Nepal: Building Community
Details and Itinerary
Travel to Nepal on this adventure of a lifetime. The focus of this program is to extend much needed support and help to our partners in Nepal. Following the earthquake of 2015, our friends in Bandipur have been in need of assistance in rebuilding the school rooms and facilities for the children they serve. In addition, this trip offers an amazing cultural experience in Kathmandu, a chance to hang out with elephants, and more!
Fly to the stunning Kathmandu Valley framed against the backdrop of the mighty Himalayan mountains. After a long flight the group arrives on day 3 and retreats to our hotel in the center of Kathmandu. We begin the trip with orientation activities and a visit to some of Kathmandu’s most important landmarks, including Durbar Square, Swayambhunath “the Monkey Temple,” and the Bodnath Stupa — the largest in the world!
While staying in the charming remote village of Kurintar, students do earthquake relief initiatives at a local school. This is the heart of our program — get ready to roll up your sleeves and dive into our service projects. There is also ample time to participate in daily exchange activities with school children such as learning local dances, doing art projects, and exploring the natural beauty of the region.
Chitwan, meaning “Heart of the Jungle,” is the best wildlife viewing national park in Asia and home to Bengal tigers, wild elephants, one-horned rhinos, sloth bears, and many other exotic species. We take a guided jeep or elephant safari and visit the Elephant Breeding Center. Bring your bathing suit and help bathe an elephant—you may even be rewarded with a trunk full of cold water!
Transfer by bus to Lumbini, the birthplace of the Buddha. We visit Maya Devi Temple, which marks the birthplace of the Buddha. The next day, we visit the World Peace Pagoda and the many monasteries built by different countries, each in their own style and architecture. In the afternoon, visit with young Buddhist monks in training and learn what life is like growing up in a monastery.
Leaving Lumbini, we head to the regional airport and board a short flight back to Kathmandu. On our final day in Nepal, we explore the winding brick streets and witness the effects of the earthquake in the ancient city of Bhaktapur, just outside of the capital. Finally, it’s time for some souvenir shopping and then a celebratory last dinner. The next day, we start our journey home via Singapore.
The Global Works chaperoned Group Flight departs from New York (JFK) for this program. Airfare is not included the tuition. Please visit Dates & Tuition for group flight costs and Flight & Travel Arrangements for more information about travel days.
Service Projects
Earthquake Rebuild
Work hard reconstructing a local school
Educational
Teach English to young monks
Adventure & Cultural Activities
Explore the bustling streets of Kathmandu
Visit an Elephant Breeding Center
See the birthplace of the Buddha
Get to know the locals
Gallery
Accommodations
KATHMANDU
Our hotel in Kathmandu offers the perfect place to rest up after our long flight days and to start exploring the capital city. This three-star hotel offers modern amenities, double and triple rooms, and air conditioning. The hotel also has ample room for group games and meetings. We stay at the same hotel for our last night in Nepal, as well.
KURINTAR
Summit River Lodge is and eco-resort tucked away behind the small village of Kurintar. The 20 minute walk over a suspension bridge and through the village to reach the hotel is well worth the effort when you see the views of the rolling hills and the welcome pool. Rooms are basic but comfortable, offer air conditioning, and house 2-3 students. Our hosts prepare and serve all our meals and we are a short 10 minute hike from the school and our service projects.
CHITWAN
Our bungalow-style lodging on the banks of the river is the launch point for our jungle adventures. Rooms are for 2-3 students, offer air conditioning, and are small and basic, but comfortable. Local guides help introduce us to the wildlife in the region with an introductory slideshow and a meet-and-greet with the resident elephants. All meals are provided by the hotel.
LUMBINI
We stay at a three-star Western-style hotel within walking distance of the Maya Devi Temple and a small shopping district. It is modern, clean, and in a great location to explore the city. All meals are provided by the hotel, rooms house 2-3 students, and have air conditioning.
