from 1,809€

Brilliant 4.7rating (199)

4 Week Annapurna Trek and Community Support

location
4 - 4 weeks  ·  Age 18 - 50+

rating  Brilliant 4.7  · 
  Verified by Volunteer World
  Excellent response rate

Highlights

  • Kathmandu introduction week and a week of volunteering included (this can be extended!)
  • Challenge yourself, push yourself and encourage your fellow hikers!
  • Meet and interact with the local people along the way
  • Trek over suspension bridges, beautiful forests and some of the best scenery in the world

Especially suitable

Age 18+
Singles
Couples
Groups
50+

About the program

Trek and volunteer! Hike to Annapurna base camp, some of the most incredible scenery in the world! Volunteer after the trek on your chosen project.

For the ultimate volunteering and travel adventure, the Annapurna trek has to be one of the most stunning! At a slightly lower altitude than the Everest base camp, and with many variety in landscapes, this trek is one of the most stunning!

You will spend the first week on an introduction in the ...

About the program

For the ultimate volunteering and travel adventure, the Annapurna trek has to be one of the most stunning! At a slightly lower altitude than the Everest base camp, and with many variety in landscapes, this trek is one of the most stunning!

You will spend the first week on an introduction in the capital Kathmandu, before heading to Pokhara to start the Annapurna trek. After your trek you will spend a week volunteering back in Kathmandu at your chosen project!

This is a fantastic program to give back on your travels whilst exploring this amazing place. Below is an idea of what to expect.

First Week: Introduction Week – Kathmandu

Starting in the vibrant city of Kathmandu, this week you will learn all about Nepalese culture, the language, dos and don’ts, and lifestyle of the local people. You will also visit temples, go on a hiking tour and even take part in a scavenger hunt race at a local market!

Second and Third Week: Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Annapurna Base Camp Trek starts from trailhead Nayapul, across riverbeds and terraced hillsides, past beautiful rhododendron flowers and oak forests, to picturesque villages of the Gurungs.

We will go on to the deep narrow corridor of Modi River Gorge, see a spectacular mountain amphitheatre formed by the towering peaks of Annapurna South, Fang, Annapurna I and III, Gangapurna, Glacier Dome and Machhapuchhre. The Annapurna Sanctuary Trek allows trekkers to pitch camp at approximately 14,000 ft, in the middle of stunning surroundings!

On return, we descend through the gorge and cross the Deorali Pass from where you can see views over the Kali Gandaki valley.

We have a rest day, usually at Ghorepani, where a short climb up to Poon Hill is worthwhile to get a sweeping view of the entire western Himalaya, including the giant Dhaulagiri. Don’t give this a miss!

Fourth Week: Community Service

After driving back to Kathmandu, you will have a choice of several volunteer projects for your final week. This is a great way to give back to the country and to really experience Nepalese hospitality.

You will have the chance to voluntter at the animal shelter aiding injured dogs. This is a popular project and very rewarding.

*This is a 4 week program which can be extended to spend more time volunteering at the end.


Typical day

Week 1: Introduction in Kathmandu
Day 1: Monday
  • Puja to the gods and goddess and name-giving ceremony
  • Go over the week’s schedule and handing over of documents
  • Introduction game to get to know fellow participants
  • Cultural seminar on social behavioural norms, dos and don’ts in Nepalese culture.
  • Cross-cu

Typical day

Week 1: Introduction in Kathmandu
Day 1: Monday
  • Puja to the gods and goddess and name-giving ceremony
  • Go over the week’s schedule and handing over of documents
  • Introduction game to get to know fellow participants
  • Cultural seminar on social behavioural norms, dos and don’ts in Nepalese culture.
  • Cross-cultural orientation on eating and drinking habits, bathing, clothing, and toilet etiquette in Nepalese culture.
  • Go out to explore your surrounding around the program house
Day 2: Tuesday
  • Nepali language training
  • Talk on general health precautions and safety during the program
  • Cultural as well as historical orientation tour to Swoyambhunath temple.
  • Shopping at the local market
Day 3: Wednesday
  • Yoga and meditation session
  • Nepali language training
  • Lecture on religion and culture
  • A cultural as well as historical orientation tour to the famous Kirtipur (an ancient settlement of indigenous group of Kathmandu)
Day 4: Thursday
  • Nepali language training
  • Nepali cooking session
  • An amazing race for a Scavenger Hunt at the local market and orientation tour to an exclusive area of Kathmandu and tourist downtown.
Day 5: Friday
  • It’s all about hiking today! We will go on a nature trail into the mountains to get a view of Kathmandu valley.
  • Feedback sharing, evaluation
Day 6: Saturday
  • Free time to explore on your own or relax
Day 7: Sunday
  • Free time to explore on your own or relax

Week 2: Annapurna Base Camp Trek
Day 8: Monday
  • Bus from Kathmandu to Pokhara (200 km). 
  • Overnight stay at the volunteer house in Pokhara
Day 9: Tuesday
  • Pokhara to Tikhedhunga (1,577 m)
  • Two-hour drive to Nayapul (1070 m)
  • Trek following Bhurung Khola to reach Tikhedhunga
  • Overnight stay at a lodge
Day 10: Wednesday
  • Tikhedhunga to Ghorepani (2,855 m)
  • Ascend to Ulleri Village through a pleasant
  • Rhododendron forest and arrive at the top of Ghorepani pass
  • Overnight stay at a lodge
Day 11: Thursday
  • Ghorepani to Tadapani (2,680 m)
  • Early wake up and walk up to
  • Poon Hill for one hour to observe the sunrise and a magnificent mountain view
  • Walk back to Ghorepani for breakfast
  • Trek to Tadapani
  • Overnight stay at a lodge
Day 12: Friday
  • Tadapani to Chhomrong (2170 m)
  • An easy way down to Kimron
  • Khola for lunch
  • Ascend again to Chhomrong village which lies at the base of Himchuli at the elevation of 6,441m, which also offers a close view of Annapurna and Machhapuchhre
  • Overnight stay at a lodge
Day 13: Saturday
  • Chhomrong to Himalaya Hotel (2,873 m)
  • Forward to Kuldi Ghar for about 3 hrs and down to the bank of the Modi river viewing thickets of bamboo at the bottom of the gorge
  • Passing by the pasture of Tomo and Panchen Barah, climb up to the hotel
  • Overnight stay at Himalayan Hotel
Day 14: Sunday
  • Himalayan Hotel to Annapurna Base Camp (4133 m)
  • Keeping up on the west bank of Modi, follow a more open valley at the side of
  • Machhapuchhre Base Camp
  • Overnight stay at a lodge

Week 3: Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Day 15: Monday
  • Annapurna Base Camp to Bamboo
  • Descend and follow the same way to a pleasant camp spot at Bamboo
  • Overnight stay at a lodge
Day 16: Tuesday
  • Bamboo to Jhinu
  • Walk up to Chhomrong and further way down to Jhinu
  • Overnight stay at a lodge
Day 17: Wednesday
Jhinu to Pothana (1980 m)
  • Walk downwards to Modi river
  • Ascend to Landrung, a beautiful Gurung village and lunch at Tolka
  • An easy ascent up to Deurali
  • Overnight stay at Pothana
Day 18: Thursday
  • Pothana to Pokhara (820 m)
  • About 3-4 hours easy way down via Dhampus village to Phedi
  • Then one hour drive to Pokhara
  • Overnight stay at the centre in Pokhara
Day 19: Friday
Drive back to Kathmandu by Bus
  • Overnight stay at the Centre
  • Day 20-21: Saturday to Sunday
  • Free days
  • Overnight stay at the volunteer house
Week 4 - Volunteering in Kathmandu

Day 22-26: Monday to Friday.
  • Working with rescued dogs at our Canine Rehabilitation project
  • This schedule can be changed and/or amended depending on weather conditions, local conditions and unforeseen circumstances.
*Schedule possible to change due to the project and community needs at the time. Volunteer flexibility and adaptability is important to a positive volunteering experience. 


Free-time activities

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 ...

Free-time activities

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.

Pokhara, is a must see for truly spectacular scenery, adventure activities and food. Situated approx 5-6 hours by bus from Kathmandu, the bus trip alone is worth the journey. Here you will witness the awe and glory of the Himalayas. Pokhara has a chilled out vibe and great to relax and unwind form the busy pace of Kathmandu. You can enjoy a clear view of snow-capped mountains just 20 KM’s in the distance. Be sure to check out the adventure sports such as paragliding or white water rafting and of course world famous treks in and around the Annapuma Mountain range

Requirements

Requirements

Minimum Age: 18 years

In order to join the program you need to be at least 18 years old on the program start date. There might be exemptions if you can provide the permission of your legal guardian(s) or if your are accompanied by your parents.

Language Skills

You need to speak English (basic level)

Criminal Background Check

required

Required Documents

If volunteering with kids a police check or working with children check is required

Nationality Restrictions

No restrictions. Helping hands from all over the world are welcome.

Time Commitment

Your helping hand will be required on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday

What's Included

What's Included

Services by Involvement Volunteers IVI

Airport transfers as per the policy – Airport Pickup in Kathmandu – Tribhuvan International Airport
Presence of a dedicated program coordinator throughout your travel, at the projects and facilities-
Logistical management support in case of emergencies
Authentic Nepali meals and European (breakfast, lunch, dinner) for the duration of the entire program as per the meal plan
Accommodation at hotels, tea houses, and at our accommodation facility – Shared accommodation
Local transportation to all venues
Entry fees to all places
Extensive pre departure information
Overland public local transportation
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 

Airport Pickup at Tribhuvan International Airport

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.

For Pokhara placements you will be picked up at KTM airport and spend the first night (Sunday) at the accommodation in Kathmandu. On Monday you will have an orientation day in Kathmandu (no orientation is offered in Pokhara). On Tuesday, you will be transferred to Pokhara, before starting your project on the Wednesday. If your first project is in Pokhara then the transfer is included. If first volunteering in Kathmandu, and then changing to a project in Pokhara, you will need to pay extra for the transfer. 

For Buddhist monastery placements please note that transfers between Kathmandu and monasteries are not included in the program fee. You will be picked up at KTM airport and spend the first night (Sunday) at the accommodation in Kathmandu. On Monday you will have an orientation day in Kathmandu. On Tuesday, you will transfer to the monastery. We highly recommend doing the cultural orientation week add-on project for monastery projects, so you have a full understanding of the local culture. 

Accommodation

All accommodation is included during your stay on our program within the schedules/ itineraries provided. Your stay will be comfortable, clean and secure with basic modern amenities.

(First & last week)

Located in the heart of Kathmandu, about 1 hours drive from the airport, the large volunteer center has 4-6 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. 

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).

(Second & third week)

You’ll stay in a local guest houses and/or tea houses along defined trekking routes.

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



Food & Beverages

Kathmandu accommodation includes 3 Meals p/day weekdays,  2 Meals p/day weekends (mostly vegetarian cuisine). 

During the trek you will be provided with three meals a day. The meals will be Nepalese food served at the tea house, consisting mainly of vegetarian dishes including rice and vegetables. There may be some meat and Western dishes available in some tea houses. 

Internet Access

Limited access at the project site

What's NOT included?

What's NOT included?

Flight Tickets

The nearest airport is Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) in Kathmandu. We assist you to find cheap flights to Nepal. FIND CHEAP FLIGHTS

Travel Insurance

Going abroad is an adventure and it is always best to be prepared. Sudden illness or injury, cancellation or theft - a travel insurance for Nepal provides security and is a plus to have. GET A QUOTE

Vaccines

If you are intending to volunteer in Nepal you should seek medical advice before starting your social journey. Check your required vaccinations for Nepal. VACCINE CHECKER

Details on arrival

Program runs once per month (first Monday of each month). Arrivals on Sat/ Sun. If arriving on Sat, an extra night is charged.

Availability
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

Program fees

4 weeks 1,809€
Average fees 452€/week

Program fees

452€ per week 4 - 4 weeks Age 18 - 50+

Payment methods

Visa Master Card Maestro American Express PayPal

NO CREDIT CARD FEES


Duration

4 - 4 weeks

Deposit

The deposit is simply to reserve your volunteer placement. Payments are handled by PayPal, our trusted global payment provider. If you don't have a PayPal account, you can also pay using a credit card.


Final Payment

Your final payment will be agreed with Involvement Volunteers IVI during the application process. Common solutions are either via bank transfer or a cash payment at the project site.


Meet your organization

Involvement Volunteers IVI

Brilliant 4.7 rating (199 reviews)

Non-profit - founded in 1989

Verified by Volunteer World

  Excellent response rate

Coordinated by

Lauren

Spoken languages: English

About the project

IVI are a non profit org with 28 years experience providing responsible volunteer placements in 15 countries worldwide. We help you connect with inspiring opportunities

Meet your organization

Involvement Volunteers International delivers positive social change to developing communities and vulnerable populations through local, national & international volunteering.  Our projects empower the skilled & un-skilled to catalyse the efforts of local partners in creating a better world.


WHO WE ARE

Founded in 1989, IVI is a pioneer of overseas volunteering.  Back when there was no internet and phones were a luxury in many parts of the world, we traveled to developing countries in search of credible NGO's in need of manpower and global volunteer resources.  Some of the many relationships we forged are utilized to this day. 

We are passionate about volunteering and giving back to society and in particular developing communities which are less fortunate than us.  In this way, we combine travelling with volunteering to help people make a positive impact overseas.

SOCIAL EXPERIENCES
All of IVI’s projects have a strong social element at the core.  With more manpower (& womanpower!) we can truly catalyse the efforts of our local partners.  This means you're sure to meet loads of like-minded people from all parts of the world.   This type of experience truly broadens your understanding of the world and yourself, opening your heart to new enlightened ways of thinking .   With your new found travel companions, you'll have plenty of opportunity to explore and have fun!  

Our projects create a unique platform to experience the true heart and soul of a destination rather than simply the tourist areas.   We'll involve you in meaningful & responsible volunteer work that really benefits the local communities.

AFFORDABLE VOLUNTEER TRAVEL
As a non profit org, we are not motivated by shareholder profits.  Our fee structure is fully transparent to ensure volunteers hard earned money is going directly to the areas where it is most needed.  It is vitally important to us that the presence of volunteers has a positive and sustainable impact on the local communities we work with.   

We charge a one off US$275 application fee per volunteer to cover the running of IVI including administration overheads, project inspection costs, marketing, and salaries.

The program fee starts at $150 p/week and goes straight to the in country management to cover arrival airport transfers, on the ground coordination, orientation, accommodation, meals, in country 24/7 project support, project development, donations and related administration costs.   

In comparison to many of our competitors, our programs are incredible value.

SAFETY & RESPONSIBLE PROGRAMS
With approx 80-90% of our volunteers being single young female travelers, volunteer safety is of the utmost importance.  All of our projects include a dedicated 24/7 in-country management support contact as well as a dedicated placement manager pre/post journey.  This ensures you will be cared for every step of the way.    The local teams are highly experienced and qualified to manage emergency situations.

All IVI projects have been personally inspected to ensure the standards meet necessary guidelines for quality and safety.  In addition, we monitor and maintain communication with local embassies to oversee potential issues in order to notify volunteers and their families accordingly.   

Our Australian team are available 24/7 and only a phone call away.

Our responsibility also extends to the local people which is why volunteers working in childcare related fields must provide a criminal background check before they travel.   Our ultimate goal is the long term development of the communities we work with, hence we work closely with our local partners to ensure that projects are needs driven and sustainable. 

SUPPORT

From your very first inquiry, right through to your welcome home, you'll have the same dedicated volunteer manager at every stage.  We are experts in the field and will provide you in depth insights about what to expect and how to prepare to ensure you have an amazing experience overseas.  Every project includes a detailed welcome pack which provides all aspects needed such as in country contacts, what to pack, cultural values, basic language guides and much much more.   

On arrival at your destination, you'll be greeted by one of our in-country team and in many cases 1 week orientation is provided to help ease you into the way of life and ensure you're equipped with the right customs to ensure a successful volunteer abroad experience.  

FUN!
Volunteering abroad is quite possibly the most rewarding experience you will have in your life!   We know this not only through our own experiences, but through the testimonies from thousands of volunteers we have successfully placed worldwide over 27+ years in operation.  Volunteering overseas is not only rewarding.   It's fun!   You're meeting new people, you're seeing new sights, and you're expanding your understanding of yourself and the world.  You're experiencing something real and life changing in many ways...  

GET INVOLVED WITH IVI TODAY!

199 reviews · rating4.7

There were so many highlights to this trip! However the one that stood out the most was living in Moala village for one week. The team of us who were placed in Moala were instantly taken in by the family we were living and were made to feel part of the family. The people we visited in Moala, Yako ...
I am so blessed to have been lead by amazing dietician and naturopathic professionals who have inspired what I hope to be in this field one day. Words and pictures could never capture how life changing this experience was, and what beautiful souls these people hold. Pictures also don’t capture how ...
What an incredible experience to be able to live in amongst the island community, fully immersed in village life. I really really enjoyed my stay and it was so amazing to explore the island in my free time. In the classroom, it was mostly helping kids one on one with the work assigned by the ...
Jennifer Steinborm rating4.4

2024 at Support Woman & Children Commune

From the first day in Fiji I felt incredibly welcome there! Mere and Masi were very helpful from the start and showed me everything. I enjoyed working with the women at the Lovu HART Village at the office and when kindergarten started I loved seeing the kids every day and helping them where I could. ..
The team of us who were placed in Moala were instantly taken in by the family we were living and were made to feel part of the family. I am grateful for this experience, for the people I met and for the wonderful people who cared for us throughout the 2 weeks. This trip has inspired me to pursue ...
Gabriele Heumann rating4.8

2024 at Nutrition & Public Health Outreach Assistant

Vielen Dank für die tolle Erfahrung. Ein besonderes Lob für Carrun, ich würde es gerne immer wieder machen. Dankeschön auch am Marie und Masi tolle Gastfamilie. Ich kann sie nur weiterempfehlen ...

Location

Asia > Southern Asia > Nepal > Kathmandu

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