Comfort
You should not expect luxury during your stay in Nepal. Nepal is a developing country and may well be different from what you are used to at home. However, you will have your own room unless requested otherwise, and the rooms are always clean and comfortable. The quality of toilet and washing facilities varies significantly between placements. If you are based in Kathmandu you may find you have a hot shower and a Western-style toilet in your homestay. However, if you are in a rural placement then it is more likely that you will have a traditional squat toilet and a cold shower. If you feel like having a hot shower and flushing the toilet is a priority then make this clear when you are applying and we will see if it is possible to find you one of our better-equipped host families.
Electricity
The electricity supply in all areas is limited. Due to nationwide electricity shortages, the government imposes power cuts of around 12-14 hours a day. In the cities, some houses have backup batteries that will run low-power bulbs in key rooms, but in rural areas, you can expect to use candles. A head torch is a very useful thing to bring.
Food
On placement, you will usually eat with the family and share the same food as them. At least two meals a day are provided for you while volunteering. The usual meal times are between 9 and 10 AM and 6 and 8 PM. You will usually be served the national staple of Dal Bhat Tarkari which is a tasty and filling plate of rice, vegetable curry, lentils and pickles. It may occasionally have meat such as chicken or mutton in it, although if you are vegetarian this can easily be explained. This may be supplemented occasionally by noodles, eggs and other snacks dependent on your host family and placement
Water
Your host family will provide you with clean drinking water on your placement.