We use cookies to improve your experience on our website.
If you continue, we will assume you are happy to receive cookies that
enable you to move around our website and use essential features.

We will also collect anonymous information about website usage.

You can accept other cookies that remember the choices
you make to improve your visit and ensure the information
we serve you is more relevant.

Do you want to receive these cookies?

Find out more

Cultural Orientation Programme

This two week package is spread throughout the 37 week training programme.

The aim is to introduce recruits to the United Kingdom and educate them about it. The programme covers shopping and banking, and how to get around amongst other things. It also serves to introduce recruits to the Brigade of Gurkhas. This is achieved through various lessons and Temple services as well as by conducting visits.

The visits are divided into three exercises which are:

Exercise Pahilo Kadam (First Step)

The aim of this exercise is to familiarise recruits with the local area and routes, and using buses and taxis. During this exercise they visit the Garrison areas as well as Richmond and Darlington, if time permits.

Exercise Doshro Kadam (Second Step)

This exercise encourages the recruits to build their confidence by walking in to, out of and around town; using public services and communicating with the public in English.

There are also between 3 and 5 visit to places in northern England and Scotland. These focus on historical cities like Edinburgh, York and Manchester but it may include visiting Blackpool, Newcastle, Middlesbrough or Liverpool. Coaches are provided for each platoon and each is led by their Section Commander.

Exercise Teshro Kadam (Third Step)

The aim of this exercise is to further develop military and cultural awareness, proficiency and the confidence of recruits in the public places by visiting key locations using various means of transport. During the exercise they visit London, taking in Buckingham Palace, the Houses of Parliament, the Tower of London, Madame Tussauds (Chamber of Life), the London Dungeon (History of London) and the Science Museum.