LWF Backstage Pass | Expedition to Nepal

LWF Backstage Pass offers a unique opportunity to encounter Nepal, gain real-life insight into the work of the LWF, and support Department for World Service (DWS) programs in the country.

• Spend time with DWS staff and the people whom we serve
• Spend time in God’s creation trekking high in the mountains
• Spend time drinking tea with Buddhist monks and learning how the LWF lives out its values in an interfaith context

The expedition will be led by a Communion Office staff who lived and worked in Nepal for 17 years, with further leadership from a DWS Nepal staff member.

In addition to covering costs for food, accommodation, and international travel, and travel and health insurance, participants are required to commit to raising EUR 1,100/USD 1,500 to support the work of LWF/DWS Nepal.

Applicants should physically fit and able to undertake seven days of mountain trekking of up to six hours a day. They should be eligible for a tourist visa to enter Nepal.

Applications will be processed in the order they are received until available spaces are filled.

See the Backstage Pass Frequently Asked Questions and the Backstage Pass Terms and Conditions for more information.

Event Language | English

Participation | Application-based, local church endorsement required

Registration deadline | 30 June 2014

Backstage Pass FAQ

General

What is Backstage Pass | Nepal Expedition?

Backstage Pass | Nepal Expedition is an opportunity to gain real-life insight into the LWF’s work in Nepal.

More than just an expedition to a stunning part of the world, participants will meet, face-to-face, LWF Department for World Service staff in Nepal and the people we serve there, like Tibetan refugees in Kathmandu, Marpha, and Pokhara.

You will experience firsthand how the LWF is working with communities to improve their quality of life through income generation activities, education and skills training, savings and credit cooperatives, and better water access and sanitation.

How big will the group be?

There will be two leaders and a maximum of 25 participants.

Application

Who can apply?

Anyone from an LWF member church who is at least 18 years of age can apply, regardless of your gender or formal role within the church. You must be eligible for a tourist visa to enter Nepal.

You must be physically fit and able to undertake seven days of trekking in the mountains.

You must be able to pay for your food and accommodation, international travel, and travel and health insurance. In addition, you must be willing to commit to raising a minimum of EUR 1,100/USD 1,500 to support LWF/DWS Nepal’s work.

How do I apply?

Download the application form. Fill it out completely, in English, and be sure to have your local church leader supply the required endorsement.

Send the completed application form to David Cooke at the LWF Communion Office by 30 June 2014.

How will I know if I’m in the group?

We’ll respond to everyone who sends a complete application so you’ll know if you’ve been selected or if there were no more spaces available. Applications will be processed in the order received.

Finances

What will it cost and how much money will I need in total?

Applicants must commit to raising a minimum of EUR 1,100/USD 1,500, to be sent to the Communion Office by 30 September 2014, to support DWS work in the country.

You must pay for your international travel to and from Kathmandu. This, of course, can vary considerably depending on where you live.

You will need to budget approximately EUR 625/USD 850 to cover costs of food and accommodation during the two-week stay and a visa to be purchased on arrival.

You also might want to bring some extra spending money for personal expenses such as souvenir shopping, refreshments, etc.

How should I raise the funds required?

It is entirely up to you how you achieve the fundraising target of EUR 1,100/USD 1,500.

You might want to invite members of your church to support you financially or hold local fundraising events. Or you might prefer simply to use personal money to meet the fundraising target.

You can find information about the LWF and Department for World Service Nepal under Links to support your fundraising efforts. Please contact David Cooke if you need more informational material.

How will the funds I raise be used?

We anticipate that at least 80 percent of the minimum EUR 1,100/USD 1,500 you raise will be used to support LWF Department for World Service Nepal projects.

The more you raise, the more we can act to meet the needs of people in Nepal!

The remainder of your contribution will cover organizers’ costs and group in-country expenses such as transportation and hospitality dinners.

Can I get a refund if I cancel my trip?

Since there is no Backstage Pass participation or registration fee, there will be nothing to refund as such.

If you have already sent us the fundraising target, we would ask to retain this for the work of the LWF.

Practical

What insurance coverage will I need?

You need to make your own arrangements for travel and health insurance, which should be the same as for a conventional trekking holiday in Nepal.

We recommend you look into insurance for:

• flight/trip cancellation
• loss or theft of baggage or personal property
• medical treatment, including emergency evacuation

In order to participate in Backstage Pass, you will need to send details of insurance coverage.

What should I bring on the trip?

You will need to bring a backpack, clothing and personal items such as toiletries, good footwear and a lightweight sleeping bag. No technical gear such as climbing rope or crampons is required. You will receive a full packing list once you have made your travel arrangements.

How do I apply for a visa?

Most foreign nationals can purchase a visa upon arrival in Nepal. For information on fees and requirements, please contact directly the Nepali consulate or diplomatic representation nearest you.

What currency should I bring?

ATMs are available in Kathmandu. You should plan to bring both credit cards and US dollars.

What should I do to prepare physically for the trip?

Engaging in regular physical activity such as hill walking or jogging is recommended. The better shape you are in, the more you will enjoy the trip.

More...

What if I have never been trekking before?

The trek is suited to beginning trekkers and will not require any technical skills. What is important is that you are in good physical shape and able to walk 5-6 hours a day in hilly terrain.

What measures is the LWF taking to ensure my safety during the trip?

Backstage Pass will be led by a former LWF staff member who has spent 17 years living and working in Nepal. He knows the environment and culture, is fluent in Nepali and is familiar with the trekking routes.

An LWF/DWS Nepal staff member will provide additional leadership.

These two trip leaders will plan the routes and accommodation, recruit local porters, and take care of any needs that may arise.

What are possible risks of the expedition?

The adverse effects of altitude are the most common risk associated with trekking in Nepal.

We will plan the trip to allow you to adjust properly to the altitude. We will closely monitor participants for any altitude-related symptoms and move you quickly to a lower altitude if needed.

Common injuries associated with walking or hiking, such as a sprained ankle or strained muscles, may also pose a risk.

Are there cultural differences and local customs I should be aware of?

We will conduct a full cultural orientation once you arrive in Nepal since learning about this fascinating culture will be part of the rich experience. We also encourage you to read up on Nepal beforehand.

Generally, the rural areas where we will be trekking are conservative. You should dress modestly to show respect for the people living in these communities.

Is there any required follow-up after the trip?

We encourage you to share widely back home about your experience and the work of the LWF, in particular with the local church that endorsed your participation.

And a Bit More…

I can’t join LWF Backstage Pass this time, but I would like to get more involved with the LWF and the great work you are doing. How can I help?

Thanks for your interest in the LWF! Please drop us a line and we will be in touch.

I still have questions – whom do I talk to?

Please send an email with “Backstage Pass” in the subject header. We will get back to you as soon as we can.