Volunteer Projects in Sri Lanka

Kandy

Culture Week

An introduction to Sri Lankan culture and everyday life, giving you time to settle into Kandy before starting a longer volunteer project. You'll have the opportunity to learn more about local traditions, food, customs and the area around you.

Teaching

Support local students with English and classroom activities. You can help with conversation practice, learning activities and other classroom tasks while working alongside local teachers.

Community Development

Get involved in practical projects that support the local community. The work can vary according to current needs and may include helping improve shared spaces or assisting with local community initiatives.

Construction & Renovation

Work alongside local people on basic construction, repair and renovation projects. Tasks depend on what the project needs at the time and can include practical improvements to community facilities.

Medical & Healthcare

A supervised healthcare placement for volunteers with a relevant medical, nursing, healthcare or pre-med background. The focus is on learning about healthcare in Sri Lanka and observing local professionals rather than carrying out independent clinical work.

Hikkaduwa

Teaching

Help local students develop their English through conversation, classroom activities and additional support. You'll work within the existing school environment and alongside local teachers.

Construction & Renovation

Take part in practical work helping to improve local facilities. The exact tasks depend on the current project and can include basic building, painting, repairs and renovation.

Wellbeing

Support activities focused on wellbeing and community interaction. The project gives volunteers an opportunity to work with local people while learning about approaches to health and wellbeing in the community.

Beach & Coastal Activities

A coastal project combining practical activities with time spent around Hikkaduwa's beaches and surrounding area. The work depends on current local needs and can include activities connected with the coastal environment.

Ambalangoda

Turtle Conservation

Work with a local turtle conservation project and learn more about the sea turtles found along Sri Lanka's southern coast. Activities are focused on supporting conservation efforts and protecting the local coastal environment.

The project can involve practical conservation work and learning about the challenges facing turtles and their habitat. Because this is wildlife work, the exact activities depend on the season, project requirements and guidance from the local team.

Practical Information for Your Sri Lanka Volunteer Program

Once you've chosen your location and project, we'll confirm the practical arrangements for your stay. Your arrival details, airport pickup, accommodation and meals depend on the specific Sri Lanka program you choose.

Arriving in Sri Lanka

Your arrival airport and pickup arrangements will be confirmed with your program details. Do not book your flight until your placement and arrival instructions have been confirmed.

Your First Day

You'll receive a local orientation when you arrive. This covers the practical information you need for your stay, introduces you to the local area and explains what to expect from your volunteer project.

Accommodation

Accommodation is provided in shared volunteer accommodation where included with your program. You'll normally stay with other international volunteers, giving you a chance to meet people who are also taking part in projects in Sri Lanka.

The exact accommodation setup can vary between locations and projects.

Meals

Meals are included where specified for your Sri Lanka program. The exact meal arrangement depends on the location and program and will be confirmed before you travel.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I start my Sri Lanka volunteer program on any day?

Start dates depend on the project and location. We'll confirm the available start dates for your chosen program before you make your travel arrangements.

How long can I volunteer in Sri Lanka?

The available duration depends on the project. Some programs are suitable for shorter stays, while others can be arranged for a longer placement.

Can I combine different volunteer projects?

Yes, where the project schedules and locations make this practical. Tell us what you'd like to do and how long you have, and we'll help you work out a sensible combination.

Can I volunteer in Sri Lanka without previous experience?

For many projects, previous volunteering experience is not required. Some specialist placements, particularly healthcare projects, have additional requirements.

Do I need to do Culture Week?

No. Culture Week is optional. It can be useful if you want some time to settle in and learn about Sri Lankan culture before starting another project.

Do I have to decide which project I want before contacting you?

No. You can contact us before making your final decision. Tell us your dates, interests, experience and what sort of trip you're looking for, and we'll help you work through the options.

Which location should I choose?

That depends on the type of experience you're looking for. Kandy has a broader mix of inland projects, while Hikkaduwa gives you a coastal setting. Ambalangoda is the location for the turtle conservation project.