As a volunteer teaching English in Nepal, you will have a wonderful opportunity to make a meaningful impact at a community level while immersing yourself in Nepal’s fascinating culture. From kindergartens to primary schools, you’ll assist in lessons or lead classes, educating and inspiring the next generation and preparing them for brighter futures.
Teaching Volunteer Program Highlights
- Support The UN’s Sustainable Development Goal No. 4 Through Education
- Gain Valuable Teaching Experience While Exploring Community Life In Nepal
- Teach English & Inspire Young Learners To Support Early Years Development
- 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
As a volunteer teaching English abroad in Nepal, your role is to help students develop vital English skills that will empower them to achieve their future goals. Conversing with fluent English speakers significantly enhances their language abilities, which are crucial for better employment opportunities. Through your volunteer work in Nepal, you’ll contribute to the education of young people, helping to drive economic, political, and social progress.
Unfortunately, Nepal’s education system suffers from underinvestment, with many schools lacking qualified teachers, especially for English. This has led to high illiteracy rates, with 41% of the adult population unable to read or write, limiting career prospects to low-paying manual labour jobs.
Tourism is Nepal’s largest industry outside of agriculture and offers lucrative job opportunities. However, English proficiency is a key requirement for these roles. As government schools often provide limited English education, only children from wealthier families attending private international schools receive quality language instruction. By volunteering to teach English in Nepal, you’ll offer hope and inspiration to students who lack access to private education, opening doors to brighter futures. If you’re seeking volunteer gap year options, our Nepal projects provide incredible opportunities to make a lasting difference.
Teaching Volunteer Placement Examples
During your Nepal volunteer program, you’ll be placed in a local school or kindergarten that serves underprivileged communities. Depending on the project’s needs at the time, you may also have the chance to work in a day-care centre, providing basic education and care to pre-school children.
Smart Kids Kindergarten – Situated in Kathmandu Valley, this kindergarten was established in 2015 with a focus on child-centred education. It provides a fun and engaging learning environment for children aged 3 and older. Despite limited resources and minimal English communication, this placement offers an excellent opportunity to teach English and boost children’s confidence. Activities are interactive, focusing on learning through play to help young learners grow.
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Your Volunteer Role & Typical Teaching Day
You’ll start your day early with your host family, enjoying breakfast before heading to your placement. Depending on your location, your project may be a short walk from your homestay, or transport will be provided.
Your primary role as a volunteer in Nepal is to teach English. However, there may also be opportunities to teach other subjects like Maths and Arts. While local staff are available to assist, most international volunteers will lead their own lessons. Lessons are informal, allowing volunteers the freedom to be creative with their teaching methods.
To make lessons engaging, volunteers teaching English in Nepal are encouraged to use interactive activities, such as games, songs, and art. Educational games like Hangman, Hot Seat, or team quizzes are effective ways to build vocabulary and inspire learning. Flashcards, stickers, and souvenirs from your home country can also enhance lessons, making them both fun and educational.
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Volunteers typically teach 3–5 hours per day, Monday to Friday. Schools often start around 9–10am, with kindergartens beginning earlier. After finishing at 2–4pm, you’ll have free time to explore your neighbourhood, visit local markets, or join cultural activities.
Other Things to Consider When 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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- Joyful travelers in a Nepalese village with stunning Himalayan mountains and traditional architecture.
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- Two friends enjoy a peaceful morning canoe ride through lush Nepalese nature, sharing joy and adventure on the serene river.
Accommodation - Shared Option Available
🛏️ Shared Option - Standard Offering (Recommended for 18-25 Year Olds)
Host Family
During your Nepal Teaching program, you will stay with a local host family, providing a welcoming and comfortable base while giving you the opportunity to experience everyday life in Nepal. Living with a host family offers a more personal insight into the local culture and community, while providing a supportive environment throughout your placement.
Rooms are shared with fellow volunteers and typically accommodate up to 4 participants. Bed linen is provided, along with space for storing your clothes and personal belongings. Bathroom facilities are shared within the host family home and include Western style toilets and conventional washing facilities.
Facilities are generally comfortable but may be simpler than you are accustomed to at home, particularly in more rural locations. Wi-Fi availability can vary and electricity may occasionally be intermittent, reflecting everyday life in Nepal.
Your host family will be familiar with welcoming international volunteers and can help you settle into the local area and daily routine. Staying within a family home also provides plenty of opportunities to learn more about Nepalese culture and enjoy a more immersive experience alongside your teaching placement.
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
The host family will prepare meals for you at your homestay, 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, but this cannot always be guaranteed. Volunteers may need to purchase additional ingredients at their own expense. Please note any dietary requirements in your application and re-iterate them to the local team on 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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.
