Volunteer in Monastery

Learn about ancient religious practices and connect with otherwise isolated monks by volunteering in a Buddhist monastery

Join us for our 3 or 4 week special Experience Nepal program and volunteer in one of our monasteries!

This program is one of our most popular at Nepal Yolmo Chuchang Association. Few other placements in the world offer the opportunity to work alongside Buddhist monks. As a volunteer, you will observe their unique monastery environment and help the monks communicate with the outside world. Do you want to learn more about life in a monastery? Do you want to learn and participate in meditative techniques and Buddhist teachings? Then this will be an incredible experience for you.

What does a monastery volunteer do?

Volunteers in our monastery placements can teach English, Math, creative and fun activities or sports to the monks for around 3-4 hours per day. Even if you are less experienced, we have teaching materials that help you when needed. In turn, the monks share their knowledge and culture with the volunteers. If you ask the monks, you can get the chance to learn meditation techniques and receive an in depth knowledge of the Buddhist culture. This is one of our most popular volunteering posts, due to the unique way it allows you to truly be involved in the life of a Buddhist monastery.

Do I need any qualifications or skills to do this work?

You do not need any specific qualifications for this work, but a good command of the English language is vital. You must also be a culturally sensitive person, because you will be working in a religious environment that is likely to be very different from your own. As Buddhist monks have to participate in different religious activities at various times of the year, the structure of your volunteering program can sometimes be altered. We ask you to be flexible to accommodate this.

Where in Nepal can I volunteer in a monastery?

Volunteering in a monastery is available in Kathmandu valley and Phulasi, Himalayan region). As a volunteer you will work in a monastery and may also work with the attached community schools for non-monastic children. For more information go to our locations.

What accommodation will I be living in?

Wherever you choose to work in Nepal, you will be placed in a home stay with a local Nepali family. By living with a family you will gain a greater insight and understanding of Nepali culture. The standard of lodging will depend on whether you are in a rural area. In a rural area the facilities will be basic with minimal running water and a squat toilet. In placement you will have a basic toilet and a shower. All of your food will be provided for you at your home stay and you will never be more than 30 minutes from your place of work. For more information on what to expect in a home stay have a look at our food and accommodation page.