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Volunteer in
Sri Lanka

Volunteer in Sri Lanka to choose opportunities from 1 to 18 weeks including Working with Elephant, Turtle Conservation, Teaching Monks, Women Empowerment and Childcare.

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Sri Lanka - Quick Facts

Start Dates : All Year Round

Duration : 1-24 Weeks

Program Location : Galle & Wasgamuwa National Park

Minimum Age : 16 years+

Certificate : Offered after Program completion

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At a Glance

Currency Used : Sri Lankan Rupee

Language : Sinhala and Tamil

Travel on Weekends to: to Yala National Park, Trincomalee or Ella

5 Days Volunteer Work

Meet other like-minded travelers

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Volunteer in Sri Lanka

Volunteer in Sri Lanka with Volunteering Solutions and choose from a wide range of amazing & affordable volunteer programs including Childcare, Teaching English, Women Empowerment, Sea Turtle Conservation, Teaching Monks Program, and a Pre Medical and Pre Nursing volunteer project. We have an amazing Wild Elephant Conservation & Research Program in Wasgamuwa National Park, for all those who are keen to live amidst nature and do something out of the box! Nature lovers can also opt for the Environmental Conservation & Dog Care Program. Volunteer projects in Sri Lanka are located mostly in Southern & Central Sri Lanka.

Highlights:

Programs based in Unawatuna, Galle and Wasgamuwa National Park
11 meaningful volunteering and internships available all year round from 1 to 24 weeks
Stay in a tropical villa near the beach with volunteers from around the world
Option to do a 7 day Culture and Adventure tour travelling around Sri Lanka
Fully supported and coordinated by local team
Great add ons such as weekly yoga classes, monthly bike tours, BBQ dinner and weekly movie nights with other volunteers

Best Volunteering Opportunities in Sri Lanka

Mencia - Volunteer in Women Empowerment Project in Galle

"I spent 2 months in Sri Lanka in the Women Empowerment Program. It was an amazing experience.It is amazing how you can get close to these women and how much you learn about their community and culture. During the weekdays, apart from working in the program, there are many activities to do. I really recommend this experience, and Volunteering Solutions were available in case I had any trouble"

Mencia - Volunteer in Women Empowerment Project in Galle View

Quinn - Volunteer in Turtle Conservation Project in Sri Lanka

"My overall experience was very rewarding for me. I was able to thoroughly engage in another culture and learn some aspects of the locals lives. I am very grateful to Volunteering Solutions and the programs they have offered me over the years.The turtle hatchery was amazing and I wish I could have spent more time of the day working there."

Quinn - Volunteer in Turtle Conservation Project in Sri Lanka View

Weekend Travel Options

There's so much to do in Sri Lanka, that the weekend might seem to be too short! Explore the beaches and try out some water sports at affordable costs, if you need some adrenaline kicks! Experience the thrill of wildlife adventure at any of the several national reserves, including Sinharaja Forest Reserve, Bundala National park, Minneriya National Park, Udawalawe National Park, Yala National Park, and more. Visit some of the best tourist hotspots in and around your volunteering site are - Sigiriya Lion's Rock, Adam’s Peak in Ella, Dambulla Cave Temple and Kandy Lake.

Here are the things that you shouldn't miss while in the country:

Explore the history of Anuradhapura
The sacred city of Anuradhapura is another UNESCO World Heritage Site that serves as a holy place for Buddhists. According to popular belief, the city was established around a cutting from the 'tree of enlightenment', the Buddha's fig tree, brought there in the 3rd century B.C. by Sanghamitra, Buddha's daughter. The ruins of Anuradhapura are indeed worth visiting.

Enjoy the colonial vibes at Nuwara Eliya

Termed by the Lonely Planet as "Little England", this picturesque town in Sri Lanka is located in the Central Highlands and has vast stretches of tea plantation and shelters a huge number of migratory birds including blue magpies and bulbuls. Situated at an elevation of 1890 meters above sea level, it is the highest city in Sri Lanka and lies beneath the tallest peak of the island, Pidurutalagala or Mount Pedro.

Enjoy the train ride from Nuwara Eliya to Ella

You must have seen numerous photos of this postcard-perfect train journey on Instagram! And when you’re in Sri Lanka, you just can’t miss this experience! Board the train from Nanu Oya and get yourself a window seat (or just stand by the doors) and enjoy the breeze in your hair.

Spot a leopard at Yala National Park
This is the most visited national park in Sri Lanka and you'll definitely enjoy visiting this place. There are 5 blocks and all of them are open for public visits. Also known as the Ruhunu National Park, this place is nothing less than a Jungle Book in reality, with monkeys hanging from branches, elephants strolling around, peacocks dancing and displaying their colorful feathers, deer running around, and leopards cunningly hiding on the branches of the trees.

Dance your way to Galle
The seaside town of Galle is situated in the Southern Province of Sri Lanka, around 116 km from Colombo. This old fortified city was founded by the Portuguese colonial masters and still holds onto the old world charm. Nothing can be better than a weekend road trip from Colombo to Galle! After the Portuguese, the Dutch came and captured Galle, and the amalgamation of both cultures is worth witnessing. Visit the magnificent churches, beautiful mansions, ruins of the old forts and spend some time on the beach - it would just be amazing!

Feel the bliss at Kandy
Kandy is the second-largest city in Sri Lanka, set atop a plateau and surrounded by beautiful mountains on all sides. The stretches of tea plantations and the rainforests all around will definitely soothe your senses and give you a fresh feeling. The Kandy Lake (Bogambara Lake) located at the heart of the city is popular for strolling. Kandy is famous for the sacred Buddhist sites, including the Temple of the Tooth (Sri Dalada Maligawa) shrine which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Soak in the serenity at Sigiriya & Dambulla
Often termed as the "eighth wonder of the world", Sigiriya is perhaps one of the most iconic rock structures in Sri Lanka. The ancient rock fortress has significant archeological importance and it's visited by thousands of travelers every year. The fortress complex includes remnants of a ruined palace, surrounded by an extensive network of fortifications, vast gardens, ponds, canals, alleys, and fountains. The palace and fortress complex is recognized as one of the finest examples of ancient urban planning. Considering the uniqueness of Sigiriya, UNESCO declared it a World Heritage site in 1982. Also, head off to Dambulla Caves, about 30 KM from Sigiriya - and experience the bliss of walking inside the Centuries-old-caves that preserves history.

If you are joining us to volunteer in Sri Lanka, and want us to plan your weekends - you can write to us at [email protected] and our team will be happy to help you!

Frequently asked questions (FAQ's - Sri Lanka)

: As we have limited spots available in our programs and we serve on first come first basis, it is recommended that potential volunteers book their programs well in advance to get confirmed placements. You can book your slot by filling the application form online and pay the application fee. You can pay your program fee later and also, in installments. However, the complete payment should be made 45 days prior to the starting of the program. If you are volunteering in a group, you can also fill a group application form.
: After you complete your application, your personalized ‘My Account’ will be activated.You will need to upload your CV/Resume along with your photo in the same. Our backend team and the placement site takes around 10-12 days to review your application. After we review your CV and documents, your booking is confirmed and booking confirmation is updated in your ‘My Account’. Some projects need a mandatory criminal background check and the same is mentioned in the project info of your program. Approval of your application depends on your qualification and eligibility criteria for each project.
: Below are the necessary requirements to participate in the Sri Lankan volunteer projects:

The minimum age requirement for the programs in Sri Lanka is 17 years.
Volunteers participating in the Medical Program should be at least 18-year-old.
Volunteers need to have an open mind and flexible attitude for working in a new and different environment. They should bring energy and enthusiasm to make a difference.
The participant must be in good health.
: We encourage our participants to volunteer in a group. We take special care in providing you a placement and also customize your itinerary to make sure you get exactly what you are looking for. Also, we can design special group programs for groups of 5 or more. Our programs are designed to be safe, affordable and offer a great group volunteering experience to the volunteers.

In our experience of more than 12+ years, we have enabled and facilitated volunteer program placements for college groups, university groups, high school groups, group of families, group of couples as well as groups of colleagues.
: All volunteers need to arrive at Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) in Colombo, Sri Lanka, on the starting date of their project. Volunteers are picked from the airport by the local coordinator or representative and are transferred to their accommodations. Accommodation will be provided in the volunteer house located near your placements.

A short orientation is given after arrival about the city and placements. The volunteers are also taken for a short tour of Colombo before they start with their program. However, the tour depends on the arrival time of your flight.
: If you are planning to come for multiple programs in your trip, you will have to pay the application fees just once. Your application fee is valid for a year's time ( from the date of application). You will not have to pay the application fees again if you come within the mentioned time frame.

For our returning volunteers, $50 discount is provided for the application fee for their next VolSol program.
: Yes, we will provide you with the Certificate after successful completion of your program. The certificate is provided on request.
: Volunteers usually work for 5 to 6 hours a day depending on their program. However, volunteers need to be flexible, open minded and understand that work requirements can alter at times.
: Volunteers traveling to Sri Lanka need to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) prior to their arrival or on their arrival in Sri Lanka. You can then obtain a Visa on Arrival in Sri Lanka for 30 days.
Volunteers can apply for ETA online and the approval of the same will be communicated via email.
Volunteers can be provided with the supporting documents if needed. More information will be provided once you enroll for the program.
: The Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) in Colombo is well connected with all major airports across the globe and flights are easily available. The recommended airlines are:
Srilankan Airlines
Air India
Mihin Lanka
Spicejet
Emirates

There are frequent in-country flights from Colombo to Galle and Kegalle as well.
: Sri Lanka is one of the popular tropical destination in Asia and attracts travelers from all around the world. The locals are friendly and helpful as well, however, it is recommended to consult your in-country coordinators before you step out alone or go to any other locations in Sri Lanka. Also, it is recommended to be with your group whenever you venture out or stay out late in the night. It is strongly recommended to follow the safety rules and regulations provided by the in-country coordinator.
: We recommend you to consult your physician or travel doctor before traveling to Sri Lanka. However, we recommend you take general vaccinations such as:
Hepatitis A and B
Typhoid
: Yes, for all volunteers it is mandatory to have a travel medical insurance. To provide the best option to our participants, we offer comprehensive insurance coverage in collaboration with a leading insurance provider.
: Considering the fact that Sri Lanka is a tropical country, the weather is mostly hot and humid. For people traveling from European and North American countries, it might seem to extremely hot during the days and sultry at night. We would advise you to consume a lot of water and protect yourself from the sun in whichever way possible. Carry an umbrella.
You can consult your doctor once, before traveling to Sri Lanka.
: Your coordinator will meet you at the airport and will take you to your accommodation and introduce you to our team and other volunteers. You will then be provided with the orientation covering areas like culture, customs, safety, locations, placement, greetings, local transportation etc.

On the first day of work, the coordinator will guide you to your project site.
: Volunteers joining the programs in Galle, Sri Lanka, get to stay in the quaint Unawatuna neighborhood, overlooking the famous Unawatuna Beach and the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean. The volunteer house has 11 bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms.Most of these rooms have ocean views! There's a private 40-foot outdoor swimming pool surrounded by tropical greenery. The house also has 3 kitchens as well as 3 living/common rooms (one each per floor), a prominent dining area, and a private outdoor garden with seating/lounging areas.
The office is located on the ground floor of the house near the main entrance – this is where the local team operate from every day. The house is located in a peaceful, nature-filled neighborhood adjacent to a small Buddhist temple (nestled away from the main tourist areas). To ensure the safety and security of the participants, there are CCTV cameras installed, and an in-house security guard for night-time surveillance. Hot water and high-speed Wi-Fi are there and you can opt for air-conditioning and laundry facilities at an additional charge.
Other than that, we also provide single/double/family private room upgrades at extra charges. The beach is just about 5 minutes walk from the stay and you can reach the Galle Fort in about 15 minutes.

Volunteers working in Wasgamuwa National Park are given accommodation in a field house in close vicinity of the project location. Three meals are provided in a day including both vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. The food is tasty, hygienic and nutritious, suitable for all volunteers.
Breakfast usually comprises of Bread, Butter, Jam, Bun or Rolls, Eggs and Fruits like Banana & Pineapple & Tea. The lunch includes Sri Lankan style rice and curry and the dinner includes noodles, spaghetti, pasta, chapati, hoppers or String Hoppers with curry.

If you have special dietary requirements, please mention the same in your application form.
: Depending on your project placement, you will get free evenings and weekends to explore in and around the city. You can utilize the evening time to visit local markets and other places around your project location. Make the most of your weekends by exploring Sri Lanka to the fullest.

We encourage our volunteers to travel. We have designed various weekend tours which can be booked under the ‘Add-on Tours’ section in your ‘My Account’. Your in-country coordinator will also help you book and organize the tours once you are in Sri Lanka.
: Places like Sinharaja Forest Reserve, Rumassala Mountain, and Galle fort are major attractions in Galle, and Kegalle is a city of ancient architecture and natural beauty. Volunteers are free to plan quick getaways and explore Sri Lanka during the weekends.You can also relax at the beachside and enjoy the taste of the delicious seafood.
: Your program fee covers your accommodation, airport pick-up, orientation, pre-departure booklet, and 24x7 in country staff support. You will need to cover your personal expenses, such as traveling, telephone, the internet, shopping, sightseeing, return airport drop, weekend tours etc. You should carry around $50 - $60 per week for your basic personal expenses, such as water, local transport, phone etc.
: You can change money at any bank or at the airport by showing your passport. There are ATMs located all around the city (Galle, Kandy, Ambalangoda and Kegalle) as well.
: We encourage volunteers to connect with former Volunteering Solutions participants and also other program participants joining our projects. You are recommended to join the Volunteering Solutions Facebook Page or Facebook Group to connect with other participants and our team.

To read alumni interviews from past participants, visit the Meet a Volunteer section on our website

Still have Questions?

We're always here to help.

Get in touch whatever way works best for you.

+447856234872

phone

(+44)020 3830 6000

[email protected]

1-888-694-9411

(+44)020 3830 6000

Volunteer in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka - Quick Facts

At a Glance

Volunteer in Sri Lanka

Best Volunteering Opportunities in Sri Lanka

Medical Internship in Sri Lanka

Nursing Internship in Sri Lanka

Turtle Conservation

Sri Lanka - 1 Week Special

Wild Elephant Conservation

Dog Care Project

Volunteer for Women Empowerment

Environmental Conservation Work

Children's Teaching Volunteer Program

Kindergarten & Teaching

Pre Medical and Nursing Volunteer Program

Weekend Travel Options

Frequently asked questions (FAQ's - Sri Lanka)

FAQ's Application and Program Details

Flights and Visa

Health and Safety

Accommodation and Living

Connect with Past Volunteers

Still have Questions?

Volunteer in
Sri Lanka