Summer is flying by and we’re already at the end of August! 🤯 

It’s been a busy few months in Sri Lanka but summer isn’t over yet 🇱🇰
 
Who’s joining us in Sri Lanka this September? Leave an 🐘 in the comments below!

#pmgy #pmgysrilanka
How has your PMGY Trip changed you or influenced what you want to do next in life? 🌍 

PMGY ambassador Holly has volunteered with us in Sri Lanka and India on the childcare programs and went on her first trip at 17 years old!

#pmgy #pmgysrilanka #pmgyindia
🇱🇰The PMGY Sri Lanka Team 🇱🇰 
From coordinators to cooks these are the friendly faces who will be supporting you every step of the way during your time in Sri Lanka 🌎 

#pmgy #pmgysrilanka

🇱🇰 Sri Lanka Group Medical

Duration

2 Weeks

Monthly Start Dates

1st & 3rd Sunday

Min Age

18

Plan your two-week group medical trip to Sri Lanka today! Group leaders travel free, and your 15-day experience will be fully structured, inclusive, and guided by our experienced team. Sri Lanka is a tropical paradise known as the "Pearl of the Indian Ocean," offering golden beaches, lush tea plantations, and an incredible array of wildlife, including leopards and elephants. Its ancient cities, like Sigiriya, boast UNESCO World Heritage status, while its vibrant festivals and delicious curries are bound to captivate your senses. It is also home to the Sri Maha Bodhi, the world’s oldest living tree planted by humans.

Your medical volunteer placements will be based in the coastal town of Ambalangoda, where you’ll support the local community through outreach projects and placements in government, private, and village hospital settings. Before starting your medical work, you’ll receive an orientation into Sri Lankan life and an introduction to Buddhism. To complement your medical experience, evenings will feature cultural activities like a traditional cooking lesson and a cultural dance show.

After the first week of medical placements, it’s time to explore the island between placements. Highlights include visiting Galle Fort, stick fishing in Weligama, and well-earned relaxation at Mirissa Beach. The adventure continues with an elephant safari at Udawalawe National Park and a unique baby elephant feeding experience. You’ll also gain valuable insights into mental health with a day at Sithniwana Rehabilitation Centre. This two-week Sri Lanka expedition includes airport transfers, meals, accommodation, medical donations, entrance fees, and cultural activities, ensuring a meaningful and memorable journey.

Your Group Medical Trip to Sri Lanka

How It Works

Plan My Gap Year has the expertise, experience, and networks to ensure your group medical trip to Sri Lanka is accessible, safe, and stress-free. We prioritise safety management and provide detailed risk assessment documentation for all our overseas trips, including Sri Lanka, to ensure that participants are well looked after throughout their journey.

Organising an overseas group trip involves a lot of preparation, from booking flights and insurance to arranging pre-trip training - and that’s before you even begin planning the itinerary! That’s where PMGY comes in. We specialise in organising group expeditions abroad, offering exclusive medical experiences for large student groups, full board options, meaningful community project work, and exciting travel opportunities. We can take care of everything, including:

As part of our social initiative, we offer affordable pricing without compromising the quality of our programs. Many groups choose our programs as a more budget-friendly alternative to other providers. We can customise your trip to meet your specific needs and work closely with you to design a personalised itinerary for your group medical trip to Sri Lanka. So, why not follow the steps below and make your tailor-made group trip to Sri Lanka a reality!

Your Sri Lanka Group Medical Trip Awaits...

Step 1 - Arrange a Call - Contact us via email, phone or Zoom to discuss your Sri Lanka group medical trip. One of our expedition specialists will tailor the trip to your needs!

Step 2 - Meet & Greet - After the initial discussion, our specialist will meet you and your colleagues in person to refine the trip details and answer any questions.

Step 3 - Information Session - Once the itinerary and dates are finalised, we’ll host an information session for students to provide all trip details and answer any queries.

Step 4 – Confirm Trip NumbersAfter the registration deadline, we’ll arrange the group deposit payment and confirm the trip. For every 10 students, 1 group leader travels for free! We’ll also offer flights and insurance options.

Step 5 – Pre-departure SupportLeading up to the trip, we’ll provide ongoing support, including a bespoke trip handbook, risk assessments, safety management, and project preparation webinars.

Step 6 – Pre-departure SessionAround 2 months before departure, we’ll host a final pre-departure session for group leaders and students, to ensure everything is set. PMGY T-shirts will be handed out during the session.

Step 7 – Before You GoIn the days before departure, we’ll stay in regular contact to ensure everything is in place, including arrival procedures, dietary needs, and medical requirements.

Step 8 – Enjoy the Trip!During the trip, our ground team will be your point of contact, with daily check-ins to ensure everything runs smoothly. We’re available 24/7 from afar for any support.

Step 9 – Return HomeWe’ll ensure a smooth return to Colombo International Airport and send each participant a certificate of completion. We’ll follow up shortly after the trip for feedback.

Step 10 – Future PlanningOnce the trip blues have settled, it’s time to start planning your next adventure with PMGY. Whether returning to Sri Lanka or exploring a new destination, we’ll support you every step of the way!

“Nine other students and I had an unforgettable three-week nursing group trip to Sri Lanka. From the moment we attended PMGY’s informative session, we felt confident and excited about the experience ahead. The support leading up to the trip was exceptional, allowing us to focus on our studies while everything was well-organised. Once in Sri Lanka, we gained incredible insights into healthcare, from observing Ayurveda medicine to rotating through departments like paediatrics at government hospitals. The nurses were welcoming and enthusiastically answered our questions despite occasional language barriers. Ashika, the program coordinator, ensured we felt safe, well-fed, and immersed in Sri Lankan culture through activities like traditional dance classes and meditation sessions. Weekend trips to explore Sri Lanka’s beauty were seamlessly arranged and unforgettable. We returned home enriched with new knowledge, cultural experiences, and cherished memories."
Edge Hill University coat of arms with sunbursts, heraldic animals, crowned figure, and Latin motto.
Edge Hill University, United Kingdom

Itinerary

We’ve created a 15-day sample itinerary showcasing the ultimate Sri Lanka group medical trip, blending medical placements, travel, adventure, and cultural immersion. While this provides a great starting point, we understand every group has unique goals. That’s why we offer bespoke itineraries tailored to your needs - whether you want to adjust the trip length, focus solely on medical volunteering, or combine it with travel experiences. Whatever your preferences, we’ll ensure your Sri Lanka group trip is affordable, structured, safe, and unforgettable.

Welcome to Sri Lanka! Upon arrival at Colombo International Airport (Bandaranaike International Airport), your group will be warmly greeted by Ashika from the PMGY Sri Lanka team, who will be easily recognisable in his PMGY T-shirt. From here, you’ll be transported via private bus to your volunteer accommodation in Ambalangoda, a journey of around 2 hours. After settling into your accommodation, a freshly prepared welcome meal will await you, offering your first taste of authentic Sri Lankan cuisine.

After a good night’s rest, your orientation will kick off on day 2 with a traditional Sri Lankan breakfast. Our local team will guide you through the essentials of life in Sri Lanka, including cultural nuances, safety advice, and an overview of your trip itinerary. You’ll also learn about the projects you’ll be supporting. In the afternoon, you’ll explore some iconic sites in Ambalangoda, such as a historic temple and an original blue moonstone mine. This introduction to Buddhism and Sri Lankan traditions will set the stage for a meaningful week ahead. You’ll also have time to visit a supermarket and exchange currency before reflecting on your first day in this vibrant country.

Begin your day with a captivating lecture on Ayurvedic medicine, a traditional healing system deeply rooted in Sri Lankan history. Led by a local Ayurvedic specialist, the session will provide valuable insights into the origins and applications of Ayurveda, its role in treating various ailments, and its integration with yoga and meditation to promote holistic health. These ancient practices, which emphasise the use of herbal compounds, specialised diets, and natural remedies, date back to prehistoric times and are linked to Ravana, a legendary king and physician of Sri Lanka. Whether placed at a private or government hospital, every medical volunteer will have the chance to participate in this enriching lecture. Adding a spiritual dimension, a Buddhist monk will also join the session to share perspectives on the interplay between Ayurveda and mindfulness in healthcare.

Begin your hospital placements at the Balapitiya Government Base Hospital, a medium-sized facility with over 500 stations, located just 15 minutes from Ambalangoda. Over the course of three mornings, you’ll rotate through departments such as surgery, maternity, paediatrics, and general medicine, observing patient care, shadowing medical staff, and gaining valuable insights into healthcare delivery in Sri Lanka. With 20 doctors and 2 surgeons on-site, this placement offers a unique opportunity to witness the challenges and practices of a government hospital. While afternoons tend to be slower-paced, they provide a chance to revisit departments or engage in case discussions with mentors. Participants must be studying medicine, nursing, or healthcare at university, as required by Sri Lanka’s Health Ministry. Be proactive in asking questions and seeking guidance to make the most of this enriching experience.

Evenings are dedicated to cultural immersion, featuring activities like traditional dance classes and lectures on Buddhism, enriching your understanding of Sri Lankan heritage.

Spend two impactful days in rural villages near Ambalangoda, engaging with local children and families through health education initiatives. Run interactive sessions on personal hygiene, first aid, and healthy habits, while also conducting health checks such as blood pressure and blood sugar monitoring. Connect with the community, learn about their daily lives, and gain insight into rural healthcare challenges.

Celebrate your contributions with a sweet treat at a popular local ice cream shop each evening, reflecting on the meaningful work you’ve done.

The second week kicks off with travel, starting with a trip to Galle, just an hour’s drive from Ambalangoda. Explore the UNESCO World Heritage site of Galle Fort, a historic treasure with its colonial-era architecture and scenic ocean views. From there, you’ll head to Weligama for a hands-on introduction to stick fishing, a unique Sri Lankan tradition.

Next, you’ll head to Mirissa, a picture-perfect beach village. You’ll have the rest of day 8 and all of day 9 to unwind and soak in the coastal beauty. Whether you choose to relax on the beach or go whale watching, Mirissa offers the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.

An early start takes you to Udawalawe National Park for an exhilarating morning safari, offering a unique opportunity to see a diverse range of wildlife in their natural habitat. Home to a permanent herd of around 250 elephants, the park provides unforgettable sightings of these gentle giants, as well as vibrant bird species, sloth bears, and crocodiles. After the safari, you’ll visit a nearby sanctuary to witness the endearing sight of baby elephants being fed, a heartwarming experience that highlights the importance of conservation efforts. From there, you’ll journey through picturesque landscapes to the enchanting hill-country town of Ella, where breathtaking views, lush greenery, and your next adventure await.

Continue your medical placements at Roseth Private Hospital in Ambalangoda for two days of structured observational learning. This smaller private hospital offers a more intimate setting with departments such as Physiotherapy, Dental Surgery, Radiology, Laboratory, Phlebotomy, and both In-Patient and Out-Patient Wards. Working alongside English-speaking staff, you’ll gain a unique perspective on how private healthcare operates in Sri Lanka, contrasting it with the practices and challenges of the government hospital. This setting provides a valuable opportunity to observe and understand the nuances of private medical care while broadening your overall insight into the Sri Lankan healthcare system.

In the evenings, enjoy relaxed activities such as a movie night and quiz session, perfect for unwinding after a productive day.

Spend your morning assisting at a local blood pressure clinic in Polwatta Village Hospital, a smaller government facility. Here, you’ll support doctors with vital health checks, offering free blood pressure screenings to the community in a more informal and ad hoc setting, providing essential care to those in need. After lunch, head to Hikkaduwa, a lively seaside town known for its coral reefs and marine life. Enjoy snorkelling, relaxing on the beach, or shopping for souvenirs before returning to Ambalangoda.

On the final day of your group medical trip to Sri Lanka, you’ll visit the Sithniwana Rehabilitation Centre, a progressive facility focused on reintegrating individuals with mental illness back into society. Located an hour from Ambalangoda, this centre offers a unique opportunity to observe and participate in occupational therapies, creative arts, and structured exercise sessions designed to promote positive wellbeing. Engage directly with patients and staff, ask questions, and gain valuable insights into Sri Lanka’s mental healthcare system and the challenges of addressing stigma while supporting recovery. This visit serves as a memorable and impactful conclusion to your medical journey.

Bid farewell to Sri Lanka with a final group meal to reflect on your journey and celebrate your achievements. Each student will receive an International Certificate of Completion before the team transfers you to Colombo International Airport for your return flight. It’s been an unforgettable two weeks!

Accommodation

During your group medical trip to Sri Lanka, you’ll primarily stay in hotel-style accommodations that are comfortable, secure, and thoroughly vetted. Your first week will be based in Ambalangoda, where the volunteer portion of your trip takes place, in a peaceful and safe part of town.

Facilities in Ambalangoda

  • Room Setup: Each room accommodates up to 10 people (same-sex) and includes fans, bed linen, and mosquito nets.
  • Communal Areas: Spaces are available for students to relax, play games, and prepare lesson plans.
  • Kitchen Facilities: A refrigerator is provided for storing chilled items.
  • Storage: Cupboard space is available; we recommend bringing small padlocks or storing valuables with the local team.
  • Transportation: Private transport is arranged daily to and from your volunteer project.
  • Additional Facilities: Western-style bathrooms provided and convenient access to local laundry services available.
  • On-site security: A local team member resides at the accommodation, alongside an overnight security guard, ensuring 24/7 support and safety.

Accommodation During Travel

For the travelling portion of your trip, you’ll stay in our partner hotels at various destinations, including:

  • Mirissa Beach (2 nights)

Rooms are designed to accommodate up to four students of the same sex. All accommodations are fanned or air conditioned, clean, and comfortable, featuring western-style bathrooms for added convenience. A local team member will accompany the group throughout the travel experience, ensuring continuous support and guidance. This setup ensures a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable experience throughout your Sri Lanka group medical trip.

Wi-Fi

Yes (Usually Available)

People Per Room

Up To 10

Single Sex Rooms

Yes

Western Bathroom Facilities

Yes

Airport Transfer

2 Hours

Nearest ATM & Shops

5 Minute Walk

Meals

You will be served three meals a day during your group medical trip to Sri Lanka. When volunteering, meals will follow a set menu format and be provided at the accommodation in Ambalangoda. During the weekend trip, you’ll enjoy a variety of buffet options at local restaurants. Most meals will feature traditional Sri Lankan dishes, known for their bold flavours and spice, which can be adjusted to suit the group’s preferences.

Sri Lankan cuisine typically includes rice and curries, fish and chicken as standard protein options, and vegetarian dishes readily available. Meals are freshly prepared daily, with occasional Western dishes like pasta included for variety. Bottled water is provided with meals, and you should avoid drinking tap water during your stay.

* Our team will do their best to cater for dietary requirements, but this cannot always be guaranteed. Volunteers may need to purchase additional ingredients at their own expense. Please note any dietary requirements in your application and re-iterate them to the local team on arrival. For major concerns, contact the PMGY International Team before confirming your place on the program.

Here is an example of the meals you can expect:

Breakfast

Egg, Toast, Jams, Fruit, Tea

Lunch

Dhal & Spinach Curry, Poppadoms, Paprika Tofu & Rice

Dinner

Mixed Vegetable Noodles, Tomato Curry, Omelette

Program Location

Volunteer in Sri Lanka Trustpilot Reviews

Costs Involved

Registration Fee & Program Fee
279 USD Initial Registration Fee
  • Additional Program Fee
  • 2 Weeks - 975 USD

Costs Involved

Registration Fee & Program Fee
199 GBP Initial Registration Fee
  • Additional Program Fee
  • 2 Weeks - 650 GBP

Costs Involved

Registration Fee & Program Fee
239 EUR Initial Registration Fee
  • Additional Program Fee
  • 2 Weeks - 780 EUR

Costs Involved

Registration Fee & Program Fee
399 AUD Initial Registration Fee
  • Additional Program Fee
  • 2 Weeks - 1,365 AUD

Costs Involved

Registration Fee & Program Fee
369 CAD Initial Registration Fee
  • Additional Program Fee
  • 2 Weeks - 1,105 CAD
What's Included
  • Accommodation
  • Meals
  • Airport Pick Up
  • In-Country Orientation
  • Private Project Transport
  • 24-Hour Support
  • Volunteer Handbook
  • eSIM with Data Package
  • Certificate of Completion
  • Hoodie on Completion
What's Included
  • Accommodation
  • Meals
  • Airport Pick Up
  • In-Country Orientation
  • Private Project Transport
  • 24-Hour Support
  • Volunteer Handbook
  • eSIM with Data Package
  • Certificate of Completion
What's Not Included
  • Project Transport
  • Flights
  • Travel Insurance
  • Visa
  • Background Check