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Medical Elective Volunteer Project in Nepal

Medical Elective Volunteer Project in Nepal

Purpose
Improve access to quality healthcare
Start dates
Programs start every first and third Monday of the month
Duration
Choose from 2-12 weeks
Volunteer hours
Up to 5 hours a day
Age
Volunteers aged 18+
Accommodation
Homestay
Apply for free
On this page:
  • Overview
  • Requirements
  • Gallery
  • Recommendations
  • Arrival & Orientation
  • Volunteer Schedule
  • Accommodation & Meals
  • Pricing
  • Add-ons & Experiences
  • Entry & Visa Requirements
  • Reviews
    •
    'Who is going' users image
    Who is going?
    Group video calls

    Once you have secured your place, join regular video calls to meet your Program Manager and other volunteers before your trip.

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    This program is ideal for:

    Volunteers who are at least a pre-medical or pre-nursing student. Local regulations prevent volunteers from treating patients without the supervision of local professionals so most volunteer work will be observational in nature.

    Project details

    Interested in Medical volunteering in Nepal? International Volunteer HQ’s Medical Elective enables volunteers to observe and assist in hospitals and clinics in locations across Nepal. Volunteers gain medical experience while seeing firsthand the challenges faced by a medical system in an under-resourced and developing country. Local staff benefit from the extra help as well as the cross-cultural exchange of learnings and ideas that international volunteers bring.

    What to expect and how you'll make an impact

    The contrast between medical practices in the western world and those in developing countries can be stark, and this is a real opportunity to understand and contribute to the realities of modern medicine in an under-resourced environment.

    As a Medical Elective volunteer you will assist in hospitals in Kathmandu, Chitwan or Pokhara, shadowing and assisting local physicians and nurses. It’s possible for volunteers to get good exposure to a range of different medical departments, but as local regulations prevent volunteers from performing independent tasks, you should not expect to be carrying out hands-on medical duties. For this reason, this project is best suited to medical students.

    Volunteers are able to:

    • Observe operating rooms
    • Assist with physical therapy
    • Help with burns patients
    • Take part in emergency room rounds
    • Lead family planning sessions
    • Give immunizations
    • Help new mothers and babies

    Experienced and longer term volunteers are more likely to be able to assist with hands-on tasks, and can also help with healthcare and outreach campaigns in rural health clinics.

    Please keep in mind that there are two major festivals in Nepal and during these times there won’t be volunteer work available; but accommodation and all other services of the program will be available. The dates impacted are:

    • 22nd of September to 5th of October 2025 (Dashain Festival)
    • 19th to 27th of October 2025 (Tihar Festival)
    Contributes to United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal #3: Good Health and Well-Being

    Contributes to United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal #3: Good Health and Well-Being

    Good mental and physical health is key to sustainable development and building healthy and happy communities. Now more than ever, we must increase access to free healthcare and health education across the globe to achieve an acceptable standard of living and wellbeing for all.

    Why do Medical Elective volunteering in Nepal with IVHQ?

    When you volunteer in healthcare in Nepal you’ll be adding value to the local community, while also developing personally and professionally by:

    • Helping in local hospitals and clinics
    • Learning about healthcare in a cross-cultural setting
    • Observing a wide range of clinical practice
    • Developing your communication skills
    • Gaining medical experience
    • Immersing yourself in Nepali culture
    • Exploring Nepal’s amazing mountain ranges

    Volunteer requirements

    To join the Medical Elective project in Nepal volunteers need to be at least a pre-medical or pre-nursing student. CNAs, EMTs and paramedics may be eligible for this project too, as well as medical professionals; however, it is worth noting that this project is purely observational with minimal hands-on experience.

    Volunteers need to be 18 years or older to participate in this program. If you are under 18, IVHQ offers alternative volunteer opportunities for teens. Visit our High School Volunteer Abroad to explore these options.

    Volunteers aged over 18 on their start date are required to provide a criminal background check to IVHQ before departure.

    All volunteers must speak English and have adequate volunteer travel insurance.

    Are you eligible to volunteer?

    Submit a free application so we can confirm your eligibility and check availability for your preferred dates.

    Apply for free

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    Who is going?
    Group video calls

    Once you have secured your place, join regular video calls to meet your Program Manager and other volunteers before your trip.

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    Medical specialties

    Volunteers on the Medical Elective project may have the opportunity to work in the following departments/roles (with the relevant experience):

    • Certified Nursing Assistant
    • EMT
    • General Medicine
    • Maternity
    • Medical Assistant
    • Midwifery
    • Paramedic
    • Pediatrics
    • Surgery
    • Anaesthesiology
    • Physician Assistant
    • Dental Nurse
    • Dentist
    • Gynaecology
    • Neonatal

    Academic course credit

    Academic course credit through International Volunteer HQ and Intern Abroad HQ.

    Academic course credit

    Gain course credit from your college or university and meet your academic requirements when completing a volunteer abroad program with International Volunteer HQ!

    Learn about course credit

    Location

    Volunteer Abroad in Nepal with IVHQ

    Location

    Land-locked in the middle of South Asia, Nepal is known for its astonishing alpine scenery and breathtaking mountainscapes. But this diverse country offers much more than its remarkable natural environment. Among Nepal’s 28 million people, there are more than 100 different ethnic groups speaking as many languages and following a large number of religious and cultural traditions. It also faces the challenges associated with a history of civil war, natural disasters, political corruption and a lack of resources and infrastructure to support its population.

    Volunteers can have a meaningful impact on Nepalese communities by providing assistance with a wide range of activities that help make life, and the future, better for local people. IVHQ has a number of volunteer projects in Nepal. Some are located on the outskirts of the capital city of Kathmandu in rural and urban areas, while others are in Chitwan 150 kilometres away, in the middle of Terrai - a flat fertile plain that borders India and stretches right across Southern Nepal. Pokhara is located in mid-western Nepal and is a popular tourist destination, renowned for its amazing mountain views.

    Arrival and orientation

    The program orientation begins on the first and third Monday of each month, and volunteers need to arrive in Kathmandu on the Sunday before orientation.

    After you have registered for the program, please book your flights to arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) in Kathmandu. Your airport pick-up is included in your Program Fee.

    When you arrive, you will be greeted at the airport by a member of the local team and transported to the volunteer accommodation in Kathmandu. Your accommodation is covered by your Program Fee and includes the night before your program orientation.

    If you are traveling in Nepal prior to your volunteer program, we can arrange for you to be picked up at a prearranged destination in Kathmandu on the day before your program orientation.

    Orientation is hosted by our Nepal team in Kathmandu and runs over the course of two days. Orientation begins on the morning of your chosen start date and covers everything you need to know for your volunteer program in Nepal – an introduction to Nepal, Nepalese customs, language training details, rules and expectations, safety, travel opportunities in Nepal, and an introduction to your project and placement. The orientation will also give you a chance to visit local temples, sample authentic Nepali food, meet other volunteers and swap contact details for weekend travel and socializing.

    If you are placed in Pokhara or Chitwan, you will travel to your placement location on Tuesday afternoon and you will begin work on Wednesday. If you are located in Kathmandu, you will begin work on Wednesday.

    Volunteer schedule example

    First Day:

    On your first day of volunteering, you will be escorted to your placement by a local coordinator and introduced to the placement staff you will be working with.

    Weekdays:

    While a volunteer daily schedule will vary depending on the specific placement, a typical day is as follows:

    7:30 AM Breakfast at the homestay.
    8:00 AM Volunteers leave home and travel to their placements. There is usually a tea break and a lunch break.
    2:00 - 5:00 PM Work at the placement usually ends. Volunteers are free to travel back to the volunteer house, go sightseeing, or do some shopping.
    7:00 - 9:00 PM Dinner at the homestay.

    Weekends:

    During the weekends, volunteers have spare time and usually relax or take the opportunity to explore other parts of their local town and Nepal. Known for being home to the world’s tallest mountain, Mt Everest, Nepal is an adventurer’s paradise. It has a vast selection of exceptional hikes in the Himalayas with arresting views in every direction, white-water rafting, canyon swings, paragliding and scenic flights. It also has a rich multicultural heritage and a huge collection of temples, pagodas, shrines, carvings and ancient architecture, not to mention an astonishing array of wildlife and an interesting cuisine influenced by its many ethnic groups and cultures.

    Accommodation and WiFi

    On arrival in Nepal, volunteers stay in a local hotel in Kathmandu for their two-day orientation.

    Volunteers are then accommodated together in homestays and hosted by local families who have been approved by our program staff. We give your host family a fee for your support, food and board. It is exciting to stay with a host family, providing you with a unique opportunity to learn about the Nepalese way of life, meet local people, try traditional food and speak the local language - especially when host families in Nepal tend to have limited English.

    Living is basic but comfortable and most homestays have electricity and running water, with the exception of some rural homestays which are without these conveniences during the dry season. Western toilets can be found at your home stays but please keep in mind that Squat toilets are still the norm in parts of Nepal; so you might find these at your placement and during activities, treks, etc. Volunteers can also expect low-pressure showers that are generally not heated, however, this is refreshing after a day in the heat.

    You can expect to share a room with one to three other volunteers and bedrooms have single beds and bunk beds with bedding provided. It is recommended volunteers bring their own sleeping bag and mosquito nets for any trips away.

    WiFi is available in most of the volunteer homestays, however those based in Chitwan should expect to walk to a nearby cafe for internet access. If you would like to keep connected during your stay, we recommend bringing an unlocked mobile phone and purchasing a local SIM card when you arrive in Nepal.

    Meals

    The staple meal for most Nepali families is dal bhat, which consists of lentil soup (dal), rice (bhat) and vegetables in curry (tarkari) and/or meat (masu) with a side of pickle/sauce (achar).

    Food in Nepal is heavily influenced by the country’s Indian and Tibetan neighbours and includes plenty of curries, breads and potato-based dishes. Volunteers are served two meals per day at their homestay and can purchase additional food to supplement this if they wish.

    Bottled water is readily available in Nepal and volunteers should budget approximately $5 per week for two liters a day. If you have any special dietary requirements, please let us know when you apply for the program so we can make arrangements for you. However, we need to stress the point that you should not expect to eat as you normally do at home. We will do our best to see that you are well taken care of, but there is a need to be flexible.

    Pricing

    • USD
      • United States Dollars - $
      • Australian Dollars - AU$
      • Brazilian Reals - R$
      • British Pound Sterling - £
      • Canadian Dollars - CA$
      • Chinese Yuan - CN¥
      • Euros - €
      • Hong Kong Dollars - HK$
      • Mexican Pesos - MX$
      • New Zealand Dollars - NZ$
      • Singapore Dollars - SG$
      • Swiss Francs - CHF
      • UAE Dirhams - AED

    Spots are limited. For a Registration Fee of just US$299 (approximately $299) you secure your spot and unlock all our preparation and training tools.

    You don't need to worry about paying your Program Fee until you get closer to your start date.

    Duration
    Program Fee
    Due 30 days before you start, or within 48 hours if you register inside of 30 days. Covers the cost of hosting you.
    • USD
      • United States Dollars - $
      • Australian Dollars - AU$
      • Brazilian Reals - R$
      • British Pound Sterling - £
      • Canadian Dollars - CA$
      • Chinese Yuan - CN¥
      • Euros - €
      • Hong Kong Dollars - HK$
      • Mexican Pesos - MX$
      • New Zealand Dollars - NZ$
      • Singapore Dollars - SG$
      • Swiss Francs - CHF
      • UAE Dirhams - AED
    2 weeks $535 Equivalent to $38/day
    3 weeks $725 Equivalent to $35/day
    4 weeks $915 Equivalent to $33/day
    5 weeks $1,105 Equivalent to $32/day
    6 weeks $1,295 Equivalent to $31/day
    8 weeks $1,655 Equivalent to $30/day
    10 weeks $2,015 Equivalent to $29/day
    12 weeks $2,375 Equivalent to $28/day
    • All programs attract a Registration Fee of US$299 (approximately $299) in addition to the Program Fee. This covers all pre-departure support services.
    • A 5% international banking fee is added at point of payment.
    • Recommended spending money: Volunteers in Nepal generally find US$45 per week to be sufficient for expenses, such as lunches, transportation and local tours & activities.
    • Daily breakfast and dinners
    • Airport pick-up
    • US$60 per week to cover the additional supervision and materials involved on the project
    • Accommodation
    • 24/7 in-country emergency support
    • In-country program orientation
    • Pre-departure support from your Program Manager
    • Personalized preparation tools, guides and check lists
    • Access to IVHQ’s preferred insurance and flights partners
    • Comprehensive in-country day to day support and guidance
    • Discounts on travel and tour add-ons
    • Certificate of International Volunteer Service

    Learn more about what's included in your IVHQ Registration Fee and Program Fee.

    • Daily lunches
    • Transport to and from your placement each day
    • Return to the airport when your program finishes
    • Flights
    • Visa (if required), travel insurance (mandatory), vaccinations, criminal background check.
    • Personal spending money for snacks, laundry, public transportation, drinks and leisure activities during your free time.

    Popular add-ons & experiences in Nepal

    Take your volunteer experience to the next level with these popular add-ons and experiences. Explore your options below and learn how to book them once you've been accepted onto the IVHQ Nepal program.

    Chitwan Jungle Safari (2 nights/3 days)
    Chitwan Jungle Safari (2 nights/3 days)

    Embark on an unforgettable jungle safari to witness Nepal’s captivating wildlife in its natural habitat.

    $187

    Chitwan Jungle Safari (2 nights/3 days)

    Chitwan Jungle Safari (2 nights/3 days)
    Envision this: You're on a remarkable IVHQ volunteer journey in Nepal, and now, the opportunity to encounter one-horned rhinos, Bengal tigers, diverse bird species, and crocodiles awaits. Why not enhance your IVHQ experience with the incredible Chitwan Jungle Safari?

    Wildlife Marvels:
    The elusive one-horned rhinos, majestic Bengal tigers, a myriad of bird species, and graceful crocodiles are just a glimpse of the awe-inspiring wildlife you'll encounter on this adventure. During your 2-night/3-day safari, you'll explore Chitwan National Park, nestled in the Terai lowlands of south-central Nepal, renowned for its lush forests and grassy plains.

    Seamless Weekend Escape:
    Easily fit the Chitwan Jungle Safari into your weekends, strategically located between Kathmandu and Pokhara, a mere 5-hour bus ride away. If you prefer to skip the road journey, our local team can arrange a quick 15-minute flight for an additional cost.

    Your Safari Adventure    :

    Day 1:

    • Begin with an early morning bus ride (5-6 hours) to Chitwan, commencing from the bus station or airport near your volunteer placement.
    • Freshen up and receive a briefing on the upcoming activities.
    • Journey to the sunset point and relish the captivating ethnic Tharu cultural show.

    Day 2    :

    • Dive into your safari experience with an early morning canoe trip along the Rapti river, followed by a captivating jungle walk.
    • Return to the hotel for a well-deserved lunch.
    • In the afternoon, embark on a thrilling Jeep safari through the national park.

    Day 3    :

    • Awaken to an early morning bird-watching expedition, a chance to behold Nepal's diverse avian residents.
    • As your safari chapter concludes, you'll return to Kathmandu or Pokhara, aligning with your schedule.

    Key Considerations    :

    • Respect: Remember, these are wild creatures you're observing. Maintain a safe distance at all times, with no camera flash and silent mobile phones. Observe their natural behaviors with respect and care.
    • Attire: Opt for neutral colors, ensuring comfort. Cover your arms and legs to guard against insect bites while in the wild.
    • Timing: Choose to precede or follow your volunteer program with the safari, or opt for a weekend getaway. If you select the weekend safari, Friday will be your adventure start, concluding on Sunday evening.

    Your Responsibilities    :

    • Cover personal expenses, including beverages, laundry, tips, phone calls, hot showers, and snacks.
    • Ensure you have travel insurance and medical evacuation coverage for emergencies.
    • Plan for unforeseen costs stemming from flight cancellations, weather conditions, illnesses, and political situations.
    • Include tips for the safari team in your budget.

    Please Note    : Confirmation of your adventure awaits payment by the local team. Your journey into the heart of the Chitwan wilderness promises unforgettable moments with Nepal's incredible wildlife.
    ...
    $187
    • USD
      • United States Dollars - $
      • Australian Dollars - AU$
      • Brazilian Reals - R$
      • British Pound Sterling - £
      • Canadian Dollars - CA$
      • Chinese Yuan - CN¥
      • Euros - €
      • Hong Kong Dollars - HK$
      • Mexican Pesos - MX$
      • New Zealand Dollars - NZ$
      • Singapore Dollars - SG$
      • Swiss Francs - CHF
      • UAE Dirhams - AED
    What's included
    • Transfer to Chitwan and back via bus
    • Accommodation in a hotel
    • Breakfast, lunch and dinner at a hotel
    • National Park entrance fee & activities fee
    • English speaking guide fees
    • Local sightseeing, Tharu culture dance, canoe trip, Jeep safari and bird watching
    How to book?
    1. Apply and register for an IVHQ volunteer program.
    2. Once you have paid your Registration Fee to secure your place on your chosen IVHQ volunteer program, you'll be able to book your add-ons, experiences, and tours in your MyIVHQ account.
    Apply to volunteer Log in
    Everest Base Camp Trek (14 days)
    Everest Base Camp Trek (14 days)

    This iconic expedition is the most popular trekking route in the Himalayas and is unlike any other in the world.

    $1477

    Everest Base Camp Trek (14 days)

    Everest Base Camp Trek (14 days)
    Embark on a transformative journey through the breathtaking Himalayas with our 14-day Everest Base Camp Trek. This iconic expedition isn't just a trek; it's an opportunity to challenge yourself, immerse in Sherpa culture, and witness awe-inspiring vistas that will leave you speechless.

    In addition to completing the mighty journey to Everest Base Camp, you will visit an ancient monastery in Tengboche, and enjoy stunning views of Mt Lhotse, Mt Makalu, and Cho Yo. Amidst all the rugged mountains vistas, you will also see the Khumbu Glacier and ascend the famous Kala Pathar for a close, unobstructed view of Mt Everest.

    This trek begins on the first and third Sunday of each month; however, if you are looking to join outside of this time, please let your IVHQ Program Manager know and they will be happy to check availability for you. 

    Itinerary:


    Day 1: Arriving at The Capital – Kathmandu (1400 m), where you will spend the night in a local hotel
    Day 2: Fly to Lukla (2860 m) and Trek to Phakding (2610m) Trek duration 3-3.5 hours
    Day 3: Phakding to Namche Bazar (3440 m) Trek duration 5.5 hours
    Day 4: Acclimatization at Namche Bazar
    Day 5: Trek to Tengboche (3860 m) Trek duration: 5-6 hours
    Day 6: Trek to Dingboche (4350 m) Trek duration: 5 hours
    Day 7: Acclimatization at Dingboche
    Day 8: Trek to Lobuche (4910 m) Trek duration: 5 – 5.5 hours
    Day 9: Lobuche to Gorak Shep (5180 m) – Everest Base Camp (5365 m) Trek Duration: 8 hours
    Day 10: Gorak Shep to Kala Patthar (5545 m) and to Pheriche (4243 m) Trek duration: 3 hours + 4 hours
    Day 11: Pheriche to Namche Bazar Trek duration: 6-7 hours
    Day 12: Namche Bazar to Lukla
    Trek duration: 7 hours
    Day 13: Flight from Lukla to Kathmandu and stay the night in a local hotel
    Day 14: Departure Day

    Important things to note:


    Price - The price is quoted for 7 or more volunteers taking part on the tour. If there are fewer volunteers taking part on the tour, the cost will be higher. Any difference (between $20 and $290) will need to be paid directly to the local team in-country before starting the tour. You will be notified at your program orientation if there is any extra amount to be paid. Your Program Manager can provide more information on the potential cost based on numbers of volunteers participating.

    Expect the unexpected - The weather and health of fellow trekking members can impact the number of days it takes to complete the trek, therefore we recommend allocating 1-2 days extra to ensure you will make your international flight home. January & February can be very cold. 

    Accommodation - You can expect to stay in local run lodges known as tea houses which are simply furnished with a bed and occasionally a small table. Bathrooms are typically shared and are in a separate area of the teahouse or in some tea houses will be outside. Staying in a teahouse is a great way to support these local businesses and boost the local economy in the Everest Region. You will need to bring a sleeping bag with you. 

    Meals - You will be doing “teahouse trek,” meaning there are villages with lodges and restaurants to eat and stay in along the entire route. You are expected to eat breakfast and dinner in the same lodge where you are spending the night. Typical food available for lunch and dinner is Nepali rice and lentils, pasta, potato dishes, soups or pizzas. Delicious pancakes, porridge, toast and eggs are the main breakfast fare, while tea, coffee and hot chocolate are always available. You will probably be pleasantly surprised at the variety of food at the lodges.

    Level of fitness required - There are a lot of steep ascents and descents on the trek and a good level of fitness is required. Some days you may be required to walk up to seven hours. Please note that the estimated walking time each day will vary according to the overall fitness of the group and weather conditions.

    Packing list - Bring well broken-in hiking shoes that are suitable for snow, thick socks, light socks, camp shoes (e.g. flip flops or sandals), down or fibre filled waterproof jacket and pants, sweater or fleece jacket, underwear, warm and cotton or polypropylene pants or jeans, shirts and T-shirts, shorts, wool hat, sun hat/cap, gloves, bathing suit, comfortable track/gym suit, sunglasses, sunscreen (SPF 50), elastic knee brace, ear plugs, wallet, books or kindle, head torch, basic first aid kit and personal medication, extra batteries for camera and gadgets, cables and chargers, toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, sanitizer, etc.).

    Travel insurance - Although the itinerary has been made accordingly so that the trekker's body slowly gets used to the altitude, it is important to note that you will be at the altitude of approximately 5545m at the base camp. The risks of trekking at a high altitude are significant; therefore, it is essential to note that most standard travel insurance packages do not include high-altitude trekking. As such, please be aware of the approximate altitude of 5545m when obtaining travel insurance, as you will need to ensure you are covered for all altitude related illnesses (including helicopter rescues).

    Tips - There is generally a minimum US$100 tip required for the Everest Base Camp Trek and this will be paid to the relevant guide/s once in-country. 

    Cancellation - It is worth noting that any cancellations within 14 days of your start date for the Everest Base Camp Trek may incur a cancellation fee. 

    You will be responsible for:


    • Any difference in the cost, based on the number of people joining - please see 'Price' point above
    • Personal expenses (beverages, laundry, tips, phone calls, hot showers, extra snacks, etc.)
    • Items to pack - please see 'Packing list' point above
    • Sleeping bag
    • Medical evacuation in case of emergency
    • Trekking gear (available to hire)
    • Unforeseen costs due to flight cancellation, weather conditions, illness, political unrest, etc.
    • Meals in Kathmandu
    • An extra night of accommodation (on the Saturday night) if joining the trek prior to your volunteer program starting may be required - this can be booked directly via the Local Team if it is required
    • Insurance (up to 6,000 meter altitudes) - should also include coverage for medical evaluation, repatriation and medical expenses during the trek
    • Tips - this is generally a minimum of US$100 for the Everest Base Camp Trek. 

    Please note, this is not confirmed by the Local Team until payment has been made. 

    ...
    $1477
    • USD
      • United States Dollars - $
      • Australian Dollars - AU$
      • Brazilian Reals - R$
      • British Pound Sterling - £
      • Canadian Dollars - CA$
      • Chinese Yuan - CN¥
      • Euros - €
      • Hong Kong Dollars - HK$
      • Mexican Pesos - MX$
      • New Zealand Dollars - NZ$
      • Singapore Dollars - SG$
      • Swiss Francs - CHF
      • UAE Dirhams - AED
    What's included
    • 2 nights in a Kathmandu hotel (one night prior to departure from Kathmandu and one night on arrival back to Kathmandu post trek)
    • Return transfers to airport
    • Return Flights (KTM to Lukla & Lukla to KTM)
    • Accommodation in tea houses during the trek
    • All meals
    • All required documentation and trekking permit (TIMS)
    • Guide fees and their insurance
    • National Park fee
    • Equipment of trekking guides
    • All government and local taxes
    How to book?
    1. Apply and register for an IVHQ volunteer program.
    2. Once you have paid your Registration Fee to secure your place on your chosen IVHQ volunteer program, you'll be able to book your add-ons, experiences, and tours in your MyIVHQ account.
    Apply to volunteer Log in
    Hatha Yoga and Meditation Retreat (1 week)
    Hatha Yoga and Meditation Retreat (1 week)

    Reconnect with tranquility and mindfulness during a rejuvenating one-week yoga and meditation retreat, leaving behind the hustle and bustle of the Western world.

    $527

    Hatha Yoga and Meditation Retreat (1 week)

    Hatha Yoga and Meditation Retreat (1 week)
    Escape the frantic pace of the Western world and immerse yourself in a week-long journey of self-discovery with our Yoga and Meditation Retreat. Delve into the ancient practices of Hatha yoga, born amidst the mystical Himalayas of Nepal, where sages and seekers have sought enlightenment for centuries.

    Your Retreat:
    This retreat is thoughtfully designed for beginners and those seeking to deepen their practice. Enjoy seven nights of serenity in both Kathmandu and Pokhara, allowing you the choice of your preferred location to embark on this transformative journey.

    What's Included:

    • Engage in morning and evening yoga and meditation classes, guided by seasoned instructors.
    • Unwind in comfortable accommodations at a Yoga Retreat Center.
    • Savor delicious meals with breakfast, lunch, and dinner provided.
    • Embrace tranquility with herbal tea offered three times daily.
    • Immerse yourself in the culture with hikes, visits to local villages, and enriching sightseeing experiences.

    Your Responsibilities:
    Personal expenses, such as laundry, tips, phone calls, and extra snacks, are at your discretion.

    Itinerary:
    Day 1:

    • Arrive and check-in.
    • Lunch at the yoga center.
    • Rest or free time.
    • 5:30 pm - 7:30 pm: Welcome evening yoga class.
    • 7:30 pm: Dinner.
    • 8:15 pm: Satsang Bhajan Kirtan (a traditional Hindu activity).
    • 9:30 pm: Bedtime.

    Day 2 (and subsequent days):

    • 5:30 am: Wake up.
    • 6:00 am - 7:30 am: Morning yoga class.
    • 8:00 am: Breakfast.
    • 9:30 am - 11:30 am: Karma Yoga, self-study, or relaxation.
    • 11:30 am: Lunch.
    • 12:15 pm - 5:00 pm: Explore local villages, hike, and experience meditation in sacred settings.
    • 5:30 pm - 7:00 pm: Pranayama Yoga and Meditation Class.
    • 7:30 pm: Dinner.
    • 8:15 pm: Satsang Kirtan.
    • 9:30 pm: Bedtime.

    Day 8:

    • 5:30 am: Wake up.
    • 6:00 am - 7:30 am: Morning yoga class.
    • 8:00 am: Breakfast.
    • 9:30 am: Check out.

    Please note that the schedule may vary based on instructor preferences, ensuring a dynamic and enriching experience. Join us on this transformative retreat to harmonize your mind, body, and spirit in the heart of Nepal.

    Key Details to Keep in Mind:

    Attire - Dress for comfort and modesty. We kindly request that both men and women wear long or short-sleeved shirts/t-shirts covering the upper body and shoulders, along with yoga pants or long shorts. Please avoid attire that is see-through, overly form-fitting, or features offensive language or messaging. Refrain from wearing spaghetti straps, off-the-shoulder dresses, miniskirts, tight shorts above the knee, or low-cut trousers/pants. Keep in mind that meditation and yoga spaces require shoe removal for your practice.

    Anticipate the Unforeseen - If you opt for the Pokhara-based retreat, allow ample time for your international flight arrangements. Weather conditions may lead to potential delays or cancellations of flights from Pokhara to Kathmandu. We recommend adding an extra day to your schedule after the retreat's conclusion to account for any unexpected changes.

    Please note that the details provided are subject to confirmation by the local team upon payment. Your journey of serenity and self-discovery awaits.
    ...
    $527
    • USD
      • United States Dollars - $
      • Australian Dollars - AU$
      • Brazilian Reals - R$
      • British Pound Sterling - £
      • Canadian Dollars - CA$
      • Chinese Yuan - CN¥
      • Euros - €
      • Hong Kong Dollars - HK$
      • Mexican Pesos - MX$
      • New Zealand Dollars - NZ$
      • Singapore Dollars - SG$
      • Swiss Francs - CHF
      • UAE Dirhams - AED
    What's included
    • Morning and evening yoga and meditation classes
    • Accommodation in a Yoga Retreat Center
    • Breakfast, lunch and dinner
    • Herbal tea (3 times a day)
    • Hiking, traveling around local villages and sightseeing
    How to book?
    1. Apply and register for an IVHQ volunteer program.
    2. Once you have paid your Registration Fee to secure your place on your chosen IVHQ volunteer program, you'll be able to book your add-ons, experiences, and tours in your MyIVHQ account.
    Apply to volunteer Log in
    View all add-ons & experiences

    Check what's required to visit Nepal

    Safety and support

    A smiling volunteer traveller wearing a traditional Andean poncho stands in front of the breathtaking Rainbow Mountain in Peru. The landscape features vibrant red, yellow, and green hues across the mountains, with a small lake visible in the background.

    Safety and support

    IVHQ follows best practice and industry-leading health and safety procedures, which are regularly reviewed and optimized as part of the B Corporation recertification.

    • All volunteers encouraged to complete our interactive pre-departure training.
    • All local teams trained on best practice volunteer management & First Aid.
    • All IVHQ programs are required to adhere to IVHQ's Risk Management Policy.
    • All volunteers have access to 24/7 in-country support from our local team.
    Learn more about IVHQ's safety

    Essential country information

    Essential country information

    Capital Kathmandu
    Population 28 million
    Languages Nepali
    Currency Rupee (NRs.)
    Time zone UTC+05:45

    Weather and climate: The climate in Nepal varies largely due to the variations in geography across the country. Spring and autumn are the most pleasant seasons with dry weather and moderate temperatures. The Kathmandu Valley and other areas of high altitude experience summer temperatures of up to 28°C (82.4°F) and in winter, temperatures range between 2°C (35.6°F) and 20°C (68°F). The summer temperatures in Chitwan can reach up to 35°C (95°F) and in winter they range between 7°C (44.6°F) and a mild 23°C (73.4°F). The climate in Pokhara is similar to that of the Kathmandu Valley, with slightly warmer temperatures.

    What recent volunteers said about their IVHQ experience

    JC
    Joseph Corlett

    You will be well supported on this programme, I would recommend!

    ...
    Profile: British, 24 Volunteer trip: Medical Elective in Nepal
    MZ
    Miruna Zaha

    I have gained both cultural and medical experience and I regret not staying for a longer period because the learning opportunities were everywhere.

    ...
    Profile: Romanian, 24 Volunteer trip: Medical Elective in Nepal
    HC
    Hau Yung Chow

    Just do it and you won’t regret it. It was really a fruitful experience for me. The people there were really nice and I enjoyed the medical elective in the local hospital. I look forward to joining these activities in the future again!

    ...
    Profile: Hong Kongese, 22 Volunteer trip: Medical Elective in Nepal
    MV
    Mallory Veeser

    Through my participation in the IVHQ medical elective project, I gained invaluable insights and skills that have significantly enriched my understanding of healthcare and global medicine. One of the most significant gains was the firsthand exposure to diverse medical practices and patient care in a different cultural setting. This experience broadened my perspective on healthcare delivery and deepened my appreciation for cultural competency in medicine.

    Moreover, working alongside experienced healthcare professionals in resource-limited settings taught me resilience, adaptability, and the importance of teamwork in overcoming challenges. I also developed strong communication skills through interacting with patients from various backgrounds, enhancing my ability to provide compassionate care and navigate language barriers.

    For those hesitant about joining this program, I would offer the following advice: Embrace the opportunity for personal and professional growth that comes with stepping out of your comfort zone. While it's natural to feel apprehensive about working in unfamiliar environments, remember that every challenge presents a chance to learn and develop resilience. Approach the experience with an open mind, a willingness to learn, and a commitment to making a positive impact. By immersing yourself in this program, you'll not only contribute to meaningful healthcare initiatives but also gain invaluable skills and insights that will shape your future career in medicine.

    ...
    Profile: American, 23 Volunteer trip: Medical Elective in Nepal

    To read all reviews, visit our reviews page.

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    How to get started

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