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Indra Foundation
Program Facts:
Duration:
1 to 12 weeks (flexible start dates year-round)
Accommodaion:
Homestay, Eco-lodges, Shared dorms.
Meals:
Local, Sustainable meals included
Training:
Orientation, language basics, and safety briefings provided
Support:
24/7 on-site coordinators & emergency support
Starting Price:
From US $ 925

Big Cat Conservation Internships Abroad

Join Indra Foundation’s Wildlife Conservation Internships Abroad and experience the thrill of protecting big cats like tigers, leopards, and clouded leopards in Asia’s most iconic national parks, including Chitwan National Park and Bardiya National Park. This immersive big cat internship program offers aspiring conservationists, zoology students, and animal lovers a chance to gain hands-on experience in wildlife research, field surveys, and animal welfare. Work alongside experienced conservationists to support endangered species protection, biodiversity research, and habitat monitoring in Nepal’s thriving ecosystems.

Our wildlife conservation internships abroad are designed to combine education, fieldwork, and adventure, giving participants insight into the real-world challenges of big cat conservation. Whether you are pursuing a career in zoology, ecology, or environmental science, this program helps you develop practical research skills and a deep understanding of sustainable conservation strategies. As part of Indra Foundation’s commitment to community-led conservation, interns will also engage with local initiatives promoting coexistence between humans and wildlife.

Experience life-changing fieldwork, gain valuable professional skills, and contribute to global wildlife preservation while exploring the natural beauty of Nepal. Start your journey toward becoming a global conservation leader through our Big Cat Conservation Internship Abroad.

Why Choose our Big Cat Conservation Internship Program?

  • Hands-On Wildlife Experience
    Work directly with conservation experts in real field conditions studying tigers, leopards, and other big cats.
  • Iconic Research Destinations
    Gain field experience in Chitwan and Bardiya National Parks, two of Asia’s most biodiverse ecosystems.
  • Meaningful Conservation Impact
    Contribute to data collection, biodiversity surveys, and endangered species protection projects.
  • Cultural Exchange
    Immerse yourself in local Nepali communities and learn traditional conservation practices.
  • Career-Boosting Opportunity
    Build a global conservation network and enhance your resume with international field research experience.

Key Benefits of This Internship Program

  • Hands-on big cat research and monitoring experience
  • Work alongside professional conservationists and ecologists
  • Explore wildlife sanctuaries and protected habitats in Nepal
  • Gain field data collection and wildlife tracking skills
  • Cultural immersion through community-led initiatives
  • Certification of completion from Indra Foundation

What You Will Learn During Your Internship Program

  • Wildlife Monitoring Techniques
    Learn how to track and record big cat movements using GPS and camera traps.
  • Habitat Assessment
    Understand how vegetation and prey density influence predator behavior.
  • Biodiversity Research Methods
    Participate in transect walks and species identification.
  • Human-Wildlife Conflict Management
    Explore sustainable coexistence strategies.
  • Conservation Communication
    Learn how to raise awareness and promote wildlife education.

Learning Outcomes: Skills You Will Develop

  • Field research and data analysis
  • Wildlife tracking and species identification
  • Environmental reporting and documentation
  • Cross-cultural communication and teamwork
  • Conservation project management
  • Ethical wildlife handling and field safety

Internships Programs Roles and Responsibilities

As a Wildlife Conservation Intern, you will support ongoing big cat research and conservation projects. Your role includes assisting with field surveys, data collection, and local community outreach programs.

  • Conduct camera trap and footprint analysis
  • Assist with biodiversity surveys and mapping
  • Support community awareness and education
  • Maintain research logs and wildlife records
  • Collaborate with conservation staff and volunteers

Flexible Internships Programs Options: In Person, Remote and Hybrid

Indra Foundation offers In-Person, Remote, and Hybrid internship options.

  • In-Person: Join the team on-site in Nepal’s national parks.
  • Remote: Participate in virtual research projects and data analysis.
  • Hybrid: Combine fieldwork and remote conservation support for flexible engagement.

Program Pricing and Accommodation

Duration Program Fee
1 Week $925 Extra costs applicable for any additional services
2 Weeks $1,375 Extra costs applicable for any additional services
3 Weeks $1,825 Extra costs applicable for any additional services
4 Weeks $2,275 Extra costs applicable for any additional services
Extra Week $450 Extra costs applicable for any additional services

Includes
Comprehensive pre-departure guide
Airport pickup and transfer to accommodation
In country staff support and program coordinator assistance
Program orientation
Accommodation
3 meals a day during program period
All program activities as mentioned
Excludes
International / Domestic flight fares
Travel insurance and Visa costs
Local transportation to and from project location
Return airport drop off
(can be arranged at extra cost)
Foods / activities during weekend travel
Medical insurance & vaccinations
Any other personal expenses
Cancellation & Refund Policy

The amount of the program fees refunded depends on the date you cancel in relation to your payment date: Following will be the refund amount excluding the program Application fee and bank charges:

  • 75% refund if you cancel within 2 weeks
  • 50% refund if you cancel within 4 weeks
  • No refund if you cancel after 6 weeks

Internet:

High speed Wi-Fi is available.

Accommodation:

While volunteering: You will be staying with a local host family with a fully family environment for living. Accommodation is provided normally on shared room with other volunteers, the rooms are sperate for male and female volunteers with separate shared bathroom and toilet facilities for each room. Bathrooms are equipped with hot water facilities and western-style toilets, shared among roommates. We will try our best to provide best possible accommodation facilities available in the location with standard living condition. Since you will be living with local host families, you will have chance to learn local language, cultures, and traditions of local people. So, expect more local and cultural experiences rather than luxury living!

While on the tour: Participants will be staying in local tea house, lodge facility or if demanded we can accommodate you on a private “tent” at a Tented Camp. The tents are for camping adventures so the facilities are basic but amazing experiences!

  • Upgraded accommodations are available while on the tours, treks & safaris for an additional cost and include twin, family, or single rooms in a lodge, resorts, treehouse, or star class hotels. Lodges feature thatched, air-conditioned rooms with en-suite bathrooms and showers, while star class hotels & resorts offers rooms with private bathtubs and spa facilities. The Treehouse Lodge provides a unique and secure experience for jungle safari night stay experiences, with rooms built in or supported by trees, some elevated-on stilts within the canopy. All upgraded options available on request with additional costs as per your travel needs.

Food:

Meals are provided 3 times in a day; foods are served as local family style cooking and local host family have their own regular types food menu. For breakfast tea, biscuits, seasonal fruits and for lunch and dinner local very popular dish Dal Bhat is served 2 times with different vegetables prepared freshly cooking every day! While on the tour breakfasts, lunches and dinners will be provided according to the detailed itinerary and best possible local food sourcing is preferred to support local small businesses.

Orientation:

After when you arrive, all the participants will be given an orientation training to brief you for your programs, local stay, local travel and transportation, locations, safety, and a bit about local languages, customs, and cultures. After competition of the orientation training, the placements will begin in your preferred programs and project to start the impactful adventures ahead.

During your Free Times & Weekend:

During your free times and weekend, you can explore your local destinations with local activities like hiking, walking, or doing a short treks and other possible adventure activities. For weekend travel we can suggest you many other interesting adventures like trekking, jungle safari or road trips to make your journey even more adventurous. Try local cooking classes and Momo making classes to support small businesses for amazing local experiences!

Safety Advice:

Local experiences are always good but sometimes specially in foods and transportation we advise you to be careful of hygienic issues on local foods hygiene and use tourist bus for local transportation relatively comfortable and safe for travelling… other things you will be advised in your orientation training!

Have Questions?


We are here to help with quick, clear answers. Do not hesitate to reach out and get the support you need today!
Email us: [email protected]

When to Apply: Seasonal Guide & Application Deadlines

Spring Internships (February - April)
Apply October to December

Ideal for observing wildlife activity before the monsoon season. Application deadlines close by January 15. This season focuses on habitat assessment and field training sessions for new interns.

Summer Internships (May - August)
Apply January to March

A peak period for biodiversity monitoring and community outreach programs. Apply by April 10. Expect warm weather and active fieldwork studying big cats’ prey dynamics.

Fall Internships (September - November)
Apply May to July

Known for clear weather and optimal tracking conditions. Applications close August 15. Interns engage in wildlife data analysis and environmental education projects.

Winter Internships (December - January)
Apply August to October

Best for those interested in research and data review projects. Application deadline: November 20. Cooler months ideal for remote internships and wildlife research workshops.

Eligibility and Application Process

Who Can Apply for this internship?

  • Students in zoology, wildlife biology, or environmental sciences.
  • Conservation enthusiasts and animal welfare advocates.
  • Volunteers seeking hands-on field experience abroad.
  • Individuals passionate about big cat protection and biodiversity.

How to Apply

  1. Visit the Indra Foundation website and select the Big Cat Conservation Internship.
  2. Fill out the online application form and upload your CV or resume.
  3. Submit a short motivation statement explaining your interest in wildlife conservation.
  4. Await confirmation and placement details from the program coordinator.
Apply Now Start your journey in social work today!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

The internship includes hands-on field research, accommodation, on-site supervision, and training in wildlife monitoring, biodiversity surveys, and conservation education. Participants also gain access to national parks like Chitwan and Bardiya, where they work directly with conservation experts to protect endangered big cats.

No prior experience is required. This internship abroad is designed for students, recent graduates, and passionate volunteers interested in wildlife conservation, zoology, or environmental studies. Indra Foundation provides full orientation and field training before you begin fieldwork.

Interns may assist in research and monitoring activities involving tigers, leopards, and clouded leopards found in Nepal’s protected areas. The program emphasizes non-invasive observation and data collection, ensuring ethical and safe practices for both interns and wildlife.

Yes. Indra Foundation offers In-Person, Remote, and Hybrid internship options. Remote interns can assist with data analysis, conservation research, and educational projects, while hybrid participants combine fieldwork and online conservation efforts for a balanced experience.

You can apply through the Indra Foundation website by submitting your online application, CV, and motivation statement. Application deadlines vary by season:

  • Spring (Feb-Apr): Apply by January 15
  • Summer (May-Aug): Apply by April 10
  • Fall (Sep-Nov): Apply by August 15
  • Winter (Dec-Jan): Apply by November 20
Get more of your questions answered on FAQ page.

Ready for Big Cat Conservation Internship?

Take the next step toward protecting endangered species with wildlife conservation internships abroad. Join Indra Foundation’s Big Cat Internship Program to gain hands-on field experience, support big cat conservation in Nepal, and explore Chitwan and Bardiya National Parks. Apply today and make a lasting impact in global wildlife protection.

Apply Now To start your wildlife conservation journey with Indra Foundation today!

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