Environmental Science & Policy internship in Nepal
Work on conservation, climate and community projects in Nepal.
What you'll do
Your day-to-day
As an Environmental Science & Policy intern in Nepal, you might:
- Collect and analyze data on biodiversity, climate and resource use.
- Review environmental policies and suggest improvements.
- Help run workshops on conservation and sustainable living.
- Support field monitoring, such as water quality tests or wildlife tracking.
- Help prepare reports, presentations and meetings with partners.
You'll build research, policy and fieldwork skills while supporting local projects.
Local know-how
What to know before you go
Environmental science in Kathmandu
Interns in Nepal are based in Kathmandu. The Kathmandu Valley is home to ICIMOD, the intergovernmental center that studies the Hindu Kush Himalaya, and environmental work here is shaped by the mountains. ICIMOD and its partners track how Himalayan glaciers are changing and watch glacial lakes, which can cause sudden floods downstream if they burst.
The city also has its own challenge. The Kathmandu Valley is a bowl surrounded by hills, and that shape traps polluted air, which is why air quality is a major local topic. Government bodies, research groups and NGOs all work on climate, water, forests and clean air. For an intern, it's a chance to see how research and policy meet in a mountain country where climate change is a daily concern. Tell your career advisor if you prefer research, policy or community work.
Job roles
Environmental Research Intern
Help with studies on climate resilience, biodiversity and resource use.
Policy Development Intern
Review environmental rules and strategies with local organizations.
Community Engagement Intern
Help organize workshops and community conservation activities.
Wildlife Conservation Intern
Support species monitoring and habitat protection.
Program Support Intern
Help with reports, grant writing and coordination.
Field Operations Intern
Take part in tree planting, water testing and restoration work.
Your exact tasks depend on your host company, and all our host companies in Nepal work in English.
The industry
The Environmental Science & Policy Landscape in Nepal
Economic impact
Nepal is one of the countries most exposed to climate change, from melting Himalayan glaciers to floods and landslides.
Technology
Teams use mapping tools, remote sensing and simple field tests to track forests, water and wildlife.
Career opportunities
Research, policy, conservation and community roles are all options, and your internship helps you see which path fits.
Prices
How much it costs
Asia Internship Program prices depend on your program and how long you stay. See the destination page for the full price table.
FAQ
Questions interns ask
Do I need to speak Nepali for an environmental internship in Nepal?
No. We place you with organizations that work in English. A few Nepali words go a long way in daily life.
Will I do fieldwork in the mountains?
It depends on your host company. Some roles are office- and research-based, and others may include time outdoors. Tell your career advisor what you want to do and we'll aim to match you.
What is the air like in Kathmandu?
Air pollution is a known issue in the valley, especially in the dry season, because the bowl shape traps it. It's a real topic in environmental work there, so it can also be part of what you study.
Applications open all year
Your field, somewhere new.
It's free to apply, and you only pay a deposit once you're accepted.