Join us on a for-purpose trip to Nepal
Two trips on offer in 2025 - Annapurna Region and Everest Region
Travel to Nepal with Fernwood Tuggeranong
& Project Didi Australia
& Project Didi Australia
Our unique trips offer an opportunity to trek the spectacular Himalayas and learn from women driving change in their communties.
Our trips make a tangible difference to survivors of trafficking and violence in Nepal through a donation to Project Didi's locally-led partner organisation, Asha Nepal. You'll meet with Asha Nepal's team and make a meal with their housmothers, who provide critical care to children who are rebuilding their lives after violence.
You'll travel with Project Didi's experienced travel partner, World Horizons, and be guided by Jigme Tshering - the best of the best in guiding! He trained at the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute in Darjeeling and started working in Nepal in 1991. He has over 150 Himalayan expeditions under his belt!
In 2025, we're offering two opportunities to travel to Nepal and contribute to strong futures for survivors.
Our trips make a tangible difference to survivors of trafficking and violence in Nepal through a donation to Project Didi's locally-led partner organisation, Asha Nepal. You'll meet with Asha Nepal's team and make a meal with their housmothers, who provide critical care to children who are rebuilding their lives after violence.
You'll travel with Project Didi's experienced travel partner, World Horizons, and be guided by Jigme Tshering - the best of the best in guiding! He trained at the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute in Darjeeling and started working in Nepal in 1991. He has over 150 Himalayan expeditions under his belt!
In 2025, we're offering two opportunities to travel to Nepal and contribute to strong futures for survivors.
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Annapurna Region
26 April - 10 May 2025 Trek the stunning Khopra Ridge Circuit, offering views of some of the highest mountains in the world - the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges and the Kali Gandaki Gorge. Trek through rice terraces, small settlements and old growth rhododendron forests to the high pastures of Khopra Ridge. Our highest point of 3,420m. On either side of the trek spend a few days in Kathmandu and Pokhara, set on the beautiful Phewa Lake. |
Everest Region
26 October - 8 November 2025 |
A main highlight, and the whole reason for our trip, was supporting Project Didi. We were so warmly welcomed by the most amazing support staff, girls and housemothers. I will forever remember how truly inspirational and remarkable they are. Their beautiful smiles lit up the whole room.
The small group size and the amazing, knowledgeable, and supportive crew made this journey a really memorable, magical experience.
Michelle Nelson, 2019
Ready to pack your bags?
Join us on a unique, for-purpose trip to Nepal.
Value |
Annapurna Region |
Everest Region |
Dates |
26 April - 10 May 2025 |
26 October - 8 November 2025 |
Cost |
AU $5,585 (twin share) |
$5,320 (twin share) |
Days |
15 days |
14 days |
Accommodation |
Twin share Single supplement: AU $450 |
Twin share Single supplement: AU $595 |
Inclusions |
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Your donation towards strong futures for women & girls
Our trips celebrate the strength and resilience of women. Through connecting with our local partner organisation, you'll gain a unique insight into the challenges facing Nepali women and the resourceful ways they are building brighter futures.
Your trip is an investment in these futures. We ask you to fundraise minimum AU$800 ahead of your trip. Your tax deductible donation goes directly to our partner, Asha Nepal, contributing to care, counselling, education and employment pathways for survivors of trafficking and gender-based violence.
You’ll be provided with ideas, resources and a key contact at Project Didi to support your fundraising.
Your trip is an investment in these futures. We ask you to fundraise minimum AU$800 ahead of your trip. Your tax deductible donation goes directly to our partner, Asha Nepal, contributing to care, counselling, education and employment pathways for survivors of trafficking and gender-based violence.
You’ll be provided with ideas, resources and a key contact at Project Didi to support your fundraising.
How to book
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STEP 2
Transfer a AU $250 deposit to World Horizons to secure your booking. Details on booking form. |
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STEP 3
Pay the balance by Annapurna Region: Everest Region: |
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Project Didi will be in touch after you book to share more on your trip, support you with fundraising and arrange a pre-departure session.
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FAQs
When should I book?
ASAP - we have limited places on each trip.
Why should I book?
If you like small group, for purpose travel, this trip is for you. We’re combining Samunnat’s trip to eastern Nepal, which Wendy and Bishnu have been running since 2011, with our Women Empowering Women trip to provide an opportunity to:
I feel so fortunate that we were able to see eastern Nepal. We visited places where other tourists don't go - not unusual to be the only tourists in town - what a treat. Our team, headed by Bishnu, couldn't have been more helpful and flexible to meet our needs. I have absolutely no hesitation in recommending them. Their guidance and advice was first class. They helped us to understand Nepal's complex cultural and political environment. I am keen to return to this fascinating country. – 2015 traveller
Travelling to Nepal with Project Didi was truly joyful, exhilarating, reflective and enriching experience. Our fellow travellers were from all ages and backgrounds – the trip was truly memorable. To top it off, we saw first-hand the difference that Project Didi’s contribution, in collaboration with Asha Nepal, is making to the lives of young women, equipping them with life skills and education to lead a happy, productive life. – 2019 traveller
- See a part of Nepal, rarely visited by tourists
- Establish genuine connections with Nepali people
- See the impact of your trip in action through visits to two grassroots, women-led organisations.
I feel so fortunate that we were able to see eastern Nepal. We visited places where other tourists don't go - not unusual to be the only tourists in town - what a treat. Our team, headed by Bishnu, couldn't have been more helpful and flexible to meet our needs. I have absolutely no hesitation in recommending them. Their guidance and advice was first class. They helped us to understand Nepal's complex cultural and political environment. I am keen to return to this fascinating country. – 2015 traveller
Travelling to Nepal with Project Didi was truly joyful, exhilarating, reflective and enriching experience. Our fellow travellers were from all ages and backgrounds – the trip was truly memorable. To top it off, we saw first-hand the difference that Project Didi’s contribution, in collaboration with Asha Nepal, is making to the lives of young women, equipping them with life skills and education to lead a happy, productive life. – 2019 traveller
What does the cost include?
- Expert local guide, Bishnu Rai
- Australian leader - Sarah Bartram (March) or Wendy Moore (November)
- Twin share accommodation
- One night in a village homestay
- Airport transfers in Nepal
- Internal flights in Nepal
- All meals
- Visits to artisan studios and cultural sites
- Visits to our partner organisations, including a cooking class at Asha Nepal and a full day polymer clay jewellery workshop at Samunnat Nepal.
Accommodation only on the first Saturday night is included. This lines up with flights arriving from Australia and allows you to be in Kathmandu the day before activities begin.
What's not included in the cost?
- International flights
- Visa
- Vaccinations
- Comprehensive travel insurance
- Expenses incurred as a result of delay e.g. weather, flight cancellations, medical related issues, including COVID-19
- Incidental costs e.g. alcoholic beverages, laundry
- Staff tips - Common practice in Nepal is to tip guides and support staff who do a good job, which we’re confident our team will! We recommend bringing 10% of the trip cost (approx. US$300) for tips, which are pooled and divided between the team, if you are happy with the service. You can bring the tip in Australian dollars (approx. AU$500).
- Your $1,000 donation, which can be fundraised through an event, raffle, fun run - Project Didi and Samunnat will support you with lots of ideas and resources!
Do I have to book my flights from Australia?
Yes, we have excluded international flights from the trip so that you may choose your preferred airline or plan a stopover if you wish. We are happy to provide several airline options that have good arrival and departure times with our itinerary.
How big will the group be?
Our group will be a maximum of 12 fabulous women plus an Australian female guide.
Who are our guides?
Sarah Bartram, leading in March 2025
Sarah's passion for Nepal and its people started with her first visit in 1979 and grew with her years as a trekking guide in the 1980s, travelling all over Nepal with wonderful support teams. After a career back in Australia teaching adults who experienced barriers to learning: migrants, refugees, Indigenous Australians and women seeking access to the workforce, Sarah was drawn back to Nepal. This led her to focus on the education and empowerment of women and girls and to co-founding Project Didi Australia. Sarah leads Project Didi’s Women Empowering Women trips and Youth to Youth Programs, a peer-to-peer learning program for Australian school students in Nepal. She also runs Textile Treasures, a small business, which supports the artistic heritage of India and Nepal.
Wendy Moore OAM, leading in November 2025
Wendy is an artist who first travelled to Nepal in 1975. She’s lost count of how many times she’s been since. She lived in eastern Nepal for several years and continues to spend several months each year with the women of Samunnat Nepal mentoring the artists there. In Australia, she is engaged with Samunnat Inc, the Australian based support group for Samunnat Nepal. She also makes and sells her own jewellery and teaches classes focussing on creativity and fun. Wendy and Bishnu have been running the Colourful Journey tours together since 2011, combining their passions for sharing some of their favourite off-the-beaten track places in Nepal and connecting people with others who make a difference in their communities.
Bishnu Rai, Himalayan Sunrise
Bishnu grew up in the Solukhumbu region of Nepal and has been involved in trekking and mountaineering for over 30 years. He has extensive experience as a guide for a wide range of people on many Nepal based experiences including mountaineering, trekking, retreat treks and, of course, the Colourful Journey. He is passionate about sharing Nepal’s culture, flora and fauna and gives a unique and valuable perspective on life in Nepal. His understanding of the challenges for young Nepalis and his commitment to making a difference is reflected in his practical engagement with young people. Sonrisa, the NGO he co-founded 17 years ago, supports families and provides community based support and education to young people from vulnerable backgrounds. Bishnu’s experience and personality make the Colourful Journey a unique and very special experience.
Sarah's passion for Nepal and its people started with her first visit in 1979 and grew with her years as a trekking guide in the 1980s, travelling all over Nepal with wonderful support teams. After a career back in Australia teaching adults who experienced barriers to learning: migrants, refugees, Indigenous Australians and women seeking access to the workforce, Sarah was drawn back to Nepal. This led her to focus on the education and empowerment of women and girls and to co-founding Project Didi Australia. Sarah leads Project Didi’s Women Empowering Women trips and Youth to Youth Programs, a peer-to-peer learning program for Australian school students in Nepal. She also runs Textile Treasures, a small business, which supports the artistic heritage of India and Nepal.
Wendy Moore OAM, leading in November 2025
Wendy is an artist who first travelled to Nepal in 1975. She’s lost count of how many times she’s been since. She lived in eastern Nepal for several years and continues to spend several months each year with the women of Samunnat Nepal mentoring the artists there. In Australia, she is engaged with Samunnat Inc, the Australian based support group for Samunnat Nepal. She also makes and sells her own jewellery and teaches classes focussing on creativity and fun. Wendy and Bishnu have been running the Colourful Journey tours together since 2011, combining their passions for sharing some of their favourite off-the-beaten track places in Nepal and connecting people with others who make a difference in their communities.
Bishnu Rai, Himalayan Sunrise
Bishnu grew up in the Solukhumbu region of Nepal and has been involved in trekking and mountaineering for over 30 years. He has extensive experience as a guide for a wide range of people on many Nepal based experiences including mountaineering, trekking, retreat treks and, of course, the Colourful Journey. He is passionate about sharing Nepal’s culture, flora and fauna and gives a unique and valuable perspective on life in Nepal. His understanding of the challenges for young Nepalis and his commitment to making a difference is reflected in his practical engagement with young people. Sonrisa, the NGO he co-founded 17 years ago, supports families and provides community based support and education to young people from vulnerable backgrounds. Bishnu’s experience and personality make the Colourful Journey a unique and very special experience.
What level of fitness do I need for this trip?
You must be in good health and physical condition to participate on the trip. There will be days that include walking on uneven surfaces for several hours. The trip goes to areas where there may be restricted access to normal medical services or hospital facilities for serious problems.
It is a condition of booking, that you complete a medical declaration, advising Himalayan Sunrise of any pre-existing condition that might impact your participation in the trip and the enjoyment of other trip members. If you do not wish to complete a medical declaration, you will be required to provide a medical clearance to participate on the trip from a qualified medical practitioner.
If you have any questions, please email [email protected].
It is a condition of booking, that you complete a medical declaration, advising Himalayan Sunrise of any pre-existing condition that might impact your participation in the trip and the enjoyment of other trip members. If you do not wish to complete a medical declaration, you will be required to provide a medical clearance to participate on the trip from a qualified medical practitioner.
If you have any questions, please email [email protected].
Do we go trekking?
The trip does not include a trek, however, if you would like to add a trek to your time in Nepal, Bishnu can arrange it. He has been a trekking and mountaineering guide for over three decades and has extensive experience guiding first time trekkers to more experienced walkers wanting to visit remote regions. Please email [email protected].
Will we be volunteering?
We promote locally driven, sustainable and skilled volunteering. Our trips do not provide enough time to understand a community's needs and develop the strong relationships needed for volunteering. While our trip does not include volunteering, you will make a lasting impact on the organisations you visit through your donation to their work. We also believe their creativity and courage will make a lasting impact on you!
Is the trip suitable for under 18-year-olds?
What are the key dates I need to be aware of?
March 2025
November 2025
- 7 days after booking: US$300 deposit due to Himalayan Sunrise to secure booking
- By December 2024: You'll receive more information on your trip and support to fundraise your contribution
- January 2025: Virtual pre-departure sesssion with Sarah, Project Didi and Himalayan Sunrise
- By 1 January 2025: Full payment due to Himalayan Sunrise
- By 1 March 2025: $1,000 tax deductible donation made to Samunnat and Project Didi
- 1 - 16 March 2025: Trip to Nepal
November 2025
- 7 days after booking: US$300 deposit due to Himalayan Sunrise to secure booking
- By August 2025: You'll receive more information on your trip and support to fundraise your contribution
- September 2025: Virtual pre-departure sesssion with Wendy, Project Didi and Himalayan Sunrise
- By 16 September 2025: Full payment due to Himalayan Sunrise
- By 16 November 2025: $1,000 tax deductible donation made to Samunnat and Project Didi
- 16 - 30 November 2025: Trip to Nepal
I’m not free for either trip in 2025!
Don’t worry! We are planning more trips in the future. Register your interest to receive the latest updates.
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Project Didi Australia is committed to restoring hope, dignity and independence to women and girls in Nepal, who have experienced trafficking and gender-based violence, through trauma-informed care, family strengthening and reintegration, education and employment pathways.
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ABN 68 320 267 277
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