Sri Lanka: Culture + Volunteering + Adventure | 28 Days
Discover Sri Lanka’s culture, teach in Kandy, and trek stunning highlands in this immersive 4-week adventure.
Experience the best of Sri Lanka in this dynamic 28-day adventure designed for travelers looking to deeply connect, give back, and explore.
Start your journey in Kandy, immersing yourself in local traditions during an enriching culture week. Discover Buddhist temples, join cooking classes, and dive into arts and crafts while getting a taste of Sri Lanka’s warm hospitality.
Next, dedicate two weeks to volunteering in Kandy, supporting local communities through teaching, childcare, special needs assistance, or women’s empowerment. Your time and energy will help build skills, nurture confidence, and create lasting change.
Wrap up your experience with a week-long trekking adventure through Sri Lanka’s lush hill country. Hike to scenic peaks, ride the famous train to Ella, and explore ancient wonders like Sigiriya’s Lion Rock.
This program offers the perfect balance of cultural discovery, community impact, and outdoor adventure - an unforgettable way to experience the 'Pearl of the Indian Ocean.'
Program
Highlights
Immerse in Kandy’s rich cultural heritage during your first week
Contribute to local communities through two weeks of impactful volunteering
Experience a week of trekking adventures and natural wonders
Visit iconic sites like the Temple of the Tooth, Pidurangala Rock, and Sigiriya Fortress
Enjoy local cuisine, arts, crafts, and dance lessons
Connect deeply with locals and fellow participants for a truly transformative journey
Good to know
A reasonable level of fitness is needed as the program includes trekking, temple visits, and long travel days.
Modest clothing covering shoulders and knees is required when visiting religious sites.
Sri Lanka has a tropical climate; lightweight, breathable clothing is recommended, with layers for cooler mornings and evenings in the highlands.
Bring comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots for treks, and slippers for indoor use.
Internet access may be limited in some areas — enjoy the opportunity to disconnect.
Having cash on hand is useful for markets and smaller local shops, as ATMs can be unreliable in rural areas.
Prepare for early starts, especially on trekking days and sunrise hikes.
What's included
Accommodation from Sunday until Saturday noon of your final week
Airport pick-up upon arrival during regular pick-up times
All program-related transportation as per the itinerary
Meals as specified in the itinerary (refer to daily breakdown)
Entry fees for scheduled landmarks, cultural activities, and excursions
Program materials, tools, and equipment needed
Training, supervision, and guidance from experienced local coordinators
24/7 local team support throughout your stay
What's not included
Flights and visa expenses
Travel and medical insurance (required)
Personal expenses and souvenirs
Additional meals and drinks outside those specified
Optional tours or activities not included in the program schedule
Transportation outside the planned itinerary (e.g., private taxis or extra transfers)
Standard Requirements
Minimum age: 18
Maximum age: None
Minimum English level: Basic
CRB required: On signup
Passport copy required: On signup
Extra Requirements
Participants over 65 must provide a medical clearance as proof of physical fitness due to the active nature of the program.
Participants under 18 require a signed parental consent form; it is strongly recommended they be accompanied by an adult.
Travel and medical insurance is required before arrival.
Recommended vaccinations include hepatitis A, typhoid, tetanus, and polio.
Location
Locations
Kandy
Nestled amidst misty hills and lush tea plantations, Kandy is Sri Lanka’s cultural capital and spiritual heart. Famous for the Temple of the Tooth and its vibrant festivals, Kandy offers a lively blend of history, traditional arts, and serene natural surroundings. The city’s lakes, botanical gardens, and bustling markets make it an ideal base for cultural immersion and exploration.
Ella
A laid-back mountain village known for its stunning viewpoints, Ella is surrounded by emerald tea fields, waterfalls, and iconic hiking spots like Little Adam’s Peak and Nine Arch Bridge. With its cooler climate and breathtaking scenery, Ella is a haven for trekkers and nature lovers seeking a peaceful escape.
Sigiriya
Home to the legendary Lion Rock fortress, Sigiriya is one of Sri Lanka’s most treasured historical sites and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The dramatic rock rises above lush forests and ancient water gardens, offering panoramic views and a glimpse into the island’s royal past. The nearby Pidurangala Rock also provides stunning sunrise hikes and expansive vistas.
Accommodation
Throughout the program, participants will stay in shared guesthouses and hostels that offer a welcoming, community-focused atmosphere. Rooms are shared with fellow participants and include basic amenities to ensure a comfortable stay. Meals are often enjoyed together, providing a great opportunity to connect, share stories, and experience authentic Sri Lankan cuisine.
Itinerary
Week 1 – Cultural Immersion in Kandy
Day 1: Arrival in Colombo
Arrive at Bandaranaike International Airport and transfer to Kandy. Settle into your accommodation and enjoy a welcome dinner.
Day 2: Spice Garden & Tea Factory
Visit a lush spice garden and learn about Sri Lanka’s famous spices. Indulge in a traditional Ayurvedic massage, explore a tea factory, and enjoy local tastings.
Day 3: Markets & Cooking Class
Tour local markets, then dive into a hands-on Sri Lankan cooking class. Visit a local temple to observe Buddhist rituals.
Day 4: Buddhism & Meditation
Learn about Buddhism, join a guided meditation session, and savor traditional snacks. Begin creating Sri Lankan handicrafts.
Day 5: Temple of the Tooth & Dance Lesson
Explore the Temple of the Tooth, stroll around Kandy Lake, and join a Kandyan dance lesson after lunch.
Day 6: Handicrafts & Viewpoints
Finish your handicrafts, visit the White Buddha, and enjoy panoramic city views from Kandy’s viewpoints.
Day 7: Free Exploration & Preparation
Relax and explore Kandy at your own pace before preparing for your volunteer placement.
Week 2 & 3 – Volunteering in Kandy
Days 8–19: Community Volunteer Projects
Work 4–5 hours each day, Monday to Friday, with evenings and weekends free to explore or relax. Choose from placements including teaching, childcare, special needs support, or women’s empowerment.
Teach English and creative subjects to children and adults
Assist with daily activities at childcare centers and homes
Conduct skill-building workshops for women
Support lesson planning, engage in games, and foster cultural exchange
Day 20: Wrap-Up & Celebration
Celebrate your volunteer experience, reflect on your contributions, and share stories with your group and local team.
Week 4 – Hill Country Trekking Adventure
Day 21: Ambuluwawa Peak Hike
Hike to Ambuluwawa Peak for stunning views and visit its unique multi-religious complex. Return to Kandy accommodation.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 22: Train to Ella
Take the famous train ride to Ella, soak up breathtaking views, and transfer to your guesthouse.
Meals: Breakfast, dinner
Day 23: Explore Ella
Enjoy a free day exploring Ella’s highlights — hike Little Adam’s Peak, visit Nine Arch Bridge, explore tea plantations, and discover local cafés.
Meals: Breakfast
Day 24: Return to Kandy
Travel by bus back to Kandy. Depending on arrival time, continue to Sigiriya for an overnight stay.
Meals: Breakfast, dinner
Day 25: Sunrise at Pidurangala & Sigiriya Rock
Climb Pidurangala Rock at sunrise, then explore the ancient fortress atop Sigiriya Rock. Return to Kandy accommodation by evening.
Meals: Breakfast, dinner
Day 26: Free Day in Kandy
Enjoy a free day for last-minute shopping, relaxation, or extra sightseeing.
Meals: Breakfast, dinner
Day 27: Final Group Dinner
Reflect on your journey and celebrate your adventure with a farewell dinner.
Meals: Breakfast, dinner
Day 28: Departure
Transfer to the airport and depart with unforgettable memories.
Meals: Breakfast
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