Pokhara is often classed as Nepal’s second city. As part of a trading route between India and Tibet, the city still functions as a commercial hub for the surrounding area. It is also the start and finish point of some of the world’s most famous treks, the Annapurna circuit and Jomsom. For all the tourist activity, this is still a very poor country and taking your placement here will give you a real insight into the standards of healthcare in Nepal and the struggle to deliver it.

We have developed strong relationships with government and teaching hospitals as well as specialist and private clinics, and we are happy to split your placement between private and public hospitals to really enhance your experience. We also have an extensive dental outreach programme, providing two week projects in remote village or mountain communities. Whatever your interest, our dedicated in-country staff are on hand to ensure you have a structured placement in an area that matches your interest.

Our Work the World house is based in old Pokhara, a short microbus or taxi ride away from your healthcare placement. Although lakeside Pokhara is popular with tourist groups planning treks or rafting, old Pokhara is away from the crowds. Rooms are shared between two to four, with spacious living and dining areas for relaxing with fellow students, planning weekend travels or brushing up on the weekly Nepalese lessons. There is also a large terrace for barbecues and evening drinks.

All meals are included during your placement and we have a caterer and housekeeper that will ensure you get a hearty breakfast and dinner every weekday, as well as making sure you have a fully stocked kitchen and plenty of drinking water. Anything else you may need is likely to be found at the Pokhara bazaar, and if you want to enjoy the bars and restaurants of lakeside Pokhara, you are just 10 minutes away from a host of lively entertainment.

Pokhara has a real traveller vibe and you can spend hours wandering around cool cafes and bars as well as craft shops and Tibetan market stalls along the lakeside. For those who want to get out of the town, rowing across Phewa Tal in a wooden doonga (rowboat) is a tranquil way to enjoy the stunning scenery. Pokhara also has caves, waterfalls, beautiful temples and several neighbouring Tibetan villages to explore.

Heading out of Pokhara on weekends is easy. There are plenty of shops in town through which you can arrange biking, kayaking, horse riding, rafting and paragliding. Trekking is a must in this area and there are some excellent short and longer treks available. For those that are interested in the culture of Nepal, an twenty five minute flight will take you to Kathmandu, where you can visit Durbar square and the Kumari Devi or watch ritual bathing and Hindu cremations on the banks of Pashpatinath.