Roots & Rivers

A Service Learning Journey into Conservation, Culture & Community in Nepal

January 3-13, 2027 | Full Board | $1,990pp

Application Deadline: December 3, 2026

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A different kind of travel experience

Experience Nepal beyond the tourist trail through immersive village homestays, community-led projects, indigenous conservation initiatives, and unforgettable wildlife and mountain landscapes. From the jungles of Chitwan to the Himalayan foothills, participants engage directly with local communities while exploring culture, sustainability, and everyday life in one of the world’s most extraordinary destinations.

Highlights

A small house with a thatched roof, brick walls, and wooden window shutters.

Immersive homestays

Two people shaking hands, one wearing multiple bracelets and the other wearing a long sleeve shirt.

Community-led service projects

A cartoon rhinoceros stands next to a small boat.

Tharu conservation & wildlife safaris

A mountain with a sharp peak and two traditional Asian temples below it, one with multiple tiers and the other with a dome and spire.

Mountains, temples & UNESCO sites

Illustration of the Earth with a green leaf on top, symbolizing environmental conservation.

Sustainability & cultural learning

Think globally, act locally

What you’ll experience

Group of women and men working together on building a brick wall outdoors in a rural area.

Community service

Help local communities on projects supporting education, conservation, and sustainable tourism. Contribute to initiatives like homestay development and environmental stewardship.

Close-up of a Buddhist stupa with painted eyes, colorful prayer flags, and intricate golden decorations, against a blue sky.

Cultural heritage

Explore Nepal’s heritage through visits to ancient temples, monasteries, and sacred sites. Learn spiritual traditions, indigenous knowledge systems, and the country’s rich historical identity.

Two Hippos standing in a grassy area with forest in the background.

Wildlife & nature

Explore Nepal’s diverse landscapes from the Himalayas to Chitwan National Park. Encounter iconic wildlife and take part in conservation-focused learning experiences.

Group of women and girls sitting in a circle, weaving and making crafts with dried plant material outdoors.

Immersive homestays

Stay with local families and experience daily life in rural Nepal. Share meals, traditions, and stories while building meaningful connections through immersive cultural exchange.

Who is Roots & Rivers for?

This program is designed for students and young professionals who want more than just tourism. It’s ideal for those interested in:

Conservation

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Sustainability

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Community Development

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Social Impact

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Homestays

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Indigenous Culture

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Global Learning

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Education

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Women's Empowerment

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Conservation 〰️ Sustainability 〰️ Community Development 〰️ Social Impact 〰️ Homestays 〰️ Indigenous Culture 〰️ Global Learning 〰️ Education 〰️ Women's Empowerment 〰️

Download Brochure

The Journey

If you have any questions, please contact our trip leader, Leigh Woods at: woods@studyprograms.com

If you’re ready to apply, click ‘Apply Now’ to submit your application.

Apply Now