GoAbroad

Roots & Rivers: Conservation, Culture & Community in Nepal

$1,990Program Costs
5.0 / 5Student rating
6Reviews
1Program
1999Year established

Program Overview

Explore Nepal through an immersive conservation and community engagement program across Kathmandu, Tanahun, Pokhara, and Chitwan National Park. This experiential journey combines cultural immersion, environmental conservation, and grassroots social impact in one of the world’s most geographically and culturally diverse countries. Students will live with host families in a rural village and support women-led homestay revitalization through English and digital media workshops. In Chitwan, participants work alongside Indigenous Tharu communities on community-based conservation initiatives, including documenting traditional ecological knowledge, supporting cultural preservation, and engaging in hands-on environmental work in forests and river systems. The program also includes visits to UNESCO World Heritage Sites, trekking in the Annapurna region, a safari in Chitwan National Park, and engagement with local leaders and organizations. Designed for students interested in sustainability, global development, conservation, and intercultural learning, it offers practical, real-world experience beyond traditional study abroad. 3–13 January, 2027

Ready to dive deeper into this program?

Jump to the full breakdown of dates, costs, eligibility, and more.

See program details

Program Highlights

Experience rural Nepal through immersive homestays.
Support indigenous communities and conservation in Chitwan National Park.
Explore majestic mountains, ancient temples, and tiger safaris.
Contribute to community-led service projects.
Build skills in sustainability, leadership, and cross-cultural understanding.

What's Included

Accommodation / Housing for Program Duration
All Program Activity Costs
Wifi Costs
Weekday Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Weekend Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Welcome Dinner
Airport Transfer (Pick-Up)
Airport Transfer (Drop-Off)
Group Meals
In-Country Transportation To & From Project
On-Site / In-Country Staff Support
Pre-Departure Orientation
In-Country Orientation
Certificate of Completion
Emergency Support

Exclusions

Travel Insurance
Medical / Accident Insurance
Visa Fees
International Airfare
Laundry
Vaccination Costs
Academic Credit
Souvenirs

Quick Details

Location
Kathmandu, NepalPokhara, NepalChitwan, Nepal
Starts At$1,990 for 11 days/10 nights
Availability
Year(s) Offered:2027
Duration:
  • 1-2 Weeks
Age Requirement18-35
Types & Subjects
Subjects & Courses:
  • Agriculture
  • Anthropology
  • Conservation & Preservation
  • Culture
  • Development Studies
  • Earth Sciences
  • Ecology
  • Education
  • English
  • Environmental Studies
  • Ethnic Studies
  • Human Rights Advocacy
  • Interreligious & Interethnic Relations
  • Natural Sciences
  • Service Learning
  • Sustainable Development
  • Women's Studies
Causes:
  • Agriculture
  • Anthropology
  • Community Development
  • Conservation
  • Culture
  • Eco-Tourism
  • Education
  • English Teaching
  • Environment
  • Gender Issues
  • Human Rights
  • Reforestation
  • Social Work
  • Tourism
  • Tree Planting
  • Wildlife
  • Women
GuidelinesAll Nationalities
Inquire about this program

Updated Aug 5, 2026

Program Details

Learn all the nitty gritty details you need to know

Locations

  • Chitwan, Nepal
  • Kathmandu, Nepal
  • Pokhara, Nepal

Fields & Subjects

  • Anthropology
  • Ecology
  • Education
  • Environmental Studies
  • Women's Studies
  • Development Studies
  • Culture
  • English
  • Sustainable Development
  • Agriculture
  • Ethnic Studies
  • Conservation & Preservation
  • Natural Sciences
  • Service Learning
  • Earth Sciences
  • Human Rights Advocacy
  • Interreligious & Interethnic Relations

Available Terms / Availability

  • Years Offered: 2027
  • Duration: 1-2 Weeks
  • Terms Available: Winter

Eligible Nationalities

  • All Nationalities
  • This Program is also open to Group

Education Levels & Language

  • Language: English
  • Any/All Education Levels Accepted

Accommodation Options

  • Dormitory
  • Group living
  • Home-stays
  • Other

Application Procedures

  • Online Application

Age Requirement

18-35

Duration

1-2 Weeks

Starts At

  • 11 days/10 nights: $1,990

Refund Policy

Refund with conditions

View Refund Policy

Program Reviews

Hear what past participants have to say about International Study Programs

5.0
6 reviews

Rating breakdown

5
6
4
0
3
0
2
0
1
0

Top categories

Community Engagement
4.7
Volunteer Placement
4.5
Health & Safety
4.5
Program Administration
4.3
Day to Day Life
4.2
Living Situation
4.0

Participated in this program? Share your experience now.

Review this Program

Showing 1-6 of 6 reviews

Nancy E.June 2026

Outstanding Educational Partnership

I collaborated with colleagues to design and implement a bilateral education program for undergraduate and graduate students. The experience was strengthened by exceptional planning, thoughtful local insights, and a commitment to creating meaningful learning opportunities. The program delivered significant value for students, community partners, and hosts, while fostering cross-cultural understanding and academic growth. The professionalism and dedication demonstrated throughout the process exceeded expectations.

Jonathon D.June 2026

Inspiring Community Impact

This experience demonstrated how social entrepreneurship can create meaningful and lasting change in communities. Through exposure to local initiatives and community-led projects, I gained valuable insight into innovative approaches to sustainable development and social impact. The program highlighted the power of local leadership and the importance of creating opportunities that benefit communities over the long term.

Alex N.June 2026

A Dream Realised in Nepal

Seeking an immersive learning experience for a group of 17 young people, we found a program that exceeded our expectations. The support and guidance provided throughout the experience were exceptional, allowing us to form meaningful connections with the people of Dungetar and learn from their culture, resilience, and hospitality. The experience had a profound impact on our group, and we left feeling connected to a community that will always hold a special place in our hearts.

João Pedro R.June 2026

Expanding My Understanding of Sustainability

Participating in the International Sustainability School was a life-changing experience. Living within Nepali culture and visiting a range of sustainability-focused projects expanded my understanding of sustainable development and community-based solutions. The combination of cultural immersion, practical learning, and direct engagement with local initiatives created a unique educational experience that I would highly recommend to anyone interested in sustainability.

Kelwa N.June 2026

Challenged and Inspired

I took part in the International Sustainability School and left both challenged and inspired beyond my expectations. The program offered meaningful learning opportunities while exposing participants to real-world sustainability initiatives and community development efforts. It was an educational and transformative experience that broadened my perspective and demonstrated the positive impact that responsible global engagement can have on both communities and participants

Abad E.June 2026

A Life-Changing Experience

I participated in the Exploratory Journey to Nepal in 2016 and found it to be a truly life-changing experience. The program provided an opportunity to engage with local communities, gain new perspectives, and deepen my understanding of Nepal's culture and development challenges. The experience left a lasting impression on me, and I believe many more people would benefit from participating in programs like this.

Inquire

Inquire about this program

Have a question? Send us a message and the program team will get back to you.

Step 1 of 4Timing

How long do you want to travel?

FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers to all the most common questions about International Study Programs.

Do I need prior experience in conservation or community work?

No prior experience is required. This program is designed for students and emerging professionals who are interested in sustainability, conservation, global development, or cultural immersion. Participants will receive guidance and support throughout the program.

What will accommodation be like during the program?

Participants will stay in a combination of hotels, guesthouses, and community homestays. During the village portion of the program, students will live with local host families for a more immersive cultural experience.

What kind of work will participants do?

Participants will support community-led projects focused on conservation, cultural preservation, digital storytelling, and women’s empowerment. Activities may include environmental restoration work, English workshops, social media content creation, museum support, and documenting traditional ecological knowledge.

Is this program physically demanding?

The program involves moderate physical activity, including walking, hiking, village living, and outdoor project work. Participants do not need advanced fitness levels, but should be comfortable with active days and adapting to different environments.

What makes this Nepal program unique?

Unlike traditional study abroad or volunteer programs, this experience combines experiential learning, cultural immersion, and community engagement in partnership with local communities. Participants gain hands-on experience while exploring Nepal’s diverse landscapes, Indigenous cultures, and conservation initiatives.

Have more questions?

We're here to help!

The GoAbroad team is here to support you as you choose the best program for you, and International Study Programs is also happy to answer any questions you have.

Trusted by millions of travelers worldwide since 1997