Mustang English & Himalayan Culture Program
Experience Mustang. Learn from the Community. Give Back Through Connection.
Our Mustang & Himalayan Culture Program is the sister program of our award-winning Khusvegi English & Nomadic Culture Camp in Mongolia, bringing the same community-led tourism philosophy to the culturally rich mountain region of Mustang, Nepal.
This is more than a trip—and more than a volunteer experience.
It is an opportunity to slow down, stay longer, and become part of a community while experiencing Mustang’s extraordinary culture and landscapes from the inside. Through English education, cultural exchange, homestays, and meaningful interactions with local families and youth, participants have the opportunity to learn from the community while contributing their own time, skills, and perspectives.
Our goal is to create a model of tourism that puts local communities at the center—one that invests in the education and future of young people, supports the preservation of Himalayan culture and traditions, and creates meaningful exchanges between visitors and residents.
COME AS A TRAVELER. LEAVE AS PART OF THE COMMUNITY
Travelers will teach English to young people in Mustang while experiencing Himalayan culture and community life firsthand as guests of local families. Through homestays, cultural exchange, and meaningful connections with the community, participants will have the opportunity to slow down, learn from local traditions, and experience Mustang beyond the typical tourist trail.
For local youth, learning English can open new opportunities to become tour guides, cultural ambassadors, and storytellers—enabling them to connect directly with visitors and share their own stories, culture, and traditions in their own voices. Over time, the program aims to promote greater “language equity,” giving local young people the language skills and confidence to participate more fully in tourism and benefit from the growing interest in their communities. The program runs annually during the summer, from late July to late August.
If you believe travel should be about connection rather than consumption, this program invites you to experience Mustang at a slower pace—and to leave something meaningful behind.
This program supports the following u.n. sustainable development goals
MEET OUR team
Marinel M. de Jesus, Program Coordinator (Global)
“The Mustang English & Himalayan Culture Program grew out of my time in Jomsom and Thini in 2026, where I stayed in the community and got to know local families, students, teachers, and community members. I came to appreciate not only Mustang’s extraordinary landscapes and cultural villages, but also its living traditions and deep spirituality.
I was inspired by the potential of the young people I met and the opportunity to help them build English skills that can open doors to tourism, guiding, employment, and sharing their own stories and culture with visitors. For the Jomsom community, I hope this program becomes an investment in its youth while ensuring tourism creates meaningful local benefits.
For travelers, this is an opportunity to experience Mustang differently—to slow down, become part of the community for 30 days, and build genuine connections through cultural exchange, learning, and shared experiences.”
Dipika Thakali, Program Coordinator (Local)
Supporting Janahit School
As part of the Mustang English & Himalayan Culture Program, we are supporting Janahit School, a local public school serving children and young people from Jomsom and surrounding communities.
During her time in Jomsom in 2026, Marinel spent time at the school, meeting students and teachers and learning more about their educational experiences and aspirations. These interactions helped shape the program’s focus on English education and meaningful cultural exchange.
Through the program, visiting travelers will work alongside local teacher to give the students the opportunity to practice English while learning from the young people and community themselves. Our goal is to support the school’s educational efforts while creating opportunities for students to develop language skills that can expand their future opportunities in tourism and beyond.
Most importantly, we hope to build a long-term relationship with the school and community, where tourism becomes a way to invest in local youth, encourage cultural exchange, and support young people in becoming future storytellers and ambassadors for Mustang.
Photos by Hattie Watson
PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS
Immersive cultural experience led and curated BY THE COMMUNITY
An authentic experience in learning about the LOCAL culture.
directly supporting and Investing in the community by way of teaching English to the young members of the community.
Exploring thE HIMALAYAN landscapes.
BENEFITS TO THE LOCAL COMMUNITY
English immersion for the STUDENTS OF JANAHIT SCHOOL.
CREATING INCOME FOR HOMESTAY FAMILIES, LOCAL GUIDES AND TOURISM SERVICE PROVIDERS.
Creating a community-led local tourism that caters to the priorities and goals of the community including SKILLS EXCHANGE WITH TEACHERS AND STUDENTS, ENGLISH LEARNING AND preservation of HIMALAYAN culture.
2027 PROGRAM ITINERARY
JULY 31 - AUGUST 31
Sat, July 31
Arrive in Kathmandu. Free day.
Sun, Aug 1
Drive to Pokhara and stay overnight.
Mon, Aug 2
Drive to Jomsom and meet your host families.
Tues, Aug 3
Community and school orientation & lesson planning.
Wed, Aug 4
Student-Teacher orientation. First day of meeting students
Thurs, Aug 5
Classes between 12:30 and 4:40
Fri, Aug 6
Classes between 12:30 and 4:40
Classes are from August 4 to August 27
Class schedule:
M-F (with some Fridays off): 12:30-4:40
(with Lunch Break 1:40-2:00)
Volunteers will teach three 50-minute classes and an optional English Club
Sat, Aug 7
Volunteer and School Staff Day Hike and Visit to Marpha village
Sun, Aug 8
Host Family Day - learn about the daily life in Thini village with your host family
Mon, Aug 9
Classes between 12:30 and 4:40.
Tues, Aug 10
Classes between 12:30 and 4:40.
Wed, Aug 11
Classes between 12:30 and 4:40.
Thurs, Aug 12
Classes between 12:30 and 4:40.
Fri, Aug 13
Classes between 12:30 and 4:40.
AUGUST 14-15 WEEKEND ACTIVITIES
A Visit to Lupra Village
Spend a night in Lupra Valley, a remote and culturally rich village in Mustang known for its ancient Bon traditions and spiritual heritage. During your visit, you’ll explore the village with local hosts and learn about its history, traditional way of life, Buddhist and Bon practices, and the deep connection between spirituality, community, and the Himalayan landscape. This immersive experience offers a rare opportunity to step beyond the tourist trail, connect with local residents, and experience Mustang’s living culture firsthand.
Mon, Aug 16
Classes between 12:30 and 4:40.
Tues, Aug 17
Classes between 12:30 and 4:40.
Wed, Aug 18
Classes between 12:30 and 4:40.
Thurs, Aug 19
Classes between 12:30 and 4:40.
Fri, Aug 20
No classes. After breakfast, drive to Kagbeni to start the 3 day / 2 night Kagbeni & Muktinath Excursion
AUG 20-22: WEEKEND ACTIVITIES
Kagbeni & Muktinath Weekend Excursion
Spend the weekend exploring two of Mustang’s most iconic cultural and spiritual destinations. Wander through the ancient village of Kagbeni, with its narrow lanes, traditional mud-brick homes, historic monasteries, and spectacular views of the Kali Gandaki Valley.
Continue to Muktinath, one of Nepal’s most sacred pilgrimage sites for both Hindus and Buddhists. Visit the temple complex, sacred springs, and surrounding monasteries while learning about the spiritual traditions that have shaped the region for centuries. A weekend of culture, history, spirituality, and Himalayan landscapes—just beyond Jomsom.
Mon, Aug 23
Classes between 12:30 and 4:40.
Tues, Aug 24
Classes between 12:30 and 4:40.
Wed, Aug 25
Classes between 12:30 and 4:40.
Thurs, Aug 26
Classes between 12:30 and 4:40.
Fri, Aug 27
Closing Ceremony & Class Presentations
Sat, Aug 28
Teacher-Volunteer Exchange & Farewell Party
Sun, Aug 29
Travel to Pokhara and overnight in Pokhara.
Mon, Aug 30
Travel to Kathmandu and overnight in Kathmandu
Mon, Aug 30
Fly home
FOR MORE DETAILS, READ THE WELCOME GUIDE AND SCHOOL ORIENTATION & VOLUNTEER TEACHING GUIDE
Trekking in Mustang and the Annapurna Region
***OPTIONAL TRIP ADD-ON
Extend Your Nepal Adventure
Make the most of your time in Nepal with an optional trek or cultural extension before or after the Mustang English & Himalayan Culture Program.
Choose from iconic Himalayan experiences such as Poon Hill, Annapurna Base Camp, the Annapurna Circuit, Upper Mustang, and more. Trek through spectacular landscapes, visit mountain communities, and experience Nepal beyond Mustang—all while supporting local guides and communities.
Customize your adventure based on your interests, time, and experience level.
PRICING
The program requires a minimum of 3 participants with a maximum of 5. This is a community-led program. The funds go towards school-related fees, accommodations, transport, weekend excursions, activities, the salary of the local staff, and operational & administrative fees.
Pricing per person: $
A nonrefundable deposit of ($745) is due for those who are accepted to the program. For those who are selected, the background check fee is additional ($30-$40 for U.S. applicants). Program balance is collected between 60-90 days prior to the start of the program.
Merchant service fees (e.g. Paypal) may apply.
*Please note as per the terms and conditions, the program cost may be subject to change based on factors out of our control (e.g. increase in gas prices, accommodation, guide fees, transport service costs, etc.).
You must review and agree with the TERMS & CONDITIONS (which include the cancellation policy) and the LIABILITY WAIVER before booking.
INCLUSIONS
English-speaking members of the village as program managers & camp staff
Community and Program Orientation
Logistics support throughout the duration of the program
Home stay in the village with breakfast and dinner
Round-trip land transport between Kathmandu and Pokhara
Round-trip land transport between Pokhara & Jomsom
Lesson planning support, teaching materials and amenities
School lunches and a few dinners with community members
Weekend excursions including accommodation and transport
Virtual pre-departure trip preparation consultation (group & one-on-one)
Certificate of Program Completion
EXCLUSIONS
International flights
Some meals during the program and on weekend excursions
Travel and emergency medical insurance
Trip extensions such as trekking in Annapurna region or a trip to Upper Mustang
Personal expenses (laundry, sim card, etc.)
Visa fees
(Note: You are responsible for booking your international flight and securing your visa. Check with the Nepali Embassy in your location for the latest requirements).
travel style, ACCOMMODATION & MEALS
Jomsom, the administrative and commercial center of Mustang, sits in the dramatic Kali Gandaki Valley, surrounded by some of the Himalayas’ most spectacular mountain landscapes. The town serves as an important hub for communities throughout the region, with schools, healthcare services, shops, markets, restaurants, accommodations, and other essential services.
Just a short distance from Jomsom is the historic village of Thini, one of the oldest settlements in the area. Known for its traditional architecture, rich cultural heritage, and stunning mountain setting, Thini offers visitors a glimpse into the living traditions and community life of Mustang.
Together, Jomsom and Thini provide the setting for our 30-day program. Participants will experience both the everyday rhythm of a small Himalayan town and the traditions of a historic mountain village—while learning from local students, families, teachers, and community members and becoming part of the community during their stay.
Life in the Community
The Mustang English & Himalayan Culture Program is designed for adventure-minded travelers who are comfortable with simple accommodations, outdoor activities, and a slower pace of life. During your 30-day stay, you will spend much of your time outdoors and may participate in activities such as hiking, village walks, cultural excursions, and other community-based experiences.
Participants will stay in local homestays and community accommodations in Thini, giving you the opportunity to experience everyday life alongside local families. Accommodations will be comfortable but simple and may have fewer amenities than you are accustomed to. Participants should be prepared for basic bathroom and shower facilities and limited conveniences. This is an intentional part of experiencing Mustang as a guest rather than as a conventional tourist.
Local Meals & Connectivity
Meals are an important part of the Mustang experience, with volunteers enjoying fresh, locally prepared food throughout the program. Expect traditional Nepali and Himalayan dishes such as dal bhat, thukpa, mo-mos, roti, chow mein, fried rice, vegetables (spinach, cabbage, cauliflower, okra, potatoes etc) and curry dishes, as well as seasonal local specialties. Meat options may include chicken, buff (buffalo), and yak, with mutton available at times. Vegetarian meals are also readily available. Jomsom has local shops, markets, restaurants, and other places where participants can purchase additional food, snacks, and personal necessities.
Life in the Himalayas can be unpredictable, so volunteers should also be prepared for occasional power outages and interruptions to Wi-Fi or mobile data, particularly during changing weather conditions. These moments are part of daily life in Mustang and provide an opportunity to slow down, disconnect, and fully immerse yourself in the local community and surroundings.
We encourage you to embrace these moments as an important part of the experience—sharing food, stories, and everyday life is one of the best ways to build genuine connections with the people of Mustang.
For a comprehensive overview of how life is like in Mustan, read our Welcome Guide.
PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS
To become a participant-volunteer teacher, our program requires the following:
Participant must be at least 18 years of age.
Participant must be willing to undergo a criminal background check.
Participant must be a native or fluent English speaker.
Participant must have travel and medical/emergency evacuation insurance.
Participant must be willing to comply with COVID-19 Safety Protocols, Child Safety & Protection Policy and Equity Traveler Guide.
the MUSTANG experience
Teaching & Community Engagement
Volunteer teachers will co-teach alongside a local English teacher at Janahit School, working with groups of approximately 20-35 students. Each volunteer will teach three 50-minute classes per day, as well as help lead an English Club designed to give students additional opportunities to practice speaking and build confidence.
Teachers will work collaboratively with local educators to develop engaging lessons that respond to students’ ages, English levels, and learning needs. Lessons may combine practical English, grammar, conversation, games, storytelling, and experiential learning, with opportunities to explore topics such as education, careers, tourism, and cultural exchange.
The classroom is only one part of the experience. As members of the community, participants will be encouraged to learn alongside their students, engage in cultural exchange, share relevant knowledge and skills, and participate in community activities. Outside the classroom, travelers will have opportunities to explore Jomsom and surrounding villages, learn about local culture and traditions, and experience the landscapes and spiritual life of Mustang firsthand.
The goal is not simply to teach English, but to create a two-way exchange of knowledge and culture—while building relationships between visiting teachers, local educators, students, and the wider Jomsom community.
IT’S IMPORTANT FOR US TO NOTE THIS: ASK YOURSELF - DO YOU HAVE THE RIGHT MINDSET FOR THIS PROGRAM?
To fully enjoy your 30-day experience in Mustang, we ask participants to come with an open mind, a curious spirit, flexibility, and a willingness to embrace a different way of life. Life in Jomsom and the surrounding communities moves at a different pace. While our teaching schedule is structured, activities outside the classroom may change depending on weather, community events, local routines, and opportunities that arise. Flexibility and a willingness to go with the flow are an important part of experiencing Mustang authentically.
Accommodations, transportation, and daily life may also be more basic than what you are accustomed to. This is part of the experience of living within the community rather than simply visiting as a tourist. Meals will reflect local cuisine and what is available in the community, and participants should be prepared to adapt to fewer amenities and comforts than they may have at home.
Most importantly, remember that you are a guest in the community. Local families, teachers, and community members are sharing their homes, food, culture, and daily lives with you. Approach the experience with respect and gratitude, and recognize that cultural differences are an opportunity to learn rather than something to be “fixed.”
Come prepared to slow down, be present, ask questions, try new things, and embrace the unexpected. The more adaptable and open you are, the more meaningful your experience—and your connection with the community—is likely to be.
BECOME A MEDIA FELLOW & JOIN THE FULL PROGRAM AT REDUCED COST
We are seeking a small number of professional photographers, videographers, journalists, filmmakers, and content creators to join our pilot Mustang English & Himalayan Culture Program as Media Fellows. Selected fellows will receive a reduced program rate in exchange for using their professional skills to photograph and/or film the experience and help us create compelling visual and written conent to promote the program and share the stories of the Mustang community.
This is an opportunity to experience Mustang from within the community while contributing to the launch of a new model of community-led tourism. Professional content creators only—applicants should have a demonstrated portfolio of high-quality photography, videography, or storytelling work.