Experience the unique opportunity to teach English in Buddhist monasteries while immersing yourself in Nepal’s rich spiritual heritage and breathtaking landscapes. The Teaching English in Buddhist Monasteries Program offered by Gap Bridge Nepal allows volunteers to make a meaningful contribution by helping young monks develop their English language skills while experiencing authentic monastery life.
This program is ideal for individuals who enjoy working with children, sharing knowledge, and learning about Buddhism and Nepali culture. Whether you are a university student, gap year traveler, teacher, retiree, or simply someone with a passion for education and cultural exchange, your enthusiasm and willingness to help are the most valuable qualities you can bring.
Program Overview
Young monks between 5 and 16 years of age attend monastery schools where they receive both traditional Buddhist education and the national curriculum. English has become an increasingly important subject, enabling them to pursue higher education and communicate confidently with people from around the world.
Volunteers assist local teachers by teaching conversational English, pronunciation, reading, writing, grammar, educational games, storytelling, songs, presentations, and other interactive classroom activities.
Teaching is designed to be enjoyable, practical, and confidence-building rather than heavily focused on examinations.
Program Locations
Our Teaching English in Buddhist Monasteries Program is available in Kathmandu and Pokhara, Nepal’s two most popular destinations for international visitors.
Kathmandu
Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal, is a fascinating blend of ancient history, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, colorful markets, traditional culture, and modern city life.
Our partner monasteries are located in peaceful areas just outside Kathmandu, generally 20–45 minutes from the city center, offering volunteers a quiet environment while remaining close to major attractions.
During your free time, you can visit:
- Boudhanath Stupa
- Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple)
- Pashupatinath Temple
- Kathmandu Durbar Square
- Thamel Tourist District
- Local cafés, restaurants, museums and cultural festivals
Pokhara
Pokhara is Nepal’s tourism and adventure capital, famous for its spectacular Himalayan views, beautiful lakes, peaceful atmosphere, and outdoor activities.
Our monasteries are located in quiet areas just outside Pokhara, typically 15–30 minutes from the Lakeside tourist area, allowing volunteers to enjoy monastery life while easily exploring the city during their free time.
Popular attractions include:
- Phewa Lake
- World Peace Pagoda
- Davis Falls
- Gupteshwor Cave
- Sarangkot Sunrise Viewpoint
- Lakeside cafés and restaurants
Monastery Environment
Although our monasteries are conveniently located near Kathmandu and Pokhara, they are intentionally situated away from the busy city centers, creating a peaceful environment for learning, meditation, and daily Buddhist practice.
Volunteers enjoy the rare opportunity to experience authentic monastery life while still having convenient access to the city during weekends and free time.
Teaching Schedule
- Teaching Hours: 4–5 hours per day
- Working Days: Monday to Friday
- Class Duration: 40–45 minutes
- Program Duration: 1 week to 2 months
Students are divided according to their educational level and age.
Typical age groups include:
5–8 years
9–12 years
13–16 years
Each classroom generally has 10–15 students, depending on the monastery.
Volunteers teach alongside experienced local teachers and, depending on the season, may also work together with volunteers from different countries.
Program Objectives
The main objectives of this program are to:
- Improve English communication skills among young monks.
- Build students’ confidence through interaction with international volunteers.
- Encourage creativity, curiosity, and independent thinking.
- Expose students to different cultures, teaching styles, and international perspectives.
- Inspire children to develop stronger motivation and greater self-confidence in learning English.
- Support monasteries in providing quality education for young monks.
Many of the young monks come from remote villages and economically disadvantaged families throughout Nepal. Monasteries provide them with education, accommodation, food, clothing, and a safe environment where they can continue their studies. Program fees also contribute toward supporting monastery education and helping cover the daily living expenses of resident monks
Why Volunteers Matter
Meeting teachers from different countries motivates young monks to learn English with greater enthusiasm.
International volunteers introduce new ideas, teaching methods, games, and communication styles that enrich classroom learning while creating unforgettable cultural exchanges for both students and volunteers.
Even a short visit can have a lasting positive impact on children’s confidence and educational development.
Accommodation
Volunteers stay inside the monastery, providing a unique opportunity to experience daily Buddhist life.
Accommodation includes:
- Private or shared room
- Basic furniture
- Peaceful surroundings
- Attached bathroom in some monasteries
- Shared bathroom facilities in others
Accommodation standards vary depending on the monastery but are generally clean, safe, comfortable, and simple.
Three meals are provided daily.
- Breakfast
- Nepali bread
- Omelets
- Tea
- Doughnuts (occasionally)
Lunch
Traditional Nepali Dal Bhat consisting of:
- Rice
- Lentil soup
- Seasonal vegetables
- Pickles
Dinner
Dinner may include:
- Noodles
- Momo (Nepali dumplings)
- Shakpa (Traditional Tibetan noodle soup)
- Rice with vegetables
- Seasonal dishes
Vegetarian meals are readily available.
Holidays & Availability
Placements are available throughout the year.
Teaching schedules may occasionally change during:
- Buddhist religious ceremonies (Puja)
- Summer holidays
- Dashain Festival
- Tihar Festival
- Winter holidays
- Other monastery or public holidays
Please contact us before applying so we can confirm the most suitable placement dates.
Program Fee
| Duration | Fee in US $ |
| 2 Weeks | 450 |
| Each Additional Week | 100 |
Program Fee Includes
- Monastery placement
- Accommodation
- Three meals daily
- Airport pickup
- Orientation
- Local support throughout your stay
- Program completion certificate
- 24/7 emergency assistance
Program Fee Excludes
- International airfare
- Nepal visa
- Travel insurance
- Personal expenses
- Weekend travel
- Airport departure transfer (optional)
Who Can Join?
- This program is suitable for:
- University students
- Gap year travelers
- Teachers
- Retired professionals
- Families
- Volunteers of all nationalities
- Individuals interested in Buddhism and cultural exchange
No previous teaching experience is required.
A positive attitude, patience, enthusiasm, and willingness to learn are the most important qualifications.
A Life-Changing Experience
Teaching English in a Buddhist monastery is far more than a volunteer placement—it is an opportunity to build lifelong friendships, experience authentic Buddhist culture, and contribute to the education of young monks from disadvantaged backgrounds.
By sharing your time, knowledge, and encouragement, you help children gain valuable English skills while creating unforgettable memories for yourself. Whether you stay for one week or two months, your contribution will help bridge cultures, inspire young learners, and create a lasting positive impact for both you and the monastery community.
Join Gap Bridge Nepal and become part of a meaningful educational and cultural journey in the heart of the Himalayas