Gap Project: Nepal & Cambodia

If you are 17-24 and seeking a chance to discover the world in a structured, meaningful, safe and engaging setting, you should read on. This programme is designed to allow you to explore new cultures and gain exposure to a variety of fields through hands-on experiential learning.

If you have finished high school and have passion, energy and an open mind to really find out what it’s like to live and work in other countries, this programme is perfect for you!

We explain more about these projects and what they involve below. While most of these projects focus on volunteering, we can facilitate internships during your Gap Semester if you need to fulfil requirements for school. Just let us know when you apply to join.

Nepal – 5 weeks

Fly to Kathmandu and support our building project for three weeks. Explore temples and markets, taste new cuisine, and discover a unique culture. You’ll then travel to Pokhara for a weekend trip where you will get views of the Himalayan Mountains. Afterwards, you’ll travel to Chitwan National Park to support conservation efforts, helping to preserve natural habitats for many critical species. During your stay, you will also experience an unforgettable safari adventure!

Weeks 1-3 – Building work in Kathmandu (possible to switch to another social project if you prefer)

Weekend Trip – Visit Pokhara

Weeks 4-5 – Join the Conservation Project in Chitwan National Park 

Cambodia – 5 weeks

You will spend most of your time in Cambodia’s busy capital city, Phnom Penh. Join worthwhile projects to support the local community and preserve endangered bear populations. One week will be spent in Siem Reap to visit historic and cultural sites such as the world-famous Angkor Wat, and you’ll also travel to the remote Mondulkiri Province to support staff at an Elephant Sanctuary for a week.

Weeks 1-2 – Join the Childcare Project in Phnom Penh

Week 3 – Explore Siem Reap to learn about Cambodian history and culture

Weeks 4 – Join the Elephant Conservation Project in Sen Monorom

Weeks 5 – Stay in Phnom Penh to support Bear Conservation work and visit Oudong Mountain.

Have three days to explore the city or travel to other parts of the country independently

Throughout your journey, you will be immersed in local culture. Dedicated local staff will support and work alongside you every day. You’ll learn from them and get insight into regular life in each country.

Join workshops, excursions, and visits to historical sites! Cambodia’s history has been turbulent and tragic. You’ll learn about the mighty Khmer Empire and explore Angkor Wat. During your first week, you’ll also visit the Killing Fields, hearing the heart-wrenching history of the Khmer Rouge regime. While learning about their rise to power and subsequent fall, you’ll get a better understanding of how Cambodia is still recovering and why your work will help make an impact.

Nepal is also rich in culture and natural beauty. Sitting between India and Tibet, it is a mix of both while being entirely unique. Between the temperate rainforests of the south and the massive heights of the Himalayas in the north, Nepal has a little bit of everything. During your trip, you will explore all these different environments, spend time at temples learning about cultural practices, and spot wildlife in national parks.

Cambodia

Phnom Penh

Phnom Penh is located on the banks of the Tonlé Sap and Mekong Rivers. Despite its growth, the city still has areas of poverty and marginalisation. Your work will focus on supporting these communities.

Even with Cambodia’s history of war, the city is rapidly developing to keep up with an expanding population and growing tourism industry. In some places, it can be an intriguing mix of traditional and modern life. Around every corner, your nose will be led to some of the most delicious Cambodian food. The city also boasts a lively nightlife and a great selection of spas and restaurants.

As you walk the streets, you’ll be greeted by saffron-clad monks, chaotic traffic, and some of the friendliest locals you’ll ever meet. You can spend time at the many Buddhist temples, sample delicious fish amok or Cambodian chicken curry, or visit one of the local markets and modern malls.

Siem Reap

The cultural and tourist centre of Cambodia, Siem Reap, retains some of its colonial French influence. With sprawling night markets and an assortment of exciting street food, Siem Reap is a great place to explore and learn more about the culture of Cambodia. From here, you’re also within easy reach of the world-famous Angkor Wat. Hundreds of ancient temples are scattered throughout the jungle and are an unforgettable sight.

Sen Monorom

Sen Monorom is the capital city of Mondulkiri province, Cambodia. It has a population of only 10,000 people and is inhabited by the indigenous Bunong people. You will be based at a reserve in the neighbouring jungle. 

Nepal

Kathmandu

You’ll spend your first 3 weeks in the bustling city of Kathmandu. Explore ancient temples and marvel at the Himalayas.

Chitwan National Park

You will be based next to the Seti Gandaki River and within the official buffer zone of Chitwan National Park. Explore the rural villages and diverse scenery of the region. Immerse yourself in nature on safari, where you might see crocodiles, rhinos, and Bengal tigers.

Your safety and security are our prime concern. We have many procedures and systems to ensure you have the support you need to enjoy your trip with peace of mind. Our Projects Abroad staff are available 24 hours a day to help, and will be on hand to make sure you settle in well at your accommodation and placement. If you encounter any problems, they will be available to help at any time.

Find out more about safety and backup.

This placement is fully researched, safety audited, and risk-assessed in accordance with the British Standard BS8848 for the Adventure Travel Sector.