About Us
Partnership for Sustainable Development Nepal (PSD Nepal) is a non-profit, non-governmental organization established in 2002 with the mission of empowering vulnerable communities through education, environmental conservation, healthcare, women's empowerment, youth engagement, and sustainable development. Registered with the Social Welfare Council and affiliated with the NGO Federation of Nepal, PSD Nepal has over two decades of experience implementing community-driven development projects across Nepal.
Our work focuses on creating sustainable solutions together with local communities rather than for them. We believe that meaningful development happens when local people actively participate in the planning, implementation, and long-term management of projects.
Volunteers are an essential part of our work. Since 2003, we have welcomed more than 2,200 volunteers from Nepal and around the world who have contributed to education programs, environmental conservation, health camps, research, climate change awareness, plastic recycling initiatives, youth empowerment, and community development activities.
Current volunteer opportunities include:
- Teaching English and leading creative activities in schools
- Climate change education and environmental awareness
- Tree planting and reforestation
- Plastic recycling and upcycling projects
- Community health and hygiene promotion
- Research and documentation
- Women's and youth empowerment programs
- Community workshops and awareness campaigns
- Media, photography, videography, and social media
- Grant writing, fundraising, and organizational development
Volunteers work alongside our experienced local staff and community members while learning about Nepali culture, traditions, and sustainable development. Every volunteer directly contributes to improving the lives of children, families, and marginalized communities while gaining meaningful international experience.
Program at a glance
Why choose us?
PSD Nepal offers an authentic grassroots volunteering experience where your work creates a real and lasting impact. Unlike large commercial volunteer organizations, we work directly with local communities and involve volunteers in meaningful projects that focus on education, environmental conservation, climate action, sustainable livelihoods, and community development.
You will become part of our team, experience Nepali culture from the inside, and work alongside local schools, community groups, and environmental initiatives. We provide personal guidance, flexible placements based on your interests and skills, and opportunities to learn while making a genuine difference. Your contribution supports sustainable, community-led development rather than short-term volunteer activities.
We host volunteers year-round across a variety of programs, allowing you to choose an opportunity that best matches your interests, skills, and availability.
Requirements
Volunteers should have a positive attitude, be flexible, respect different cultures, and be willing to learn from local communities. Previous experience is welcome but not required for most projects.
Preferred qualities:
- Basic English communication skills
- Interest in education, the environment, or community development
- Respect for local customs and traditions
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team
- Open-mindedness and adaptability
Some specialized placements, such as medical, research, communications, grant writing, or professional training, may require relevant education or experience.
Volunteer experience
A typical day begins at 7:00 am with tea and biscuits, followed by a morning briefing. Volunteers have an early lunch before heading to their project site around 9:30 am. Activities vary by placement and may include teaching, environmental conservation, community development, photography, videography, or awareness campaigns.
Projects usually finish around 4:00 pm, after which volunteers return to their host family or accommodation. Evenings include free time, a reflection meeting, and dinner around 7:00 pm. Weekends are generally free for sightseeing and cultural activities.
Program fees vary depending on the type, location, and duration of the placement. As a general guide, accommodation and three meals cost approximately USD 15 per day. Public transportation to and from project sites costs around USD 20 each way, while private transportation is available at an additional cost.
Volunteers who require a dedicated Nepali counterpart or interpreter can request one for USD 300 per month (minimum charges apply for placements of less than one month). A one-time PSD Nepal registration fee of USD 250 covers pre-arrival support, airport pickup, orientation, project coordination, administration, and logistics.
Some projects may have additional material or activity costs. We are committed to keeping our fees affordable and transparent while ensuring volunteer contributions directly support local communities and sustainable development.
Volunteers stay with carefully selected local host families or in simple volunteer guesthouses, depending on the project location. Accommodation is clean, safe, and comfortable, with shared bedrooms and bathrooms. Staying with a host family offers an authentic cultural experience while supporting the local economy.
Wi-Fi is available in most locations, although internet speeds may vary in rural areas
Three traditional Nepali meals are provided each day. Meals typically include Dal Bhat (rice, lentils, and vegetables), seasonal vegetables, noodles, chapati, eggs, fresh fruit, and tea. Vegetarian options are always available, and dietary requirements can be accommodated if notified in advance.
Drinking water is also provided.
During weekends, volunteers are free to relax, spend time with their host family, or explore the surrounding area, depending on their project location. Some placements are located near cultural or natural attractions that volunteers can visit during their free time.
Before or after their volunteer placement, participants are encouraged to travel and experience Nepal's many attractions, including Kathmandu's UNESCO World Heritage Sites, temples and monasteries, hiking trails, traditional festivals, local markets, Pokhara, Chitwan National Park, Lumbini, Langtang National Park, and many other beautiful destinations. These experiences provide a wonderful opportunity to discover Nepal's rich culture, history, and natural beauty.
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