Nepal: Returning to Our Roots | Flood Disaster Response & Kavre Deaf School Project
Expand educational access for Nepal's deaf community by fulfilling our commitment to a requested school project in Kavre, then return to our roots in the Langtang region to support the flood survivors of Syabru Besi (and neighboring communities, as funds allow)—delivering direct relief, gathering firsthand accounts, and trekking through valleys that have seen so much.
KAVRE X LANGTANG VALLEY, NEPAL
Kavre School for the Deaf & Syabru Besi Flood Relief
Project Funds Raised
Next Trip: November 1-13, 2026 | 13 Days
In mid-September—just six weeks before departure—our team spoke with our local partners on the ground and unanimously decided to pivot our planned November trek. Ten years after Trek Relief was born in response to the 2015 earthquake, we are returning to where it all began to stand beside Syabru Besi following catastrophic flooding that wiped out the village remnant, along with the primary school Trek Relief previously built.
Our journey begins just east of Kathmandu at the Kavre School for the Deaf, home to 92 students. In keeping with our ethos of conscious engagement, we refuse to let Kavre become a secondary victim of the flood by abandoning our long-standing momentum. You’ll spend three days working alongside local builders to construct foundational structural pillars for a permanent top-floor kitchen and dining hall—completing Year 1 of our two-year commitment to permanently free up a quiet, dedicated classroom where these children can focus and thrive.
With our promises honored in Kavre, we travel overland to flood-affected Rasuwa to begin a transformative trek through the aftermath into the Langtang Valley. Making a meaningful detour to witness conditions on the ground firsthand in Syabru Besi, we then ascend into higher settlements to soak up the majesty and history of the Himalayas that inspired our very first earthquake recovery fundraiser ten years ago. Late in the trip, we return to Kathmandu to meet displaced flood survivors taking shelter at local monasteries, delivering direct relief funds in hand and building momentum toward our major Giving Tuesday campaign on December 1. This trip is intentionally crafted to respond directly to the evolving needs of the families and communities we have stood alongside since day one.
“Words cannot describe what this experience has meant to me and the impact it’s had on my life. I’ve fallen in love with Nepal, it’s people, and it’s beauty.
— Rob W, Nepal Participant
Where Action Meets Awareness
Conscious Engagement: Honoring Promises while Standing with Flood Survivors
Background & Reality on the Ground
Ten years after our founding, catastrophic flash floods devastated the Nepal-Tibet border region on August 26, 2026. Our hearts weep as precious lives and communities have been lost, including the primary school we adopted and rebuilt after running 14 volunteer treks to fundraise for its construction. Surmounting this complex state of disaster involves navigating immense challenges currently facing the survivors:
Bureaucratic Roadblocks: Families face severe paperwork hurdles—replacing lost IDs, land registrations, and obtaining official death certificates for missing loved ones—before they can access government subsidies for temporary housing rent.
Displacement & Relocation: Finding suitable land to relocate 161 displaced families while attempting to keep them in neighboring areas to preserve their culture, lifestyle, and social fabric—all while confronting the painful reality that they may need to split up.
Loss of Breadwinners: Primary breadwinners, who were working in the town center when the flood struck, were disproportionately lost, leaving surviving elders and young children taking refuge in local monasteries in Kathmandu.
Guided by real-time updates and community needs shared by our close local partners, we are returning to Ground Zero to support these families in the most respectful, effective, and meaningful way possible.
Mission
This journey invites us to engage in mutual contribution, conscious engagement, and open-minded flexibility as on-the-ground needs evolve. At Trek Relief, purposeful travel means honoring our long-standing commitments while remaining nimble enough to respond when crisis strikes. Conscious engagement ensures that one community’s disaster never displaces another’s support. We remain fully dedicated to fulfilling our original construction commitment at the Kavre School for the Deaf, while layering on a joint relief campaign driven by our genuine desire to stand beside flood survivors in Syabru Besi.
Following our trek into the valley, our group will return to Kathmandu to visit local monasteries sheltering displaced survivors. There, we will deliver direct financial aid in hand, gather firsthand accounts from the community of Syabru Besi, and evaluate strategies for long-term recovery. We are rallying around a parallel $20,000 group fundraising goal for Syabru Besi—and, as funds allow, we will extend direct support to neighboring affected communities navigating this same crisis.
Upcoming Trip Details
Nepal: Returning to Our Roots | Flood Disaster Response & Kavre Deaf School Project
KAVRE , NEPAL
November 1-13, 2026 | 13 Days
General Itinerary
Please note: Due to the evolving landscape of post-disaster recovery in Nepal, this itinerary serves as a guide and is subject to change as conditions on the ground become clearer.
Nov 1 — Arrive in Kathmandu (1,340m): Step into the rhythmic chaos of the capital. Meet your crew at 5:00 PM for an open-book briefing, safety overview, and welcome dinner.
Nov 2 — Overland to Kavre District: Head east into the green hills of Kavre. Arrive at the campus, meet the faculty and students, and orient ourselves to the daily rhythm of the school while providing hands-on assistance as needed.
Nov 3 — Service Day: Pillar Construction: Roll up your sleeves alongside local masons to move materials and build foundational structural pillars for the top-floor terrace expansion.
Nov 4 — Finalizing Pillar Work: Complete the foundational pillar layout at Kavre, celebrate our shared progress with the students, and prepare for our departure to the mountains.
Nov 5 — Overland Transit to Trailhead (Dhunche): Journey overland toward the Langtang region via Dhunche—the primary access point to the valley given current road conditions.
Nov 6 — Trek Dhunche to Thulo Syabru: Begin our trek, ascending through forested trails into historic mountain settlements.
Nov 7 — Trek toward Syabru Besi: Descend into the valley toward Syabru Besi, observing the impact on the landscape firsthand and connecting deeply with the losses felt across the region.
Nov 8 — Trek into Langtang Valley: Follow the roaring Langtang Khola deeper into the high valley, taking in dramatic, towering mountain vistas.
Nov 9 — High Valley Exploration & Acclimatization: Explore high-altitude terrain, local cheese factories, and ancient chortens while adjusting to the elevation (~3,870m).
Nov 10 — High Valley Immersion & Firsthand Witnessing: A dedicated second day in the upper valley to connect with local families, gather firsthand accounts of survival and recovery, and immerse in the history of the high Himalayas.
Nov 11 — Trek Down to the Road Head: Begin our descent back through the valley, tracing our steps down to the main road head.
Nov 12 — Return Transit to Kathmandu & Farewell Celebration: Travel back to Kathmandu after completing the mountain trek, reuniting for hot showers and a celebratory farewell dinner.
Nov 13 — Monastery Visit & Relief Distribution: Visit local monasteries in Kathmandu sheltering displaced flood survivors to deliver direct relief funds in hand, share accounts, and engage in meaningful reflection.
Please note: We are undertaking this trek with the full understanding that, at the time of writing, the Rasuwa region is under a Level 4 "Do Not Travel" advisory. We strictly require all trip participants to hold active travel insurance that explicitly covers high-altitude trekking and travel in disaster-affected areas under active advisories.
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ASAP: Please let us know your intent to join us by signing up below.
October 1: Donate/raise the initial deposit of $500.
October 15: Donate/raise the remaining minimum contribution of $3000.
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Sign up for Nepal commitment-free to chat with our Trip Leader to learn more.
Fundraising Goal for Nepal: $3,500
Team members must fundraise or donate a minimum of $3,500 in order to participate in this expedition. This total goal is completely open-book and split directly to cover the on-the-ground project development at Kavre School for Deaf and your comprehensive trip logistics across Nepal.
The numbers below are projected costs based on a group size of 10.
Charitable Contribution: $1,765
Goes directly toward our original commitment at the Kavre School for the Deaf to procure materials (brick, cement, steel), engineer oversight, and build the structural pillars for the top-floor terrace expansion, alongside Trek Relief's essential operational support.
Trip Fees: $1,735
Covers all mountain transport, teahouse lodging, trail meals, local guiding crews, and field logistics required to make our collective journey safe, smooth, and impactful.
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Kavre Project Charitable Contribution: Directly funds raw materials, engineering oversight, and construction logistics to build the top-floor kitchen and dining facility at the Kavre School for the Deaf.
Accommodations & Meals: All lodging and meals throughout the program, including welcome and farewell celebratory dinners in Kathmandu.
Ground Transportation: All private ground transport according to the program itinerary during trip dates.
Expert Local Crew: Highly experienced English-speaking trek guide and dedicated support from local Sherpa staff.
Porters & Luggage Support: Porters and vehicles to transport your trekking gear (please pack considerately).
Trail Hydration & Hot Drinks: Three cups of tea or coffee daily, plus boiled and filtered drinking water provided throughout the trek.
National Park Permits & Logistics: Langtang National Park entry permit and TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) registration.
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International airfare to and from Kathmandu, Nepal
Mandatory travel insurance explicitly covering high-altitude trekking and active travel in disaster-affected areas
Nepal entry visa fees and any associated extension costs
Tips for local trekking guides, porters, and field staff (optional, but deeply appreciated)
Optional activities, personal sightseeing, or extra excursions not listed in the core itinerary
Personal local transportation, taxis, or transfers outside scheduled group activities
Personal expenses (snacks, bottled water, soft drinks, alcoholic beverages, laundry, Wi-Fi, or device charging)
Unforeseen expenses arising from itinerary delays, weather, or flight cancellations (strongly covered by travel insurance)
Anything not explicitly listed under the "Included" section
Deposit: Raise/donate $500 to demonstrate your commitment and secure your spot.
Joint Relief Effort: $20,000 Group Flood Goal
In addition to individual trip costs, team members and our community are invited to rally together around an additional group goal of $20,000 specifically for flood survivors (~$2,000 suggested target per participant).
This is a joint effort and open invitation for travelers, alumni, and supporters to participate in and rally around a major campaign push for Giving Tuesday on December 1. Every dollar raised for this fund goes directly into the hands of displaced survivors from Syabru Besi (and neighboring communities, as funds allow) to support their immediate relief and long-term recovery.
By intentionally routing our itinerary through one of the hardest-hit districts and returning to our roots in the Langtang Valley, we aim to deepen our connection and foster genuine, lasting care for the families we have stood beside since day one.
How to Fundraise & Earn Credit Towards Your Trip
We offer several ways for you to offset the cost of your trip in order to make it more accessible and achievable.
Create a Fundraiser
Start a personalized fundraiser to spread the word and raise funds towards your trip, boost the impact of our programs, and empower others to get involved and contribute.
Double Your Impact
Find out if your employer or those in your network offer corporate matching programs that double your donation. Maximize your effort and reach your fundraising goals faster.
Earn Trip Credit
Earn your way to your next adventure through programs that offer trip credit toward your trip cost such as work trade, friend referrals, alumni discounts, and more.
Where Your Money Goes: Financial Transparency & Impact
At Trek Relief, we believe purposeful travel should leave a positive trace—both in the communities we visit and in how your money is used. As a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit public benefit corporation, we are committed to complete financial clarity so you know exactly how your contribution drives change.
Non-Deductible (IRS Fair Market Value)
Direct Local ExperienceCovers your essential on-the-ground expenses—including local guides, accommodations, group meals, park permits, internal transit, and emergency support.
100% Tax-Deductible Contribution
Community Project FundDirectly funds on-the-ground community impact—including building materials, local skilled labor, project supplies, and essential program administration.
How Your Payment, Tax Deductions, & Crowdfunding Work
To better understand the tax deductibility of your contribution whether by direct donation or crowdfunding, as well as eligibility for corporate matching, please review our Ethos & Finance FAQ.
Project Scope
A Community-Led Initiative & Dual Commitment
1. Kavre School for the Deaf (Two-Year Commitment)
The school serves 92 students (62 residential) and 20 staff members, but the campus has completely run out of square footage, forcing the principal to utilize the primary kitchen and dining hall as an active daytime classroom. To solve this bottleneck without abandoning our momentum, Trek Relief is executing a two-year construction strategy:
Phase 1 (This Trip - Year 1): Procuring materials and working alongside local masons to build the foundational structural pillars on the top-floor terrace.
Phase 2 (Next Year - Year 2): Returning to build out remaining masonry walls, roofing, utility routing, and kitchen fixtures.
Long-Term Impact: Permanently frees up the lower multi-use room into a dedicated classroom for deaf education.
2. Syabru Besi Flood Relief & Firsthand Witnessing
Returning to where Trek Relief began 10 years ago, our group will trek through the Langtang region to witness conditions firsthand. At the end of the trip, we will visit local monasteries in Kathmandu to deliver direct financial aid in hand to displaced survivors and gather firsthand accounts, while rallying public support for community recovery efforts leading into Giving Tuesday (two weeks after our return).
We are also welcoming early donations so we can distribute cash support directly to families in person during our November visit—which is the most urgently requested form of support.
Our Total Impact in Nepal
US$320,541
Total Funds Raised
1
School Rebuilt & Supplied
5
Medical Centers Supported
69
Teahouses Rebuilt & Supported
91
Students Supported
7,500
Hot Meals Provided During Covid
1,460+
Pounds of Children’s Books Donated
Past Projects in Nepal
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![A flooded river spilling over its banks next to a traditional building with a pagoda-style roof, surrounded by green trees and hills in the background.]()
Khavre, Nepal | Post-Flood Rebuild
$20,852 raised
In the aftermath of the devastating floods that impacted Nepal in 2024, Trek Relief completed a vital project to support recovery and restore a flood-damaged classroom in the remote village of Khavre, one of the hardest-hit regions. Participants then trekked to Dhaulagiri in the beautiful Annapurna Circuit region of Nepal. -
![Four Nepali women and one boy holding up their harvest, smiling in a garden surrounded by large green cabbage plants.]()
Solukhumbu, Nepal | Seeds of Hope
$65,418 raised
With a mission to empower women in the mountainous regions of Everest, we provided financial and hands-on support to build climate-resilient food systems, promote food security, and facilitate training and community development. Participants then trekked to Pikey Peak to celebrate the completion of this project. -
![A volunteer hands hot food funded by Trek Relief out to children during the Covid 19 pandemic.]()
Kathmandu, Nepal | Covid Pandemic Relief
$25,703 raised
Even as global travel came to a halt, Trek Relief’s commitment to making a difference remained strong. In 2021, our Founder, Candice Young, spearheaded an online fundraiser, personally matching donations to support the distribution of hot meals, food stocks, and medical supplies during a time of great need. -
![Destroyed stone buildings and rubble with a blue doorframe in a mountainous landscape of Langtang Valley, Nepal after the deadly earthquake.]()
Langtang Valley, Nepal | Rebuild a School
$134,281 raised
Over the course of 14 treks into the earthquake stricken valley, Trek Relief members built homes and orphanages, demolished and funded the reconstruction of a 5-classroom school. Three years later, Komin Shyamey Wangphel Secondary School stands proudly in Syabrubesi as a testament to resilience and hope. -
Everest, Nepal | Provide Medical Aid
$61,768 raised
A 2-day health camp was organized and funds were raised to equip the Salyan Primary Healthcare Center and three health posts in Solukhumbu, Nepal, with vital medical supplies—including the region's first dental chair. Participants later trekked to Everest Base Camp, marking a milestone in our journey of impact.
Goal 3: Good Health and Well-Being
Direct financial and humanitarian relief for flood survivors living in temporary monastery shelters.
U.N. Sustainable Development Goals
This Trek Relief Nepal program is aligned with the following United Nations Sustainable Development Goals:
Goal 4: Quality Education
Constructing structural pillars to expand physical infrastructure for 92 deaf students at Kavre School for the Deaf.
Goal 10: Reduced Inequalities
Championing educational equity for marginalized deaf students and vulnerable flood-displaced mountain communities.
Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
Supporting long-term community recovery and culturally sensitive relocation for displaced families.
The Mountains are Waiting. Let’s Build & Support Together.
The structural plans for Kavre are drawn. The trails of the Langtang region are waiting. And we have a profound, high-impact mission ahead of us for Nepal 2026. This may truly be the most adventurous, impactful, and life-changing expedition Trek Relief has ever run.
If you are ready to remain flexible through shifting conditions on the ground, challenge your boundaries, work with your hands, and embrace the simple power of bearing witness—and if you are open to being moved enough to fundraise for the people we meet along the way—this journey will change the way you look at the world. Take the first step.
Nepal: Kavre School for the Deaf - Expansion Project
Sign up to reserve your spot and connect with our team to learn more—there’s no commitment when signing up.
Support Nepal from Afar
If you’re unable to join us in Nepal but still want to support this meaningful cause, you can contribute directly to our Syabru Besi Flood Relief Campaign to help us reach our $20,000 group goal. Every advance donation allows us to bring more direct financial support in hand to survivors at local monasteries in Kathmandu late in our trip. Every contribution brings us closer to restoring hope and stability to these communities.
Who You’ll Travel With
A Tight-Knit Crew of Conscious Explorers
You won’t be traveling with passive tourists looking for a checklist holiday. Trek Relief brings together an unpretentious, adventurous community of people who believe that travel should leave a trace of genuine utility behind.
Our cohorts are a diverse mix of solo travelers, outdoor enthusiasts, and changemakers from all walks of life. If you are someone who finds joy in a hard day's work, loves deep conversation over a steaming mug of teahouse chai, and smiles when mountain logistics require a little shared problem-solving—you are already part of this crew. The trail is waiting.
Chas Stewart
Trip Leader
Stories & Updates from Nepal
Read more about the impact from past treks, news, and updates to the projects in Nepal.
