Teaching monks in Nepalese Monastery

Having just got back from a two week volunteering programme in Chitwan Monastery, it is safe to say it was the best thing I have ever done! Plan My Gap Year were great in all parts of the trip- from pre departure questions I had, which they always immediately responded to, the pre-departure webinar which was a life-saver and all aspects of the arrangements when I arrived in Nepal.

One of the best things with plan my gap year is how although you are with an organisation you are not babied the whole way through, it was like I was doing it by myself but had that reminder in the back of my head if I couldn't get somewhere or was stuck in any way there was always half a dozen people I could call. Also the Nepalese volunteer I stayed with on the first and last night explained to me how Plan My Gap Year are one of the best organisation he works with, as they constantly check up on all their programmes, they give the most money to each organisation the various placements are at and they seem to be the ones whole care most about their volunteers! I really felt this whilst booking and travelling with them.

My experience at the monastery itself was amazing, very hard work but such a beautiful experience! Being located in the middle of a jungle we literally had nothing- no western comforts at all but this really made everything so much better (didn't even miss a western style toilet in the end- perhaps toilet roll would have been nice though haha!) The nuns, gurus and children were the kindest souls I have ever met and it was amazing how they welcomed us as if we had been there the whole time. The meditation each day we had to participate with them was one of the most amazing things I think I will ever have the opportunity to do!!

I travelled to Nepal on my own but was constantly with other volunteers when I arrives- from all over the world, I would recommend going by yourself as you make and meet so many more friends that way, and everyone is in the same boat, the people I met there I am still in contact with, we are even planning a trek together next year- it's truly amazing the range of people you meet!

I am booking another volunteering programme with Plan My Gap Year as I really feel that of all the organisations out there it is the best in so many respects, and they allow you the most rewarding experience imaginable!

Thank you so much plan my gap year!!!