FACE Nepal > Information about Nepal for Volunteers


Now that the Maoists are involved in Government, the risks of a few years ago are much reduced. Volunteers are encouraged to contact us if they have any concerns to ask about the current situation of Nepal. We will inform you of what we know and also offer you contacts of volunteers as alternative sources of information. It is also advisable to contact your local Foreign Affairs Department for any current situational views. History The history Nepal has long been independent, and is justifiably proud of the fact that it was never conquered by any empire. Nepal's founding father, Prithivi Narayan Shah, referred to Nepal as a 'Yam between two boulders'-namely China and India Geography Nepal is famous for its mountains, most notably Mt Everest, the tallest mountain in the world. Nepal measures about 800 km east-west and 230 Km at its widest point north-south, making a total area of around 147,181 sq. km. However, the mountains are only part of the nation- many of its people live in the Terai, only 100m above sea level. The contrast between mountains and plains make for one of the most geographically diverse nations on Earth Physiographic Regions Nepal consists of several physiographic regions. Most people live in the lowlands which contain the best farmlands and are much removed from the impression of Nepal of those who have not been here.. The Terai The flattest land in Nepal is the Terai. This forms the Southern 40km of Nepal's North to South length. Most of our volunteers work in the Terai Chure Hills These are the first of the four mountain ranges and span the whole country, with an average height of 900m. Mahabharat Range The next range of mountains is the Mahabharat Range, or the 'Middle Hills'. These are between 1500m and 2700m in height, and can provide some spectacular himalayan views from thier summits The Himalaya Nepal's borders contain about one-third of the total length of ht Himalaya. This includes 10 of the world's 14 tallest mountains, which all stand over 8000m . We can provide volunteer opportunities in the Himalaya for those hardy volunteers who wish to experience this beautiful part of the world. Climate Nepal has essentially two-season year.The winter season from October to May is dry, and the temperatures vary significantly depending on where you are- the Terai rarely dips below 10 degrees celsius, and is generally warm for all but a couple of months. The himalaya can get very cold- volunteers are encouraged to bring warm clothes!! The Monsoon season runs from June to middle of September. In summer in the Tarai region the maximum temperature can reach 42 degrees centigrade- volunteers will be provided with fans Ecology & Environment Despite its abundant natural gifts, the environmment in Nepal is sufferings from a growing and developing population, and the lack of recycling facilities and other environmental protection measures that exist in the West. Forests are being chopped down for housing and firewood. This is why we need volunteers to help us in the conservation projects, replanting these trees. The ecology and environment of Nepal are fragile and a rapidly growing population is constantly putting more pressure on the land. Much of the land between the Himalayas and The Terai has been vigorously modified by humans to provide space for crops, animals and houses. Forests have been cleared, towns have grown and roads have eaten into valleys that were previously accessible only on foot. In many places in the Nepal a community user group is formed and they have community forest to made to promote alternatives and support reforestation. FACE Nepal is involved in this in Chitwan and can provide volunteer opportunities helping the community forests in their work. Air and water pollution are severe in different areas in Nepal due to the deforestation and traffic. Flora There are 6500 known species of trees, bushes and flowers in Nepal. The best time to appreciate this is in March and April when rhododendrons (the national flower) are at thier most beautiful. However, whenever volunteers visit there will be a different floral landscape to experience, as the natural seasons and the farming calendar affects the landscape Fauna Birds More than 800 bird species are known in Nepal, or nearly 10% of the world's species. Chitwan district, where FACE Nepal is based, is well known to bird experts Mammals Many FACE Nepal volunteers take advantage of thier proximity to Chitwan National park to visit on safari, where volunteers can see one horned rhino, wild boars, many species of deer, and if they are lucky, tigers or even wild elephants. Reptiles There are two indigenous species of crocodile: The gharial and the marsh Mugger. Both can be found in Chitwan National Park, near many of our Volunteer placements (though not close enough to pose a danger! Key Information Visas: All foreign nationals (except Indians) require visas. Single-entry tourist visas are issued for up to 90 days. Volunteers should view our FAQ's page for more information Health risks: Some exist, volunteers are encouraged to consult thier local health experts Time: GMT/UTC plus five hours 45 minutes Electricity: 220V, 50 Hz (when available) Weights & measures: Metric
Attractions There is a huge amount to do in Nepal and volunteers are encouraged to obtain a guidebook to the country. We keep copies of Lonely Planet and Rough Guides, donated by former volunteers, in our library which volunteers can borrow or read. Volunteers are free to travel to any of these great destinations, but we request they inform us with sufficient notice of thier plans, especially if it involves taking time from thier volunteer programs. FACE Nepal management are happy to assist volunteers with booking buses, or general advice on travel.
Kathmandu> The country's capital and largest city has more temples than you can shake a stick at. The vast majority of our volunteers arrive at Kathmandu, and as part of thier program fee, volunteers are taken on a tour of Durbar Square and to the famous 'Monkey Temple', Swayambhunath. Volunteers also stay two nights in the tourist district, Thamel, where all sorts of food and drinks are available.

Patan Patan, the second-largest city in the valley, is very close to Kathmandu , but is quieter and more relaxed. The city is a great place to experience traditional Newari architecture.
Bhaktapur Bhaktapur is the third major city in the Kathmandu Valley. More compact than Kathmandu and Patan, Bhaktapur is home to lots of architecture and temples, many dating from the 17th century
Terai Most Volunteers with us will be based in the Terai. It's subtropical climates make for milder winters and its flat land makes it easy for volunteers to get around to see the sights in the area. Top on many volunteers' agendas is the Royal Chitwan National Park, with elephant safaris, jungle walks and canoe trips. Volunteers can see rhinocerous, boar, many types of bird, sloth bears, and if they are very lucky, tigers and leopards. Volunteers here in December can watch the Elephant Polo Championship- former volunteers have even been able to take part! Another major destination that many volunteers like to go to is Lumbini, birthplace of Lord Buddha.
Janakpur is an attractive city in the Terai with Nepal's only railway and temples that bring many Indian tourists. The city's religious significance is due to its role as the birthplace of Sita (Rama's wife in the Hindu epic Ramayana). Janakpur is a good day's bus journey from our base in Chitwan, but volunteers wishing to experience Hindu places of worship can visit Manakamana, Devghat, or Kalika Mandir, all within two hours from FACE Nepal's base
Pokhara The city of Pokara a beautiful city around a lake, surrounded by mountains. Many volunteers wish to go trekking when in Nepal, and Pokhara is a great base for this.
The bus trip to Pokhara will take volunteers about four hours through beautiful river valleys.