21 Day Nepal Road Trip

WHY we need you in Nepal

teen group volunteers mountains

WHAT does 21 Day Nepal Volunteer Road Trip Involve?

IVI-volunteer-with-young-child-in-Nepal

Why Involvement Volunteers International?

IVI Volunteer teaching Nepalese Children

  PROJECT NAME: 21 DAY ROAD TRIP

LOCATION: KATHMANDU, CHITWAN, POKHARA & POON HILL

  START DATES: 1ST  MONDAY OF EACH MONTH

  ACCOMMODATION: VOLUNTEER HOUSE & GUEST HOUSE

  MIN DURATION: 21 DAYS

  MIN AGE: 16+

  SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS: Criminal background check required


From the bustle of Kathmandu’s alleys to the serenity of the Annapurna foothills, this 21-day
journey through Nepal combines adventure, culture and community.
Raft rivers, trek to panoramic Himalayan viewpoints, immerse yourself in jungle safaris and
share classrooms with local students. This is more than a road trip, this is a once-in-a-lifetime
immersion into the soul of Nepal. This three-week journey takes you across Nepal’s iconic
landscapes and cultural centers.

Program Description
This three-week journey takes you across Nepal’s iconic landscapes and cultural centers. Start
in Kathmandu with orientation and heritage exploration before heading west to raft the Trishuli
River and venture into Chitwan National Park for rhino sightings and jungle walks. Continue on
to Pokhara where lakes, cycling routes, and a five-day trek to Poon Hill deliver breathtaking
mountain views. Back in Kathmandu, deepen your cultural connection through school teaching
projects, Thanka painting, temple visits, yoga, and cooking classes. By the time you leave, you
will have experienced Nepal’s wilderness, traditions, and the warmth of its people.


Program Highlights
● White water rafting on the Trishuli River with riverside camping
● Jungle safaris and canoe rides in Chitwan National Park
● Five-day trek through Annapurna region including Poon Hill sunrise
● Lakeside exploration and cycling in Pokhara
● Cultural immersion with Tharu dance, Thangka painting, yoga and meditation
● Teaching and community engagement in Kathmandu schools
● Evening rituals at Bouddhanath and Pashupatinath temples
● Farewell hike to Jamchen Monastery
What’s Included?
● Airport pickup on arrival and departure transfer

● Shared accommodation in Centers, guest houses, tea houses and homestays
● Meals as per itinerary (vegetarian options available)
● All listed activities, workshops and cultural experiences
● Local transportation between program sites
● 24/7 in-country coordination and support
What’s Excluded?
● International flights and visa fees
● Travel and medical insurance (mandatory)
● Personal expenses such as laundry, snacks or souvenirs
● Optional excursions not listed in the itinerary
● Bottled water, camera fees or extra meals
● Airport drop-off outside program end date

Aims & Objectives
● Showcase Nepal’s natural wonders through rafting, trekking and jungle activities
● Provide cultural immersion through art, cooking and rituals
● Foster meaningful cross-cultural exchange with local schools and communities
● Encourage personal growth through yoga, meditation and reflection
● Balance structured adventure with free time for independent discovery

Food & Accommodation

Along the route you will have overnight stays in hotels/guest houses, resorts and buses. More information can be found inside the program schedule.

Kathmandu House

Located in the heart of Kathmandu, about 1 hours drive from the airport, the large volunteer center has 4 bedrooms which hold up to 12 people maximum, with 3 to 4 people sharing one room. They have modern bathrooms; a modern kitchen and dining room, mini library, a fully furnished living room; live-in staff on call 24/7; a garden complete with a comfortable covered area and 24/7 security.  Centrally located, there are several gym’s nearby as well as local supermarkets, ATM’s, mobile phone shops etc.   

*For couples or those wanting more privacy, there are upgrade accommodation options available for an additional cost. This must be booked well in advance and is subject to availability.

Kathmandu accommodation includes 3 Meals p/day weekdays,  2 Meals p/day weekends (mostly vegetarian cuisine), 4-6 persons p/room and Wifi in public areas- quality is not the best though. You may want to purchase a local SIM data plan. There is also a T.V, DVD player, computer, Laundry facilities (at an additional fee), Lockable rooms, Hot shower, Private bathrooms, Bed Linen (no towels), Mosquito protection and Fans (no air-con).

*Accommodation may be in our local centre or in close proximity, depending on availability and time of year.

 
All prices in USD
  • Adventure Week


    $590
  • 4 Week Annapurna Base

    Camp


    $1450
  • 4 Week Everest Base

    Camp


    $2250
  • 28 Day Road Trip

    $2160
  • Panchase Trek

    $620
  • Poon Hill Trek

    $680
  • Pikey Peak Trek

    $820
  • Buddhist Monastery

    Immersion

    $980
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

Due to the nature of the program, a decent level of fitness is required.

  • Arrival  airport transfer
  • 3 Meals p/day weekdays, 2 meals p/day weekends
  • Accommodation (Volunteer Centers – shared dorm style rooms)
  • Daily ground transportation (to/from project)
  • Training & supervision as required
  • Use of necessary equipment incl program materials
  • 24/7 emergency assistance, volunteer support, local guiding and advice
  • Touring & excursions as per itinerary
  • Certificate of Completion 
  • Travel insurance (mandatory)
  • Airfares & visa fees
  • Additional tours, souvenirs, spending money
  • Some daily local transport (depending on program eg. $2 p/day)

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.

Day 1:

Sunday
Arrival in Kathmandu
Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport where you’ll be greeted with a warm welcome and
transferred to the Green Lion Center. After settling in, join your group for an introduction and a
welcome dinner that sets the tone for the adventure ahead.
Overnight: Green Lion Center, Kathmandu Meals 

Day 2:

Monday
Kathmandu Orientation
Start with a traditional welcoming ceremony and a session on Nepalese customs, rituals and
cultural do’s and don’ts. Take part in a cross-cultural activity before heading out on a guided
orientation walk through the heart of Kathmandu where you’ll join a scavenger hunt at a bustling

local market.
Overnight: Green Lion Center, Kathmandu Meals B/L/D

Day 3:

Tuesday
White Water Rafting on the Trishuli
Travel through scenic valleys to the Trishuli River and gear up for an exhilarating rafting
adventure. Paddle through gentle yet exciting rapids, enjoy the fresh mountain air and unwind at
a riverside camp or resort. In the evening share stories around the fire with your group.
Overnight: Camping/Resort, Fishling Meals B/L/D

Day 4:

Wednesday
Into the Wilds of Chitwan
Wake for a short morning rafting run before continuing to Chitwan National Park. On arrival
immerse yourself in Tharu culture with a village tour and traditional dance performance. As dusk
settles, head into the park for a first glimpse of Nepal’s wildlife on a jungle drive.
Overnight: Resort, Chitwan Meals B/L/D

Day 5:

Thursday
Chitwan Jungle Safari
Set out on a canoe ride where you may spot freshwater crocodiles basking along the banks.
Trek with a naturalist guide through the jungle learning about flora and fauna, then visit the
elephant breeding center where you’ll help prepare food for the elephants. End the day with a
golden sunset at the Rapti River.
Overnight: Resort, Chitwan Meals B/L/D

Day 6:

Friday
Journey to Pokhara
Drive west to Pokhara, the city of lakes and mountains. After checking in to your hotel take a
lakeside stroll and watch the sun dip behind the Annapurna range. In the evening, witness the
light offering at Tal Barahi Temple set beautifully on Phewa Lake.
Overnight: Hotel, Pokhara Meals B/L/D

Day 7:

Saturday
Cycling Adventure in Pokhara
Hop on a bike for a guided cycling tour around Pokhara Valley. Ride past villages, fields and
lakeside views while taking in the serene Himalayan backdrop. Spend the evening at leisure
exploring Pokhara’s lively lakeside cafés and shops.
Overnight: Hotel, Pokhara Meals B/D

Day 8:

Sunday
Trek Begins: Nayapul to Ulleri

Drive to Nayapul and begin your trek into the Annapurna foothills. Climb stone stairways
through terraced hillsides and small villages before reaching Ulleri where you’ll enjoy your first
night in a traditional tea house.
Overnight: Tea House, Ulleri Meals B/L/D

Day 9:

Monday
Ulleri to Ghorepani
Continue trekking uphill through rhododendron forests and mountain trails to Ghorepani, a
well-known stop for trekkers. Rest in this mountain village surrounded by peaks and prepare for
the early morning climb to Poon Hill.
Overnight: Tea House, Ghorepani Meals B/L/D

Day 10:

Tuesday
Sunrise at Poon Hill and Trek to Ghandruk
Rise before dawn to hike up to Poon Hill for one of Nepal’s most iconic sunrise views over
Annapurna and Dhaulagiri. After breakfast, trek through forests and villages to reach the
Gurung village of Ghandruk.
Overnight: Tea House, Ghandruk Meals B/L/D

Day 11:

Wednesday
Trek to Pothana
Follow winding trails through farmlands and oak forests as you make your way to Pothana. This
small hilltop village offers sweeping views of the surrounding peaks and valleys.
Overnight: Tea House, Pothana Meals B/L/D

Day 12:

Thursday
Trek to Phedi and Return to Pokhara
Descend from Pothana to Phedi and take a short drive back to Pokhara. After the trek enjoy
some well-deserved relaxation perhaps with a traditional Nepali massage.
Overnight: Hotel, Pokhara Meals B/L/D

Day 13:

Friday
Return to Kathmandu
Travel back to Kathmandu by tourist bus. The long but scenic journey winds through valleys,
rivers and mountain views before returning to the Green Lion Center.
Overnight: Green Lion Center, Kathmandu Meals B/L/D

Day 14:

Saturday
Free Day in Kathmandu
Enjoy a leisurely day to explore Kathmandu at your own pace. Wander through hidden alleys,
shop for handicrafts or relax with your fellow travelers.
Overnight: Green Lion Center, Kathmandu Meals B/D

Day 15:

Sunday
Thangka Art and Education Insight
Learn the sacred art of Thanka painting from local artists then join a session on Nepal’s
education system. Visit a local school to engage in teaching and cultural exchange.
Overnight: Green Lion Center, Kathmandu Meals B/L/D

Day 16:

Monday
Teaching and Temple Tour
Continue your teaching project at the school then visit Bouddhanath Stupa and Pashupatinath
Temple. As night falls watch the powerful evening light offering at Pashupatinath along the
Bagmati River.
Overnight: Green Lion Center, Kathmandu Meals B/L/D

Day 17:

Tuesday
Community Engagement
Spend the day teaching and engaging with local students. In the evening relax with a movie
night at the Center.
Overnight: Green Lion Center, Kathmandu Meals B/L/D

Day 18:

Wednesday
Yoga, Cooking and Teaching
Start the day with yoga and meditation before joining a traditional Nepali cooking class. Later
return to your teaching project to share your skills and stories.
Overnight: Green Lion Center, Kathmandu Meals B/L/D

Day 19:

Thursday
Project Wrap-Up and Cultural Evening
Conclude your teaching project with a reflection and evaluation session. Celebrate with a lively
cultural night of music, dance and food.
Overnight: Green Lion Center, Kathmandu Meals B/L/D

Day 20:

Friday
Hike to Jamchen Monastery
Take a day hike through hills and forests to reach Jamchen Monastery where you’ll enjoy
serene mountain views. Return in the evening for a farewell gathering with your group.
Overnight: Green Lion Center, Kathmandu Meals B/L/D

Day 21:

Saturday
Departure

Enjoy a final breakfast before your airport transfer and departure. Carry home memories of
Nepal’s landscapes, traditions and people.
Meals B
The mode of transportation could change due to unavoidable circumstances.
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 nature of the program, a decent level of fitness is required.

Additional Equipment

We recommend following equipment and items to pack for your trekking trip.

For head

  • Sun Hat / baseball cap
  • Fleece/Wool hat (to cover ears) for winter
  • Sunglasses & reading glasses
  • Scarf to cover face (dust/wind)

For lower Body

  • Under garments
  • Hiking shorts – 1
  • Lightweight walking pants – 1
  • Light weight thermal leggings – winter
  • Fleece or tracksuit pants

For Feet

  • Thin cotton inner socks
  • Thick warm wool hiking socks
  • Hiking boots
  • Sandals
  • Walking poles

For Upper Body

  • T-shirts
  • Lightweight thermal tops – winter
  • Fleece long shelve tops
  • Down vest/jacket – winter
  • Poncho rain cover

For Hands

  • Lightweight fleece gloves – winter
  • Playing card
  • Trail map & guide book

For Sleeping

  • Sleeping bag
  • Sleeping bag liner
  • Pillow slip/case

Medical Kit

  • See your Doctor for complete medical kit Including Dimox – for high elevation

Accessories

  • Headlamp & spare batteries
  • Dry packs
  • Open neck water bottles
  • Watch with light & alarm
  • Pack cover
  • Day pack
  • Money belt
  • Toiletries & Personal Hygiene
  • 1x quick dry towel & face cloth
  • Shampoo & Conditioner                  
  • Toothbrush & paste (biodegradable)
  • Multipurpose wipes (face & body)
  • Deodorant
  • Face & Body moisturizer
  • Nail clippers/file
  • Small comb/brush
  • Clothes washing soap (biodegradable)
  • Toilet paper (you can buy more on trek)
  • Anti-Bacterial wipes (4x packs)
  • Hand sanitizer (small bottle)
  • Sun block face/body high UV protection
  • Lip block with UV protection
  • Feminine hygiene products

Extra Items

  • Camera & extra batteries
  • Binoculars
  • Reading books
  • Journal & pen                          
  • Energy/protein bars
  • Walkman & Steripen

***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. 

30 Years Non Profit Experience

IVI is an Australian charity & non profit organisation founded in 1989 and is one of the pioneers of overseas volunteering successfully placing over 20,000 volunteers globally.

Affordable Volunteer Travel

We’re not motivated by shareholder profits.   Our fees are fully transparent to ensure maximum benefit where it is most needed. 

Safe & Responsible Projects

All projects include a dedicated 24/7 in-country management team, operational & risk assessment & overseas support contact.   All projects are personally inspected to ensure very high quality.
 

Work Experience & University Credits

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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