Gap Year Programs in Nepal

In terms of population and size, Nepal is a lot smaller than its neighbors, China and India. But Nepal still packs it’s own hefty punch, boasting a colossal amount of places to see and experiences to explore. In 2015, Nepal was hit by a massive 7.8 magnitude earthquake near Kathmandu. However, the country is rebuilding and still ripe for gap year travel. You’ll find gap year travelers in Nepal exploring everything from the tropical Terai region of southern Nepal to the glacial peaks of Everest. With 360 degrees of tradition, culture, and natural beauty, Nepali adventure is always just a quick rickshaw ride away!

Kathmandu. Buddhist temples, Hindu fests, and street market shopping for days… That’s just a taste of what Kathmandu, Nepal’s capital and largest city, offers gap year travelers. Now, Kathmandu is kinda hectic. With over one million residents, the crowds and traffic can be a little intimidating. But before you know it, you’ll be knee-deep in the local culture, walking like a true Nepali. For peace and quiet, sit down for some dahl baht, a traditional and super tasty Nepali dish. Then head to the ancient Narayanhiti royal palace or one of the city’s many sacred Buddhist sites.

Chitwan. If the idea of exploring the Asian jungle side gets you hyped, Chitwan is the spot. Head to this southern Nepali region to discover a tropical oasis of wildlife, backcountry, and the Chitwan National Park. You’ll find 68 species of mammals including protected rhinos and if you’re lucky you might even spot a Royal Bengal tiger! When you’re not on jungle walks, gappers with medical backgrounds will finds opportunities for medical volunteering at Chitwan health facilities. Or, take your love for animals to the next level researching elephant diseases while helping take care of them.

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Latest Program Reviews

My project in Namibia

August 12, 2024by: Emily Ormond - United KingdomProgram: Gap Year Travel with Oyster Worldwide

9

I have recently come back from my gap year and while I was there I spent a month working on the relationships between humans and elephants. So why would I recommend Oyster? I am so glad I picked to do this project with Oyster because they made me feel very well taken care of and looked after me before and during the project. They talk you though everything you need to know before the project takes place and what clothes and necessities you may need to pack. So what does the project consist of? I would do this project a million times if I could, and if you don’t believe me lots of people who were doing the project had already done it before and had come back because of how much they enjoyed it. So the project is on a two week program and you have the option to stay from two weeks to 3 months. The first week is amazing because you build walls for the local community. Some days some of the locals will come and help, or a few kids will come and keep you company, that is amazing because you feel so immersed, it’s definitely a once in a lifetime experience. The second week is spent tracking elephants. This was my favourite out of the two because you learn all about the elephants foot prints. We also managed to see a two day old elephant which we were lucky enough to name !!! So why pick this project? I think this project and Oyster have a lot of selling points. For starters Oyster takes very good care of you and help you organise yourself before the project starts so it doesn’t feel overwhelming. Secondly you are in the middle of the desert, I don’t think you could get anymore rural than that. You don’t really have much service so it’s lovely to disconnect for two weeks. You get to spend some time with lovely people who you may not meet on a day to day basis, people from different countries, locals, and different ages. You camp under the stars which is also amazing. Overall I would always recommend this amazing project, such a special experience!!

My project in Namibia

August 12, 2024by: Emily Ormond - United KingdomProgram: Gap Year Travel with Oyster Worldwide

9

I have recently come back from my gap year and while I was there I spent a month working on the relationships between humans and elephants. So why would I recommend Oyster? I am so glad I picked to do this project with Oyster because they made me feel very well taken care of and looked after me before and during the project. They talk you though everything you need to know before the project takes place and what clothes and necessities you may need to pack. So what does the project consist of? I would do this project a million times if I could, and if you don’t believe me lots of people who were doing the project had already done it before and had come back because of how much they enjoyed it. So the project is on a two week program and you have the option to stay from two weeks to 3 months. The first week is amazing because you build walls for the local community. Some days some of the locals will come and help, or a few kids will come and keep you company, that is amazing because you feel so immersed, it’s definitely a once in a lifetime experience. The second week is spent tracking elephants. This was my favourite out of the two because you learn all about the elephants foot prints. We also managed to see a two day old elephant which we were lucky enough to name !!! So why pick this project? I think this project and Oyster have a lot of selling points. For starters Oyster takes very good care of you and help you organise yourself before the project starts so it doesn’t feel overwhelming. Secondly you are in the middle of the desert, I don’t think you could get anymore rural than that. You don’t really have much service so it’s lovely to disconnect for two weeks. You get to spend some time with lovely people who you may not meet on a day to day basis, people from different countries, locals, and different ages. You camp under the stars which is also amazing. Overall I would always recommend this amazing project, such a special experience!!

Heart Full of Awe

January 18, 2024by: Cilina J - CanadaProgram: Ultimate Gap Year Adventure

10

Honestly, I don’t want to leave! I’ve met a lot of incredible people from different countries, I’m in love with the staff here, the kids at my site have stolen my heart. I feel so content – my heart is full.”