A Life-Changing Experience: Volunteering in a Monastery in Pokhara with Volunteer Society Nepal
By Jack Sparey
Volunteering abroad is an opportunity to step out of your comfort zone, immerse yourself in a new culture, and make a meaningful impact. For me, this journey led me to Nepal, a country known for its breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and warm-hearted people. Through Volunteer Society Nepal (VSN), I had the privilege of teaching English in a monastery in Pokhara, an experience that was both humbling and transformative.
In this blog post, I’ll share my journey—from the moment I arrived in Kathmandu to the unforgettable days spent teaching young monks, exploring the Himalayas, and embracing the beauty of Nepal. If you’re considering volunteering in Nepal, I hope my story inspires you to take the leap and embark on this incredible adventure.
Arrival in Kathmandu: A Warm Welcome
My journey began in Kathmandu, the bustling capital of Nepal. As soon as I landed, I was greeted by the friendly staff of VSN, who made me feel at home right away. For the first three days, I stayed with a Nepali host family, an experience that allowed me to dive into the local culture and traditions.
During my stay in Kathmandu, VSN organized basic Nepali language classes, which were incredibly helpful for navigating daily interactions. The staff also took the time to guide me around some of the city’s main landmarks, including the iconic Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple) and the historic Durbar Square. These outings not only helped me acclimate to my new surroundings but also gave me a deeper appreciation for Nepal’s rich history and spirituality.
Journey to Pokhara: A Scenic Adventure
After my brief but enriching stay in Kathmandu, it was time to head to Pokhara, the city that would be my home for the next month. The journey by bus was an adventure in itself, offering stunning views of Nepal’s countryside—rolling hills, terraced fields, and distant mountain peaks.
Pokhara, known for its serene lakes and panoramic views of the Annapurna range, instantly captivated me. I was taken to the monastery near Lakeside, where I would be teaching. The monastery was peaceful and surrounded by nature, providing the perfect environment for both teaching and self-reflection.
Life in the Monastery: Teaching and Learning
Meeting the Monks
On my first day at the monastery, I was introduced to the Guru (head monk) and the young monks I would be teaching. The children, ranging in age from 6 to 16, were incredibly curious and eager to learn. Despite the language barrier, their enthusiasm and smiles made it easy to connect with them.
Daily Routine
My days at the monastery followed a structured yet flexible routine:
- Morning: Teaching English to the young monks. We focused on basic vocabulary, grammar, and conversational skills.
- Afternoon: Heading to a local school to teach English to students of all ages. This was a great opportunity to engage with the wider community.
- Evening: Returning to the monastery for dinner and helping the monks with their homework.
Every day brought new challenges, but it was incredibly rewarding to see the children’s progress. Their determination to learn and improve was truly inspiring.
Cultural Exchange
Living in the monastery was not just about teaching—it was also a profound cultural exchange. I learned about Buddhist traditions, participated in meditation sessions, and even joined the monks for their daily prayers. This immersive experience gave me a deeper understanding of their way of life and strengthened my connection with the community.
Exploring Nepal: Adventures Beyond the Monastery
While teaching was the primary focus of my trip, I also had the opportunity to explore Nepal’s natural beauty and embark on thrilling adventures.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek
One of the highlights of my time in Nepal was completing the Annapurna Base Camp trek with other VSN volunteers. The 6-day trek took us through lush forests, charming villages, and rugged mountain trails, culminating in breathtaking views of the Annapurna range.
The trek was challenging but incredibly rewarding. Our guides, arranged by VSN, were knowledgeable, supportive, and motivating. They shared fascinating stories about the region and ensured our safety throughout the journey. Standing at the base camp, surrounded by towering peaks, was a moment I’ll never forget.
Pokhara Half-Marathon and Bungee Jumping
During my weekends in Pokhara, I explored the city and its surroundings. I participated in the Pokhara Half-Marathon, an exhilarating experience that allowed me to connect with locals and fellow travelers.
For the adrenaline junkies out there, I also completed the world’s second-highest bungee jump in Kushma. The jump, which plunges 228 meters into a gorge, was both terrifying and thrilling—a true bucket-list experience!
The Role of VSN: Support and Guidance
One of the things that made my trip so seamless and enjoyable was the incredible support from Volunteer Society Nepal. From the moment I arrived, the VSN team took care of all the logistics, including transportation, accommodation, and program placements.
Their attention to detail and commitment to ensuring a positive experience for volunteers is truly commendable. Whether it was organizing my journey from Kathmandu to Pokhara or arranging the Annapurna Base Camp trek, VSN handled everything with professionalism and care.
Reflections: A Journey of Growth and Connection
My month in Nepal was nothing short of life-changing. Teaching in the monastery allowed me to make a tangible difference in the lives of the young monks, while also learning valuable lessons about patience, humility, and resilience.
The adventures I embarked on—whether trekking in the Himalayas or bungee jumping in Kushma—pushed me out of my comfort zone and helped me discover new strengths.
But what truly made this experience unforgettable was the people I met along the way—the kind-hearted monks, the welcoming host family, the supportive VSN staff, and the fellow volunteers who became lifelong friends.
Why Volunteer with VSN?
If you’re considering volunteering in Nepal, I highly recommend Volunteer Society Nepal. Here’s why:
- Authentic Cultural Immersion: VSN ensures that volunteers are fully immersed in the local culture, from staying with host families to participating in traditional activities.
- Meaningful Impact: Whether teaching, working in community projects, or supporting local organizations, your efforts make a real difference.
- Comprehensive Support: VSN takes care of all the logistics, allowing you to focus on your experience.
- Opportunities for Adventure: From treks to cultural tours, VSN helps you explore the best of Nepal.
Final Thoughts
Volunteering in Nepal with VSN was one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. It allowed me to step out of my comfort zone, connect with a vibrant culture, and contribute to a meaningful cause.
If you’re looking for an adventure that combines personal growth, cultural immersion, and the chance to make a difference, I encourage you to consider volunteering with Volunteer Society Nepal. Trust me, it’s an experience you’ll cherish forever.
Thank you for reading my story! If you have any questions or would like to learn more about my experience, feel free to reach out. And to the team at VSN—thank you for making my journey so unforgettable. I hope to return to Nepal someday soon!