When should I apply for the volunteer/internship programs in Nepal?

We are able to offer placements on the first and third Monday of each month year round. Because of the increasing volume of applications, participants are requested to apply at least one-two months in advance , but if you want to expedite your application within less than three months of time, please contact our office for more information .

What happens once I submit my documents and application to Global Crossroad?

Once Global Crossroad receives and reviews your completed application, it is then forwarded to our In-Country Coordinator in Nepal who will then finalize a specific placement as per your qualifications and request. Upon receipt of your finalized placement details, this information is then immediately sent to you.

How long does it take to process my application?

The application process can usually take anywhere from 1-2 weeks – occasionally longer (given the time of year). However, in the event that interested participants require their application expedited due to time constraints, they are requested to contact Global Crossroad's offices prior to submitting their application.

What documents do I need to submit with my application?

Usually, the only documentation required is the completed application form which can be found online ( http://www.globalcrossroad.com/apply.php). Applicants have the option to either submit their application online or download the application from the website and submit the completed form to Global Crossroad's USA-based offices either by post or fax.

Are there any necessary requirements to participate in the Nepal-based volunteer programs?

The only qualifications are:

• An open mind and a willingness to teach others as well a passion for helping those in need.

• Enthusiasm for living abroad and meeting new people.

• Be in good health.

Visa Information

Any traveler in Nepal can stay on a tourist visa for 3 months each year at $1 per day. You can get the tourist visa at the Nepalese embassy in your country or at the Tribhuvan International Airport upon arrival.

You are allowed to stay up to 120 days on a tourist visa, and then for any extension up to 150 days total, but you are required to show an airline ticket with a suitable date on it, and this ticket must be in OK status (i.e. not wait-listed

Global Crossroad suggests that ALL volunteers get tourist visa in their home country BEFORE arriving in-country to avoid any unnecessary hassles at the airport.

Project Information

Who manages the volunteer projects in Nepal ?

Global Crossroad's In-Country Coordinator in Nepal is responsible for researching appropriate volunteer projects as per the qualifications and skills of the applicants.

What are the daily schedules of the projects?

Project schedules vary for each project in Nepal . Most projects are from Monday to Friday for 5-6 hours a day. Most volunteers have the weekends off to sight-see or explore Nepal on their own.

Where are the projects located?

Projects are located either in or near Kathmandu . Alternatively, you can choose to volunteer in Chitwan, a city about three hours away from Kathmandu .

Kathmandu is a vibrant capital city of Nepal with places of great tourist attractions like Thamel, Patan, and Swaymbhu. Kathmandu has a wide range of restaurants, internet cafés, clubs, shopping centers, and banks. Volunteers will also have numerous opportunities to explore the sites of cultural heritage during free time. Kathmandu is located in a region steeped in legend: some say Buddha and his disciples spent time here, and visitors may feel overwhelmed by the seemingly endless streets of temples and landmarks which date back many hundreds of years. The city is also great for active people: volunteers who want relaxation can hike in near by villages, ride bikes in Kathmandu, or walk around the tourist city of Thamel : the options are unlimited.

Chitwan is about 3 hours drive away from Kathmandu (185kms). It's also a place with an ancient and complicated history, as well as a very popular tourist destination in Nepal , after Kathmandu and Pokhara. Many make the trip to its jungle lodges and resorts to witness the Royal Bengal Tiger and the Great One Horned Rhino. The area is famous for its dense, mysterious jungle and for its production of mustard seed. Like Kathmandu , Chitwan also has many restaurants, banks, internet cafes, shops and many other great activities, like biking, hiking, and so on.

What is the language spoken in Nepal ?

Nepali is the official language of Nepal .

When are the Nepal-based projects available?

Literally, the projects are open year-round on the first and third Monday of each month and volunteers are encouraged to apply anytime at their convenience.

How long can I volunteer in Nepal ?

We normally suggest participants volunteer from 2-12 weeks.

Arrival and Departure Information

Who will arrange my flight to Nepal ?

Airfare is the responsibility of the volunteer.

Which airport should I book my flight into?

The only international airport in Nepal is in Kathmandu , so all international flights arrive and depart from here. You are responsible for your ticket, but once you are in the country our representative will meet you at the airport.

When should I arrive in Nepal ?

Volunteers should arrive in Nepal the day before their projects start, which is usually on a Sunday. If you come in earlier to Nepal , you will need to arrange a place to stay and a return to the airport on Sunday to be picked up.

Will someone pick me from the airport? If so, how do I know about the person?

You will be picked up at the airport, but you must send your travel itinerary to our Nepal in-country Coordinator and to us at Global Crossroad before your arrival in Nepal (we'll pass it on to the Coordinator). You will be picked up by a staff member or our in-country coordinator who will be holding a sign with your name written on it, awaiting your arrival outside of the airport. In case no one is there, you can call our in-country coordinator, who can help with the picking-up or arrange the accommodations immediately. You will be supplied with all contact information in-case of the rare instance that you are not picked up. Make sure you look carefully for your pick-up, as it will be extremely busy outside of the airport.

What should I do if my flight is delayed?

• Try to call our Nepal in-country Coordinator from the airport and inform him of the possibly-delayed arrival time.

• Check your placement instructions pertaining to details of hotels that have been recommended for late arrival if your flight is to arrive after midnight;

• Call/email our Nepal in-country Coordinator once you arrive so that he can help with a pick-up accordingly.

How can I get to the hotel from the airport if I did not see Global Crossroad's local representative in the airport?

In the event that your arrival time is changed/delayed, requiring you to stay overnight in a hotel (or if you failed to meet Global Crossroad's representative at the airport), you should hire a taxi at the airport who will take you to a hotel designated in your placement details/pre-departure information (and do remember to request a receipt from the driver).

ALSO: make sure that you call Global Crossroad's In-Country Coordinator BEFORE boarding the taxi. Participants are advised to contact Global Crossroad's Nepal In-Country Coordinator the next day and let him/her know their whereabouts.

What do I need prior to departure from my home country?

• Please make sure that you pack all your necessary documents (Passport, clothes, and documents)

• Prepare financially, in advance, to cover various expenses up to $50 USD/week for extra expenses and travel to your project each day.

• Get your mind and spirit ready for the duration you have committed to, as the cultural shock might be so strong that you may even want to quit the next week after arrival.  

If I want to arrive earlier than when the program begins, where do I stay and who will organize the accommodations?

You can arrive several days earlier or even up to a week early for your project, however, you will be responsible for these arrangements (including accommodations and food), and must still meet the Coordinator at the airport on the designated date.

When should I depart from Nepal ?

We ask participants to depart from Nepal on the Sunday after their project is completed.

Which airport will I fly out of?

All volunteers will depart from Kathmandu International Airport .

Who will drop me off at the airport?

GC does not offer airport drop service. You will need to arrange a taxi or bus ride to the airport after your project is finished. This is an easy process and our in-country coordinator in Nepal or your home stay family will be more than happy to assist you with this.

Can I store my luggage if I arrive earlier than my program starts?

Yes, you may, but please note that this service is usually charged and/or calculated on an hourly basis. So, do not leave your luggage at the airport for an extended amount of time.

Living Accommodations Information

Who will arrange my accommodations and what are they?

The living conditions of the placement will all depend on the area to which you are assigned. Although a beautiful, friendly place, you should not expect luxurious accommodations in Nepal . You will be placed within a welcoming family setting, and you will have your own room. Also, most placements will have electricity. Our host families are mostly educated, well-respected people, who have experience with international students. In addition, some members of host families may speak English. In some cases, volunteers stay in hostel

Are singles rooms available?

In most cases you will have your own room unless you request to stay with another volunteer. In some cases you will share a room with another volunteer.

If I arrive with my friend, or girlfriend/boyfriend, can we stay together?

Yes please contact our office, will try our best to put you together.

Will there be other foreign volunteers/interns at my placement?

This depends on the exact placement and your preference. We send 5-10 volunteers each month in Nepal so mostly likely other volunteers will be working with you (it is not guaranteed). If you want to work with other volunteers, pls let us know

What are the bathroom facilities?

A shower with cold water is usually installed in the bathroom.

What are the laundry arrangements?

Laundry may be done by hand.

Can I use appliances if I bring them from my home country?

Yes. Electricity in Nepal is 230 Volts, alternating at 50 cycles per second. You will require a voltage converter if you are carrying a device that does not accept 230 Volts at 50 Hertz.

Electrical plug details

Or

What are the local cuisines? Who manages food?

Global Crossroad manages food and accommodation from the very first day to the last day of the program in collaboration with the local host families involved. Nepali foods include rice, dal (soup), vegetables, meat (occasionally), and pickles. Due to monetary constraints, for the volunteers who arrive earlier or who want to stay longer, it is impossible to offer extra accommodation or food. In this case, Global Crossroad will help volunteers to find a good and cheaper place for food and accommodation.

Can you supply special diets?

Global Crossroad can provide both vegetarian and non-vegetarian meals. Occasionally, in the event that you require a special diet, you are responsible for your own meals. Participants are strongly urged to inform Global Crossroad of any special dietary need prior to arrival in-country.

Is the running tap water safe for drink?

Nepalese tap water is generally not safe to drink. We recommend that you purchase bottled water for your consumption, but make sure that the cap's seal is not broken! You can request that your host family boil water for you each day to consume.

Are there hot and cold water facilities available?

Specifics pertaining to availability of hot water will be included in participants' placement details. In nepal , it is very hard to get hot water.

Will bottled water be provided?

No, if participants require bottled water, they are responsible for obtaining it themselves.

Health and Safety

How safe is Nepal ?

Nepal is getting safer since 2006 especially after the peace negotiation between rebels and governments. However, still you will see political unrests in Nepal . Global Crossroad volunteers planning to go to Nepal should know that transportation strikes are a popular means of attracting political attention in Nepal . These strikes severely hamper transportation and can occur without notice. Global Crossroad has no control over these events.

More about Travel Safety to Nepal

International travel does present risks, especially with the threat of international terrorism. The U.S. State Department has issued travel warnings and advisories in many countries for U.S. travelers. These travel advisories and warnings change frequently as situations in each country change. We suggest that all volunteers consult their own governments before participating in a Global Crossroad program. These links provide travel information:

British Foreign Office Advice
http://www.fco.gov.uk/

American State Department Advice
http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/tw/tw_1764.html

Australian Government Advice
http://www.dfat.gov.au/

Canadian Government Advice
http://canada.gc.ca/main_e.html

What are the principle health risks?

We use the Center for Disease Control traveler's health recommendations (www.cdc.gov). Your travel doctor will be knowledgeable about current epidemics and should be consulted.

Recommended Vaccinations and Preventive Medications

The following vaccines may be recommended for your travel to Nepal or South Asia . Discuss your travel plans and personal health with a health-care provider to determine which vaccines you will need.

• Hepatitis A or immune globulin (IG). Transmission of hepatitis A virus can occur through direct person-to-person contact; through exposure to contaminated water, ice, or shellfish harvested in contaminated water; or from fruits, vegetables, or other foods that are eaten uncooked and that were contaminated during harvesting or subsequent handling.
• Hepatitis B , especially if you might be exposed to blood or body fluids (for example, health-care workers), have sexual contact with the local population, or be exposed through medical treatment. Hepatitis B vaccine is now recommended for all infants and for children ages 11–12 years who did not receive the series as infants.
• Japanese encephalitis , if you plan to visit rural farming areas and under special circumstances, such as a known outbreak of Japanese encephalitis.
• Malaria: your risk of malaria may be high in these countries, including cities. See your health care provider for a prescription antimalarial drug. For details concerning risk and preventive medications, see Malaria Information for Travelers to South Asia .
• Rabies , if you might have extensive unprotected outdoor exposure in rural areas, such as might occur during camping, hiking, or bicycling, or engaging in certain occupational activities.
• Typhoid . Typhoid fever can be contracted through contaminated drinking water or food, or by eating food or drinking beverages that have been handled by a person who is infected. Large outbreaks are most often related to fecal contamination of water supplies or foods sold by street vendors Vaccination is particularly important because of the presence of S. typhi strains resistant to multiple antibiotics in this region. There have been recent reports of typhoid drug resistance in India and Nepal .
• As needed, booster doses for tetanus-diphtheria and measles , and a one-time dose of polio for adults.

Required Vaccinations

• None.

Source: www.cdc.gov

What health precautions should I be aware of and tend to?

There are several issues you should be aware of when visiting Nepal . The first is a lack of sanitation – always make sure to wash your hands before you eat, and never drink water that isn't bottled or boiled. Also be very aware of the food you consume, in terms of how it was prepared, if it was covered and/or refrigerated while sitting, and so on.

Secondly, Nepal can be quite cold at times – be sure to protect yourself against hypothermia and always take a guide if you plan on trekking. Also regarding the climate, Nepal is at such a high altitude that you may fall victim to high altitude sickness. This can pass if it's mild, but you need to seek medical attention if it becomes more severe. Generally, you should make sure to rest after your flight and drink a lot of water.

Lastly, know that poisonous snakes are a bit more common in Nepal , so be aware and try to sleep on elevated beds, wear boots when hiking, and always seek immediate medical help if you're bitten.

Do I need health insurance?

Global Crossroad takes out comprehensive medical insurance for its volunteers. It is suggested that you pay up-front costs and then file an insurance claim to get reimbursed back home after medical expenses such as doctor's visits, medicines, etc.

Who do I contact in case of a health-related emergency?

East or west, home is the best. There is no place better than home when you are ill. But if you do get ill, don't panic. Participants can obtain information pertaining to medical assistance through a number of channels:

• Global Crossroad's In-Country Coordinator;
• Assigned host-family;
• Your country's embassy in Nepal – participants are greatly encouraged to obtain and maintain contact information for their respective embassy; keeping it on their person for easy access.

Is the food safe if I buy it from a street vendor?

No! While you are in Nepal , food safety should be the major factor in your decision to abstain. Our suggestion is to avoid eating on the streets until you get familiar with the general situation. The food will likely taste quite different than anything you have had before. Food safety problems can range from chemicals and contaminants, to bacteria as well as some other diseases. In Nepal , poor food cooking, preparation, and storage, as well as improper cleaning and disinfecting of cooking supplies is very common among street vendors. So, we do not suggest buying food from street vendors.

What are the sanitary conditions in Nepal ?

•  Be prepared and never expect a clean toilet 100% of the time. Carry some tissue in-case you need to use the public toilet. Never assume that you'll have access to a western-style toilet.
• Nepalese toilets, if they have plumbing, generally do not do well when flushing large amounts of items or feminine hygiene products so do not flush them and throw them away in the trash.
• If you can, Use hotel lobby toilets; these are everywhere and are always clean. Still, they may not always have toilet paper. It depends on the class of hotel that you are using.

Money

Are ATMs easily available? If yes, which debit and credit cards are accepted?

Credit cards such as American Express, Diners Club, JCB, Master and Visa are accepted at the local large hotels or tourist stores. You also can withdraw cash from most international banks' ATM machines, but $2-4 USD surcharges apply for each transaction. Remember that ATMS will only be available in the cities and beyond those areas, you should use traveler's checks.

What is the local currency and how do I know the exchange rate?

The official currency of Nepal is the Rupee.

Current exchange rates can be found using a currency converter like www.xe.com , or checking in a newspaper like the Wall Street Journal.

Where do I exchange my money and how much?

Money exchanges by cash or traveler's checks can be made at various banks and hotels. Traveler's checks may also be difficult to exchange in small towns and villages, and travelers are advised to have cash on hand. However, remember that it's dangerous to carry too much cash on you while traveling.

How much money should I bring with me?

It is suggested that you bring $100 to exchange at the airport, for things like transportation or extra expenses you might have. Beyond that, it's really up to you, according to how much you'd like to spend on things like shopping and tourism.

Is it safe to carry cash with me?

Carrying cash is not safe; therefore, don't carry a large surplus of cash with you.

Important Reminder: Retain your receipts whenever you exchange any currency or traveler's checks to Rupees. You may be asked to show proof of the exchange. Without receipts, you will not be able to exchange Nepalese currency back to any other currency upon your departure.

How do I make contact with Global Crossroad's local coordinator?

The detailed contact information for the in-country coordinator will be sent to you with your placement details.

How do I contact my family once I arrive in Nepal ?

International Direct Dialing from Nepal is available in most cities. Phone cards are widely available and calls can be made from post offices, hotels and booths on the streets. The Nepal mobile phone networks will usually allow many major cell phone providers to access their network but you might want to check with your provider to see if you will be able to use your phone in Nepal . Internet cafes are available in most cities.

Are internet services easily available?

Internet cafes are available in Kathmandu , although the cafes can be very noisy as they are a popular venue for the youth to play online games and for students to do work.

How can my family members contact me?

Once you settle down at the host family, you will want to use your calling card to contact your family if you have not already done so when you arrived in Nepal at the airport.

Can I bring my telephone from my home country?

Possibly – you can contact your provider about service charges, roaming, and whether you can substitute a Nepalese SIM card (purchased in Nepal ) with your US one.

Can I purchase phone service once I arrive in Nepal and how much will it cost?

This is not usually an option in Nepal .

Is there a special dress code that I should follow while staying in Nepal ?

Volunteers should dress conservatively when at their projects. Jeans and a t-shirt are acceptable. No high shorts and tank tops please. Women usually cover much of their body.

What should I know about Nepalese religious conduct?

Nepal respects different cultural backgrounds, religious beliefs, and moral concepts. You may practice on your own accord. Try to be as respectful as possible of temples and religious events – remember that non-Hindu visitors may not be allowed inside some Hindu temples.

How do I respect the Nepalese people?

Be more inclusive and show respect of other cultures. Nepalese culture is rich in customs and traditions. The Nepali people enjoy sharing their customs and traditions with foreigners so feel free to take part with them. You can go with your host family on outings if they ask you to or invite them along with you to go on an outing. Simply helping your family do household chores will be another bonding experience that you can enjoy. Remember to be respectful of Nepali customs and traditions while traveling: it's customary to use your right hand when eating and motioning/touching others,

Additional Information

Climate

What is weather like in Nepal ?

Any time of the year is a great time to visit Nepal . If you wish to trek, the best times are from September through November and March through May. The summer is the rainy season, and as a result, trekking is difficult then. Also, the winters are mild in Katmandu with no snow. Even though Nepal is home to the world's highest mountain range, the country is in a warm location, and the altitude here offsets the sub-continental heat, thus leaving a very pleasant climate.

Is it very cold in Nepal ? Will I need to pack very warm clothes to accommodate for this?

Nepal is not always as cold as people think. The country is geographically divided into three parts. The " Nepal " region is very cold in winter, while the "mid hill" region (Kathmandu and Pokhara) and "mid-terai" region (Chitwan) of Nepal have different climates in different seasons. The weather is cold from December to March, but it is warm and moderately hot in the summertime. The spring and fall are cool and very pleasant seasons as well. Please bring your winter cloths (think layers!) if you are coming in Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, and summer clothes for the rest of the months. We advise female volunteers not to wear short skirts in villages. Nepalese people dress modestly and girls cover most of their bodies, for it is the Nepalese tradition.

Required Clothing

Lightweight clothing and rainwear is recommended as well as warmer clothing for the evenings (light jacket and/or light sweaters) for the summer months. See the above information about winter clothing. A solid pair of walking shoes is highly recommended for trekking.

Average Temperature

Average Rainfall

Official Nepalese Holidays

Like other countries in the world Nepal schools also observe three sets of holidays: school, official, and traditional holidays.

Jan: Vasant Panchami. 
30 Jan: Martyrs' Day. 
19 Feb: Rashtriya Prajatantra Divas (National Democracy Day). 
Mar: Ghode Jatra (Festival of Horses).
Mar: Holi.
Mar: Ram Nawami (Birthday of Lord Ram).
Mar:  Shivaratri (in honour of Lord Shiva).
8 Mar: Nepalese Women's Day.
Mar/Apr: Chaite Dashain. 
14 Apr: Navabarsha (New Year's Day).
May: Buddha Jayanti (Birthday of Lord Buddha).
Aug: Rakshya Bandhan (Janai Purnima).
20 Aug: Children's Day.
Aug/Sep: Krishna Janmashtami.
Sep: Fulpati Saptami.
Sep: Maha Asthami.
Sep: Maha Nawami.
Sep:  Vijaya Dashami.
Oct: Laxhmi Puja.
Oct: Ghatasthapana.
Oct: Gobardhan Puja.
9 Nov: Constitution Day

What about tipping in Nepal ?

Tipping is not obligatory, but it is expected in most places and you should tip at least 10% in restaurants.

Materials to Bring

.  Camera
.  Sleeping bag
.  Mosquito repellents
.  Insect repellents
.  Sunscreen
.  Some books of Nepal
.  Map of Nepal
.  Toiletries
.  First-aid kits
.  Flash light
.  Electricity adapter/converter
.  Sunglasses
.  Walking shoes (for work and travel)
.  Towel

NOTE: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) is generic information and should not be used as a definitive travel guide. Travel information and situations abroad change constantly. Participants should consult Global Crossroad or travel advisors to verify this information.