About Us
The Good Karma Foundation invites individuals of all ages and professions to experience the heart of rural Nepal through our “Holistic Community Development” program. Designed as a meaningful break from routine, this initiative allows students, gap-year travelers, and professionals to help build resilient communities while forming strong personal connections with local people. Your journey begins with a warm welcome at Kathmandu Airport and a guided city tour, followed by a scenic seven-hour drive to Lamjung district—the gateway to the Annapurna region. By staying in villages like Khudi and Siurung, you become part of a framework that supports social and economic development in rural communities.
Once settled, volunteers take part in a variety of activities, including teaching in local schools, light construction work, organic farming, and preparing traditional meals. We see volunteering as a two-way cultural exchange, where you contribute to local development while learning from the traditions and daily life of diverse ethnic groups, including Brahmin, Gurung, Tamang, and Newar communities. Accommodation is provided in a safe, earthquake-resistant volunteer house built with Korean technology, offering a comfortable communal living space that encourages international friendship. Meals are prepared using fresh local ingredients such as vegetables, milk, and honey.
The program is set in the stunning landscape of the Mansiri Himal range, with views of Manaslu, Himalchuli, and Ngadi Chuli. Weekends are free for exploration and relaxation, including hikes to nearby viewpoints, visits to waterfalls and hot springs, yoga in nature, or swimming in the Marshyangdi River. This program offers a balanced mix of cultural immersion, adventure, and community development, creating meaningful experiences and lasting memories.
Program at a glance
Why choose us?
- Authentic “Two-Way” Cultural Immersion
Live as part of rural Nepali communities in villages like Khudi or Siurung. Share organic meals, engage with groups such as Gurung, Tamang, and Brahmin, and experience a true cultural exchange where both locals and volunteers learn from each other.
- Flexible Activities
Choose from teaching, light construction, organic farming, and cooking support. Tasks are adapted to your interests and skills to ensure a meaningful experience.
- Local Impact & Ethical Structure
A locally run Nepali organization ensures your contribution directly supports community projects. Volunteers stay in a safe, communal, earthquake-resistant house that encourages cultural exchange.
- Himalayan Location & Adventure
Located in Lamjung near the Annapurna region, the program offers mountain views and weekend activities like hiking, waterfalls, hot springs, and village exploration.
Requirements
Volunteers aged 14 and above can take part in this project and support the community. Being open-minded and respectful toward other cultures is important.
Volunteer experience
A typical day of a volunteer is divided into three parts: morning, day, and evening.
Early in the morning, volunteers wake up and are offered warm Nepali tea by the host family. After freshening up, they have breakfast before heading to agricultural work, mainly helping with vegetable harvesting.
After the morning work, volunteers return home for lunch, which is prepared by the host family.
In the afternoon, volunteers go to the school for teaching activities, usually 2–3 periods between 10 am and 2 pm. During school time, light snacks such as tea, biscuits, bread, or beaten rice are provided. Volunteers can teach English, Maths, Science, or take part in activities like painting and sports.
After school, volunteers return home, spend time with the host family, walk around the village, and play with children, followed by dinner and relaxation in the evening.
$15 USD Per Day
During your volunteering journey, you will stay in authentic Nepalese homestays within the village. You will be hosted by carefully selected local families who welcome you into their homes, offering a warm and safe family atmosphere. The living arrangements are simple and rustic, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in rural life. This is a chance to step away from modern comforts and experience the genuine hospitality of Nepal, sharing meals and stories with your hosts as a true member of the community.
Yes, three times Nepalese standard foods Breakfast , Lunch and dinner are included in the package.
The program is set against a majestic backdrop beneath the Mansiri Himal range, offering views of Manaslu—the world’s 8th highest peak—along with Himalchuli and Ngadi Chuli. Weekends are reserved for exploration and relaxation: you can hike to Batase Dhunga or Peace Hill, visit Bhulbhule Waterfall, relax in the Jagat hot springs, or practice yoga in nature. Whether swimming in the Marshyangdi River or simply enjoying the serenity, this program offers a holistic blend of adventure and sustainable development. It is an opportunity to support children’s education and create lasting memories before potentially continuing your journey to Pokhara or the Annapurna Circuit.
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