Teaching Volunteer Programs in Nepal

What teaching placements look like

Most Nepali teaching placements are classroom-support roles in community schools around Kathmandu Valley, Pokhara, and Chitwan. A typical week is 20-30 hours of conversation support, reading, and supplementary English lessons alongside Nepali teachers.

What to refuse — orphanage placements

Nepal has one of the most well-documented orphanage tourism harms globally — research and child-protection investigations have shown the rise in foreign volunteer demand recruited children from poor (but living) families into residential institutions. Refuse any program offering placement in an orphanage or residential children's home, regardless of how it's framed.

What you can usefully do

• English conversation practice for school students.
• Reading support for younger learners.
• Library organisation and supplementary materials development.
• Supervised after-school activities run by local NGOs.

Realistic impact

A 4-8 week placement adds supplementary English exposure to a classroom that's run year- round by Nepali teachers. It does not transform anyone's education. The Nepali teacher does the real work; you contribute modestly.

Best months

The Nepali academic year runs roughly April to March with breaks. Avoid peak monsoon (June-August). October-November and February-April are most comfortable for first-time volunteers.

Typical cost

Community teaching placements in Nepal commonly run USD 150-350/week. Confirm directly with each program. Use the cost calculator in the sidebar for full trip estimates.