A Nepalese Adventure to Remember

Our recent journey to Nepal was an immersive experience that blended natural beauty, cultural discovery, and community engagement. We numbered 22 in total, with 18 students from Year 11 including Elise, Jess, Maddie, Coco, Amelia, Romy, Emily, Elsie, Alexia, Charlotte, Bridget, Julia, Annie, Annalise, Chiara, Anneliese, Lucie and Lucy. Joining us was Mr Sewell, Ms McCarty and Ms Bates. Departing from Sydney, we broke up the long flight with a brief stop in Kuala Lumpur. By the time we caught our first glimpse of the Himalayas through the aeroplane windows, anticipation had given way to awe. Watching Everest emerge from the clouds was a thrilling prelude to the remarkable days ahead.

Upon arrival in Kathmandu, we set off to explore the Buddhanath Stupa, one of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world. Circling the structure and spinning the vibrant prayer wheels introduced us to the deep reverence woven into daily Nepali life. Inside a nearby monastery, the rhythmic chant of monks and delicate, gold-embellished paintings brought centuries-old Buddhist teachings to life.

A short domestic flight took us to Pokhara, gateway to the Annapurna region, where our trekking adventure commenced. Winding through terraced fields and steep stone steps, we witnessed day-to-day life in mountain villages - families working in fields, children offering friendly “Namaste,” and herds of water buffalo grazing on the slopes. Our evenings were spent in small tea houses, where warm cups of tea and simple meals restored our energy.

The main highlight was the T-Help greenhouse project in Phulbari: the students helped dig foundations, prepare rocks for concrete, and assemble a new greenhouse structure. Before they left on the trip, the students had raised more than $5,000 towards the project, which is designed to help women in Nepal grow food sustainably.

The main highlight was the T-Help greenhouse project in Phulbari: the students helped dig foundations, prepare rocks for concrete, and assemble a new greenhouse structure. Before they left on the trip, the students had raised more than $5,000 towards the project, which is designed to help women in Nepal grow food sustainably.

A pre-dawn hike to the summit of Poon Hill was perhaps the most poignant moment of the trip. Departing in darkness, we arrived just as the sun began to illuminate the Annapurna range. The mountains gradually transformed from dim silhouettes into radiant peaks, inspiring quiet reflection among our group. Many described the moment as both humbling and uplifting—a reminder of nature’s vast beauty and our own capacity for perseverance.

Shifting gears from high-altitude treks, we travelled to Chitwan National Park for a deeper look at Nepal’s lowland ecosystems. Taking an open-air jeep safari through subtropical forests, we spotted one-horned rhinos at watering holes, crocodiles along the riverbanks, and deer darting between the trees. Our guides explained the ongoing conservation work, including patrols to deter poachers, which has yielded positive results for local wildlife. Equally memorable was our visit to a sanctuary caring for rescued elephants. We prepared ‘elephant candy’ - straw bundles filled with grains - and offered them to these gentle giants, learning about their rehabilitation process and the centre’s broader commitment to animal welfare.

Returning to Kathmandu for our final night, we navigated the lively streets, collected souvenirs at bustling markets, and gathered for a farewell dinner. Reflecting on the journey, everyone felt a sense of accomplishment and gratitude. Many spoke of the lasting impact: an increased appreciation for community-focused living, a desire to minimise technology’s hold on daily life, and a new perspective on what it means to truly immerse oneself in another culture.

By the end of our stay, we came to realise that Nepal’s magic lies in its contrasts: the clamour of Kathmandu’s streets versus the hushed calm of a Himalayan sunrise, the physical rigours of trekking balanced by the warm hospitality of tea-house hosts, and the sobering realities of conservation challenges offset by hopeful success stories. Our time in Nepal broadened our horizons and demonstrated how meaningful it can be to step beyond familiar comforts. Although our group has returned home, the memories - and the insights gained - will continue to shape how we view the world, reminding us of Nepal’s beauty, resilience, and welcoming spirit.

Dr Jonathon Mascorella
Director of Innovation