Last summer, I had the incredible chance to spend two weeks volunteering in Nepal with Travelteer, thanks to a partnership with the University of Westminster. What started as a volunteering trip quickly became so much more: a journey of cultural immersion, meaningful connections, and unforgettable memories.

Living and Working in Rural Nepal

During the first week, we were mainly based near Gandaki, Pokhara. The second week took us even higher into the mountains, to a smaller rural village. Both places were unique and offered different glimpses into daily life in Nepal.

Our days usually began around 7:30 am with our long walk down the hill to our main accommodation for breakfast, and we would start volunteering at the schools by 10:00 am.

We rotated between teaching in the mornings and doing hands-on physical work in the afternoons, from building greenhouses and laying classroom foundations to painting and small construction projects.

Teaching included English, Maths, Science, and even sports like football and volleyball with students. The children’s energy and curiosity made every lesson so rewarding.

Beyond Teaching: Building, Learning, and Growing

Apart from classroom teaching, we helped with practical projects that aimed to support long-term community development. One highlight was carrying countless bamboo poles uphill to help build a greenhouse, which was definitely a workout I won’t forget! Another was laying the foundation for a new classroom that will continue to take shape over the full three-month volunteering cycle.

These experiences taught us resilience, teamwork, and the power of small contributions coming together to create something meaningful.

Free Time, Food, and Fun

After school hours, we were free to explore. Many of us spent afternoons in local cafés, markets, or just wandering through the streets, soaking up the atmosphere. On the weekends, we went paragliding (an out-of-body experience with views over the whole city!), tried ATV rides, paddleboarding, ziplining, and explored Pokhara’s vibrant lakeside area.

The food from our accommodation was another highlight: fresh momos, chow mein, dhal bhat, roti, and more — all bursting with flavour.

What Stayed with Me: People, Culture, and Connection

What made the biggest impact wasn’t just the projects, but the people. The local community welcomed us with genuine warmth and kindness. The children taught us as much as we taught them: about resilience, laughter, and living in the moment.

Saying goodbye was emotional. In just two weeks, we built bonds that felt unbreakable.

Grateful for the Opportunity

I’m truly grateful to Travelteer Impact and the University of Westminster for making this unforgettable experience possible. Volunteering in Nepal taught me so much more than I expected, about community, gratitude, and the beauty of giving back, even in small ways.

If anyone is thinking about volunteering abroad: do it. The landscapes are stunning, but it’s the lessons and the people that leave the deepest mark.

Thank you again to the University of Westminster and Travelteer for making this happen! 

Navodya Henadheera, BSC (Hons) Cognitive and Clinical Neuroscience