The Cost of Raising Orphans and Hosting Volunteers in Kathmandu, Nepal

The cost of living in Kathmandu, Nepal, can vary greatly depending on one's lifestyle, accommodation choices, and personal spending habits. This article explores the expenses associated with raising orphans and hosting volunteers in the city, providing a comprehensive breakdown of monthly costs. By understanding these details, potential caregivers and hosts can better plan for their financial responsibilities.

The Average Cost of Living in Kathmandu

As of the knowledge update in August 2023, here is a rough breakdown of monthly expenses for a single person seeking to live in Kathmandu, Nepal:

Accommodation

Type Budget Shared or Basic Apartment 100 - 300 NPR Private Apartment 300 - 600 NPR

Food

Type Budget Local Eateries 100 - 200 NPR Restaurants and Cafes 200 - 400 NPR

Transportation

Mode Budget Public Transport 10 - 30 NPR Taxi or Ride-Sharing 30 - 100 NPR

Utilities

Total Estimated Monthly Cost: Budget Lifestyle: 300 - 700 NPR Mid-range Lifestyle: 700 - 1500 NPR

These figures can fluctuate based on personal preferences and changes in the local economy. It is advisable to check for the most current data if you are planning a visit or move.

Personal Experiences: Orphan Care and Volunteer Hosting

I, a volunteer at heart, found myself in a unique situation where I sought to take in a handful of teenage boys. This wasn't through any official NGO, but through letters giving my Nepali grandson permission to care for them. These boys were enrolled in public school, and when I registered them for the year, the cost was less than 50 NPR each, which included books. Uniforms also did not exceed 35 NPR, including shoes. Every morning, I would send one to the store for eggs, milk, and bread for breakfast, which cost less than 4 NPR one day and about 7.50 the next, due to buying a flat of eggs. Additional daily expenses for transportation and school lunch were around 25 cents and 80 cents each, respectively. I also gave my cook 1000 to 2000 NPR every month for fresh vegetables, about 8 to 16 NPR per visit. Monthly supermarket trips for items like butter, cheese, coffee, rice, and processed food like pasta cost around 100 NPR. Each week, a meat dinner cost approximately 5 NPR, in addition to the daily 8 to 16 NPR budget.

Currently, we are around 9 to 12 people, including up to 4 volunteers, 2 live-in staff, and 4 to 5 growing boys. I have a large home and pay about 600 NPR a month for LP gas, electricity, and water. Additionally, I spend about 4 NPR per person for lunch out when we go to Kathmandu for shopping and about 10-20 NPR for a taxi if we don’t take a bus. It is a significant relief to be able to take in children and host volunteers without having to worry much about financial constraints, especially as compared to living in the US.

Conclusion

The cost of living in Kathmandu provides a unique opportunity for those willing to open their hearts and homes. While the initial costs may seem substantial, the overall financial burden is manageable when managed wisely. By understanding the typical expenses, individuals can better plan and ensure that their altruistic efforts are both caring and sustainable.