Buddhist Monastery Immersion in Nepal

WHY we need you in Nepal

Serlo monastery

HOW can you help?

WHAT you can do?

Why Involvement Volunteers International?

IVI Volunteer teaching Nepalese Children

  PROJECT NAME: BUDDHIST MONASTERY IMMERSION

LOCATION: KATHMANDU, PHARPING, NAMOBUDDHA & SERLO

  START DATES: 1ST MONDAY EACH MONTH, (SUN ARRIVALS)

  ACCOMMODATION: VOLUNTEER HOUSE (SHARED ROOMS) 

  MIN DURATION: 2 WEEKS

  MIN AGE: 16+

  SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS: Criminal background check required

Overview

*This is a 2 week duration tour, which starts on the first Monday of each month.

Begin your spiritual adventure in the vibrant capital of Kathmandu, where sacred sites like Swayambhunath and Boudhanath offer a deep dive into Nepal’s rich Buddhist culture. From there, venture into the serene Everest region, passing through charming mountain villages such as Salleri Bazaar. Along the way, discover peaceful monasteries like Chiwang, engage with resident monks, observe daily rituals, and absorb the calm of these sacred spaces nestled in the Himalayas.

Program Highlights

  • Stay in traditional monasteries from Kathmandu to the Everest region
  • Observe and take part in daily Buddhist rituals, chants, and ceremonies
  • Explore spiritual landmarks including Swayambhunath, Boudhanath, and Namobuddha
  • Trek through stunning Himalayan landscapes to reach remote monasteries
  • Immerse yourself in monastic life with meditation, communal meals, and minimalist living
  • Hike near Serlo Monastery for awe-inspiring views of Mount Everest

Your Role

As a participant, you will:

  • Stay in monastery guest rooms and mountain lodges, embracing simple, communal living
  • Trek 2–3 hours daily to reach monasteries and cultural sites
  • Interact with monks and Buddhist scholars to learn about their traditions and practices
  • Experience authentic Nepali culture through local food, community life, and temple visits
  • Follow a thoughtfully planned itinerary that blends cultural immersion with exploration

Accommodation
Throughout the journey, you’ll be staying in various monasteries and lodges along the route from Kathmandu to the Everest region. Accommodations are basic and shared, with communal bathrooms—offering a genuine insight into the simple, collective lifestyle of monastic communities.

Meals During Trekking
All meals—breakfast, lunch, and dinner—are provided and typically enjoyed within the monasteries. Expect humble yet satisfying traditional Nepali meals centered around dal bhat (rice and lentils), along with rice, vegetables, noodles, potatoes, and soup. The menu reflects the simplicity of monastic living.

Support & Guidance
A knowledgeable local coordinator will accompany your group, ensuring everything runs smoothly. They will handle logistics, offer cultural insights, and provide support throughout your stay—so you can focus fully on the experience.

Trekking Time
Expect moderate trekking most days, with walks averaging 2 to 3 hours. These treks are scenic and enriching, offering beautiful views of the Himalayas and a deeper appreciation for the remoteness of the monastic sites you’ll visit.

What’s Included

  • Accommodation from Sunday to Saturday noon of the final week
  • Airport pick-up (during regular hours) and all scheduled program transportation
  • Daily meals: 3 meals on weekdays, 2 on weekends
  • Program materials and itinerary support
  • Supervision and training by experienced local coordinators
  • 24/7 support from the local team

 

What’s Not Included

  • International flights and visa costs
  • Travel insurance
  • Personal spending money
  • Optional excursions or activities not included in the schedule

Location

Kathmandu, the capital and largest city in Nepal, is an incredible place! The contrast of decaying buildings, smell of incense, street sellers, historic temples and incredible mountain views will invigorate your senses and keep you inspired to learn more about the amazing history and culture. For several hundred years, Kathmandu was one of three rival royal cities, along with Bhaktapur and Patan. The highlight of Kathmandu has long been Durbar Square, the largest of the palace squares in the three royal cities and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Temples and monuments of varying shapes, sizes, styles, and faiths can be found here. This small, mountain-sheltered valley is the historical centre of Nepal, a place where kingdoms rose and fell, where palaces and temples were built and rebuilt, and where Nepali art and culture was developed and refined.

Pharping is around 19km South from Kathmandu and is full of Buddhist monasteries. The location is situated within green rolling hills, with plenty of small day hikes to do in the surrounding area. 

Namobuddha is also known for its Buddhist temples, stunning forest and mountain views and plenty of day hikes. Its around 45km South East from Kathmandu. 

Serlo is our most remote location, set within the Everest region. With stunning scenery, this placement would suit those wishing to get off the beaten track a bit. 

Project Tasks

  • Our program is crafted with the intent of bringing you intimately closer to the heart of authentic Nepal, its profound Buddhist culture, and the awe-inspiring Himalayas. Prepare to immerse yourself fully in the rich tapestry of Nepali culture, customs, and lifestyle. This journey is not just a physical exploration but a deep dive into the spiritual and cultural essence of Nepal, fostering a meaningful connection with the local way of life against the backdrop of the majestic Himalayas.

Food & Accommodation

Accommodation during the Trip
Encompassing the entire journey, our expedition entails accommodation in a series of distinctive monasteries spanning from Kathmandu to the Everest region. Participants will reside in shared rooms featuring communal bathrooms, fostering a collective and immersive experience throughout this unique exploration of monastic life.

Meals during trekking
Throughout your stay, meals will typically be enjoyed within the monastery premises, with breakfast, lunch, and dinner provided. The staple diet, reflecting traditional Nepali cuisine, centers around Dal Bhat—a nourishing combination of rice and lentils. Additionally, the culinary offerings include an assortment of simple yet hearty options like rice, vegetables, noodles, potatoes, and soup. Expect a humble and basic culinary experience that aligns with the monastic lifestyle, emphasizing simplicity and sustenance.

All prices in USD
  • Adventure Week


    $610
  • 4 Week Annapurna Base Camp


    $1545
  • 4 Week Everest Base Camp


    $3180
  • 28 Day Road Trip

    $2320
  • Panchase Trek

    $545
  • Buddhist Monastery Immersion

    $1160
Vol House
What's Included
  • Accommodation
  • Meals
  • Airport Pickup
  • Local Transportation
  • 1 Day Orientation
  • 24/7 In-Country Support
  • Project Materials & Equipment
  • Pre-departure Expert Advice
  • Preperation Tools & Checklists
  • Certificate of Completion

Testimonials...

FAQ

If you’re interested in learning about Buddhist philosophy and culture and enjoy the idea of some solitude, spending time with monks this could be the perfect placement.

Due to the length and active nature of this program, a decent level of fitness is required.

  • Accommodation
  • 3 meals p/day weekdays / 2 meals p/day weekends
  • Arrival airport transfer (Sat/Sun arrivals)
  • Filtered drinking water, coffee & tea
  • 1 day orientation
  • Daily transportation to project
  • In country 24/7 support & emergency assistance
  • Fundraising support
  • University course credits (where applicable)
  • Certificate of Completion
  • Airfares
  • Travel Insurance
  • Tours, Souvenirs & spending money

On the Monday of your first week at this location, you will join our orientation day, to familiarize you with the surroundings as well as local culture. Your program will continue as usual from Tuesday onward throughout the rest of the week.

Schedule

  • Welcoming Ritual – Puja to the Gods & goddess and name giving ceremony with Ice breaking activities
  • Review the schedule,
  • Social behaviors norms dos & don’ts in Nepali culture
  • Cross culture seminar on eating, drinking, clothing bathing & toileting customs in Nepal.
  • Lunch
  • Talk on safety & security during the program. Signing up the Code of Conduct, Child Protection Policy and Release & Waiver of Liability. Collection of passport copies, photos, and police clearance
  • Information on placement sites.
  • Assignment to find the local civics places in and around the program house neighborhood. Get personal accessories (Photocopy, money exchange, ATM and take pictures). Clothing shopping at the local market.
  • Dinner

Programs begin every Monday, and volunteers are required to arrive the day prior, for orientation before the project. Your accommodation on the Sunday is included in the program fees.

A free airport pickup is included when arriving to Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM). You must arrive between the hours 06:00 to 24:00 on Sunday.

If arriving outside the pickup times, you can book a private transfer or extra night for an additional fee.

Alternatively, if arriving early you could wait at the arrival’s terminal for the pickup time, book accommodation at the airport and meet us during the pickup times or make your own way to the project (we will advise on how to do this).

From the airport to Kathmandu accommodation, it takes 45 minutes by taxi.

Week 1

Day 1: Arrival

  • Arrival and check-in to the accommodation in Kathmandu
  • Overnight stay in Kathmandu accommodation

Day 2: Monday: Orientation in Kathmandu

  • Introduction to the program and fellow participants
  • Overnight stay in Kathmandu accommodation

Day 3: Tuesday: Khawalung Monastery & Boudhanath Stupa

  • Depart for Khawalung Monastery
  • Lunch at the monastery
  • Visit Boudhanath Stupa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • Return to Khawalung Monastery for dinner and overnight stay
  • Overnight stay at Khawalung Monastery

Day 4: Wednesday: Monastic Life & Journey to Namobuddha Monastery

  • Optional: Join morning puja (prayer ceremony) with monks
  • Breakfast at the monastery, then return to the Program House
  • Lunch and packing for the next monasteries: Nala & Namobuddha
  • Arrival at Namobuddha Monastery, one of Nepal’s most prestigious Buddhist sites
  • Dinner and overnight stay at Namobuddha Monastery

Day 5: Thursday: Pharping & Manjushree Monastery

  • Breakfast at Namobuddha Monastery, then return to the Program House
  • Depart for Manjushree Monastery in Pharping, a small town with many monasteries
  • Dinner and overnight stay at Manjushree Monastery

Day 6: Friday: Exploring Pharping & Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple)

  • Explore Asura Cave, Dakshinkali Temple, and the Rinpoche Statue
  • Visit Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple) on the return trip
  • Dinner and overnight at the Program House
  • Overnight stay in Kathmandu accommodation

Week 2: Everest Region Monastery Trek

Day 7: Saturday: Journey to Phaplu

  • Depart at 4:00 AM for a 12-hour jeep ride to Phaplu
  • Stop for restroom and lunch breaks along the way
  • Dinner and overnight stay at a lodge in Phaplu

Day 8: Sunday: Trek to Chiwang Monastery

  • Morning departure for Chiwang Monastery, one of the oldest monasteries in Nepal
  • Explore the monastery and its serene surroundings
  • Dinner and overnight stay at Chiwang Monastery

Day 9: Monday: Journey to Serlo Monastery

  • Breakfast at Chiwang Monastery
  • Take a 2-hour tuktuk ride to Serlo Monastery, a self-sustained monastery in the mountains
  • Arrive by lunchtime, unpack, and settle in
  • Dinner and overnight stay at Serlo Monastery

Day 10: Tuesday: Mountain Hike with Everest Views

  • Breakfast at Serlo Monastery
  • 2-hour hike to the mountain behind the monastery
  • Enjoy lunch at the summit with a breathtaking view of Mount Everest
  • Return to Serlo Monastery for dinner and overnight stay

Day 11: Wednesday: Visit Taksindo & Thaple Choeling Monasteries

  • Breakfast at Serlo Monastery
  • 3-4 hour hike to nearby monasteries, including Taksindo & Thaple Choeling
  • Lunch at local tea houses along the way
  • Return to Serlo Monastery for dinner and overnight stay

Day 12: Thursday: Return to Phaplu

  • Breakfast at Serlo Monastery
  • Depart for Phaplu, staying overnight at a local lodge
  • Explore the small town of Phaplu
  • Overnight stay in Phaplu guest house

Day 13: Friday: Return to Kathmandu

  • Breakfast at Phaplu Lodge
  • Take a jeep back to Kathmandu, concluding the journey
  • Overnight stay in Kathmandu accommodation

Day 14: Saturday: Departure

  • Check out from the accommodation and departure

***This schedule can be changed and/or amended depending on weather conditions, local conditions and unforeseen circumstances.***

The weekends are always open for your leisure. The local team will assist you in organising additional travel plans with heaps of local knowledge. Shopping in Kathmandu is an experience all its own. Thamel, Kathmandu’s tourist hotspot, is where shoppers can find Nepalese, Tibetan and Indian artifacts, woodcarvings, handicraft and an assortments of unique clothing and apparel. There are also several malls where you can find fashionable clothing and grocery stores, offering everything from wine to breakfast cereals. There are numerous dining options available throughout the city, including Italian, Indian, Thai, Korean and Chinese in addition to a variety of local cuisine.

Additional Requirements

Due to the length and active nature of this program, a decent level of fitness is required.

Additional Equipment

Essential Gear & Equipment

Make sure you pack wisely to ensure a safe and comfortable trekking experience. Below is a recommended packing list categorized for easy reference.

Head & Face Protection

  • Sun hat or baseball cap (for sun protection)
  • Warm fleece or wool hat (covers ears, essential for winter)
  • Sunglasses (UV protection, polarized preferred)
  • Scarf or buff (for dust, wind, and warmth)

Clothing – Lower Body

  • Hiking shorts (1 pair, for warm weather)
  • Lightweight trekking pants (1–2 pairs)
  • Thermal leggings (for warmth in winter)
  • Fleece or tracksuit pants (for extra warmth or lounging)

Clothing – Upper Body

  • T-shirts (quick-dry, breathable)
  • Lightweight thermal base layers (for cold conditions)
  • Fleece or long-sleeve tops (for warmth)
  • Down vest or jacket (for extra insulation in winter)
  • Waterproof poncho or rain jacket

Footwear

  • Thin cotton liner socks
  • Thick wool hiking socks (for warmth and blister prevention)
  • Hiking boots (sturdy, waterproof, and well-broken-in)
  • Sandals or camp shoes (for evenings and river crossings)
  • Walking poles (collapsible, optional but recommended)

Hand Protection

  • Lightweight fleece gloves (for winter)

Sleeping Gear

  • Sleeping bag (rated for cold temperatures)
  • Sleeping bag liner (for extra warmth and hygiene)
  • Pillowcase or small travel pillow

Personal & Medical Supplies

  • Personal medical kit (consult your doctor for a full list)
  • Prescription medications (if required)
  • Basic first aid items (band-aids, antiseptic wipes, blister pads)
  • Pain relievers (ibuprofen or paracetamol)
  • Altitude sickness medication (Diamox if recommended)

Toiletries & Hygiene

  • Quick-dry towel & face cloth
  • Biodegradable shampoo & conditioner
  • Toothbrush & toothpaste
  • Multipurpose wipes (face & body)
  • Deodorant
  • Face & body moisturizer
  • Nail clippers & file
  • Small comb or brush
  • Biodegradable laundry soap
  • Toilet paper (can buy more during the trek)
  • Hand sanitizer (small bottle)
  • High UV protection sunscreen
  • Lip balm with UV protection
  • Feminine hygiene products (bring enough for the trip)

Accessories & Miscellaneous

  • Headlamp with spare batteries
  • Dry bags or ziplock bags (for waterproofing valuables)
  • Water bottles or hydration system
  • Watch with light & alarm
  • Backpack rain cover
  • Day pack (for essentials during trekking)
  • Money belt (for storing cash & passport)

Extras (Optional but Recommended)

  • Camera & extra batteries
  • Binoculars
  • Journal & pen
  • Trail map & guidebook
  • Energy/protein bars
  • Playing cards (for entertainment)
  • Small book or e-reader
  • Steripen or water purification tablets

***Make sure to pack no heavier than 15kg after fully packed.***

For information on holidays and any programs affected, please see the following link: NP – Holidays – All Programs

Nepal is one of the most beautiful and culturally rich countries in the world.  Nepal first opened its borders to outsiders in the 1950s.  It is home to Mount Everest, the birthplace of Buddha, and an astonishingly beautiful landscape, ranging from the well-known peaks of the Himalaya to the low-lying regions of the Terai.

The Nepali people are as diverse at the geography, with over 70 languages or dialects and scores of traditional festivals celebrated throughout the year.

However, Nepal is also one of the most under-developed countries in the world, with low rates of literacy, high rates of poverty and a persistent gender imbalance. The government is frequently unable to provide adequate education and health facilities throughout the country and both urban and rural areas are forced to live without necessary resources to promote growth and development of their communities.

Nepal is a year round destination, and the cliate can vary between the North and South regions. The best overall times to visit are during spring and autumn (particually for trekking).

December to Febuary is winter, and it can get extremely cold in the mountains (down to sub zero). Summer in this region has a pleasent temperature but still bring some warmer clothing for the evenings. 

Summer in southern Nepal can get extremely hot (plus 40°C) in some areas. Winter temperatures in this area can range from 7°C to 23°C.

Kathmandu has a pleasent climate on average. The monsoon rains start from June to September in Nepal. 

The majority of Nepalis are either Hindus or Buddhists, but there are many other religions here too like Islam, Christianity, Jainism and Sikhism. You will find many temples and monasteries around Nepal. The right hand is used for important things such as passing money, eating and the giving of gifts. 

Nepalese people love their food and much of it has been influenced by Indian and Tibetan cultures. Nepali people have a lot of respect for elders and will call each other didi (“older sister”), bahini (“younger sister”), etc, even if they are not actually related. The family unit is very strong and having a close knit family is important for the local people. 

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We place thousands of Uni students and can assist you with course credits and in-field experience points.   Many of our project coordinators are qualified practitioners in their respective fields allowing unique in-field supervision and Uni accreditation options

Weekends & Extra Tours

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