Why do I have to pay for volunteering?
As a local based organization, VNV does not receive any financial support from the Nepali government or any local or international organizations, we rely fully on program fees to cover travel expenses, food and lodging, communication, marketing, staff salary, etc, in order to ensure our volunteers are well fed, warm at night, and safe we charge a nominal fee.
Do I need travel insurance?
As with any overseas traveling, insurance is a great idea. VNV is not responsible for any accidents that may occur while in Nepal. May it be trekking related, work related, or food and sickness related, having travel insurance will ensure that you will get the medical attention necessary. Make sure you look into the details of your policy, it should cover emergency evacuation, emergency medical and dental care, lost luggage, and trip cancellation. You should certainly come equipt with your own small first aid kit, as well as the necessary immunizations suggested by your local physician. If you are taking any medication, be sure to come with enough for your entire stay in Nepal as well as a copy of your prescription in case you need to retrieve the medication while on your trip. If you wear glasses or contacts it is advisable to bring an extra pair and a copy of your prescription.
Are there more expenses once I arrive?
The program fees cover everything from hotel stay in Kathmandu to your volunteer quarters in OKhaldhunga, all of your daily meals and tea, as well as language classes, and a shared mobile phone for local calls and emergencies. If you wish to use the internet while in Nepal you will need money to pay for your time. We all like to buy souvenirs, so you should bring some spending money for that. If you choose to eat or drink more than what we provide, this is what you will spend you money on. As well as pre and post travels or activities you may participate in once out of the care of VNV.
It is recommended to come prepared with traveler’s checks or a visa or MasterCard ATM card. Once you arrive in KTM you will be able to exchange your money to Nepali currency and retrieve cash as necessary at the 24 hour ATMs. Once Okhaldhunga, you will be unable to access your money. Depending on how many souvenirs you may buy, it is recommended you bring about $100 (about 5000 rs) with you. You will have access to any necessary clothing, toiletries, food, and drink that you forgot or run out of.
How safe will I be while volunteering?
We work very hard to ensure you are safe and well looked after while in Kathmandu upon arrival and once in Okhaldhunga. You will have guided tours in both areas as well as a VNV representative with you or just a phone call away. Of course when traveling, one should use good judgment and follow suggestions made by your guides as well as the local curfews, dress code, and safety precautions.
How many volunteers are there at one time?
This depends on how many people volunteer at any given time. We aim to have a minimum of 3 volunteers In Okhaldhunga at one time. You will always be with community members as well as the local guides and teachers.
Do I need to bring my own supplies for my volunteer work?
This completely depends on the area of volunteer. It is best to ask these questions via email prior to departure to Nepal. For the most part, any supplies you are willing to bring, whether it be books, pencils, first-aid kits, or fund raising you may do at home is welcome. Nepal is a poor country with limited resources. Any supplies you may need or want may be accessible in Kathmandu as well.
Who organizes my flights and visa?
You do. VNV does not cover or organize your flights. You will arrange your roundtrip ticket to and from Nepal. If you have any questions regarding airlines, booking companies, or preferred routes please contact the US coordinator. Any visitors are allowed to stay ion Nepal on a tourist visa for up to 5 months per 12 month period. You can obtain your visa at the Royal Nepalese Embassy or Diplomatic Mission in your country. It is very easy to obtain a visa upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu (US $30 for the first two months). You can renew your visa for an additional $30 a month. Non-tourist visa are more difficult to obtain and are twice as expensive. Even if you are coming to Nepal to volunteer, it is still considered touring, so ask for a tourist visa.
How will I communicate with friends and family at home?
VNV will provide you with a shared mobile phone for local calls but this does not include long distance. In Kathmandu, there are many internet cafes with cheap internet access and internet phone. In rural placement there are land line phones, web phone, and CDMA lines where you can make a call for a reasonable price. If you have an incoming call you will be notified to collect it. Mobile phones are easy and cheap to get once in Nepal. Nepal Telecom Service is an international provider. You can obtain a SIM card in Kathmandu. If you already have a mobile phone and a service provider, you can look into a global network plan, but this is not necessary. Post is always an option but it can be very delayed and inaccurate.
What should I pack?
We recommend you check the weather forecast for the time of year you wish to visit Nepal. Contact the US coordinator for a suggested packing list. One thing is for sure, pack light. The less you have the easier. Remember that you are going to a rural village in the mountains. You will be washing your own clothes by hand, so light weight and sturdy clothes are your best bet.
What are some customs I should be aware?
As with all of this information if you have more questions or desire more specific and detailed answers please contact us.
| - | Remove your shoes before entering a temple or someone’s home. |
| - | Ask for permission before entering a Hindu temple. |
| - | Taking photographs inside most temples is considered illegal. |
| - | Women usually cover their shoulders and their legs, especially in villages, so shorts and tank tops for women are considered inappropriate. |
| - | You may accept a handshake offered by men or women, but never offer your hand first to women. It is considered rude for a man to touch a woman, including shaking her hand, especially if the woman is married. |
| - | If someone says he or she is fat, it is a compliment. It means that you look healthy, well-fed, and that you are probably wealthy. |
| - | When you are sitting on the floor never show the bottom of your feet. |
| - | Always use your right hand to eat, handle money, or any other interaction. Using your left is considered rude and dirty.The common greeting is putting your hands together as if you were praying and saying,”Namaste”, to show greater respect, lift your hands to your forehead.
As in all situations, watch the locals, follow the customs. This is the best way to learn what is appropriate and what is not. |
