VOLUNTEERING IN POKHARA(VIP)
This 12-day educational volunteering program in Pokhara (820 m) combines classroom teaching support in a government school with cultural exploration. Features homestay living, Annapurna mountain views, and structured community impact.
country
Country
Nepal
region
Region
Pokhara Countryside
altitude
Max. Altitude
1,400 m (4,593 ft)
walking
Walking
1 hrs
accommodation
Accomodation
Lodge - Tent
meals
Meals
B - L - D
duration icon
duration12 DAYS
difficulty icon
difficultyEASY
seasons icon
seasonsANY
overview iconTRIP OVERVIEW

 

The Volunteering in Pokhara Government School program offers international travellers an opportunity to support under-resourced public education in Nepal while experiencing life in Pokhara.

 

Important Arrival and International Flight Requirements

 

Day 1 Arrival: Day 1 represents your official landing date at Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) in Kathmandu, Nepal.

International Airfare Exclusions: Travellers are responsible for booking and paying for their own international flights to and from Kathmandu. International airfare is not included in the package price.

Flight Flexibility: Return international flights should be scheduled with sufficient flexibility to accommodate potential domestic transit delays between Pokhara and Kathmandu.

Travel Insurance Requirement: All participants must obtain appropriate travel insurance prior to arrival. The policy must cover medical treatment, hospitalisation, trip cancellation/interruption, and emergency repatriation/evacuation.

Journey Summary

Arrive in Kathmandu on Day 1 for check-in and rest. Day 2 features a comprehensive program orientation, safety briefing, and introduction to Nepal's public education system. On Day 3, travel overland or via short domestic flight to Pokhara (820 m), settle into your host family or community lodge, and attend a welcome meeting with school administrators.

From Day 4 to Day 9, participate in daily volunteering at a local government school - assisting teachers with English lessons, extra-curricular activities, creative arts, or basic educational resource setup. Day 10 is reserved for local sightseeing around Pokhara, including Phewa Lake and mountain viewpoints. Return to Kathmandu on Day 11 for a farewell dinner, ending with final departure on Day 12. The program operates year-round during the Nepalese academic term (best seasons: September to May).

Gallery
overview iconITINERARY
Day
1
Arrival in Kathmandu
lodge iconBoutique
dinner iconN/A
altitude icon1,400 m (4,593 ft)
hiking iconN/A
Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. Our representative meets you outside the arrivals terminal and provides private transport to your hotel. Day 1 is dedicated to resting and recovering after your international flight. Gather in the evening for an informal meet-and-greet with your program coordinator.
Day
2
Program Orientation & Kathmandu Exploration
lodge iconBoutique
dinner iconB
altitude icon1,400 m (4,593 ft)
hiking iconN/A
Attend an orientation session detailing the Nepalese school system, curriculum objectives, classroom management tips, cultural etiquette, and safety guidelines. In the afternoon, take a guided walking tour through Kathmandu’s historic landmarks before finalizing your preparation for Pokhara.
Day
3
Travel to Pokhara & Host Family Welcome
lodge iconHomestay
dinner iconB-L-D
altitude icon820 m (2,690 ft)
hiking icon200 km / 25 min flight
Travel to Pokhara by private vehicle or domestic flight. Upon arrival, check into your host family home or community lodge near the partner school. Meet your host family, learn about household routines, and enjoy a traditional home-cooked meal (dal bhat).
Day
4
School Induction & Initial Classroom Observation
lodge iconHomestay
dinner iconB-L-D
altitude icon820 m (2,690 ft)
hiking iconN/A
Walk to the government school alongside your coordinator. Meet the principal, teaching staff, and students during morning assembly. Observe current classroom setups, review subject timetables with counterpart teachers, and prepare your lesson plans for the coming week.
Day
5
Volunteering Activities – Interactive Teaching & Support
lodge iconHomestay
dinner iconB-L-D
altitude icon820 m (2,690 ft)
hiking iconN/A
Conduct your first full day of classroom support. Lead small-group conversational English sessions, assist students with reading comprehension, or run interactive educational games. Work alongside lead teachers for 4–5 hours daily, followed by an afternoon lesson planning hour.
Day
6
Volunteering Activities – Creative Arts & Extra-Curriculars
lodge iconHomestay
dinner iconB-L-D
altitude icon820 m (2,690 ft)
hiking iconN/A
Continue teaching support in the morning. In the afternoon, organize extra-curricular workshops such as drawing, music, basic computer literacy, or sports activities in the school yard, encouraging student participation and confidence.
Day
7
Volunteering Activities – Resource Improvement & Tutoring
lodge iconHomestay
dinner iconB-L-D
altitude icon820 m (2,690 ft)
hiking iconN/A
Help organize or upgrade school resources - such as cataloging library books, decorating learning walls with educational posters, or conducting targeted small-group tutoring for students needing extra learning support.
Day
8
Volunteering Activities – Life Skills & Environmental Awareness
lodge icon-
dinner iconB-L-D
altitude icon820 m (2,690 ft)
hiking iconN/A
Lead life-skills or environmental awareness sessions focused on sanitation, recycling, or hygiene habits. Engage students in interactive practical activities that promote clean and healthy school environments.
Day
9
Final School Day & Student Farewell Ceremony
lodge iconHomestay
dinner iconB-L-D
altitude icon820 m (2,690 ft)
hiking iconN/A
Finalize teaching modules and hand over learning materials or sports equipment to the school administration. In the afternoon, attend a farewell assembly hosted by teachers and students, featuring cultural dances, songs, and speeches of appreciation.
Day
10
Pokhara Sightseeing & Reflection Day
lodge iconBoutique
dinner iconB-L
altitude icon820 m (2,690 ft)
hiking iconN/A
Enjoy a relaxed day exploring Pokhara's natural highlights. Take a wooden boat ride on Phewa Lake, visit the World Peace Pagoda for views over the valley, and visit Davis Falls. Spend the evening reflecting on your volunteering experience with your coordinator.
Day
11
Return to Kathmandu
lodge iconBoutique
dinner iconB-D
altitude icon1,400 m (4,593 ft)
hiking icon200 km / 25 min flight
Depart Pokhara by private vehicle or domestic flight back to Kathmandu. Check into your city hotel for rest and shopping in Thamel. Join the team for a formal farewell dinner hosted by Trekking Mate in the evening.
Day
12
Final Departure
lodge iconN/A
dinner iconB
altitude icon1,400 m (4,593 ft)
hiking iconN/A
Enjoy breakfast at your hotel. At the scheduled time (3 hours prior to international flight departure), our private vehicle transfers you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your flight home.
overview iconROUTE MAP
Volun_03_f5689f81d7
includes iconINCLUDES
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Airport Transfers - Private arrival and departure transfers in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
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Kathmandu Accommodation - 3 nights hotel accommodation in Kathmandu (twin-share) with daily breakfast.
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Pokhara Accommodation - 7 nights in a Pokhara host family or community guesthouse, plus 1 night in a Pokhara hotel.
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Meals - Full board meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) during the Pokhara volunteering program (Days 3–9), breakfast in cities, and farewell dinner on Day 11.
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Ground Transportation - Private vehicle transfers between Kathmandu and Pokhara (or domestic flight upgrade option).
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School Program Support - Educational materials, basic classroom supplies, and coordination fees.
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Program Leadership - Dedicated English-speaking Nepali program coordinator throughout the journey.
overview iconEXCLUDES
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International Flights - Travellers must book and pay for their own international airfares to and from Kathmandu.
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Travel Insurance - Personal travel insurance covering medical treatment, hospitalisation, trip cancellation, and emergency evacuation.
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Nepal Tourist Visa - Entry visa fees payable upon arrival at Kathmandu Airport ($50 USD for 30 days).
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City Meals - Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu (except for the included Day 11 farewell dinner) and dinner on Day 10 in Pokhara.
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Personal Expenses - Bottled water, soft drinks, alcohol, snacks, laundry, Wi-Fi fees, and personal transport outside scheduled activities.
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Personal Teaching Supplies - Specialized teaching aids or personal stationery brought from home.
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Gratuities - Customary tips for drivers, host families, school support staff, and program coordinators.
overview iconIMPORTANT INFO.

Location

Accommodation Type

Facilities & Standards

Kathmandu & Pokhara City

City Hotel

Private en-suite, 24/7 hot water, Wi-Fi, air conditioning/heating, restaurant facilities.

Pokhara Host Family / Lodge

Family Homestay / Community Lodge

Clean private or shared twin rooms, shared sit or squat toilets, running solar/bucket hot water, home dining area.

Note: Host family homes offer a safe, warm environment with comfortable amenities suited to international volunteers.

Food

  • Homestay Meals: Freshly prepared home-cooked Nepalese meals served by your host family.
  • Staple Menu: Dal Bhat (steamed rice, lentil soup, seasonal vegetable curry, pickles), chapattis, noodles, eggs, porridge, and seasonal fruits.
  • Dietary Needs: Vegetarian and vegan diets are accommodated easily in Nepalese households. Please inform us of allergies during booking.

Drinking Water

  • Untreated tap water in Pokhara is not safe to drink.
  • Filtered, boiled, or purified drinking water is supplied by your host family and school daily. Reusable water bottles are required.

Expectation

Reality

Western School Facilities

Government schools have basic infrastructure—wooden desks, blackboards, and limited textbook/digital resources.

Strict English Fluency

Student English levels vary widely; using visual aids, repetition, and simple language is essential.

Constant Wi-Fi

Wi-Fi is available at host homes and hotels, but usually absent inside public school classrooms.

Fixed Class Timetables

School schedules in Nepal can adapt around weather, assemblies, or local holidays; flexibility is key.

overview iconGEAR LIST
ITEMS
QUANTITY
REMARKS
General
Sleeping Bag
1
20+ Degree
Trekking Bag
1
35L/ 45L
Duffer Bag
1
Large/ Extra Large
Upper Body
Woolen Cap
1
Sunglasses
1-2
UV protected
Scarf/ Buff Mask
1
Highly Recommended
Head Light
1
Down Jacket
1
Waterproof Jacket
1
Hard Shell
Fleece
1
Base Layer (torso)
2 sets
Light/Heavy as per season
short/long sleeve shirts
2-3
Lower Body
Base Layer (torso)
2
Light/Heavy as per season
Trek Pant
As need
Hiking Shorts
As need
For Warmer months
Gaiters
1 pair
For dust/snow
Hands
Gloves
1 Pair
Hard-Shell Outer Gloves
1 pair
For colder months
Feet
Woolen Shocks
3-4 pairs
Hiking Shocks
3-4 pairs
Liner Shocks
1 pairs
Optional
Trekking Shoes
1 pair
Full ankle; Waterproof recommended
Casual Shoes
1 pair
For tea house or casual use
Slippers
1 pair
For tea house or casual use
Crampons/ Spikes
1 pair
For icy condition
Undergarment
Pajamas/ Sleeping clothes
1-2 sets
Optional
Sport bra (for Female)
As need
Optional
Technical fabric underwear
As Need
Quick drying
Skincare
Sunblock
1
SPF 30 or higher
Lip Balm
1-2
Ointment
1
First Aid
Personal Medications
As need
Authorized by doctor
Hydration
Water bottle
2l
Hydration Bladder
1
Recommended but optional
Snacks
Protein Snacks
As need
Calorie/ Nutrition bars
Optional
Trekking Poles
1
Waterproof/ Dry bag
2-3 pcs
For important documents
Power bank/ Extra batteries
1
Camera/ Phone
1
As need
Cards/ Book
As need
Binoculars
1
Pee bottle or Funnel
1
overview iconREVIEWS
adventurer_0210b0f7d9
Rishi U

Japan

”

I had an incredible experience trekking to Annapurna Base Camp with Subash. The journey was breathtaking, with mesmerizing views at every turn. Everything was exceptionally well-organized, making the trek smooth and enjoyable. I highly recommend their services to anyone looking for a well-planned and unforgettable adventure. I’m already looking forward to my next challenge—Everest Base Camp!

”
Exped_ac572680d1
Rakesh K

Nepal

”

Our trek to Annapurna Base Camp with Trekking Mate was an unforgettable experience! Everything was planned to perfection. The team’s dedication and attention to detail made sure we felt comfortable and well taken care of throughout the journey. Despite a packed schedule, everything ran smoothly, thanks to their expertise and careful planning. The breathtaking mountain scenery, combined with their exceptional service, made this adventure truly special. I’m already looking forward to my next trek with them. If you’re seeking a hassle-free, well-organized trekking experience with just the right amount of thrill, I highly recommend Trekking Mate!

”
adventurer_0210b0f7d9
Pramod D

Nepal

”

In October 2024, I embarked on the unforgettable Thorong La trek with Subash, who made the journey extraordinary. Starting from Manang, we ventured to the breathtaking Tilicho Lake, whose stunning blue waters nestled amidst towering peaks left me in awe. The trail to Tilicho was adventurous, and though challenging, every step was worth it. Subash, fresh from expeditions to Manaslu and Everest, was a pillar of support, sharing stories, guiding us through tricky sections, and keeping spirits high. After Tilicho, we headed to Yak Kharka, staying at the cosy Gangapurna Hotel. The food, especially dhido and gundruk, remains unforgettable. Finally, crossing Thorong La Pass at 5,416 meters was a moment of immense pride, rewarded with panoramic views. Thanks to Subash, this trek was smooth and memorable. It’s a challenging yet life-changing experience I’ll treasure forever.

”
adventurer_0210b0f7d9
John B

Nepal

”

I went with the most trusted mountain guide Subash. He was truly fantastic with his skill and guidance. The expedition was amazing cause i knew i was in safe hands of subash. He entertains, he manages, and he takes you all the way to your goal.

”
adventurer_0210b0f7d9
Suraj T

Nepal

”

Kalinchowk is truly a hidden gem. I had an unforgettable experience visiting this incredible destination with Sujan. The breathtaking views, the thrilling cable car ride, delicious food, and excellent accommodations made it a trip to remember. I highly recommend Kalinchowk for anyone looking to explore the scenic surroundings near Kathmandu, ascend to 3,842 meters, and soak in the panoramic beauty of the Annapurna and Mahalangur mountain ranges. Traveling with Sujan is always a rewarding experience. His deep knowledge of Nepal’s culture, history, religion, and geography adds immense value to every journey. Sujan ensures every detail is taken care of, leaving no room for complaints. I’m already looking forward to more tours and treks with him in the future!

”
Slide 6
Alexander

Nepal

”

It was a fantastic and unforgettable moment with the Trek Mate as well as Mr. Subash G. Trek Mate is one of the well-organised trekking companies with a well-experienced guide and friendly staff where you can find the best service. I am thankful to Trek Mate for the well-educated and experienced trekking and peak climbing guide, Mr. Subash G. I was on the Langtang Valley trek and peak climbing to the northern side from the Kathmandu Valley near the Tibet border. It was a 15-day trek altogether. Subash G was very much, frankly, well educated, experienced, and well known about the culture and lifestyle of the local people. And he was also a great climber who had already successfully summited the world's highest mountain, Mt. Everest, Mt. Manaslu, one of the technical mountains, and many smaller peaks in Nepal, and he was planning to go further more. I was very happy to have such a guide. Missing you guys a lot. Hope to see you soon in 2025. I highly recommend Trek Mate for your trek in Nepal for the first time as well as for more treks in Nepal.

”
adventurer_0210b0f7d9
Tikaram G

The UK

”

My trekking adventures to Annapurna Base Camp and Everest Base Camp with Trekking Mate Group were truly remarkable! The team made sure the journey was smooth and unforgettable from beginning to end. The journey's vitality was our guides, Mr. Subash and Mr. Arjun. The hikes were not only extremely enjoyable but also safe because of their professionalism, knowledge, and kind behaviours. They gave insightful information on the hikes, local culture, and mountains, which greatly enhanced the trip. With an organised itinerary, cosy lodgings, and delectable meals that kept us going throughout the journey, the organisation was flawless. At every stage, the team's commitment to client pleasure and safety was clear. I experienced total attention and support, even under challenging circumstances. Trekking Mate Group truly goes above and beyond to create memorable adventures. I highly recommend them to anyone looking for a reliable, professional, and friendly trekking company. Thank you, Mr. Subash, Mr. Arjun, and the entire team, for making my Himalayan dreams come true!

”
adventurer_0210b0f7d9
Bishal B

Malta

”

I am truly glad to have chosen Sujan as my guide for the Nepal City Tour. He is an incredible person who makes the journey both fun and memorable. His excellent attitude and warm demeanor enriched my experience, making the tour even more enjoyable.

”
adventurer_0210b0f7d9
Roshan C

Romania

”

I had an incredible experience exploring Pokhara, Kathmandu, Patan, and Bhaktapur. Everything was exceptionally well-organized, and my guide, Subash, was both highly professional and incredibly knowledgeable. His insights added immense value to the journey, making it even more enriching. I highly recommend this tour to anyone looking for a seamless and memorable experience.

”
Slide 10
Aayush H

Australia

”

Trekking Mate delivered an incredible trek to Haleshi Mahadev in Khotang District. The guides were not only knowledgeable but also passionate about the area, making every step of the journey enriching. From start to finish, their dedication to seamless logistics and showcasing the stunning landscapes made it an unforgettable adventure. Highly recommend for an authentic Nepalese trekking experience!

”
Slide 11
Yubraj U

Germany

”

We trekked with Trekking Mate up to the Annapurna Base Camp and it was just beautiful! Everything about the experience-from food and accommodation to itinerary-was very well organized. The team was warm, very keen to see us comfortable. Even in a busy trekking itinerary everything went perfectly, all because of their careful planning. The magnificently breathtaking views and the awesome service made this a journey of a lifetime. So to stir you off for that little beginning step toward the big adventure, here is a collection of some stills from the beautiful and gorgeous Annapurna Base Camp. Let the ethereal landscapes and imposing mountain peaks inspire your next trek! I'm already anxious to rendezvous with them again for adventures in future! Highly recommended for hassle-free trekking with a dash of thrill in the adventure.

”
Slide 12
Suraj C

Australia

”

Gosaikunda trek has been the most fulfilling adventure of my life, and I’m immensely grateful for this once-in-a-lifetime experience. The beautiful glacier lakes along the way to Gosaikunda Lake were truly enchanting, but the most awe-inspiring moment was reaching Gosaikunda Lake itself. Its serene beauty and spiritual energy felt deeply profound, as if it connected me to another dimension Thanks to Trekking Mate for making it all possible! Highly recommended.

”
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PARTNERS
Nepal Tourism Board
Nepal Tourism Board
Nepal Tourism Board