Volunteer to teach in a Buddhist monastery and learn about ancient religious practices while providing a valuable international experience to the otherwise isolated monks
This program remains one of our most popular at Volunteer Society Nepal. Few other placements in the world offer the chance to work alongside Buddhist monks and observe their unique monastic environment while also helping them communicate with the outside world. However, this is also one of the most challenging for us to arrange. All we ask is that if you choose to volunteer in a Buddhist monastery you ask yourself the following questions:
- Are you prepared for the significant culture shock of volunteering and living with Buddhist monks?
- Are you happy being isolated from other volunteers and Westerners during your placement?
- Do you have a real understanding of what life in a Buddhist monastery is like? (Here is a good link to learn more)
We just ask these questions to ensure you get the most out of your volunteer placement. For those who are keenly interested in the monastic life and learning more of the meditative techniques and Buddhist teaching, this is an incredible experience. If you are just curious, then the longer term nature of this placement warrants consideration.
What work does a monastery volunteer do?
Volunteers in our monastery placements teach English to the monks, both young and old, for around 3-4 hours per day. In turn, the monks will share their knowledge and culture with the volunteers. If requested by the volunteer, they may get the chance to learn meditation techniques and receive an in depth knowledge of the Buddhist culture here in Nepal. This is one of our most popular volunteering posts due to the unique way it allows you to truly become involved in the life of a Buddhist monastery.
Do I need any qualifications or skills to do this work?
No you not need any specific qualifications for this work but a good command of the English language is vital. You must also be a very culturally sensitive person because you will be working in a religious environment that is likely to be very alien from your own. Volunteers tend to get more from this placement if they are willing to take the initiative where necessary.
A day in the life of a volunteer teaching in a monastery:
Previous volunteers’ experiences:
Kristin Powell, USA
Also check out our Volunteer Community Page where you can find email addresses to contact past volunteers and join our Facebook group to post any more questions you may have about coming here.
Where in Nepal can I volunteer in a monastery?
Volunteering in a monastery is available in Kathmandu and in the towns of Salleri and Charikot in the Himalaya Region of Nepal. In Kathmandu volunteers may work in a monastery with an attached school that teaches boys and girls, not only monks. However in the Himalaya region volunteers are more likely to be placed in a poor monastery where there is no outside schooling. This can therefore be more of a challenge. Please note that if you want to volunteer in a Tibetan Monastery you must be willing to stay for 3 months or more. For more information go to our Locations Page.
What accommodation will I be living in?
Wherever you choose to work in Nepal you will be placed in a homestay 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 or urban area. In a rural area the facilities will be basic with minimal running water and a squat toilet. However, in an urban placement you will most likely have a flushing Western style toilet and a shower. All of your food will be provided for you at your homestay and you will never be more than 30 minutes from your place of work. For more information on what to expect in a homestay have a look at our Food and Accommodation Page.
Check out our other volunteer teaching options:
