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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.
Program Highlights:
Your Schedule at a Glance (Minimum Two-Week Commitment):
Arrival & Orientation (Sunday–Monday):
Arrivals take place on Sunday, followed by settling into the volunteer accommodation. On Monday, volunteers join a mandatory orientation including cultural lessons, a Sinhalese language session, a Kandy city tour, and an introduction to project guidelines.
Tuesday–Friday:
After breakfast, volunteers travel to their assigned site for cleaning, painting, or renovation tasks. Work continues after lunch with activities such as mural creation, temple artwork (when requested), and other light restoration duties. Evenings are free to relax and connect with fellow volunteers.
Weekends:
Weekends are free for volunteers to explore the city, visit nearby natural attractions, or enjoy cultural sites. Departures are on a Saturday.
Remaining Weeks:
Volunteers continue with a Monday–Friday schedule and keep weekends free until the end of their program.
What’s Included
What’s not Included
Kandy is Sri Lanka’s last royal capital and remains one of its most culturally significant cities. Situated 115 km from Colombo at an elevation of 465 meters, it offers cooler weather, lush hills, and a peaceful atmosphere. The city is home to the Temple of the Tooth, a UNESCO-listed site that draws visitors from around the world. Bustling markets, traditional arts, cultural performances, and historic temples all reflect Kandy’s deep-rooted heritage. Nature lovers will appreciate nearby forests, botanical gardens, and mountain landscapes. The region’s central location makes it ideal for exploring other parts of Sri Lanka. With its blend of ancient history and welcoming community life, Kandy provides an enriching setting for volunteer work.
About the Program
This initiative supports the preservation of historic temples and the improvement of educational and community facilities in Kandy. Many spaces require ongoing maintenance to preserve cultural value and provide safe, inspiring environments for children and local families. Volunteers work closely with experienced coordinators who provide guidance and assign tasks based on current needs.
About the Volunteer Work
Volunteers take part in practical, hands-on tasks such as painting walls, restoring artwork, decorating classrooms, and beautifying public spaces. Work may also include mural creation and light temple artwork when requested. No prior experience is required, but volunteers should be comfortable with physical activity in warm conditions and open to learning new skills.
Volunteer Tasks (Summary List)
A Typical Day
A typical day begins with breakfast, followed by morning restoration work such as cleaning, sanding, or painting. After lunch, volunteers continue with creative projects, murals, or additional light renovation tasks. The day concludes with dinner and time to relax. Schedules may shift depending on weather, community needs, and local conditions.
Travel Highlights
Kandy is an ideal base for exploring Sri Lanka’s cultural and natural treasures, with easy access to temples, markets, tea plantations, and scenic mountain landscapes. Volunteers can enhance their stay by adding one of two popular post-program options:
Culture Week in Kandy (Highly Recommended)
Start or extend your trip with a week dedicated to learning about Sri Lanka’s heritage. Enjoy visits to the Temple of the Tooth and local markets, join cooking and language lessons, experience an Ayurvedic massage, and take part in creative workshops such as Batik design and lantern-making. This add-on is a great way to settle in, understand local traditions, and build confidence before beginning your volunteer work.
Trekking Week Adventure
For those seeking outdoor exploration, the Trekking Week offers a journey through some of Sri Lanka’s most iconic natural and cultural sites. Highlights include the hike to Ambuluwawa Peak, the world-famous train ride to Ella, visits to tea plantations, the Nine Arch Bridge, and Ravana Falls, as well as sunrise at Pidurangala and a climb up Sigiriya Rock. It is a rewarding way to experience the country’s landscapes and biodiversity after completing your volunteer placement.
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Develop & Design | Msite
