaching Day
As a volunteer teaching English to monks in Nepal, your day will begin early, with the resonating sound of the monastery’s gong calling everyone to morning prayers. This unique start to the day provides an incredible opportunity to immerse yourself in the Buddhist way of life.
You will typically have a teaching schedule of two hours per day. With the shorter teaching hours on this program, you’ll find plenty of downtime at the monastery, allowing you to focus on personal activities or explore informal teaching opportunities. These may include conversational English, learning games, or helping the monks with homework and exam preparation. Your volunteer programs abroad run from Monday to Friday. While your main role will be to teach English, there may also be chances to teach other subjects such as Maths or Science.
This volunteer teaching English abroad project follows a flexible curriculum. Most of the time, you will independently plan your lessons or collaborate with fellow volunteers. Government course guidebooks focusing on English, Maths, and Science are often available to help you structure your classes.
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During your free time on the Nepal volunteer program, you can explore the local community, visit nearby markets, or learn more about Buddhist traditions. Evenings may include playing games, engaging in sports, or leading extracurricular activities with the young monks.
Depending on your specific Nepal volunteer program, you may also assist with practical tasks like preparing meals or gathering firewood and wild mushrooms from the surrounding jungle. The monks are welcoming and genuinely grateful for your support, eager to share their culture and way of life with you. As a volunteer in Nepal, this experience offers a unique insight into Buddhist practices and traditions rarely available to tourists.
Upon your arrival, the young monks are often eager to meet you, though some may be shy during the first few days. You’ll have the chance to share meals with them and participate in morning meditation rituals (Puja) if you’re up early enough. While the monks won’t be able to formally teach you these practices, they are always open to your proactive involvement, making this a truly enriching and immersive experience.
Other Things to Consider Teaching Children in Nepal
More Independent Experience - Due to the rural nature of the projects in Nepal, this destination offers a more independent experience compared to some of our other locations. Volunteers are placed at various project sites around the country, often with basic accommodation. Our team is based in Kathmandu, where they provide support virtually via phone and online communication. If you’re seeking a highly social experience with daily in-person contact with our local team, we recommend considering an alternative destination. However, Nepal is perfect for individuals looking for a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in a completely different culture and who are less focused on the social aspect of the program.
Experience – Prior teaching experience is not required for the English Teaching program, as the presence of a fluent English speaker is invaluable. As long as you are creative, determined, and resourceful, you will have a positive impact on the children's educational development.
TEFL Course – We recommend that volunteers prepare thoroughly for their teaching program overseas. To maximise your impact, consider completing our convenient, affordable, and internationally accredited 60-hour Online TEFL Course.
Resources – On the teach English in Nepal project, resources can be limited. We recommend that volunteers bring materials with them each day to enhance productivity and involvement. Preparing in advance will help you get the most out of your teaching English overseas experience.
Project Location - When you volunteer in Nepal, you may have the option to choose your placement location. This will be discussed during your orientation period in Kathmandu, where the local team will review current project needs and your preferences. You may also meet other volunteers during orientation, which could influence your placement choice.
Weekend Trip Opportunities
A 2-day trip to Pokhara is the perfect way to unwind and soak in the natural beauty of Nepal’s most scenic city. Nestled beside Phewa Lake and surrounded by the Annapurna mountain range, Pokhara offers a mix of tranquillity and adventure. Begin your day with a peaceful boat ride on the lake, followed by a hike or drive to the World Peace Pagoda for breathtaking views. For thrill-seekers, take an early morning paragliding flight from Sarangkot. Spend your evening at a lakeside café or enjoying the vibrant nightlife along Lakeside Road – there’s something for every kind of traveller.
Getting There
• 6–8 hour drive from Kathmandu
• Tourist Bus – 12 GBP each way
Where to Stay
• Guesthouse – 8–20 GBP per night
• Mid-range Hotel – 25–50 GBP per night
Things to Do
• Boat Ride – 6 GBP
• Paragliding – 65 GBP
• Caves/Waterfalls – 1–2 GBP
Step into the subtropical wilderness of Chitwan National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site home to rhinos, Bengal tigers, elephants, and gharials. Your 2-day adventure includes a guided jungle safari by jeep, a canoe ride along the Rapti River, and a visit to a local Tharu village. End the day with a traditional Tharu cultural show – an unforgettable experience for nature lovers and those seeking a close-up encounter with Nepal’s rich biodiversity.
Getting There
• 5–7 hour drive from Kathmandu
• Tourist Bus – 12–15 GBP
Where to Stay
• Lodge – 10–20 GBP per night
• Resort – 40–80 GBP per night
Things to Do
• Safari – 25–40 GBP
• Canoe Ride – 8 GBP
• Cultural Show – 5 GBP
Embark on one of Nepal’s most rewarding short treks – the Poon Hill Trek – renowned for its sunrise views over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. Starting from Pokhara, drive to Nayapul or Ulleri and hike through charming Magar and Gurung villages, lush rhododendron forests, and terraced farmlands. Spend the night in Ghorepani before your early morning climb to Poon Hill (3,210m) for panoramic views of over 20 Himalayan peaks. Ideal for beginners with a good fitness level, this trek offers a perfect blend of challenge and reward.
Getting There
• 1-hour drive from Pokhara to the trailhead
• Jeep or Taxi – 15–20 GBP
Where to Stay
• Teahouse – 8–12 GBP per night
Things to Do
• Guide – 20 GBP per day
• Trekking Permits – 30 GBP
Only a short drive from Kathmandu, Chandragiri Hills offers an ideal weekend escape with panoramic Himalayan views – including Everest on a clear day. Ride the cable car to the 2,500m summit, explore the Bhaleshwor Mahadev Temple, stroll through forest trails, or simply relax at the hilltop resort with breathtaking scenery all around.
Getting There
• 1–1.5 hour drive from Kathmandu
• Taxi – 10 GBP return
• Cable Car – 17 GBP
Where to Stay
• Resort – 35–60 GBP per night
• Budget Lodge – 10–20 GBP per night
Things to Do
• Cable Car – 17 GBP
• Hiking – Free
Travel back in time to the birthplace of Siddhartha Gautama – Lord Buddha – with this peaceful 2-day retreat in Lumbini. Visit the sacred Maya Devi Temple, explore the international monastic zones built by countries from around the world, and enjoy the serene ambience of this spiritual site. Rent a bike or hire a local guide to explore the vast Lumbini Development Zone at your own pace – a tranquil and cultural experience not to be missed.
Getting There
• 8–10 hour drive from Kathmandu
• Bus – 12–15 GBP each way
Where to Stay
• Guesthouse – 8–15 GBP per night
• Hotel – 25–50 GBP per night
Things to Do
• Temple Visit – Free
• Bike Hire – 3–5 GBP
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- A woman and an elderly man enjoy birdwatching in a lush, sunlit forest during an outdoor nature adventure.
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- Two friends enjoy a peaceful morning canoe ride through lush Nepalese nature, sharing joy and adventure on the serene river.
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- Joyful travelers in a Nepalese village with stunning Himalayan mountains and traditional architecture.
Accommodation - Shared & Comfort Options Available
🛏️ Shared Option - Standard Offering (Recommended for 18-25 Year Olds)
Project Residence
The first few days of your Nepal volunteer program will be spent in Kathmandu, where you will stay with our host team in their family home. The accommodation provides a welcoming and comfortable introduction to life in Nepal, with Wi-Fi available and the opportunity to get to know the local team before travelling to your monastery placement.
After these initial days, you will move to one of our partner monasteries in Kathmandu, Pokhara or Chitwan for the remainder of your Teaching English to Monks program. Living at the monastery provides a unique opportunity to experience daily monastic life in Nepal while staying close to your volunteer placement. Your final night on the program will also be spent back at the family home in Kathmandu before your departure.
Volunteers stay in separate living quarters from the monks, with rooms typically shared between up to 4 participants. Bed linen is provided, and the accommodation offers a simple and peaceful base throughout your placement.
Facilities vary depending on the monastery and location. Monasteries around Kathmandu generally have more modern facilities, with Western style toilets more commonly available. Placements around Pokhara and Chitwan tend to be in more rural settings, where facilities can be simpler and may include traditional Nepali style toilets and bucket showers. Bathroom facilities are shared, while hot water and Wi-Fi should not generally be expected at the monasteries.
Living within a working monastery is an immersive part of the experience. You may hear the morning gong calling the monks to prayer and meditation, with opportunities to learn more about their daily routines, traditions and way of life throughout your stay.
Wi-Fi
Usually No
People Per Room
Up To 4 (Shared) or 1 (Comfort)
Single Sex Rooms
Yes
Western Bathroom Facilities
Usually No
Airport Transfer
45 Minutes
Nearest ATM & Shops
Up To 1 Hour Walk
Meals
Kitchen staff will prepare meals for you and the monks at your volunteer placement, with dishes typically consisting of traditional Nepalese cuisine. You’re welcome to help in the kitchen and learn how to cook Nepalese dishes. Meals are made with fresh, local ingredients such as lentils, potatoes, tomatoes, cumin, coriander, chillies, yoghurt, and plenty of rice. Be prepared for dishes that can be quite spicy, offering an authentic taste of Nepal.
Dhal Bhat, Nepal’s national dish, is commonly served for breakfast and dinner. It consists of rice, lentils, and seasoned vegetables. Most meals are vegetarian, including pasta or noodles with locally grown vegetables. Occasionally, chicken, pork, or fish dishes are also served.
* Our team will do their best to cater for dietary requirements. However, this cannot be guaranteed. You may need to purchase additional ingredients at your own expense. Please note any dietary requirements in your application and re-confirm them with the local team upon arrival. For major concerns, contact the PMGY International Team before confirming your place on the program.
Here’s an example of the meals you can expect:
Breakfast
Dhal Bhat, Tea
Lunch
Traditional Nepalese Snacks
Dinner
Dhal Bhat, Noodle Soup, Chapati, Bread, Rice
Program Location
FAQ's
As a Nepal monk teaching volunteer, you must provide a clean criminal background check before volunteering with us abroad. This ensures the safety and well-being of the children and communities we work with. Unfortunately, we are unable to accept anyone with previous criminal convictions.
In general, no formal experience or qualifications are required to join the monk teaching projects — just lots of energy, enthusiasm, and a proactive approach to preparation!
Volunteering overseas can be a rewarding yet demanding experience. It can be physically and mentally challenging, so all participants must be fit in both areas. If you have any medical or mental health conditions that may affect your participation, these must be disclosed to us during your online application. This ensures we can best support you and assess the program’s suitability.
If you have any concerns or queries regarding your eligibility or suitability for the Nepal monk teaching program, we recommend that you contact us before committing to the program. Our team is always happy to assist you in making an informed decision and ensuring a positive and enriching experience for all involved.
Upon your arrival, you will be warmly greeted at the airport by a member of our local team or an appointed driver. They will be easy to spot, holding a sign with your name to ensure you feel welcomed from the moment you land. From there, they will escort you to your accommodation, where you will have the rest of the day to relax, settle in, and prepare for the exciting journey ahead.
The program officially ends on the Sunday of your final week. This means you will need to vacate the accommodation on this day to make way for new participants arriving for their own life-changing experiences. Our local team will be available to assist with arranging transport to the airport or providing guidance for any onward travel plans you may have.
Whether you’re just arriving or bidding farewell to Nepal, our team is here to ensure your transition is as seamless and stress-free as possible. Your time as a Nepal monk teaching volunteer will leave you with unforgettable memories, meaningful connections, and a lasting impact on the communities you’ve helped.
When you embark on this experience, you must be 100% committed to joining the program. To apply, locate the “Apply Now” button on the individual project page. This will guide you step-by-step through our online Application Process. We’ve made it as straightforward and user-friendly as possible so that you can easily secure your place.
Many of our Nepal monk teaching volunteers who joined us for just 2 weeks often expressed that their time was too short. They leave wishing they had stayed longer to further engage with the projects they’ve grown passionate about. If your schedule allows, we highly encourage you to consider a longer stay to make the most of this life-changing experience!
While our programs are available for longer durations, volunteers can initially sign up for a maximum of 12 weeks in each destination. In the past, we’ve found that some volunteers commit to extended placements but later wish to adjust their plans for independent travel or to join another program. Please note, however, that Program Fees are non-refundable once committed. If you arrive and find yourself loving the program (as many do!), you are more than welcome to extend your placement. Extensions are subject to availability at the time of your request, but our team will do their best to accommodate your desire to stay longer and continue making an impact.
For those considering an even more adventurous journey, we recommend exploring our Encounter Programs. These unique opportunities allow you to experience 2-4 week stays across 3-10 destinations, offering a perfect balance of travel, cultural immersion, and volunteering.
Volunteer safety in each destination is a top priority and is monitored regularly. A member of our International Team has thoroughly inspected every PMGY program to ensure it meets our high standards. We also stay current with advice published by the UK’s Foreign and Commonwealth Development Office. Through constant communication with our local teams, we ensure that our volunteers are always placed in secure and stable regions.
Our International Team has personally visited and participated in every program we offer, paying close attention to every detail—from the living conditions and local neighbourhoods to the food you’ll enjoy. These meticulous checks ensure that all aspects of your stay meet our rigorous standards. Additionally, our local teams are experienced professionals with years of experience hosting international volunteers. They serve as PMGY’s trusted representatives, offering 24/7 support to all volunteers throughout their stay. To further enhance your safety, PMGY provides a 24-hour international emergency line accessible at all times. In-country staff also maintain connections with local medical professionals, ensuring that immediate assistance is available should it be required during your placement as a Nepal monk teaching volunteer.
Before you embark on your journey, you’ll receive a comprehensive Volunteer Handbook, which covers key topics such as health, safety, visas, and dress codes. If you have additional or specific questions, our dedicated support team is available 24/7 to assist. Furthermore, on a monthly basis, PMGY hosts an Introductory Webinar and a Safety Webinar. These interactive sessions offer invaluable information about our projects and practical tips for staying safe abroad.
When you arrive in-country, you’ll participate in a detailed orientation session. This introduction will cover the general volunteer program and your specific project, including essential safety advice tailored to your destination. During this session, you’ll also have the opportunity to purchase a local SIM card — a step we highly recommend to ensure you remain contactable at all times. Additionally, you’ll receive a comprehensive list of essential contact numbers to keep on hand during your stay.
While no travel experience can ever be guaranteed 100% trouble-free, PMGY has taken every precaution to ensure that your time as a Nepal monk teaching volunteer is as safe and enjoyable as possible. We strongly suggest following the local team’s guidance and advice to ensure your safety throughout your journey.
