Cultural Experience Tours :

The main objectives of this program are to provide opportunities to those interested in gaining experience of a new and a different world, and to promote a better understanding between cultures.

Nature of the Program:

The program will have four main phases. During each phase there will be different types of activities and experience which will add to the participant's knowledge of Nepal.

Orientation Phase :

In this phase, participants will have an opportunity to get to know each other and the staff of Insight  Nepal. We will discuss about the philosophy behind the program, its schedule and provide information on basic health care in Nepal. Before the participant moves in with the host family he/she will be given a brief orientation about the selected family, together with some necessary cultural tips. All activities will be facilitated by a staff member of Insight Nepal.

Language Orientation, Homestay and Lecture series :

During this period, the participants will be given Nepali language classes. These will be followed by talks on different subjects related to the host country. City tours will be arranged including visits to  some important places such as the Immigration office, Post office, temples and monasteries etc. in the Pokhara valley. During this time the participant will stay with a Nepali family who is interested in having a foreign guest for cross-cultural experience. In this phase, the participants will have ample opportunity to learn about Nepal, gaining both theoretical and practical experience by observing and participating in family life. This will also help to develop his/her language skills and knowledge about Nepalese life and culture. All these activities and experiences will help him/her to build self confidence, and to develop a deeper understanding between the two different cultures.

Village Exploration/Trekking :

In this phase, Insight Nepal will organize a trip to introduce the participants to the rural areas around the Annapurna Mountains Conservation Project in the north of Pokhara. While trekking through the mountains and villages, the participants will share in the traditional lifestyle of the Nepalese people and enjoy fascinating views of snow-capped peaks and lush green valleys with diverse flora and fauna. Insight Nepal will provide a qualified trekking guide who has good a knowledge of village culture.

Recreational Tour :

Lastly, the participant has a choice of either an elephant safari in Royal Chitwan National Park or a one-week tour of Darjeeling /Sikkim in India. Those doing the six-week program will have both tours. Chitwan National Park is one of Nepal's largest forest regions, with wildlife ranging from the wild boar, the rhinoceros and the crocodile to the elusive Royal Bengal Tiger. Insight Nepal staff like to receive feedback and discuss ideas and experiences with the participants of the program during this period.

Program Details

Cultural Experience Tours: Location Kathmandu and Pokhara, Nepal Duration 2-weeks, 4-weeks and 6- weeks Age Limits 21 to 70 years old Qualification Minimum High School Diploma. Prospective participants should be flexible, physically fit, and willing to immerse themselves in another culture. Language required English Program Schedule January through April, and September through December. Details of costs to participants Program Fees: US$ 900 US$ 1200 US$ 1500 (2 – weeks) (4 – weeks) (6 – weeks) Insurance and personal expenses. Airfare to-and-from Nepal. Program Fee includes a.   For 6-weeks Program: Accommodation and meals (excluding alcoholic beverages) Homestay/Language class/Lectures Trekking and City Tours Travel within country Cultural Activities Jungle Safari and Darjeeling/Sikkim Tour (in India) Rafting Visa fee b.   For 4 – weeks Program: Accommodation and meals (excluding alcoholic beverages) Homestay/Language class/Lectures Travel within country Trekking and City Tours Cultural Activities Jungle Safari and Darjeeling/Sikkim Tour Rafting Visa fee c.   For 2 – weeks Program: Accommodation and meals (excluding alcoholic beverages) Lectures Trekking and City Tours Travel within country Cultural Activities Jungle safari Rafting Visa fee Not included in the program fee: Insurance and personal expenses Airfare to-and-from Nepal Deadline for Receipt of Applications: Application should reach Insight Nepal three months in advance of the program orientation dates Note: Special tours can be arranged to suit the interests of any size group, including Buddhist studies, Tibetan culture, Environmental studies, and history and cuisine of the Himalaya.   We also offer: Nepali Language Training Homestay Arrangement Program Coordination for any Academic or Study Tour Program.