Join us on a for-purpose trip to Nepal
Experience a Nepal tourists rarely see, connecting with inspiring women, artisans, food producers and community leaders.
Learn from Nepali people driving change and and share meals, stories and skills with locals.
Support bright futures for women and girls through Project Didi's locally-led partner organisations.
Travel with expert guides, Sarah Bartram, Project Didi’s co‑founder, or Wendy Moore, Samunnat Nepal’s program collaborator, along with local guide, Bishnu Rai. Together, they bring 20+ years of experience leading trips in Nepal!
Learn from Nepali people driving change and and share meals, stories and skills with locals.
Support bright futures for women and girls through Project Didi's locally-led partner organisations.
Travel with expert guides, Sarah Bartram, Project Didi’s co‑founder, or Wendy Moore, Samunnat Nepal’s program collaborator, along with local guide, Bishnu Rai. Together, they bring 20+ years of experience leading trips in Nepal!
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Western Nepal
14-31 October 2026 Travel west to Pokhara at the foot of the Annapurna Range, visiting creative enterprises, organic farms, local markets, rural villages, historic towns, and sacred sites. Relax, unwind and enjoy the views on beautiful Phewa Lake, and at Chitwan National Park. Enjoy a mix of small hotels, camps and homestays before a final night in Kathmandu in 5 star comfort. |
Eastern Nepal
14-29 November 2026 Travel east to the vibrant Terai plains to meet with the ladies of Samunnat, who make beautiful polymer clay jewellery supporting survivors of violence. Visit rural villages, bustling markets and meet with skilled artisans in ceramics, textiles and metalwork. Return to Kathmandu via a retreat on an organic farm in the peaceful hills of Namo Buddha. |
Ready to pack your bags?
Dates |
Western Nepal |
Eastern Nepal |
Dates |
Wednesday 14 - Saturday 31 October 2026 |
Saturday 14 - Sunday 29 November 2026 |
Cost |
US$3,760 per person (twin share) |
US $3,465 per person (twin share) |
Days |
17 days, 18 nights |
14 days, 15 nights |
Group size |
Maximum 12 people |
Maximum 12 people |
Accomodation |
Twin share Single supplement - US $300 |
Twin share Single supplement - US $280 |
By women. For women. Empowering women.
Our trips celebrate the strength and resilience of women. Through visits, workshops and connections, 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$1,000 ahead of your trip to support our local partners in Nepal. Your tax deductible donation goes directly to the organisations you visit, Asha Nepal and Samunnat Nepal, contributing to legal representation, 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$1,000 ahead of your trip to support our local partners in Nepal. Your tax deductible donation goes directly to the organisations you visit, Asha Nepal and Samunnat Nepal, contributing to legal representation, 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.
This tour was a life highlight for me, unlike anything I have previously experienced. I have many cherished memories.
I will be continuing to support the work of Project Didi. Thank you for the excellent planning and efficient execution of the tour.
Christine May
Women Empowering Women trip 2023
How to book
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STEP 2 Transfer a US$300 deposit to Himalayan Sunrise Trekking & Expeditions to secure your booking. Details on booking form. |
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STEP 3 Pay the balance by:
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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. |
Your wellbeing is our first priority
We closely monitor the latest travel advice and work with our local partners to ensure the trip is safe and enjoyable for all. Please read the information below prior to booking, and contact [email protected] if you have any questions.
We closely monitor the latest travel advice and work with our local partners to ensure the trip is safe and enjoyable for all. Please read the information below prior to booking, and contact [email protected] if you have any questions.
- Your trip is booked through Himalayan Sunrise Trekking & Expeditions, who will arrange travel, accommodation and activities in Nepal.
- It is a requirement of travelling with Himalayan Sunrise Trekking & Expeditions that you hold comprehensive travel insurance. Proof of insurance is required prior to departure.
- 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.
- Trips are subject to change or cancellation in response to travel advice by the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) and guidance from local authorities in Nepal.
- A non‑refundable, non‑transferable deposit is required at the time of booking. Travellers are responsible for ensuring their travel insurance provides adequate cover for trip changes, delays, or cancellations.
FAQs
When should I book?
ASAP - we have limited places.
Why should I book?
If you like small group, for purpose travel, these trips are for you. Our Women Empowering Women trips provide an opportunity to:
Don't take our word for it! Here’s what previous participants on our trips have said:
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
I knew that political upheaval, earthquakes and COVID must have taken their toll on Nepal but was amazed and inspired by the resilience and creativity of the people we met, especially the women of Asha and Samunnat, Project Didi’s local partner organisations. They were doing the empowering, we felt lucky being able to witness it. - 2024 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 grassroots, women-led organisations.
Don't take our word for it! Here’s what previous participants on our trips have said:
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
I knew that political upheaval, earthquakes and COVID must have taken their toll on Nepal but was amazed and inspired by the resilience and creativity of the people we met, especially the women of Asha and Samunnat, Project Didi’s local partner organisations. They were doing the empowering, we felt lucky being able to witness it. - 2024 traveller
What does the cost include?
- Expert local guide, Bishnu Rai
- Australian leader - Sarah Bartram or Wendy Moore
- Twin share accommodation
- Stay in a village homestay
- Two nights camping/glamping (Western Nepal only)
- 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 (both trips) and a full day polymer clay jewellery workshop at Samunnat Nepal (Eastern Nepal only).
For the first day, accommodation only is provided (14 October for Western Nepal; 14 November for Eastern Nepal). 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, if you can, 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 trips 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 (Western Nepal)
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, visiting villages, homes, schools, hospital and many projects. After a career back in Australia teaching adults who experience barriers to learning: migrants, refugees, Indigenous Australians and women seeking access to the workforce, Sarah was drawn back to Nepal with the hope of using her skills there. She gained valuable experience with an Australia not for profit leading groups of Australian students assisting girls in homework centres and children's homes. This led her to focus on the education and empowerment of girls and women and family care and to co-founding Project Didi Australia. Sarah also runs Textile Treasures, a small business, which supports and encourages the artistic heritage of India and Nepal.
Wendy Moore OAM (Eastern Nepal)
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, visiting villages, homes, schools, hospital and many projects. After a career back in Australia teaching adults who experience barriers to learning: migrants, refugees, Indigenous Australians and women seeking access to the workforce, Sarah was drawn back to Nepal with the hope of using her skills there. She gained valuable experience with an Australia not for profit leading groups of Australian students assisting girls in homework centres and children's homes. This led her to focus on the education and empowerment of girls and women and family care and to co-founding Project Didi Australia. Sarah also runs Textile Treasures, a small business, which supports and encourages the artistic heritage of India and Nepal.
Wendy Moore OAM (Eastern Nepal)
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 trips go 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 trips do not include trekking, however, the itineraries include several optional short walks. The majority of the trips are spent at low altitude, below the height of Mt Kosciuszko, where altitude related health issues are not a concern.
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].
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 trips do 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?
Western Nepal
Eastern Nepal
- 7 days after booking: US$300 deposit due to Himalayan Sunrise to secure booking
- By July 2026: You'll receive more information on your trip and support to fundraise your contribution
- August 2026: Virtual pre-departure sesssion with Sarah Bartram, Project Didi co-founder and Himalayan Sunrise
- By 14 August 2026: Full payment due to Himalayan Sunrise
- By 14 October 2026: $1,000 tax deductible donation made to Project Didi
- 14 - 31 October 2026: Trip to Nepal
Eastern Nepal
- 7 days after booking: US$300 deposit due to Himalayan Sunrise to secure booking
- By August 2026: You'll receive more information on your trip and support to fundraise your contribution
- September 2026: Virtual pre-departure sesssion with Wendy, Project Didi and Himalayan Sunrise
- By 14 September 2026: Full payment due to Himalayan Sunrise
- By 14 November 2026: $1,000 tax deductible donation made to Project Didi
- 14 - 29 November 2026: Trip to Nepal
I’m not free in 2026!
Don’t worry! We are planning more trips in the future. Register your interest to receive the latest updates.
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 trip
2019 trip
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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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