Culture and Environment (Faculty-led Study Abroad Program)

Winter/Summer Break to Nepal 2026

Overview

Experience Nepal through an immersive winter or summer break focused on culture, biodiversity, and community-based environmental action. This project-based service-learning program blends academic exploration with hands-on work in key conservation sites like Rupa Lake, community seed banks in Kaski, and the Lumbini Crane Sanctuary while discovering the deep interconnection between cultural traditions and environmental sustainability.

This faculty-led study abroad experience connects classroom learning with community action in one of the world’s most biodiverse and culturally rich regions in Nepal.

Objectives

Examine how cultural and religious practices contribute to environmental protection.
Collaborate with local communities on conservation-focused service projects.
Evaluate challenges and opportunities in biodiversity preservation through field research.
Foster leadership, teamwork, and cross-cultural understanding in real-world contexts.

Highlights

Explore UNESCO World Heritage sites and sacred spaces in Kathmandu.
Participate in community projects on seed conservation and lake restoration in rural Kaski.
Work alongside local cooperatives, women’s groups, and youth clubs.
Engage in field-based learning at the Lumbini Crane Sanctuary.
Reflect, present findings, and suggest sustainable solutions to local stakeholders.
Enjoy a scenic trek in the Annapurna region and experience village life firsthand.

Sample Itinerary

Day 0: Travel to Nepal

Begin your journey to Nepal. Travel time typically spans two days, depending on your location and transit schedule.

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu

Arrive in Kathmandu and transfer to your hotel. Take time to settle in and rest after your international flight, ready to begin the journey ahead.

Day 2: Sacred Sites and Cultural Foundations

Start the day with a group orientation, covering program logistics, health and safety guidelines, and cultural insights. A guest lecture will introduce Nepal’s approach to community and environmental protection. In the afternoon, explore Bouddhanath Stupa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where a Buddhist monk will explain the symbolism of the stupa and its ties to nature. Later, visit Soyembhunath (the Monkey Temple), a hilltop site offering sweeping views of the city.

Day 3: Elemental Connections and Hindu Perspectives

Travel to Sundarijal to observe a hydroelectric dam and discuss the intersection of development and environmental impact. In the afternoon, visit Pashupatinath Temple, a revered Hindu site on the banks of the Bagmati River. A priest will offer insight into Hindu cosmology and its view of nature through the five elements—earth, water, fire, air, and space—highlighting the deep spiritual link between humans and the natural world.

Day 4: The Road to Pokhara – Rivers and Power

Journey westward toward Pokhara, passing through diverse river systems. Along the way, stop to observe the impacts of sand mining on the Trishuli River and learn about hydroelectric projects on the Marsyandi. Ride the cable car to the hilltop Manakamana Temple and enjoy lunch with a view. Arrive in Pokhara by evening for student-led presentations and group reflection.

Days 5–8: Immersive Community Projects in Sundari Danda

Over four days, dive into grassroots environmental work in the village of Sundari Danda. Collaborate with local cooperatives and farmers to explore seed preservation through the Community Seed Bank and biodiversity efforts at Rupa Lake. Activities include organizing seed storage, attending community meetings, and exploring how conservation intersects with local livelihood. Midway through, hike to Rupakot Resort and learn about sacred trees like the Bodhi and Banyan, traditionally “married” to symbolize nature’s sanctity. Each evening ends with student reflections and presentations.

Day 9: Return to Pokhara

Travel back to Pokhara and check in to your hotel near Phewa Lake. Enjoy a relaxed evening and dinner by the lakeside, with time to unwind after a full week of immersive engagement.

Day 10: Scenic Drive to Lumbini

Embark on a long but scenic drive to Lumbini, the birthplace of Buddha. En route, stop to observe aquatic life and river systems. Upon arrival, check into your accommodation—ideally a monastery guesthouse—for a peaceful evening.

Day 11: Crane Conservation and Sacred Spaces

Visit the Lumbini Crane Foundation to learn about their wetland conservation efforts. Spend the day contributing to a hands-on service project and explore the sacred gardens and landmarks that make Lumbini a UNESCO site.

Day 12: Mindfulness and Final Reflections

Begin the day with morning meditation at the monastery before continuing conservation work with the Crane Foundation. In the afternoon, fly back to Kathmandu and gather in the evening for a farewell dinner at Bhojan Griha—a traditional Nepali cultural restaurant—to celebrate your journey.

Day 13: Departure

Transfer to the airport for your return flight home, carrying with you stories, connections, and insights from your experience in Nepal