Volunteer Programs in Kandy, Sri Lanka

Join a meaningful restoration and renovation initiative in Kandy, Sri Lanka’s cultural capital. Volunteers support the revitalization of ancient temples, schools, kindergartens, and community centers. This hands-on program is ideal for anyone eager to contribute to community development while experiencing one of the country’s most historic and culturally rich regions. Important Update – Volunteers Needed for Flood Recovery in Kandy: Following the severe flooding caused by Cyclone Ditwa, many homes, temples, schools, and community spaces in Kandy have suffered damage and are now in urgent need of restoration. This program offers volunteers the opportunity to support local recovery efforts directly, helping repair cultural sites and create safe, welcoming spaces for families and children.

The Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka is a stunning island country that is located in the Southern part of Asia. Sri Lanka is uniquely situated with marine borders to both the Maldives and India. However, this country is not just known for its maritime beauty, but its rich cultural diversity and its extremely religious people as well. Sadly, poverty continues to be a huge problem in Sri Lanka despite all of the improvements that have already been made by the country. While Sri Lanka pretty much compares to the literacy rates and life expectancy of the developing world, it is a rather poor country even by South Asian standards. In turn, this means that your voluntary work will prove to be all the more meaningful here. If you are thinking about joining a volunteer project in Sri Lanka, we would like to help you decide whether this could be a great fit for you. Find out about the various volunteer projects that would love your help and let us tell you everything that you need to know about volunteer work in this great country!

Volunteer at a childcare centre supporting poor and underprivileged families in the local community. Care for babies and young children by leading fun, educational activities and games. Assist staff with daily tasks, including changing bed sheets and nappies, keeping the centre clean and sterilised, preparing meals, and feeding the children. Support a home for children and persons with disabilities, managed by the Mother Teresa Foundation and supervised by Sri Lanka’s Department of Probation and Childcare. This home accommodates over 120 children, plus women and men with disabilities aged 1 to 60 years. Bring smiles, support, and care to those in need, making a meaningful difference each day. Volunteer hours typically run from 8:30 am to 3:30 pm, with Thursdays off to relax or join another available project. Please note: This program is only accepting FEMALE VOLUNTEERS at this time.

Work alongside a multi-award-winning charity to help protect the beautiful elephants of Sri Lanka. Witness elephants in their natural, wild habitats and help to contribute to important research that will help to preserve the future of these gentle giants. Each day, volunteers will monitor and photograph elephants, trek through the stunning jungle, conduct research from a tree house, teach environmental awareness to local children, and carry out research. Not two days will be the same! An ideal volunteer will be passionate about elephants and will be willing to get stuck in. They will live with other volunteers in a relaxing shared house and they will quickly feel at home in the lush surroundings, overlooking mountains and reservoir.