Women's Empowerment in Nepal

Your first impression of Nepal’s crazy capital isn’t something you’ll forget in a hurry. A sensory overload of sounds and smells, Kathmandu is amazing but full-on. Dive into expedition life, assign some team roles and meet the ground team to discuss your plans. You’ll also need to buy a SIM card for the team phone, so head to the market and get to grips with the currency, the Nepalese Rupee. Join a women’s social enterprise workshop to discover Nepali cooking, handicrafts and language, the organisation supports disabled and discriminated women by providing training, education and employment opportunities. Set aside some free time to navigate through the colourful streets and bustling markets, smell tasty food sizzling on street stalls, and tuck into some momos (Nepalese dumplings).

Spend the next few days contributing to a project that provides housing for women who lost their husbands in the April 2015 earthquake. Widows are often marginalised in Nepalese society, so they need safe homes to raise their families. Travel into the countryside outside Kathmandu, an area that was devastated by the earthquake. Meet the local experts who build earthquake-resistant buildings from sustainable materials. Ask questions, watch closely, then roll up your sleeves and help out. This is a side of Nepal that few tourists see. Rural life can be tough, and you’ll have none of the comforts you’re used to back home. Experience more by helping out with farming, preparing lunch with the locals and learning some Nepali. When it’s time to wave goodbye, travel back to Kathmandu and spend the rest of the day preparing for your big trek.

Travel to Sundarijal (1,460m), the gateway to Nagarjun National Park and start of the Helambu Trek. Load up your daypack, step forward as team leader and set off into the mountain wilderness. Get ready for long climbs, steep descents, tricky stream crossings and incredible views of the snow-capped Langtang peaks. Branch off onto paths that are rarely used by tourists and look for signs of wild pigs and red pandas. As you trek, listen for the tinkle of prayer bells and seek out the Buddhist chortens (monuments). Each night, you’ll crash out in traditional teahouses, with one night camping under the stars. Trekking at altitude is tough, so work as a team and keep morale up. When you arrive at Timbu bridge, the feeling of achievement is incredible. Reflect on your epic trek on the journey back to Kathmandu.

Visiting Kathmandu offers a vibrant blend of culture, adventure, and relaxation. Planning ahead ensures you make the most of a free day in this bustling capital. For thrill-seekers, consider an overnight trip to the Trisuli River for an exhilarating whitewater rafting experience. Surrounded by stunning landscapes, you’ll navigate rapids and enjoy Nepal’s natural beauty before setting up for a night in fixed tents on the river bank. If you prefer to stay within the city, Kathmandu offers an array of enriching activities. Begin with a visit to the historic Durbar Square, where ancient temples and palaces stand as reminders of Nepal’s rich heritage. From there, explore the bustling Asan Market, a sensory feast of vibrant colors, exotic spices, and local crafts. For a hands-on cultural experience, join a cooking workshop to learn traditional Nepalese recipes or immerse yourself in a painting or wood carving class to create your own masterpiece. Or, if relaxation is what you seek, take a yoga class to unwind and reconnect amid the city’s energy. Each option offers a unique taste of Kathmandu, whether you’re drawn to adventure, culture, or self-care.

After the best two weeks of your life, it’s time to travel home, so cram everything into your backpack and head to the airport. Check in, sit back and let it all sink in, you’ve just experienced something incredible. Nepal has opened your eyes and challenged you more than you ever imagined. You’ve fast-tracked your life skills and connected with locals; you’ve led your team and made new friends for life. These experiences will shape who you are and put you on the path to becoming a true global citizen. Prepare to return home forever changed.