Volunteer in Sri Lanka

Volunteering in Sri Lanka

A Broader View offers the ultimate Sri Lanka volunteer opportunities for Canadians! If you’re looking to volunteer abroad in this amazing island nation, you’ve come to the right place. ABV’s diverse Sri Lankan volunteering projects are the best anywhere in the world and offer you an opportunity to experience this incredible nation firsthand. As you’ll soon find out, there’s a lot to love about this historical nation, which boasts some of the best natural and historical sites anywhere in the region. Keep reading to find out what makes Sri Lanka the best place for your next adventure holiday.

Why Sri Lanka?

Don’t let the island’s small size deceive you: Sri Lanka is one of the best volunteer locations in the world. The nation boasts a long, complex history as a valuable member of the Indian cultural sphere. As such, it is home to some of the most well-known religious sites in the region, with several Buddhist relics and locations of interest to historians. Experience both the past and the present with a trip to this island, which Hindu legend claims was once connected to the Indian mainland by a land bridge that was wiped out in 1480 AD.

Though that particular piece of scenery may be gone, the nation still boasts some of the most diverse wildlife anywhere in the world. In fact, Sri Lanka was recently ranked one of the most biodiverse nations in the world. This means you’ll have a blast exploring the many famous forests, shorelines, and beaches that make up the nation.

The Need

It’s hard work keeping up the natural beauty of the island. With modernization forcing rapid development in the region, Sri Lanka faces increased risk of a damaged environment. For this reason, ABV seeks to counter this through world-famous sea turtle conservation projects. Additionally, we offer school projects and community development programs that seek to raise local citizens out of poverty. Through ABV, you’ll be able to help children gain better access to education while living in communities that are more equipped to deal with the challenges of the present day.


Make the Right Choice with ABV

Against this backdrop, it’s crucial that you make the right choice when it comes to deciding on your volunteer organization. For Canadians looking to volunteer abroad, there’s no better option than ABV. A 501c(3) nonprofit, ABV has worked for over a decade to provide international volunteers like you with the ultimate volunteer experience. Our diverse Sri Lanka volunteer programs are safe and rewarding and give you an opportunity to experience the island nation like never before.

The best part? Our programs are flexible and made to fit your schedule. This means that you can volunteer on your own time. Volunteer on your own or with groups as large as twenty-five people. No matter what, you can be sure that ABV will provide you the absolute best in Sri Lankan volunteering. For this reason, make sure to check out our full list of volunteer programs today!

17 years and over. With parents if under

18 years and over.
W/ parents if under

24/7 local staff in country

24/7 local staff
in country

Tax deductible and fundraising options

Tax deductible and
fundraising options

Accommodations safe & friendliness

Accommodations safe & friendliness

Meals

3 meals a day
7 days a week

Work Schedule 4-8 hours a day

Work Schedule
4-8 hours a day

Airport Transfers included abroad

Airport Transfers
included abroad

Programs start at any day

Weekend
Arrivals

Language Requirements

No Language
Requirements

Available for Special Groups

Available for Special Groups

Important Overview

Overview

  • Project length: From 1 week to 8 weeks
  • Project Date: Year Round
  • Arrival airport: Bandaranaike International Airport, Colombo (CMB)

  • Arrivals: Only Saturday and Sundays, no exceptions
  • Accommodation: Beach Front Guest / Homestay (share rooms with A/C, hot water and 60 GB free wifi for each room)
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner daily (Sri Lankan foods)
  • Vaccinations: There are no compulsory vaccinations for Sri Lanka required by law for travelers from Western Countries to gain entry. However vaccinations for all travelers to Sri Lanka are strongly recommended: Poliomyelitis, Tetanus, Hep-A, Typhoid wwwnc.cdc.gov

Program Schedule

  • Starts and ends in Colombo
  • Airport Transfers included
  • Week days volunteering
  • Typical shift work: Morning shift - 4 hours Afternoon shift - 2 hours
  • Support - Local staff support 24/7 during placement
  • Departure - Will arrange as required

Not included

  • Flights to Sri Lanka. Entry Visa. Departure taxes. Vaccinations. Local Transportation. Travel & Health Insurance. Laundry and Internet

Volunteer Opportunities in Sri Lanka

Teaching English

Teaching English in Sri Lanka

What can be more exciting than teaching a child to learn.  In this program volunteers will have the opportunity to contribute to under developed community education needs. Volunteers will not only work in the classroom as an assistant they can be part of finding solutions for education challenges in a developing country like Sri Lanka.  Volunteer will work with small children (kindergarten and primary age kids) teaching basic English, sharing knowledge about health and hygiene practices and social issues such as gender equality.

Volunteer hours approximately 35 hours per week Monday to Friday.  The school has 120 students with 15 classrooms. Volunteers will work with small groups of children, focused on those that need extra support/attention. 

General responsibilities include:

  • Assist with lesson planning
  • Organize extracurricular activities
  • Introduces subjects such as music, dance, arts and sports
  • Dedicate 35-40 hours per week in the school

Sea Turtles and Marine Conservation

Sea Turtles and Marine Conservation in Sri Lanka

Volunteering in a conservation project is a great way to learn about environmental concerns of a community.  Sri Lanka is home to several turtle nesting beaches. Poaching by predators as well as humans can be detrimental to the turtle population. To safe guard against extinction, the Sri Lanka government has commissioned safe hatcheries along the coastline. 

Hatcheries provide a haven for sea turtles and promotes new births to increase population numbers. Volunteer support the work at the hatcheries, which typically rely on limited government and tourist donations.

Volunteer responsibilities includes beach cleaning, filling up water tanks, cleaning tanks, feeding turtles, transplanting eggs when necessary. Depending on the time of year volunteer may be involved in community outreach and awareness projects.  The volunteer shifts can be both morning and late afternoon (4-6 hours per day).  Volunteers work directly with the veterinary doctors for treatment of sea turtles which oversees the feeding, cleaning, nesting and hatchery histories.

Medical Healthcare Outreach

Medical Healthcare Outreach in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is known to have a very good preventative health care system within South Asia. The success of Sri Lanka's health sector is largely due to its effective public delivery system, which provides both preventive and curative care at low cost. Government-provided healthcare is free for all citizens and accounts for almost all preventive care and most in-patient treatment.

This program gives volunteers the opportunity to learn about healthcare in a developing country.  ABV has partnerships with local clinics and hospitals throughout Galle which medically trained volunteers are welcome to apply.

Medically trained volunteers and currently enrolled medical students and student nurses are welcome to apply. Healthcare electives and medical internships can be organized (based on the scope of the volunteers’ experience). Volunteers will work 6-7 hours per day in different departments and clinical areas. 

Volunteer responsibilities are determined by the local medical supervisors, as well as the patient base and need to the clinic.  This means, like in any medical setting, volunteers need to be flexible and proactive and be ready to jump in where they are needed most.

Childcare Program

Medical Healthcare Outreach in Sri Lanka

It is a great opportunity to do volunteer work at an orphanage for different age group children. Unlike you and us, these children in orphanages end up in such homes, because of poverty, natural disasters, neglect, abuse, abandonment and other related issues. So this is a chance for you to give your helping hand to these unspoiled, lovely children by taking care of them, teaching and playing with them. You will give them a new hope to build their confidence, and to develop their skills.

General responsibilities include:

  • Provide love, care and affection to the children
  • Teach English, Mathematics, Science or any other subject
  • Teach extra- curricular activities such as Music, Dancing and physical education

Empowering Local Entrepreneur

Medical Healthcare Outreach in Sri Lanka

The livelihood of the most people in coastal areas is fishing and others earn a living by using the resources from the sea, coconuts and cinnamon. Empowering the local entrepreneurs is the main task for this project and gets a chance to learn the Sri Lankan culture. Supporting to make handicrafts using sea shells is one of these projects and can experience how the cinnamon comes out that way to the market.

General responsibilities include:

  • Handicrafts project
    • ✓ Collecting sea shells on the beach
    • ✓ Cleaning sea shells and drying before use
    • ✓ Helping the craftsmen to make fancy crafts
  • Processing of cinnamon project
    • ✓ Harvesting cinnamon sticks
    • ✓ Removing knots, scraping, rubbing with brass rod
    • ✓ Peeling the cinnamon bark

Elephant Welfare (EFP)

Medical Healthcare Outreach in Sri Lanka

Volunteers play an important role throughout the year at the Elephant Welfare program, contributing to daily functioning and future development. We welcome volunteers from all over the world, with all kinds of skills and interests. Through the different elements of the voluntary elephant conservation project, volunteers have a unique experience, managing to enter the local community, working with local people to improve education and promoting the important work of the elephant center for achieve better care and conservation of the elephant, protecting not only our own herd, but also elephants throughout Sri Lanka!

The main focus of the volunteers is the daily care and management of the elephants that live with us. Upon arrival, you will be assigned an elephant to work and will help you with your daily care and, if necessary, medical treatment. Working under the direction of your elephant's mahout and with other volunteers, you will be asked to help him with his food and bath during his entire stay; and hope to build a special relationship with your elephant! This requires dedicated care and responsibility.

Daily schedule

  • 6.30 am – Jungle walk with elephant
  • 8.00 am - Vitamin making , vet check (check the elephants body) and feeding elephants
  • 9.00 am - Breakfast
  • 10.00 am – Night closure cleaning
  • 11.00 am – Elephant bath
  • 12.00 am – Break time
  • 13.00 pm – Lunch
  • 14:00 till 17:00 project work could be anything from painting, gardening, elephant walk!

Accommodation

Accommodation is onsite surrounded by palm trees and overlooking paddy fields. Mosquito nets, clean linen and towels are provided. The bungalow and cabins are maintained by volunteers and our Bungalow keeper Abey. Your volunteer placement fee includes three local style meals a day, which are provided at the Colonial House, lunch is a vegetarian meal - food that you will be helping to grow in the Eco-garden! and wherever possible special dietary requirements will be accommodated.

The Bungalow - Bedrooms are shared facilities with bunk beds with in-suite western bathroom facilities, there is also two refreshing outdoor showers. There is a basic kitchen area with sink, kettle, water filter and fridge freezer, washing bowls for your clothes and a lounge area with books to read and free WIFI.

The Jungle Cabins - Five cabins that can each sleep three people. All cabins features a bunk bed and a single bed. The jungle cabin facility has its own shower and toilet block attached. Volunteers in these room will also have access to the bungalow for the facilities there.

What is included

  • Accommodation on site, 3 meals per day that are cooked by our trained onsite chef
  • Airport pick up and drop
  • Towels, linens and mosquito nets
  • Kettle, fridge freezer, water filter,clothes washing bawls (hand wash)

Volunteer Sri Lanka (Colombo)

Nursing Students and Professionals

Medical Healthcare Outreach in Sri Lanka

We offer a fabulous opportunity to complete Nursing observational visits at leading private and public hospitals in Colombo. 

Our placements are designed to provide an in-depth understanding of the Sri Lankan nursing systems in the following areas, but not limited to:

  1. Community Health Nursing: Providing health education, conducting screenings, and assisting in community health projects.
  2. Maternal and Child Health: Focusing on prenatal care, maternal health, child development, and pediatric care.
  3. Tropical Medicine and Infectious Diseases: Learning about common tropical diseases such as dengue fever, malaria, and leptospirosis.
  4. Mental Health Nursing: Exposing students to mental health facilities and clinics, allowing participation in counseling sessions and therapeutic activities.
  5. Nursing Research and Public Health: Participating in research projects or public health initiatives focused on healthcare challenges in Sri Lanka.
  6. Emergency and Trauma Nursing: Gaining experience in emergency departments and trauma centers, including triage and trauma management.
  7. Nursing Leadership and Management: Learning about healthcare management practices, including hospital administration and quality improvement initiatives.

Program Highlights

1. Clinical Rotations: Interns will participate in clinical rotations across different healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, and community health centers. They will have the opportunity to work alongside experienced nurses and healthcare professionals, gaining practical experience in various nursing specialties.

2. Patient Care: Interns will be actively involved in providing direct patient care under the supervision of registered nurses. They will assist with tasks such as taking vital signs, administering medications, dressing wounds, and providing personal care to patients.

3. Educational Workshops: Interns will attend educational workshops and training sessions conducted by experienced nursing educators. These sessions will cover a wide range of topics, including nursing fundamentals, patient assessment, infection control, and communication skills.

4. Specialty Exposure: Interns will have the opportunity to explore different nursing specialties, such as medical-surgical nursing, pediatric nursing, maternal health nursing, mental health nursing, and community health nursing. They will gain exposure to diverse patient populations and healthcare settings, broadening their knowledge and skills.

Medical Students and Professionals

Medical Healthcare Outreach in Sri Lanka

We offer a fabulous opportunity to complete Medical observational visits at leading private and public hospitals in Colombo.

Our placements are designed to provide an in-depth understanding of the Sri Lankan medical systems in the following areas, but not limited to:

  1. General Medicine: Rotating through different medical specialties in hospitals, clinics, and outpatient departments.
  2. Pediatrics: Working in pediatric wards, outpatient clinics, and neonatal units, learning about pediatric health issues.
  3. Surgery: Observing and assisting in surgical procedures across various specialties.
  4. Obstetrics and Gynecology: Focusing on women's health, including prenatal care and gynecological procedures.
  5. Emergency Medicine: Gaining experience in emergency departments, responding to medical emergencies.
  6. Infectious Diseases: Exposing students to common infectious diseases in Sri Lanka and participating in diagnosis and treatment efforts.
  7. Psychiatry: Working in psychiatric hospitals, clinics, and community mental health centers.
  8. Public Health and Community Medicine: Focusing on public health challenges and initiatives in Sri Lanka.

Pre Healthcare Students Internship

Designed for aspiring healthcare professionals, this program offers hands-on clinical experience, exposure to diverse medical practices, and the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of patients.

Program Highlights:

  1. Clinical Rotations: Participate in clinical rotations across a variety of medical specialties, including emergency medicine, surgery, pediatrics, obstetrics, and internal medicine. Gain practical experience in diagnosing and treating patients under the supervision of experienced healthcare professionals.
  2. Hospital Observations: Shadow healthcare providers in hospital settings, observing medical procedures, patient consultations, and diagnostic tests. Learn about the healthcare system in Sri Lanka and the challenges faced in delivering quality medical care.
  3. Community Health Outreach: Engage in community health outreach initiatives, conducting health screenings, health education sessions, and preventive healthcare activities in rural and underserved areas. Contribute to efforts to improve access to healthcare and promote public health awareness.
  4. Cultural Immersion: Immerse yourself in Sri Lankan culture and traditions, participating in cultural activities, language classes, and cultural exchange events. Explore the rich history and vibrant heritage of Sri Lanka during your free time.

Responsibilities:

  1. Patient Care: Provide direct patient care under the supervision of licensed healthcare professionals, including taking vital signs, administering medications, and assisting with medical procedures.
  2. Documentation: Maintain accurate and up-to-date medical records, including patient histories, treatment plans, and progress notes. Ensure compliance with patient confidentiality and data protection regulations.
  3. Education and Counseling: Educate patients and their families about their medical conditions, treatment options, and preventive healthcare measures. Provide counseling and emotional support to patients facing medical challenges.
  4. Community Outreach: Participate in community health outreach activities, including health screenings, immunization campaigns, and health education sessions. Collaborate with local healthcare providers and community organizations to address health disparities and promote health equity.

Women Empowerment

Join our Women Empowerment Volunteer Program and contribute to the advancement of women’s rights and opportunities in Sri Lanka. As a volunteer, you will play a crucial role in empowering women from diverse backgrounds, helping them build confidence, acquire new skills, and pursue their aspirations for a brighter future.

General Responsibilities Include:

  1. 1. Skills Training: Facilitate workshops and training sessions focused on developing practical skills such as literacy, numeracy, vocational skills, financial literacy, and entrepreneurship, tailored to the needs and interests of women participants.
  2. 2. Educational Support: Provide academic support and tutoring to women and girls who may have limited access to formal education, assisting them in improving their academic performance and pursuing further educational opportunities.
  3. 3. Leadership Development: Organize leadership development programs and activities aimed at fostering self-esteem, assertiveness, and leadership skills among women and girls, empowering them to take on leadership roles in their communities and beyond.
  4. 4. Health and Well-being: Raise awareness about women’s health issues, including reproductive health, hygiene, nutrition, and mental health, and provide access to resources and support services to improve overall well-being.
  5. 5. Income Generation: Support income-generating activities and microenterprise development initiatives that enable women to generate sustainable livelihoods, achieve economic independence, and contribute to their household’s financial stability.
  6. 6. Community Engagement: Engage with local communities to build support networks, foster dialogue on gender issues, and mobilize community resources to address the unique challenges faced by women and girls in Sri Lanka.

By volunteering with us, you will have the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of women and girls, empowering them to overcome barriers, realize their full potential, and become agents of positive change in their communities and society at large.

Childcare Teaching

Childcare Teaching

Join our Kindergarten Teaching Volunteer Program in Sri Lanka and make a meaningful impact on the lives of young children in local communities. As a volunteer, you will have the opportunity to work closely with enthusiastic and eager-to-learn kindergarten students, providing them with valuable educational support and nurturing their development in a fun and engaging environment.

General Responsibilities Include:

  1. Assisting Classroom Teachers: Collaborate with experienced educators to plan and implement age-appropriate lessons and activities that promote cognitive, social, and emotional development.
  2. Facilitating Learning: Engage students in interactive learning experiences, including storytelling, arts and crafts, games, and educational songs, to enhance their language, literacy, and numeracy skills.
  3. Creating a Safe and Inclusive Environment: Foster a supportive and inclusive classroom atmosphere where every child feels valued, respected, and encouraged to participate.
  4. Individualized Support: Provide one-on-one assistance to students who may require additional help or guidance to overcome learning challenges or language barriers.
  5. Promoting Health and Hygiene: Educate students on the importance of personal hygiene practices, such as handwashing and dental care, to promote overall health and well-being.
  6. Cultural Exchange: Embrace the opportunity to immerse yourself in Sri Lankan culture, learning from local teachers, students, and community members, while also sharing your own cultural background and experiences with others.

By volunteering with us, you will play a vital role in laying the foundation for lifelong learning and success for young children in Sri Lanka, while also gaining valuable teaching experience and creating lasting memories.

Country Info

Country Details

Sri Lanka is the pearl of indian ocean which has comfortable weather with attractive nature. Sri Lanka has unique culture, geological features, historical values, good biodiversity and marvelous environment. There are so many fresh water sources in Sri Lanka such as waterfalls, rivers and lakes. Sinharaja is the tropical rainforest in Sri lanka which has very big flora and fauna diversity. A visit to Sri Lanka presents a unique opportunity in this context, having been listed amongst the top 25 global hotspots for biodiversity. The ecological watchdog organization Conservation International has indicated that there are over 3000 endemic plant species, 140 endemic species of amphibians, 14 endemic species of mammals and 10 endemic species of birds in Sri Lanka​.

Sri Lanka is a country rich in historical places and religious places.​They range from the ancient ruins of cities, temples and shrines. Kandy has The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic of Lord buddha. Anuradhapura also one of the religious and historically important city in Sri Lanka. Sigiriya, Yapahuwa, Polonnaruwa also very important places in ​Sri Lanka.

Colombo

Colombo's geography is a mix of land and water. The city has many canals and, in the heart of the city, the 65-hectare (160-acre) Beira Lake. The lake is one of the most distinctive landmarks of Colombo, and was used for centuries by colonists to defend the city. It remains a popular attraction, hosting regattas, and theatrical events on its shores. The Northern and North-Eastern border of the city of Colombo is formed by the Kelani River, which meets the sea in a part of the city known as the Modera (mōdara in Sinhala) which means river delta.

Coordinator

Harsha - Sri Lanka - Colombo Elabada Sri Lanka CoordinatorRannulu Sri Lanka Coordinatorkavindu Sri Lanka Coordinator

Welcome to Sri Lanka 🇱🇰￰ (Ayubowan!). Our names are Elabada, Kavindu and Miss Rannulu, and we are your ABV coordinators while you are staying in Sri Lanka. Our country has one big city, Colombo. But you will be working in different areas depending of your program. We will be ready for support 24/7 in case you need to contact me urgently. I will introduce you to your volunteer location and staff.

You are most welcome to seek my assistance and don’t hesitate to ask me questions while in country.

Weather

What's the best time to go to Sri Lanka? Here are some annual weather facts we collected from our historical climate data:

Sri Lanka has typically tropical climate and there are no real marked seasons. The weather in plains and the coastal areas is very hot and often humid with an average monthly temperature of 27 degrees Celsius (81° Fahrenheit). Relative Humidity varies from approximately 70% during the day to 90% at night. The hills are much cooler with an average temperature of around 20 degrees Celsius (68° Fahrenheit).

Sri Lanka sees a lot of rainfall. The monsoon brings rain from May to July to the western, southern and central regions of the island. The north-east monsoon causes rains in the northern and eastern regions in December and January.

Weather in Sri Lanka

Reviews & Multimedia

Reviews

This experience has been life-changing and opened my eyes to the incredibly blessed life that I lead. And although it is difficult for just one volunteer to make a difference, I feel truly honored and humbled to have been able to touch even a few lives.

ABV Volunteer - Ariel L.


Ariel L.

Nationality: USA

Age: 20

My favorite memory is just the little smiles, hugs and waves I would get throughout the week. I would happen to make eye contact with one of the kids or they would run up to me unexpectedly and their response were so full of joy and love and happiness.

ABV Volunteer - Molly F.
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Molly F

Nationality: CANADA

Age: 18

Support provide in country was amazing, and more than I could have hopped for. Everyone was very knowledgeable, friendly, and informative, and were constantly more than willing to help with any problem, and they always did it with a smile on their face!

ABV Volunteer - Alice


Alice D

Nationality: Australian

Age: 21

Photos Gallery

Prices for Sri Lanka

Program Fees

Since A Broader View Volunteers is a 501c(3) charitable organization, You can fundraise (optional) for the expenses of the trip after you get confirmed in our programs. Prices are per person and in US dollars (US$).

Medica, Nursing and PreStudents
Length of programProgram Fee $USD
1 week $1200
2 weeks $1400
3 weeks $1600
4 weeks $1800
5 weeks $2000
6 weeks $2200
7 weeks $2400
8 weeks $2600
Teaching and Sea Turtles
Length of programProgram Fee $USD
1 week $1000
2 weeks $1100
3 weeks $1200
4 weeks $1380
5 weeks $1600
6 weeks $1820
7 weeks $2040
8 weeks $2260
Elephants
Length of programProgram Fee $USD
1 week $1300
2 weeks $1600
3 weeks $1900
4 weeks $2200
Childcare / Women Empowerment
Length of programProgram Fee $USD
1 week $1000
2 weeks $1100
3 weeks $1200
4 weeks $1380
5 weeks $1600
6 weeks $1820
7 weeks $2040
8 weeks $2260

Inclusions

  • Accommodation: Beach Front Guest / Homestay
  • Meals: 3 Meals a day
  • Arrival: Airport meet and greet by ABV Staff
  • Orientation: Project Overview and city tour on arrival
  • Support: Pre-trip written guide, In-country ABV staff available 24/7
  • Departure: ABV Staff Escorted Airport Transfer

Extra costs: Flights. Entry Visa (if applicable). Departure taxes. Vaccinations. Local Transportation. Background Check, Travel & Health Insurance (US$53 Premium plan). Laundry and Internet (US$10-15)

Meals & Food

Volunteers are provided breakfast, lunch and dinner at their accommodation during the week and weekends. Breakfast typically consists of toast, fruit, eggs, cereal accompanied with milk, tea or coffee. Dinner usually includes: meat (cow, chicken), potato, rice, vegetables, spaghetti and a variety of western food. Volunteers can be away from their accommodation mid-day so they take a lunch bag or they go back home. We recommend budgeting between US$5 and US$10 per day to purchase lunch if you don't return to the host family, let the host family know if you change the lunch plans. If you have specific dietary requirements, our local teams and home-stays can customize to you but be flexible as well.

Start Dates

Most of our programs run year round, you can start any volunteer/internship program on any day. When you apply you will lets know your start and end dates. Our programs run year round and have volunteers arriving almost every day from many different countries.

Since our programs sometimes depend on the local holiday calendar, there are brief occasions when normal programs work is suspended. For example, schools/daycares often close for long winter/summer vacations. During these times, we arrange for alternative work programs that are similar in substance to our ongoing programs, but address the short-term, direct needs of the local communities.

If you would like to arrange your start and end dates around the local holidays, please call us at 1.866.423.3258 or email us at [email protected].

Money Matters

A Broader View Volunteers work tirelessly year round to support our volunteers, and also to serve the local communities where ABV projects are based. As a tax-exempt 501 c(3) organization A Broader View receive 100% of our funding from volunteer contributions. Through your program fee contribution our non-profit charity organization can operate beneficial humanitarian aid programs which are successful and continuous supported year round.

Local, professional full-time coordinators, placement logistics, airport pick up and departure transportation, arrival orientation, food & local accommodations, are a major part of providing a safe, meaningful volunteer experience. When you join A Broader View, you will receive pre-trip visa and vaccination support, assistance with flights, fundraising planning, through our interactive online volunteer portal. Our local partners not only benefit from volunteers valuable contributions at the project, they benefit financially with year-round monetary support from A Broader View. In the last decade A Broader View has donated over 4.5 million dollars in international aid.

By joining A Broader View you are not only helping to make a difference during your own trip, your impact will last even after you go home.

Extras

Tour and weekend trips

Once in country our local coordinator can help you find the most reliable and safe tour agencies for weekend trips, you can pay in cash or in most locations with a credit card. These tours are not part of the ABV fees.

Sigiriya Rock Fortress and Cave Temples Private Day Trip

Visit two UNESCO World Heritage sites, the Sigiriya Rock Fortress and Golden Temple of Dambulla, on this private day trip with a personal guide — a must-do activity when visiting Sri Lanka. You’re chauffeured in the comfort of your own vehicle for the approximate 4-hour drive from Negombo, Colombo or Mount Lavinai. Climb the 5th-century fortress on a sightseeing tour of the 8th Wonder of the World. After lunch, tour the impressive cave temple and marvel at its Buddha statues.

Day Excursions to Udawalawe From Colombo

Spot elephants at Udawalawe National Park on this full-day tour from Colombo. Depart from your hotel in a private vehicle and make your way to Udawalawe. Accompanied by a guide, ride a jeep through the national park and see the wide variety of wildlife that lives there, possibly including wild buffalo, spotted deer, crocodiles, and butterflies.

Full-Day Private Sigiriya and Dambulla from Kandy

The Golden Temple of Dambulla and the Ancient City of Sigiriya are two of Sri Lanka’s most impressive UNESCO World Heritage sites and this private tour from Kandy visits both in one day. Climb the dramatic rock fortress of Sigiriya, tuck into a delicious curry lunch (optional), then explore the Buddhist cave complex of Dambulla with its gigantic rock-carved Buddha.

Udawalawe National Park Safari trip from Galle/Mirissa/Ella

Prepare to ‘get wild’ on this full-day safari in Sri Lanka’s Udawalawe National Park. Scout for elephants, crocodiles, birds, and more, and take an optional side trip to Udawalawe Elephant Orphanage. All national park fees and a safari jeep with a driver-guide are included.

Private Day Trip: Horton Plains and Pedro Tea Factory from Nuwara Eliya

Get an in-depth look at the beautiful landscapes of Sri Lanka’s hilly interior during this 8-hour private day trip. Explore Horton Plains National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, before enjoying a guided walk to scout for wildlife as you journey to ‘World’s End.’ You’ll also visit Baker Falls, enjoy an included lunch, and visit a tea plantation and factory.

Day Excursions To UNESCO City ANURADHAPURA From Colombo

Make a multi-stop tour focusing on UNESCO World Heritage sites easy with round-trip transportation. Visits include the ancient city of Anuradhapura, Isurumuniya, Sri Mahabodi, and Mihintale. Along the way, enjoy personalized attention from your private guide and listen to engaging commentary.

Shore Excursion Mangrove Boat Tour To Negombo From Colombo Port

The journey of your tour starts from Colombo Port & enjoy the Private Mangrove Boat Safari Tour in Negombo City. After the tour you will be safely return back to Colombo Port.

Festivals and Festivities

1. Sinhala & Tamil New Year

Usually around mid-April every year the entire country is enveloped in a festive atmosphere to mark the Lunar New Year. Amongst all festivals in Sri Lanka, the Sinhala & Tamil New Year is especially celebrated with great pomp and show to mark the end of the harvest season and spring. People get busy cleaning and decorating their homes, preparing traditional sweets, enjoying meals with the family and showing off their new clothes. The celebrations also involve anointing children with herbal oils, bursting firecrackers and organizing competitive games to add to the fun quotient.

When: 13-14th April
Where: Entire island

2. Vesak Poya

Commemorating the three important milestones in Buddha’s life- his birth, enlightenment, and nirvana – Vesak Poya is one of the most prominent Buddhist festivals in Sri Lanka. Celebrations begin on a full moon day and continue up to a week, filling every home, street and shop with the magical light of colorful lanterns called Vesak kudu, depicting the light of Buddha. Cities like Colombo and Kandy sparkle with lit-up pandals displaying elaborate panels from the Jataka stories, while tiny clay lamps brighten up villages throughout the festivities of Vesak festival in Sri Lanka.

When: full moon of May
Where: Across the island, but celebrations in Colombo are on a grand scale.

3. Kandy Esala Poya Perahera

Another important one amongst religious festivals in Sri Lanka, The Festival of The Tooth pays homage to the sacred tooth relic of Buddha enshrined at the famous temple in Kandy. The grand celebrations include a spectacular procession of traditional dancers, drummers, and elephants dressed up in rich finery through the streets of the city every day for a week. The excitement, fervor and festivities on the last night must be seen to be believed. It is recommended to book a seat in advance through some local agencies to enjoy the spectacle in its full glory.

When: full moon of July or August
Where: Kandy

4. Poson Festival

Also known as Poson Paya, this is the second most important one amongst festivals celebrated in Sri Lanka by the Buddhists. Since it commemorates the advent of Buddhism in the island in the 3rd century, Poson Festival holds great historical significance too. Just as in Vesak, the celebrations include lanterns, pandals, and alms-stalls across the island in the true spirit of the Buddhist traditions and teachings. The grandest festivities are in and around Mihintale rock outcrop where Buddha’s disciple Mahinda first preached Buddhist doctrines to King Devanampiyatissa.

When: full moon day in June
Where: Mihintale and Anuradhapur

5. Kataragama Esala Festival

One of the most significant Hindu festivals in Sri Lanka, it attracts thousands of devotees from across the island to the holy town of Kataragama in southern Sri Lanka over a two-week period. People from all major faiths seek divine guidance and penance from the deity by indulging in rituals like skin-piercing and acts of self-mutilation. Just like the Esala Perahera, this festival is also marked by processions of dancers, musicians, elephants, fire-eaters and acrobats, all adding up to the religious fervor and festivities.

When: July or August (coincides with the Esala Perahera in Kandy)
Where: Kataragama town in Southern Sri Lanka

6. Vel Festival

Amongst the most important Hindu religious and cultural festivals in Sri Lanka, Vel Festival commemorates the victory of war-god Skandha over evil forces and venerates his trident (vel). The vel is placed in a huge dazzling golden chariot pulled by devotees in white with their faces smeared in holy ash. Accompanied by dancers, musicians and elephants the procession moves across the city to the sound of chants, drums, bells and divine songs reverberating through the streets. The gorgeous procession and the sacred vibes are sure to leave you awestruck & mesmerized.

When: July/August
Where: Colombo

7. Mahashivratri

Devotees of Lord Shiva across the country celebrate padmarajarathri (great night of Shiva) in the month of February with prayers and festivities. Worshippers begin their day with a purification bath, carrying water pots to the temple to bathe the Shiva Linga and then spend the day fasting and meditating at various temples. Some temples like the Sri Kaileshwarar also celebrate with dance and music performances to celebrate this important festival in Sri Lanka. This year the festival will be celebrated on 4th March.

When: March
Where: Across the island

8. Duruthu Perahera

Marking the beginning of Buddhist calendar in Sri Lanka, this grand procession in the month of January (Duruthu) is one of the greatest & most glorious cultural traditional festivals in Sri Lanka, attended with great enthusiasm by devotees and tourists alike. Duruthu Perahera is celebrated to commemorate Gautam Buddha’s first visit to the country 2500 years ago, with 3-day long festivities at Kelaniya Raja Maha Viharaya. You can witness a magnificent spectacle on the final day with decked up and bejeweled elephants, acrobats, singer, drummers & torch-bearers conjuring up a grand procession.

When: Full moon day in January
Where: Kelaniya Raja Maha Viharaya, Colombo (8 kms away)

9. Nallur Festival

Rivaling the celebrations at the Kandy Esala Perahera, this 25-day long Nallur Festival held in honor of Lord Murugan is a grand and glorious affair worth witnessing. Various festivities and processions mark the celebrations on different days, with devotees from the entire island thronging the Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil. On the day of Chariot Festival, ardent devotees carry the glittering deity on a magnificent silver throne around the town. While on other days, there are fantastic processions with spectacular chariots.

When: August-September
Where: Jaffna

10. Thai Pongal

Celebrated for 3 days starting from the first day of Thai (the 10th month in Tamil calendar), this is one of the important festivals in Sri Lanka 2019 where families pay tribute to the sun god for a bountiful harvest. The festivities begin by drawing kolams (rangoli) with rice paste in the front yard of houses and boiling milk mixed with rice, jaggery, and spices. The entire family participates in the festivities to pay gratitude to ‘Surya’ as well as the cattle which play an important role in bringing a good harvest.

When: Mid-January
Where: All across the country

How may we help you?!

How may we help you?!

Our staff has extensive travel and volunteer abroad experience. We have the answers to all your questions about volunteering with ABV. We can customize any of our programs to your needs and dates.

Call/chat with our team members:

(1) 215 780 1845 [email protected]

Language Immersion:
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