Nov 13th – Nov 23rd 2024
Mardi Himal Trek & Volunteering at Shree Modi School

At Adventure Aid Nepal, we offer sustainable, low-impact volunteering opportunities to support the most impoverished communities, especially schools and children who have received minimal outside assistance since the earthquake of 2015. We provide safe, responsible, and affordable volunteering experiences, collaborating with the charity Juniper Trust, which has rebuilt 20 schools in the past seven years in some of Nepal’s most deprived areas since the earthquake.

Adventure Aid Nepal was established in 2017 and has since engaged volunteers and raised funds for ten of these schools, prioritizing areas with limited or no other financial support. We have assisted over 1000 children, providing them with new shoes, uniforms, and educational materials. Our team, along with dedicated volunteers and supporters, revisited these remote villages to provide assistance where needed, including the construction of new schools and the delivery of essential supplies. The energy and inspiration behind Adventure Aid Nepal have persisted through trips in 2018, 2019, 2022, and 2023, with a two-year hiatus due to COVID restrictions. 2024 marks our fifth year of organizing volunteer trips to Nepal.

In 2024, our focus will be on supporting Shree Modi School, located in the foothills of Nepal’s Annapurna Mountain range. Our group aims to raise funds to provide uniforms, library books, writing notebooks, whiteboards, pens, pencils, and other essential equipment to enhance the learning environment for the students.

Ranjana Beni School 2023

The trip encompasses volunteering at Shree Modi School, delivering much-needed school equipment, uniforms, and teacher/learning aids, planting fruit trees in Landruk, and completing Nepal’s stunning 4-day Mardi Himal Trek.

The activities will take place at Shree Modi School in the Annapurna Foothills, along with tree planting in Landruk and the Mardi Himal trek.

Includes a donation to Nepal Evergreen to offset the carbon footprint of your flight to Nepal.

We do not ask for a deposit, but proof of flights booked will secure your place on the trip. Payment should be made by bank transfer or by credit card, 4 weeks prior to departure to Himalayan Expeditions in Nepal.

You need to arrive in Kathmandu by November 13th and can depart Kathmandu on November 23rd. However, you are free to arrive earlier and depart later, allowing you extra time in Nepal if desired. Transfers are included for your flights on the group arrival and departure days, and there is a cost-effective taxi service available outside of these days. A representative will be available to assist you while in Kathmandu should you need any help with your plans. Additionally, it’s possible to join or leave the trip in Pokhara as part of a longer stay in Nepal.

Our goal is to raise £5,000 to support the 60 children at Shree Modi School. This will enable us to provide new uniforms, shoes, rucksacks, pencils, and books for each child, with just £25 being enough to provide a child with these essential items and give them new hope. Additionally, we aim to purchase much-needed school equipment and contribute to building a school library. As part of our commitment to sustainability, we plan to buy and help plant 100 fruit saplings during our visit. This fundraising target is a collective effort, with no individual requirement and no lower or upper limit to what you can raise. We will share fundraising initiatives on Adventure Aid Nepal’s Facebook and Instagram pages.

We encourage all Adventure Aid Nepal volunteers to create their own individual “JustGiving” pages for personal challenges of their choosing. Take inspiration from past efforts, such as completing a two-mile lake swim, conquering the UK’s 3 Peaks Challenge, accompanying children on a Specialist Academy Trust 5k walk, running 5k every day for a month, hosting village cake stalls, or organizing coffee mornings. There’s no limit to what you can achieve! All funds raised will directly support the Juniper Trust and will be added to the total on the Group JustGiving Page. Fundraising initiatives will be shared on Adventure Aid Nepal’s Facebook and Instagram pages.

ITINERARY

Transfers are included for your flights on the group arrival and departure days, and there is a cost-effective taxi service available outside of these days. We stay at a comfortable hotel in the popular Thamel district of Kathmandu which is bustling with cafes, shops, and restaurants. You can check in to the hotel anytime during the day, there will be a briefing at 4.00 pm where you will pick up your free Kitbag, AAN T-Shirt and your free hired Sleeping Bag and Duvet Jacket. We will also run through the itinerary and check that you have the correct clothing and equipment needed for the trek, there is time for last minute shopping and to change money (see spending money requirements and tipping guidelines). The group dinner will be in a restaurant close to the hotel.

We depart from the hotel bright and early for our morning flight to Pokhara. The short yet scenic journey treats us to breathtaking panoramic vistas of the snow-capped peaks belonging to the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, setting the perfect tone for the adventures awaiting us. Upon landing in Pokhara, we are greeted by the awe-inspiring sight of the towering peaks dominating the skyline, drawing us into the hills for the trip. Following a transfer by road to Kande village, located on the outskirts of Pokhara, we begin our trek along the renowned Mardi Himal Ridge. This iconic ridge offers uninterrupted vistas of the surrounding Himalayan peaks, including the majestic Annapurna and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) mountains. As we traverse ancient trails through villages and forests, we progress towards Australian Camp and Pritam Deurali. The tranquil allure of the rural landscapes gradually unfolds around us, providing a serene and picturesque backdrop for our trekking adventure.

Leaving the ridge behind us temporarily, we continue our trek from Deurali to the village of Thinku, situated on the opposite side of the Modi Khola River, which thunders its way down from the Annapurna massif. As there are very few crossing points, we descend to Landruk, where a bridge allows us to make the trek up to the school on the opposite bank. The trail meanders down through terraced fields, where local farmers toil the land, and dense forests, home to a myriad of flora and fauna, offering glimpses of traditional Nepali life and culture along the way. Passing through the picturesque village of Landruk, with its traditional stone houses and terraced fields, we cross the Modi Khola River and reach our campsite by the school in Thinku. Here, amidst the rustic charm of the village, we are welcomed with open arms by the teachers and children of Shree Modi School, our hosts for the night.

Today, we immerse ourselves in the heart of the local community as we engage in various community service activities at Shree Modi School. Despite escaping significant damage during the devastating earthquake of 2015, the school still faces financial challenges. As volunteers, we lend our hands to participate in painting and other tasks aimed at revitalizing the school premises. Throughout the day, we interact with the students, forging meaningful connections and leaving a lasting impact on the lives of the local community members. Our goal is to raise £5,000 to support the 60 children at Shree Modi School. This will enable us to provide new uniforms, shoes, rucksacks, pencils, and books for each child. Additionally, we aim to purchase much-needed school equipment and contribute to building a school library.

Continuing our volunteering at Shree Modi School, we dedicate another day to painting, refurbishing, and interacting with the students. As we work side by side with the local community members, we share laughter, stories, and cultural exchanges, fostering mutual understanding and appreciation. Through our collective efforts, we can help contribute to the school, assisting the teachers in creating a vibrant learning environment where students can thrive.

After bidding farewell to the warm hospitality of Shree Modi School, we retrace our footsteps to the village of Landruk on the east bank of the Modi Khola, where we spend an afternoon tree planting as part of the Nepal Evergreen Initiative, aiming to promote environmental conservation and sustainable development in the region. Amidst the serene beauty of the Himalayan landscape, we plant trees, symbolizing our commitment to preserving the natural heritage of the Annapurna region for future generations to enjoy. As we work together with the local community members, we forge bonds of friendship and cooperation, united by our shared goal of protecting the pristine beauty of the mountains. We spend the night in Landruk.

After breakfast, we embark on a trek to Forest Camp. The initial part of the walk consists of many steps through beautiful dense forests, where we encounter a rich array of wildlife, especially birds, of which there are many rare types in this region of Nepal. As we ascend towards Forest Camp, we are rewarded with sweeping views of the surrounding landscape, offering glimpses of the majestic peaks that tower above us. The altitude difference between Landruk and Forest Camp on the Mardi Himal trek is approximately 1,000 meters. Landruk is situated at an altitude of around 1,565 meters above sea level, while Forest Camp is located at approximately 2,550 meters above sea level. The walking time between Landruk and Forest Camp can vary depending on individual hiking speed, trail conditions, and rest breaks. On average, it takes about 4 to 6 hours to trek from Landruk to Forest Camp. Upon reaching our destination, we stay in a basic but comfortable lodge for the night, surrounded by the tranquil beauty of the forest.

Starting our day with a hearty breakfast, we begin our trek from Forest Camp towards High Camp. The trail winds along a stunning ridge, offering panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and mountains. As we traverse the ridge, we are treated to enchanting vistas of snow-capped peaks and lush green landscapes stretching as far as the eye can see. The trail meanders through enchanting rhododendron forests, where vibrant blooms add splashes of color to the scenery. As we ascend, the landscape transforms, revealing breathtaking views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Mardi Himal, Gangapurna, Annapurna I, and Tent Peak (Tharpu Chuli). The altitude gain between Forest Camp and High Camp is significant, with High Camp situated at approximately 3,580 meters above sea level. The walking time for this portion of the trek depends on various factors such as individual pace and trail conditions but typically takes around 3 to 4 hours. Upon reaching High Camp, we settle into our accommodation in a cozy lodge nestled amidst the high alpine landscape, immersing ourselves in the tranquility of the mountains.

In the early morning, before the first light of dawn touches the horizon, we set out with only the soft glow of our headlamps to guide us on the final leg of our journey to the viewpoint. The trail gently ascends through the silent forest, enveloped in hushed tranquility as we make our way towards our destination. As we climb higher, the darkness begins to dissipate, and the first hints of dawn paint the sky with hues of pink and orange, signaling the approaching sunrise. Upon reaching the viewpoint at 4,000m, we are greeted by the sun emerging from behind the towering peaks, casting a golden glow over the majestic Annapurna and Machhapuchhre peaks. After taking in the view and capturing many pictures to preserve the memory, we return to High Camp for a late breakfast.

The descent is significant as we follow a newly made trail by the Annapurna conservation team. The trail winds its way through verdant forests, then terraced fields and quaint villages dotting the hillsides. The altitude decreases steadily as we make our way down to approximately 1,700 meters above sea level in Sidhing. Eventually, after a fulfilling day of trekking, we reach the village of Sidhing, our final destination. Nestled amidst terraced fields and surrounded by towering mountains, Sidhing welcomes us with its serene atmosphere and hospitality. Here, at the lower altitude, we reflect on the memorable experiences of our trek, grateful for the journey and the opportunity to immerse ourselves in the beauty of the Mardi Himal region.

After bidding farewell to the tranquil village of Sidhing, we embark on a scenic drive towards Pokhara. The journey takes us through winding mountain roads, offering glimpses of terraced fields, rushing rivers, and distant peaks along the way. As we descend from the highlands, the landscape transitions to lush valleys and charming villages, each with its own unique charm. Along the route, we pause at scenic viewpoints to admire the majestic scenery and stretch our legs. Finally, we arrive in Pokhara, a vibrant lakeside city nestled against the backdrop of the Himalayas. Here, we check into our accommodations and indulge in a leisurely afternoon, strolling along the lakeshore promenade or simply relaxing amidst the serene surroundings.

With a free day in Pokhara, the possibilities for adventure and exploration are endless. Thrill-seekers can soar high above the valley with exhilarating paragliding adventures or delve into the mysterious depths of Mahendra Gufa, the mystical caves waiting to be explored. For those seeking a more leisurely experience, a tranquil stroll along the lakeside promenade offers opportunities to sample delicious Nepali cuisine and soak in the serene beauty of Phewa Lake. Additionally, don’t miss the chance to experience the breathtaking sunset views from the Sunset View Point or take a scenic ride on the Pokhara Cable Car to the top of Sarangkot Hill. For the more adventurous, renting mountain bikes opens up the picturesque countryside for exploration, while a visit to the Everest Museum provides insights into the rich history and culture of Nepal’s iconic peaks. Whatever your preference, a free day in Pokhara promises unforgettable experiences and cherished memories amidst the natural splendour of Nepal.

As our Mardi Himal trekking adventure comes to a close, we bid farewell to Pokhara and embark on an early morning flight back to Kathmandu (there are options to extend your stay in Pokhara if you wish to leave the group at this point) . Flying over the majestic Himalayas, we are treated to awe-inspiring views of snow-capped peaks and lush valleys before touching down in the vibrant capital city. “Kathmandu is a riot of sights, sounds, and smells that can quickly lead to sensory overload. Whether you are barrelling through the traffic-jammed alleyways of the old town in a rickshaw, marvelling at the medieval temples, or dodging trekking touts in the backpacker district of Thamel, Kathmandu can be an intoxicating, amazing, and exhausting place” (Lonely Planet). With the afternoon ahead of us, we seize the opportunity to immerse ourselves in the rich culture and history of Kathmandu. You are free to explore, maybe visit the Monkey Temple, the Bodnath Stupa, and Durbar Square, or simply wander through the alleys and streets of Thamel to buy any items that you may have forgotten. Dinner in a nice traditional restaurant in Thamel.

Depending on your flight time, there is a chance to see more of Kathmandu or engage in some last-minute shopping. Transfers to the airport are included for your convenience. If you wish, it is possible to extend your stay in Kathmandu, allowing for further exploration of this vibrant city. Alternatively, we can assist with arrangements for another adventure in Nepal, ensuring your journey continues seamlessly. Whatever your choice, we are here to make your travel experience memorable and hassle-free.

NEED TO KNOW

The 2024 AAN trip includes all accommodation, transportation, meals, and drinking water while volunteering and on the trek, with the exception of lunch and dinner on free days in Pokhara and Kathmandu, where you have the freedom to enjoy the many cafes and restaurants at your leisure. Accommodation at the school during volunteering is in tents, with all meals provided by our cook team. During the trek, we stay in basic lodges with full board, and rooms are shared with up to 4 volunteers of the same sex. It’s advisable to budget some extra money for miscellaneous expenses and tips (see below).

We are linked up with UK based Adventure Base to handle the admin side of your booking – giving you full financial security for your booking. They have offered to do this free of any charge to AAN or yourself, again to try to keep the trip price as low as possible. To reserve your place you will be asked to pay a 25% deposit when you book, the balance of your tour price is due 8 weeks before departure.

We recommend booking flights to Kathmandu as early as possible, as prices tend to increase closer to the departure date. From the UK, we suggest considering airlines such as Qatar, Emirates, or Etihad for their wide selection of flights. It’s important to factor in good connection times when making your booking. If you’re contemplating extending your trip to India or Thailand, there are several flights available from Bangkok or Delhi.

You should plan your arrival in Kathmandu to meet the group, ideally in the morning or early afternoon. This allows sufficient time for any last-minute shopping before departing Kathmandu the following day. If you’re interested in spending extra time in Nepal either before or after the trip, we’re happy to assist with hotel arrangements and provide suggestions for activities during your extended stay.

Please ensure that your passport has at least 6 months validity remaining at the completion of your trip. For entry into Nepal, you will need to obtain a 15-day visa, which can be applied for online and collected upon arrival at Kathmandu Airport. The current fee for this visa is $30, payable in cash.

If you plan to stay longer in Nepal, you will need to obtain a 30-day visa, which costs $50. This longer-duration visa may be necessary if you intend to extend your stay beyond the initial 15 days.

Check with your doctor to see which vaccinations you need before you go.

Having a valid travel insurance policy is crucial, covering medical treatment expenses, including repatriation and helicopter evacuation, especially while trekking in Nepal. The maximum altitude we will trek to is 4,000m. It’s wise to arrange this insurance at the time of booking to guarantee coverage in case of trip cancellation or any unforeseen circumstances.

For assistance in finding suitable coverage, you can reach out to our recommended travel insurance providers, Campbell Irvine Direct. You can obtain a quote by visiting their website or contacting them directly at 020 7938 1734. They will be able to assist you in selecting a policy that meets your needs and provides adequate coverage for your journey.

In Kathmandu, we use a comfortable Hotel close to central Thamel district, plenty to do, shops, restaurants, cafes and bars – a lively place, great fun. On the trip and whilst volunteering, we stay in basic but comfortable lodges and camp in two-person tents on a few nights (see itinerary).

Healthy and plentiful, mainly vegetarian – the food is great! We can cater for special dietary requirements if we know in advance.

There is very little opportunity to spend money in the villages we stay whilst volunteering and on the trek. AAN will endeavour to provide everything you will need from the trip cost (beer and drinks, other than water, in hotels and lodges are not included).  However, we do recommend that you change £200 in Kathmandu for spending money and tips. In Kathmandu there are many shops and you are likely to want to buy some souvenirs to take back with you. Most take cards and there are cash point facilities available.

You support crew and porters will work hard to make sure you have a safe and enjoyable time and you will want to give them a tip after the trek.  When you arrive, we will collect 8,000 rupees (£50) from everyone and this will be split and given to the staff and porters at the end of the trek before we drive back to Kathmandu.

A small rucksack, with water, snacks (provided), spare layer of clothing, sun screen and anything you might require during the day.

Upon your arrival in Nepal, you will receive an AAN Kit bag. You’ll leave your travel bag at the hotel, packing spare clothes for your return. During the trek, the Kit bag will be carried by a porter, typically with one porter handling two kit bags. You’ll need to ensure your sleeping bag fits into the kit bag, which will be loaned to you for the duration of the trip.

We will take a short domestic flight between Kathmandu and Pokhara at the start and end of the trip. Additionally, we will travel by jeep to reach the starting point of the trek, and at the end of the trek, we will return to Pokhara by jeep as well.

Wi-Fi availability is very limited outside of Kathmandu and Pokhara. However, local 3G SIM cards for your phone can be purchased at reasonable prices upon arrival, providing you with internet access during your trip.

This is a beautiful part of the world, we plan to take nothing but memories, leave nothing but hope is our moto. We will carry all our rubbish back to the roadhead.

We have set up a fundraising page through Just Giving for each group to raise money for the schools you will be visiting. Different ways to raise money can be found on the website.
Visit our page on:

Nothing is for free, even work sometimes! There are costs and we have tried to balance value and quality to make sure you have an affordable trip of a lifetime.

Throughout the trip, you can rely on the unwavering support and backup provided by the AAN team. Our experienced guides, cooks, staff, and porters will accompany you every step of the way, ensuring your safety and well-being. With decades of collective experience operating trips in Nepal, our team is well-equipped to handle any unforeseen circumstances and ensure that your journey is as smooth and enjoyable as possible.

Altitude should not pose a significant challenge during this trip, as the maximum sleeping altitude will be at the lodges located at High Camp, which is at an elevation of 3,580m. The highest point we will reach during the trek will be at 4,000m, at the viewpoint above the lodge, before descending back down to Sidhing.

To mitigate any potential altitude-related issues, it’s important to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids, which can help prevent dehydration at higher elevations. Additionally, ascending at a slow pace and taking frequent breaks is crucial for acclimatization, and we will ensure to follow this approach throughout the trek ensuring a safe and enjoyable trekking experience for all participants.

November is an ideal month to visit Nepal, characterized by warm and dry weather conditions along with clear blue skies. While volunteering in the villages, temperatures typically range between 20°C to 25°C during the day, with pleasantly cool evenings.

However, at higher elevations such as High Camp and during the early morning walk to the viewpoint at 4,000m, expect frost and chilly temperatures to start the day. As the sun rises, temperatures gradually warm up, providing a more comfortable environment for trekking and exploration. It’s important to be prepared for these temperature variations by dressing in layers and bringing appropriate cold-weather gear for the higher altitudes.

You’ll be provided with a large AAN kit bag in Kathmandu , which will be transported by jeep and by porters during the trek. Additionally, during the trek, you’ll need a 25-liter rucksack to carry your essentials for the day.

For sleeping arrangements, AAN will provide a sleeping bag, which we recommend using in the lodges, although sheets and blankets are provided. It’s advisable to bring your own cotton or silk sheet liner, and a pillowcase that you can fill with clothes for added comfort. At the school, where camping is involved, AAN will provide tents and mattresses, so there’s no need to bring a sleeping mat. AAN will supply a duvet jacket for everyone in Kathmandu for use on the colder morningsd and evenings..

For volunteering activities, comfortable clothes suitable for wearing around children are necessary. Since painting will be a significant part of the volunteering work, it’s recommended to bring old clothes and shoes that you don’t mind getting covered in paint. Additionally, wearing a protective hat and disposable gloves can be useful during these activities.

For Trekking Days: 

• 25-litre rucksack (with capacity for 2 x 1.5-litre water bottles)
• Comfortable trekking boots or trail shoes
• Wool socks
• Base layer for walking: moisture-wicking tops with UV arm protection
• Base layer for altitude: thermal leggings & top
• Walking shorts & Trousers
• Long-sleeve walking shirt
• Lightweight windproof top
• Fleece layer top for walking/stops
• Windproof jacket
• Warm gloves
• Woollen hat/beanie cap/neck gaiter mask/buff
• Duvet jacket (provided by AAN)

Extras:

• Kit bag (provided by AAN in Kathmandu)
• 4 plastic bags to separate clothes
• Trekking poles if needed
• Camp shoes/trainers/sandals
• Towel and washing kit
• UV protection sunhat, UV Cat 4 sunglasses
• Factor 50 sun cream & SPF 30+ lip balm, moisturizer
• Antiseptic hand wash, wet wipes
• Insect repellent
• Headtorch and spare batteries
• Compeed® (for blisters)
• Power pack for phone
• Camera (spare battery)
• Charging cable
• Reading book
• Notebook/Diary & pen
• Money belt/Wallet
• Sleeping mattress (provided by AAN)
• Sleeping bag (provided by AAN)
• Cotton sheet liner
• Travel pillow or pillow case
• Nightwear thermals

AAN provides a first aid kit box, including medication for altitude sickness. However, it’s advisable to bring any personal medications you may need.

While there will be electricity available in most places we stay, it’s important to note that some lodges charge for charging devices due to limited solar power supply. We recommend bringing a large capacity power bank for your kit bag, as well as a portable one for when you’re trekking and don’t have access to your kit bag.

If you forget to pack something essential, don’t worry! You can purchase almost everything on the list in Kathmandu, often at a fraction of the price compared to at home. This not only ensures you have what you need but also supports the local economy.