Tibet Volunteer Quests
Volunteer in Tibet: 2-12 weeks

"My time in Tibet was spectacular - everything

I could have hoped for and much more. My host family treated me like a princess and the children I taught responded to me with such enthusiasm, I really felt I was broadening their ideas of western culture, and improving their English language skills. I would recommend the Tibet quest for people of all ages and nationalities, it was an experience I will never forget!."

-Brooke Rae, Short-term volunteer in Tibet

The purpose of this Quest is to promote a deeper level of cultural exchange and understanding through meaningful volunteer work at local schools, social activities with the local community, excursions and cultural activities.

United Planet is working currently with different volunteer opportunities in partnership with local organizations in Tibet. United Planet volunteers are based in Jyekundo (“Yushu” in Chinese). Jyekundo and half of the Tibetan region of Kham is now located in the Yushu prefecture of China in the southwest of Qinghai province. This area has been deemed a destitute area by the Qinghai Government. The average altitude is 4000m and the population is approximately 268,000 of which 90% is Tibetan. The climate is quite severe making crops difficult to cultivate so most people live a nomadic lifestyle. There are no factories or industry in the area and only a few small enterprises. The economy and education systems are less developed so it is difficult for the area to escape the circle of poverty. This Tibetan area is extremely beautiful with a fascinating history and a rich culture.

Volunteers are given a very special opportunity to work in partnership with local schools by teaching English to Tibetan children, while also learning and immersing in Tibetan culture. Volunteers will teach English to Tibetan students and monastic collages in the rural areas within the six counties of Yushu.

There are two placements available for teaching English:

• A day school that teaches primary and secondary students. Volunteers will be teaching English in the classrooms.
• An English Training Center: The center offers extra curricular activities in the evening for Tibetan students and is opened full time during school vacation. Evening classes include English course which volunteers can help out for about 1-2 hours each night during school year. Volunteers may be placed full time in the center if he/she goes during vacation.
  

The Quest takes place in the Jyekundo area, and therefore provides many cultural learning opportunities, through living in villages and interacting with local communities. United Planet also provides excursions and Tibetan language classes! For more information, prices and details on Tibet please visit Tibet Prices and Details.

• The Tibet Quest runs year round and starts on the first and third Saturday of each month
• Volunteers for the Tibet Quest must be 18 year of age unless accompanied by an adult