Nepal: International Work Camp in Sankhu

Presentation of the programme

• To foster intercultural exchange, dialogue, and understanding between different cultures. • To enhance international volunteers' knowledge of living conditions in other parts of the world. • To improve participants' understanding of development projects. • To encourage volunteers to share their experiences about different cultures, living conditions, and development projects in Nepal. • To provide Nepalese youth with the opportunity to learn from international volunteers about life, culture, and academic/technical knowledge. Volunteer activities: • Cultural exchange program: High school students will engage in a cultural exchange with the volunteers, fostering mutual understanding and sharing experiences. • Exploration of Newari traditions: Participants will learn about the traditional Newari lifestyle, enriching their cultural understanding. • Environmental awareness initiatives: Programs will address environmental issues like global warming. Volunteers will organize paper and plastic collection drives and teach the local community about proper waste disposal methods. • Heritage site cleaning: Volunteers will clean the Bajrayogini and Shree Swasthani Temples to promote cultural heritage preservation. • Day hiking to Nagarkot: Participants will enjoy a hike to Nagarkot, experiencing rural life and the stunning Himalayan view. • Educational exchange: Nepalese students will gain insight into international education systems, while both Nepalese students and international volunteers will participate in cultural, dance, and art activities. Language: English

About the accomodation

In a community center room or a home-stay with local people. Volunteers need to bring their own sleeping bag. Volunteers will get three meals a day including the Nepalese dish called Dal Bhat, i.e. Dal (soup of lentil or beans) and Bhat (cooked rice) with Tarkari (cooked vegetables). This is the staple diet of the Nepalese.

About the location

Sanku is a beautiful historic and religious small town in Kathmandu district, about 20 km South West from Kathmandu central. Sankhu is a popular destination for international volunteers. Major attractions of Sankhu are the rich Newari culture and the friendly local people. Sankhu is located in the northeast Kathmandu Valley, close to the Sali Nadi River. It is listed as a World Heritage of UNESCO and is famous for the Swastani temple and the Holi River, and for the Hindu and Bajrajogini temples. Sankhu has faced substantial challenges since being added to the tentative World Heritage List in 2008. The 2015 earthquakes inflicted catastrophic damage, destroying over 65% of its buildings, displacing more than 2,000 residents, and exacerbating an ongoing trend of outmigration. Although some restoration efforts have been undertaken, much work remains to revive Sankhu’s cultural heritage and restore a sense of community. The preservation of its unique history and architecture is crucial for the long-term resilience of this significant site.

About the leisure activities

Participants will enjoy a number of sightseeing opportunities: Sali Nadi, Shree Swasthani Mata Temple and Bajrayogini Temple, Sankhu city, a one-day hike

Requirements

18 and over• No formal qualifications required (relevant experience is appreciated) • Positive attitude, open-mindedness, respect, and interest in Nepali culture