Embark on the Real Nepal Experience, blending unforgettable travel experiences with meaningful community volunteering. Discover the vibrant temples and bustling markets of Kathmandu, trek through the awe-inspiring Himalayas, and immerse yourself in the beauty and wildlife of Chitwan. This journey promises to be fun, diverse, and culturally enriching, offering a perfect balance of exploration and giving back. Along the way, you'll make a genuine difference in the lives of the local community while creating memories to last a lifetime.
Program Highlights
- Monthly Start Dates Throughout 2027 With Flexible 3 Or 4 Week Durations
- Support English Teaching Within Buddhist Monasteries & Community Projects
- Gain A Unique Teaching Experience Living On Site At A Buddhist Monastery
- Enjoy A Structured & Social Group Experience With Support Throughout
- Explore Kathmandu’s Ancient Temples, Historic Squares & Local Markets
- White Water Raft The Scenic Trisuli River & Tackle The Rapids Together
- Trek The Annapurna Region & Enjoy Spectacular Himalayan Mountain Scenery
- Explore Chitwan National Park On Safari & Search For Rhinos In The Wild
- Discover More Of Nepal Through Kathmandu, Pokhara, Annapurna & Chitwan
- Experience Nepalese Culture Through Temples, Yoga & Language Lessons
Program Map
Summary of the Real Nepal Experience
The Real Nepal Experience invites ambitious individuals to come together for an unforgettable adventure across Nepal. Guided by our local team, this structured, fast-paced program takes you on an incredible journey to some of the country’s most stunning sites. Alongside exploring Nepal’s rich culture and landscapes, you will dedicate time to volunteering projects, giving back to local communities while developing and showcasing your skills. As part of the Real Nepal Experience, you’ll join your group on a set arrival date and travel across Nepal, volunteering and exploring over three or four exciting weeks. This makes the PMGY Experience trips ideal for those seeking a social, immersive, and structured adventure.
On this journey, you will discover different sides of this remarkable country, from spotting wildlife on safari in Chitwan and hiking the majestic Himalayas to visiting ancient Hindu and Buddhist temples. The carefully curated itinerary includes Nepal’s most iconic sites while offering opportunities to contribute to meaningful volunteer projects. Prepare for awe-inspiring landscapes, lifelong friendships, and complete cultural immersion. The Real Nepal Experience is perfect for those wanting to travel in a safe, well-organised, and social environment.
From one destination to the next, you can relax as all in-country transport and accommodation are fully arranged by our local team. This ensures a smooth and stress-free experience. A wide variety of activities are planned for you, and during your free time, our local experts will help you discover even more exciting things to do. A portion of your trip is dedicated to making a meaningful difference within a local community, allowing you to channel your skills and enthusiasm into impactful volunteer work.
The group set-up makes the Real Nepal Experience an exceptional social opportunity. You’ll meet people from around the world, forming lasting friendships while sharing moments and creating memories that will stay with you forever. You’ll travel together as a group, immersing yourself in Nepal’s culture and connecting with local communities, making your gap year program in Nepal even more enriching and unique.
Exploring Nepal
Nepal is nothing short of mesmerising. From its vibrant, fluttering prayer flags to the breathtaking Himalayan backdrop, this awe-inspiring country enchants travellers from the moment they arrive. Nepal has been a favourite destination for adventurers for decades. While much of the world has modernised, Nepal retains its timeless charm, which is one of the many reasons it remains such a fascinating country. The landscapes are as diverse as they are rugged, yet their beauty is unparalleled.
Many Nepalese people live in poverty, yet their pride and warm hospitality shine through. While your Real Nepal Experience will eventually come to an end, the memories and connections you make here will stay with you forever. The devastating earthquake of 25th April 2015 left a significant mark, but Nepal has since rebuilt with unwavering strength and resilience. Today, it is considered very safe to travel to Nepal, and as you explore the country, you may not even notice traces of the disaster.
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Your Real Nepal Experience begins in the bustling capital of Kathmandu. Here, you’ll prepare for the exciting weeks ahead with cultural briefings, language lessons, and sightseeing. The journey then takes you to Pokhara, where you’ll embark on a five-day trek through the stunning Himalayan mountain scenery, with a thrilling day of white-water rafting along the way.
After that, we’ll head to Chitwan National Park, where you’ll explore the jungle on foot and by jeep, keeping an eye out for rhinos roaming the grasslands. In the evenings, you’ll experience the local traditions of nearby indigenous villages before starting your volunteering placement. The trip then concludes back in Kathmandu, rounding off an unforgettable Real Nepal Experience.
You and your group will travel together using a mix of private and public transport, visiting Nepal’s must-see highlights and uncovering hidden gems that many travellers miss. A PMGY coordinator will accompany you throughout your Real Nepal Experience, ensuring you gain a deep understanding of the country’s rich culture and history as you travel.
Volunteer Placement
During the Real Nepal Experience, your group will spend time participating in meaningful community volunteer opportunities as part of the Nepal volunteer program. This may include placements at one of the English teaching or monastery projects supported by PMGY. Depending on the size of the group, you may work together as one team or be divided into smaller groups. The nature of your volunteering work will largely depend on the needs of the community at the time, such as teaching English or assisting with monastery activities.
Flexibility is key for every volunteer in Nepal. The type of volunteering experience and project location may vary depending on factors such as group size, local needs, and personal project preferences. Most volunteers are placed on one of our teaching projects, either teaching English within a Buddhist monastery or supporting children in a local kindergarten. Our local team will finalise your volunteering program upon your arrival in Nepal and provide you with a full briefing on the available options.
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No prior experience is required for these volunteer placements. You will always be paired with at least one other member of your group, and our local team will offer guidance to help you understand your role at the project. Volunteers are encouraged to spend an hour or two each evening preparing for the next day’s activities.
If you lack teaching experience, there’s no need to worry. You’ll work alongside group members, and our local team will assist you in planning lessons and activities. We do, however, expect all volunteers to dedicate some time to preparing for the following day. Additionally, there may be opportunities to assist with general maintenance tasks at the project, depending on the community’s needs at the time.
On the Real Nepal Experience, you’ll volunteer for approximately 3-5 hours each day. Accommodation will be close to your project site, allowing you to walk to your placement each day, making it convenient and accessible for your volunteering efforts.
Itinerary
Please make sure you arrive into Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu (KTM) on the selected Sunday start date.
Namaste! A PMGY local coordinator will be waiting at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, holding a PMGY sign for the Real Nepal Experience group. Depending on the group size, you will be transferred to a guesthouse in Thamel or the host family of the local team, where you can settle in and meet fellow travellers.
If possible, we recommend arriving during the day to join the group welcome dinner in the evening. This will be a great opportunity to get to know your fellow participants on the Real Nepal Experience.
Your first few days will be spent exploring Kathmandu, learning about Nepalese culture, and preparing for your upcoming adventures!
Meals included: Dinner
Your orientation begins with a Nepalese language lesson. Learning basic phrases will not only enrich your cultural experience but also help you communicate more effectively during your volunteer placement.
The orientation continues with an introduction to Nepalese customs, transport systems, and the community projects we support. You will also have the chance to exchange money, buy a local SIM card, and visit a supermarket for any essentials.
In the afternoon, we will explore Kathmandu’s cultural and historical highlights, including the Monkey Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, and Pashupatinath Temple. A local guide will provide insights into the city’s rich history and significance.
Tuesday morning, we continue with a cultural briefing on life in Nepal, key do’s and don’ts, and an overview of local traditions. After lunch in the vibrant Thamel district, you will have free time for independent sightseeing or shopping.
Please note that entrance fees to tourist attractions are not included in the Program Fee for your Real Nepal Experience.
Meals included: Breakfast
An adrenaline-fuelled day awaits as we head to Trisuli River for white-water rafting.
After breakfast, you will receive a safety briefing before taking on the rapids, which are graded between 2 and 3 and offer a fun level of adventure without being too extreme.
After an exciting day on the river, you’ll unwind at a nearby guesthouse, complete with a swimming pool where you can relax and recharge.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
After breakfast, we continue our journey to Pokhara, the adventure capital of Nepal. This picturesque lakeside town is surrounded by the majestic Annapurna Mountain Range.
After checking into your guesthouse, you will have free time to explore the charming streets, relax by Phewa Lake, or enjoy a quiet evening in preparation for the days ahead.
Meals included: Breakfast & Lunch
Today is all about experiencing Pokhara. The day encompasses sightseeing around the town, boating on Phewa Lake, and a pre-hiking practice to get you ready for your trek. You’ll have time to take in the scenic views and enjoy the lakeside atmosphere.
This laid-back town is also a great place to unwind before your Himalayan trek.
Meals included: Breakfast
The next four days will be spent trekking through the Annapurna Mountain Range, an experience that will stay with you for a lifetime.
• Day 1 – We begin our trek at Naya Pul (1,340m), hiking for approximately 5 hours to reach Tikhedhunga (1,550m).
• Day 2 – After a challenging ascent through Ulleri, we continue through Banthanthi and Nagge Thati, finishing at Ghorepani (2,800m) after around 7 hours of trekking.
• Day 3 – An early morning hike to Poon Hill (3,210m) rewards us with breathtaking sunrise views over the Himalayas. We then descend through dense forests and stone stairways, reaching Tadapani after approximately 6 hours.
• Day 4 – The final stretch takes us to Ghandruk, where we’ll enjoy a farewell lunch before heading back to Pokhara.
A team of expert guides, porters, and Sherpas will accompany us throughout the trek, ensuring a safe and unforgettable journey. It is customary to tip the guides and porters for their service. A contribution of around 20-40 GBP is generally appropriate.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
After completing the trek, today is all about relaxation. You can take a leisurely stroll around Phewa Lake, book a massage, or try paragliding for a different perspective of the mountains.
Meals included: Breakfast
Next, we journey to Chitwan National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its rich biodiversity. Your Chitwan experience begins with a guided village tour on Thursday, offering a glimpse into the traditional lifestyle of the Tharu community.
As the day winds down, you’ll head to the riverside to enjoy a beautiful sunset. In the evening, you’ll experience the Tharu Culture Program, a lively showcase of local music and dance performed by members of the community. This is a great way to connect with local traditions and celebrate the rich cultural heritage of Chitwan.
Friday starts with an early morning canoeing and birdwatching trip. You’ll glide along the river, spotting exotic birds and possibly crocodiles resting along the banks. A short jungle walk follows, where you can observe the rich flora and fauna of the national park.
The highlight of your itinerary is the jeep safari through the National Park, a stunning expanse of grassland, wetland and forest, home to an incredible variety of wildlife. You may spot Bengal tigers, sloth bears, monkeys, rhinos, leopards, and three main species of deer, among many others. The park is also a paradise for bird enthusiasts, with over 500 species to look out for during your adventure. It’s an incredible way to experience the natural beauty and biodiversity of Chitwan up close.
During your time in Chitwan, you’ll stay at a guest lodge close to the National Park.
Please note: PMGY does not endorse elephant safaris. We offer alternative, eco-friendly experiences that allow you to appreciate Nepal’s wildlife responsibly.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
After your travel experience around Nepal, you’ll spend the weekend travelling to your volunteer placement and settling into your new surroundings before project commitments begin on Monday. This gives you time to meet your local coordinators, get familiar with your accommodation and community, and prepare for the week ahead.
From Monday onwards, you’ll join one of our community projects, working alongside local staff while experiencing everyday life in Nepal. Whether you’re teaching in a monastery or supporting young children in a kindergarten, you’ll quickly become part of the local community while gaining a genuine insight into everyday life beyond the usual tourist trail.
If you’ve chosen our Teaching English to Monks project, you’ll spend your time living and volunteering within a Buddhist monastery, teaching conversational English to monks of different ages. Lessons focus on building confidence in speaking, listening, reading and writing through interactive games, discussions and practical activities rather than formal classroom teaching. English is an important skill that helps monks communicate with international visitors, access educational resources and broaden future opportunities. No previous teaching experience is needed, as enthusiasm, creativity and patience are far more valuable than formal qualifications.
If you’re joining our Kindergarten project, you’ll work alongside local teachers supporting children aged approximately 3 to 6 years. Your role is to introduce basic English through songs, games, storytelling, arts and crafts, while creating a fun and engaging learning environment. Alongside helping with classroom activities, you’ll build relationships with the children, encourage their confidence and development, and assist local teachers with the day to day running of the classroom.
Your accommodation during your volunteer placement will depend on your chosen project, with volunteers either staying within a Buddhist monastery or one of our nearby homestays.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
If you have joined the 3 Week Real Nepal Experience, your volunteering finishes on Friday. Our local team will arrange your return to Kathmandu, where you’ll spend one final night at our host family’s accommodation before transferring to the airport on Saturday for your onward flight. If you are continuing your travels independently, our team will be happy to assist with any onward travel advice.
If you are continuing on the 4 Week Real Nepal Experience, you’ll enjoy a final long weekend to explore Nepal independently. Whether you choose to discover more of Kathmandu’s temples and markets, head into the surrounding hills, or simply relax before your final week, this free time gives you the flexibility to experience more of the country at your own pace. Meals are included for the days you stay at the project residence over this period.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Your final week follows the same volunteering schedule as before, allowing you to build stronger relationships within your project and make an even greater contribution to the local community. By this stage, you’ll be familiar with your placement, allowing you to take on a more active role while enjoying one last week immersed in daily life in Nepal before returning to Kathmandu for your departure.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
The final days of your Real Nepal Experience are spent in Kathmandu, reflecting on your journey. You will have free time for last-minute shopping before joining a farewell dinner with the PMGY team.
On Saturday, our team will transfer you to the airport for your flight home.
Meals included: Breakfast & Dinner
Other Things to Consider on the Real Nepal Experience
Itinerary Schedule – The itineraries for our PMGY experience trips are subject to change due to unforeseen circumstances. While we strive to inform participants of any changes ahead of the program start date, daily activities during your time in-country may still be subject to last-minute adjustments.
Travel Insurance – It is essential that your travel insurance covers trekking above 3,000m as part of the Real Nepal Experience. Please double-check this with your insurance provider to ensure you are fully covered during the Annapurna trek.
Project Flexibility – Participants on the Real Nepal Experience are encouraged to remain flexible regarding the Nepal volunteer program aspect of the trip. The type of volunteering experience and project location can vary based on group size, community needs at the time, and volunteers’ individual preferences. The specific details of your volunteering program will be finalised upon arrival in Nepal, and our local team will guide you through the available options to ensure a meaningful experience.
Accommodation - Shared Option Available
🛏️ Shared Option - Standard Offering (Recommended for 18-25 Year Olds)
All your accommodation is organised by PMGY as part of your Nepal trip. The type of accommodation will vary depending on your daily itinerary. WiFi may be available intermittently at some accommodations, but travellers can use an eSIM or, if preferred, purchase a local SIM card in Nepal.
Guesthouses
For most of your Nepal Experience, you will stay in comfortable local guesthouses, sharing rooms with up to 6 fellow participants. This provides a friendly and social base while giving you the opportunity to experience different locations across Nepal. Western style toilets are available, with hot water showers provided at many of the guesthouses.
Teahouses
During the Annapurna trek, you will stay in traditional mountain teahouses, an authentic part of the trekking experience in Nepal. Accommodation becomes simpler as you travel further into the mountains, particularly at higher elevations, reflecting the remote locations along the trekking route.
Rooms are typically shared between 2 participants and include bedding, although bedrooms are generally unheated. Teahouses have communal areas where trekkers can relax together, while bathroom facilities vary between locations, with a mixture of private and shared facilities available.
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Project Residence
During the final part of your Nepal Experience, when you volunteer in Nepal, accommodation will depend on your specific project and location. You will either stay in a monastery or with a local host family, providing a more immersive experience of everyday life in Nepal.
Accommodation during the volunteering element is generally simple, particularly in more rural locations. WiFi is not typically available and electricity can occasionally be intermittent, so bringing a torch and some books is recommended. The simpler setting is part of the experience, offering a peaceful base and an opportunity to experience a different pace of life during your time in Nepal.
Wi-Fi
Usually No
People Per Room
Up To 4 (Shared)
Single Sex Rooms
Yes
Western Bathroom Facilities
Yes
Airport Transfer
45 Minutes
Nearest ATM & Shops
Up To 1 Hour Walk
Meals
Meals provided during the gap year experience will primarily feature traditional Nepalese cuisine. Expect to enjoy Dhal Bhat (a combination of rice, lentils, and potato curry) for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. For a taste of home comforts, there are western-style restaurants available in Kathmandu and Pokhara. Refer to the itinerary for specific details on meals included in the Program Fee during your time in Nepal.
* 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 is an example of the meals you can expect:
Breakfast
Dhal Bhat, Tea
Lunch
Traditional Nepalese Snacks
Dinner
Dhal Bhat, Noodle soup, Chapati, Bread, Rice
FAQ's
PMGY welcomes participants in Nepal of all nationalities, religions, and backgrounds. The minimum age to join the program is 18, with no upper age limit. Additionally, all participants need to have good English, although it does not need to be your first language. While it’s not necessary to speak the local dialect, you’ll find that learning a few local words during your time in Nepal will go a long way in building connections and enriching your experience.
As a PMGY Nepal participant, you must provide a clean criminal background check before travelling 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 Real Experience programs — just lots of energy, enthusiasm, and a proactive approach to preparation!
Travelling 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 Real Nepal Experience, 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.
The Real Nepal Experience starts on the following start dates –
3rd January 2027
7th February 2027
7th March 2027
4th April 2027
16th May 2027
13th June 2027
11th July 2027
1st August 2027
5th September 2027
3rd October 2027
7th November 2027
For your trip to Nepal, you should book your flights to Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu (airport code KTM) to arrive on the designated Sunday start date. This is the official arrival day for the program, ensuring a smooth and well-organised beginning to your experience as a Real Nepal Experience participant.
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 Saturday 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 Real Nepal Experience participant will leave you with unforgettable memories, meaningful connections, and a lasting impact on the communities you’ve helped.
You can apply anytime for most of our programs, including the Real Nepal Experience program. However, we highly recommend applying soon to secure your spot. Some of our programs have limited capacity, and spaces can fill quickly, especially during our peak travel period from June to August. If you plan to join us during this time, applying early is even more important to avoid disappointment!
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.
At PMGY, we understand the importance of safety, especially for first-time travellers, and we work diligently to ensure that all our programs, including those in Nepal, provide a secure and enriching experience. Our programs are carefully designed to balance structure and independence perfectly. This means you’ll enjoy a guided and supportive environment while free to explore and immerse yourself in local culture. For further details, please refer to our Safety & Wellbeing page.
Participant 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 participants 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 travellers. 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 Real Nepal Experience participant.
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 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 Real Nepal Experience participant 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.
