Now that the Maoists are involved in Government, the risks of a few years ago are much reduced. Volunteers are encouraged to contact us if they have any concerns to ask about the current situation of Nepal. We will inform you of what we know and also offer you contacts of volunteers as alternative sources of information. It is also advisable to contact your local Foreign Affairs Department for any current situational views.History
The history
Nepal has long been independent, and is justifiably proud of the fact that it was never conquered by any empire. Nepal's founding father, Prithivi Narayan Shah, referred to Nepal as a 'Yam between two boulders'-namely China and India
Geography
Nepal is famous for its mountains, most notably Mt Everest, the tallest mountain in the world. Nepal measures about 800 km east-west and 230 Km at its widest point north-south, making a total area of around 147,181 sq. km.
However, the mountains are only part of the nation- many of its people live in the Terai, only 100m above sea level. The contrast between mountains and plains make for one of the most geographically diverse nations on Earth
Physiographic Regions
Nepal consists of several physiographic regions. Most people live in the lowlands which contain the best farmlands and are much removed from the impression of Nepal of those who have not been here..
The Terai The flattest land in Nepal is the Terai. This forms the Southern 40km of Nepal's North to South length. Most of our volunteers work in the Terai
Chure Hills These are the first of the four mountain ranges and span the whole country, with an average height of 900m.
Mahabharat Range The next range of mountains is the Mahabharat Range, or the 'Middle Hills'. These are between 1500m and 2700m in height, and can provide some spectacular himalayan views from thier summits
The Himalaya Nepal's borders contain about one-third of the total length of ht Himalaya. This includes 10 of the world's 14 tallest mountains, which all stand over 8000m . We can provide volunteer opportunities in the Himalaya for those hardy volunteers who wish to experience this beautiful part of the world.
Climate
Nepal has essentially two-season year.The winter season from October to May is dry, and the temperatures vary significantly depending on where you are- the Terai rarely dips below 10 degrees celsius, and is generally warm for all but a couple of months. The himalaya can get very cold- volunteers are encouraged to bring warm clothes!! The Monsoon season runs from June to middle of September. In summer in the Tarai region the maximum temperature can reach 42 degrees centigrade- volunteers will be provided with fans
Ecology & Environment
Despite its abundant natural gifts, the environmment in Nepal is sufferings from a growing and developing population, and the lack of recycling facilities and other environmental protection measures that exist in the West. Forests are being chopped down for housing and firewood. This is why we need volunteers to help us in the conservation projects, replanting these trees. The ecology and environment of Nepal are fragile and a rapidly growing population is constantly putting more pressure on the land. Much of the land between the Himalayas and The Terai has been vigorously modified by humans to provide space for crops, animals and houses. Forests have been cleared, towns have grown and roads have eaten into valleys that were previously accessible only on foot.
In many places in the Nepal a community user group is formed and they have community forest to made to promote alternatives and support reforestation. FACE Nepal is involved in this in Chitwan and can provide volunteer opportunities helping the community forests in their work.
Air and water pollution are severe in different areas in Nepal due to the deforestation and traffic.
Flora
There are 6500 known species of trees, bushes and flowers in Nepal. The best time to appreciate this is in March and April when rhododendrons (the national flower) are at thier most beautiful. However, whenever volunteers visit there will be a different floral landscape to experience, as the natural seasons and the farming calendar affects the landscape
Fauna
Birds More than 800 bird species are known in Nepal, or nearly 10% of the world's species. Chitwan district, where FACE Nepal is based, is well known to bird experts
Mammals Many FACE Nepal
volunteers take advantage of thier proximity to Chitwan National park to visit on safari, where volunteers can see one horned rhino, wild boars, many species of deer, and if they are lucky, tigers or even wild elephants.
Reptiles There are two indigenous species of crocodile: The gharial and the marsh Mugger. Both can be found in Chitwan National Park, near many of our Volunteer placements (though not close enough to pose a danger!
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