Volunteer in Sri Lanka

A Sri Lanka volunteer experience is a truly unforgettable way to explore the rich and diverse local culture as well as travelling with a difference. Whether volunteering abroad for the first time or as a returning VolSol alumnus, we can help kickstart your volunteering journey in Sri Lanka today! If you’re looking to make a lasting impact on our volunteer programs in Sri Lanka and truly become a global citizen, our teams are ready for you to get in touch and help find the perfect volunteering opportunity for you. 

The ‘how’ in how to volunteer abroad in Sri Lanka is a pretty simple process that our team can guide you through. The hard part is choosing a program that you want to get involved in! Our Sri Lanka volunteer programs offer a breadth of opportunities to work with those in need of the support and contributions you can offer. We have something for everyone 

If you’re hoping to volunteer in Sri Lanka as a teacher, we have just the program for you! Our Children’s Teaching Volunteer program would be a great fit. You will be working with children aged 6-12 helping to improve their literacy and numeracy skills! Your work will enrich their future and provide them with the tools to provide a better life for themselves. 

Another volunteering opportunity in Sri Lanka would be our Kindergarten and Teaching project, where you will work with younger children and help solidify a strong basis in education to help with their development later on. For those hoping to be teachers in the future, you will gain first-hand experience in developing lesson plans and materials! 

Community development is at the heart of what we do to improve conditions for local people. Empowering women is the easiest way to help improve community links, as women are often at the heart of community life. Our Women's Empowerment Project helps you do exactly that by giving many of these women vocational training and English language lessons, so they can thrive in the local community. 

Animal care volunteering in Sri Lanka is also a viable option for you. We have three different projects for you to pick from! You can volunteer with turtles in Sri Lanka on our Sea Turtle Conservation project, and support the ecosystem! You’ll be maintaining beach cleanliness and helping support responsible and sustainable tourism. Much of your work will also focus on protecting the eggs. Our Turtle Conservation and Exploring Sri Lanka program offers similar work, but you also have other trips and opportunities to see Sri Lanka added in the trip.

If wildlife conservation volunteering in Sri Lanka is up your alley, then our Environmental Conservation project is for you! You’ll learn more about mangrove reforestation, organic farming, recycling education, coral restoration, beach, and river cleanups. You’ll be an aficionado in eco-friendly practices and products! 

We also have a number of medical mission programs in Sri Lanka to bring something different to your volunteer travel adventures! Depending on your level, qualifications, and profession, you can join our Medical Internship, Nursing Internship, or Pre-Medical and Nursing Volunteer programs. Each offers an unparalleled opportunity to get involved with the healthcare systems present and understand medical care under a new cultural context! You’ll get involved in the day-to-day running of the hospital, checking on the patients, and doing any other tasks that need doing. If you are a pre-medical/nursing entry, you can observe and shadow professionals to see what they do! 

We also have family volunteering programs and short-term volunteering opportunities for those looking for something different to add to their travel diaries! 

Have we piqued your interest? Good! Are you ready to get started? Even better! Volunteering in Sri Lanka is only a few clicks away; choose your program, click ‘Apply Now’, complete the registration process, and let us take care of the rest. Get in touch with us today for more information on how we can make your volunteering experience in Sri Lanka unforgettable. 

Volunteering Solutions offers a wide range of programs in over 25 destinations worldwide. In the last 17 years, we have placed over 21,000 international volunteers across various projects and internships, helping them grow personally and professionally while making a difference to the world at large. We’ve hosted teen volunteering groups as well as gap year travellers, youth volunteers as well as family volunteering groups across various destinations.

Not only do we have our experience, but we have many accreditations that attest to our excellence in the field as well as our legitimacy as a volunteering experience coordinator. We are approved by WYSE Work Abroad, Go Overseas, and many other accreditors for volunteering abroad organisations. 

We have a dedicated team that ensures that volunteers have a smooth and memorable experience, learning from their peers along the way. From the moment you inquire, through the process of clearing doubts, filling out the application, making payments, accessing the Pre-Departure Guidebook, and reaching the volunteering location followed by Program Orientation – our team supports you every step of the way. We have in-country coordinators and representatives to assist you at the project sites.

Additionally, Volunteering Solutions offers various support services, including:

• Medical and travel insurance at a nominal extra cost
• Fundraising assistance for volunteers facing financial challenges
• Weekend excursions and hikes in Sri Lanka
• Local transportation and airport drop-offs for a minimal extra cost

Upon completing your project, you’ll receive a Certificate of Completion, which will significantly enhance your career prospects. This experience will boost your CV/resume and expand your social network. It’s a journey you’ll cherish forever.

Volunteering Solutions also provides tailor-made projects for group volunteering (students, colleagues, or families) where people can work together and explore Sri Lanka most uniquely.

Our projects are based in Galle and Kosgoda. Galle is a beautiful coastal city in Sri Lanka, known for its rich history and stunning architecture. The highlight is the Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site built by the Portuguese in the 16th century and later expanded by the Dutch. The fort’s well-preserved walls and charming cobblestone streets are filled with colonial-era buildings, boutique shops, and cafes.

The city offers picturesque views of the Indian Ocean and has lovely beaches nearby, like Unawatuna and Hikkaduwa. Galle also has a vibrant arts scene and hosts various cultural events. The blend of history, culture, and natural beauty makes Galle a captivating destination for visitors. 

Kosgoda is a serene coastal town in Sri Lanka, renowned for its stunning beaches and conservation efforts, particularly its sea turtle hatcheries. Located south of Bentota, it's a quieter alternative to some of the busier tourist spots.

The turtle hatcheries in Kosgoda play a vital role in protecting endangered sea turtle species, where visitors can learn about the conservation efforts and even witness baby turtles being released into the ocean.

The area also features beautiful sandy beaches, making it perfect for relaxation, swimming, and enjoying the scenic coastal landscape. Nearby attractions include the picturesque Koggala Lake and the charming town of Galle. Kosgoda is ideal for those looking to unwind and appreciate nature while contributing to important conservation work. 

Volunteering opportunities in Sri Lanka are unparalleled, with many options available to you! Take a look here:

• Medical Internship in Galle, Sri Lanka 
• Nursing Internship in Galle, Sri Lanka 
• Turtle Conservation in Galle, Sri Lanka
• 1 Week Special in Galle, Sri Lanka
• Turtle Conservation and Exploring Sri Lanka, Kosgoda
• Dog Care Project in Galle, Sri Lanka
• Volunteer for Women Empowerment in Galle, Sri Lanka
• Environmental Conservation work in Galle, Sri Lanka
• Children’s Teaching Volunteer Program in Galle, Sri Lanka
• Kindergarten and Teaching in Galle, Sri Lanka
• Family Volunteer Adventure in Sri Lanka, Galle
• Pre-Medical and Nursing Volunteer Program in Galle, Sri Lanka

Think you could be a great addition to our team? Let us know if you fulfil the following requirements! 

• Be at least 16 years or older at the time of joining the project.

• Have an open mind and flexible attitude for working in a new and different environment.

• Should also be proactive and can take initiative.

• Should bring energy and enthusiasm to make a difference.

• Should be open to learning, and be friendly with everyone.

Apart from that, a Criminal Background Check Report is essential for volunteers who are joining Childcare, or Teaching programs. And you should be empathic towards the animals if you want to volunteer for wildlife conservation programs.

With projects starting from £425 or £515 depending on location, we can certainly help find something in your price range! Here’s what’s included in Galle:

• 24 hrs Assistance and support from Staff
• Comprehensive Pre- Departure Information
• ​Dedicated volunteer housing with WiFi (shared rooms)
• Orientation and training on arrival
• Breakfast, lunch and dinner all days
• Guaranteed project placement
• Local transportation to projects in private AC van or tuk tuk
• Experienced bilingual operations team on the ground
• Dedicated staff support from 6 am to 8 pm every day
• 24/7 local emergency support
• Weekly yoga class on rooftop terrace
• Weekly movie nights on large screen projector
• Monthly bike tour around paddy fields and local villages
• Monthly special BBQ dinner
• Travel & Medical Insurance (Available at an extra cost)
• Certificate Of Completion (Upon Request)

Like everywhere else around the world, volunteering in Sri Lanka comes for a minimal fee, which also covers your airport pickup, accommodation, and pre-departure booklet that contains all the information to get you started on your volunteering journey! Other than that, you'll also be provided with meals, pick up and drop from the project site to your accommodation, and most importantly, there will be 24/7 in-country support.

However, you can always fundraise to pay for your meaningful volunteer trip and experience the goodness of travelling abroad to make a difference.

Since our inception in 2007, we have sent over 21,000 volunteers to over 25 destinations across the world! We have much experience in providing unforgettable volunteering experiences across the world, and our excellence in the field is a testament to that!

We know what volunteers look for regarding safety and security during their stay. All of our accommodation is located in safe areas, with 24/7 support from VolSol staff. You will be provided with a full orientation about the country, the city, and the local area to ensure you are as best informed as you can be! 

Our pre-departure booklet provides comprehensive information about the do’s and don’ts of the area, and how best to respect the cultures and traditions of your destination of choice!

The beautiful island of Sri Lanka will have some of the basics that you need, but you won’t be in the capital! Some items may be hard to come by. Here’s a list of some basics that you will need:

• Microfibre towels. Towels are not provided, and microfibre towels are a great space-saving alternative to regular towels. They also dry super quickly, making them useful for beach days as well as regular use.
• A small bum bag to keep your valuables close by and handy when you’re walking around town and on the project! Nothing worse than having to hold your phone all the time. 
• A first aid kit full to the brim with items you would use regularly.

The best time to visit Sri Lanka generally depends on which part of the country you're planning to explore. 

West and South Coast (including Colombo, Galle, and Bentota): December to March is ideal, with pleasant weather and less rain.

Cultural Triangle (Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, Sigiriya): The best months are from April to September, when the weather is relatively dry.

Hill Country (Nuwara Eliya, Ella, Kandy) : December to March offers cool and dry conditions.

Keep in mind that Sri Lanka experiences two monsoon seasons, so checking specific forecasts before your trip can help you plan better!

We welcome volunteers from all over the world and different walks of life! We firmly believe that diversity and inclusion can only make the world a better place. We want to champion global citizens with an international vision and a deep commitment to the betterment of our society. Our volunteers should be compassionate, enthusiastic about change, diligent, and open-minded. 

Our projects cater to group volunteering in Sri Lanka, as well as family volunteering groups, student volunteering, gap year travellers, as well as teenage travellers looking to expand their horizons. 

You can easily apply to volunteer in Sri Lanka and be a part of our mission trips by following a few simple steps. Once you have decided which program you wish to join, and in which destination, you can go ahead and fill out the application form here.

You will receive a welcome email from the team, acknowledging your application. We will then send your Booking Confirmation in 7-10 working days. Once you receive your Booking Confirmation you can log into your account to view your trip details and make your final payments.

If you can’t decide which program to join, or where to travel, you can always write to us at [email protected] - and our Program Advisors will assist you.

Before travelling to Sri Lanka, please ensure that you meet the following general requirements: 

• Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your expected return date.
• Ensure your passport has at least two blank pages for your visa and other necessary stamps upon arrival and departure.

You will need to apply for an e-Visa before you leave. Check the requirements here. 

We have fantastic opportunities to take on a medical mission in Sri Lanka! Our projects are fantastic opportunities to experience medical care under a new context and different system to your home country. Your knowledge complemented by the learning you will gain from this program will make you an unrivalled candidate for medical programs, as well as progressing your current career. 

To join, you must be 18 years of age, as well as an open mind and flexible attitude for working in a new and different environment. Medical interns must provide a clean criminal background check report, CV, passport copy as well as other documents and credentials pertaining to their qualifications prior to joining the program. Pre Med, Medical, Nursing students and CNA’s can join the program! 

Sri Lanka has three different projects tailored to different levels of knowledge and expertise. We have a medical internship for current medical students and qualified doctors. Our nursing internship is catered to nursing students and qualified nurses. For our budding medical and nursing professionals, we also have a pre-med and nursing program that you can join! There is something for everyone.

You’ll be able to rotate through many different departments and hone your skills! Here’s an example of the kinds of work you can get involved in:

• Emergency Treatment Centre (ETC) 
• General Surgical Units 
• Physiotherapy & Rehabilitation Unit
• General Pediatric Wards 
• Pediatric Cardiology Unit
• Observation of Special Surgeries 
• Community Projects
• Ayurvedic Medicine 

Volunteering Solutions offers many different short-term volunteering opportunities in Sri Lanka! If you only have one or two weeks to dedicate to volunteering projects in Galle or Kosgoda, we can provide you with a once-in-a-lifetime trip around Sri Lanka. 

Our one and two-week specials allow you to truly become a global citizen and immerse yourself wholly in the culture and traditions of Sri Lanka. You are able to make an impact locally to those who depend on the NGOs we work with, as well as see the treasures and monuments that earmark each era of Sri Lankan history. 

If conservation work is your thing, our Turtle Conservation and Exploring Sri Lanka program would be perfect for you! It combines the vital work of our partner NGOs with experiencing the beauty of Sri Lanka! With the option of staying for one or two weeks, you will really become immersed in helping the local community address the issues they face. 

For travellers with a young family, our Family Volunteer Adventure program would be perfect for you. It allows volunteers from as young as 6 years old! You’ll be able to bring the family along on a life-changing experience and get involved in local conservation efforts! Your young ones will be global citizens before they even know the concept. 

We also have a one-week program for those with less time on their hands. With so much choice, the hardest job you will have is making a decision on how you will travel with an impact! 

If you're looking to volunteer for more than 2 weeks, you are more than welcome to! We can cater stays up to 24 weeks, so you can spend the best part of the year with us in Sri Lanka! A popular choice for many volunteers is to begin with a 2-week special, and extend your stay with us on the project of your choice. 

Worried that you’ll find yourself bored after a while? We can assure you that there is no way this will happen, especially not in such a vibrant and vital country as Sri Lanka! You have the option of multiple weekend trips as well, with many UNESCO sites for you to explore. 

If you’re interested in wildlife, there are many options for wildlife safaris and experiencing the natural beauty of Sri Lanka! With endless beaches and crystal clear waters, you’re going to struggle to find time to be bored! 

Want to know more about what trips are available to you? Just email [email protected] for more information on this! 

Of course, when you are travelling to a new country, it’s obvious that you’d want to explore and experience the area, making the most of your journey. 

This island nation, often referred to as the "Pearl of the Indian Ocean," offers an incredible array of experiences.

Start your adventure in the bustling capital, Colombo, where modern skyscrapers blend seamlessly with colonial architecture. From there, head to the ancient city of Anuradhapura, home to remarkable ruins and sacred sites, including the iconic Sri Maha Bodhi tree.

For nature lovers, Sri Lanka’s national parks, like Yala and Udawalawe, provide a chance to see leopards, elephants, and a plethora of bird species in their natural habitat. The lush tea plantations of Nuwara Eliya offer breathtaking landscapes and a glimpse into the island’s colonial past.

Don’t miss the cultural heart of the country, Kandy, known for the Temple of the Tooth, which houses a sacred relic of Buddha. The vibrant festivals and traditional dance performances here are a feast for the senses.

The coastline is equally captivating, with pristine beaches like Mirissa and Unawatuna offering sun, surf, and a laid-back vibe. Explore the historic fort city of Galle, where Dutch colonial architecture meets stunning sea views.

Sri Lanka’s diverse cuisine, influenced by its rich history and local ingredients, is a journey of its own. Don’t forget to try the aromatic curries, hoppers, and fresh seafood, along with a cup of Ceylon tea.

With its warm hospitality, rich heritage, and stunning landscapes, Sri Lanka invites travellers to explore its hidden gems and create unforgettable memories.