PMGY’s Real Asia Encounter takes you through Sri Lanka, India, and Nepal. We truly can’t think of a better combination of exotic and captivating gap year destinations in Asia to volunteer in. Get ready for an action-packed 6, 9, or 12 weeks in some of the best places to volunteer abroad!
From the towering mountain ranges of the Himalayas in Nepal to the serene and scenic island of Sri Lanka, not forgetting India – a global powerhouse rich in culture – Asia has it all. The continent’s incredible physical diversity and variety are some of its most striking features. Volunteer in Asia on this once-in-a-lifetime trip, and select the trip duration, volunteer projects, and travel experiences that are right for you.
Encounter Highlights
- Travel Across Sri Lanka, India & Nepal For 6, 9 Or 12 Weeks
- Choose From Childcare, Teaching, Medical, Wildlife & Conservation Projects
- Support Local Communities & Advance The UN Sustainable Development Goals
- Build Confidence, Independence & Friendships Through Shared Experiences
- Gain Practical Experience While Volunteering Across 3 Unique Destinations
- Enjoy A Structured & Social Group Experience With Support Throughout
- Explore Sri Lanka’s Beaches, Hill Country, National Parks & Waterfalls
- Discover India Through Delhi, Jaipur & The World Famous Taj Mahal
- Explore Kathmandu, Pokhara & Nepal’s Spectacular Himalayan Mountains
- Experience Asian Culture Through Temples, Local Food, Markets & Traditions
Program Map
How It Works
The Real Asia Encounter offers start dates throughout the year. Participants can choose the trip duration that suits them best when applying for volunteer work in Asia. Options include 6, 9, and 12-week experiences in Asia. All programs begin on the first and third Saturday of each month, though alternative start dates may be available upon request.
If you select the 6-week option, you'll spend 2 weeks volunteering in each of Sri Lanka, India and Nepal. For the 9-week Real Asia Encounter, you'll volunteer for 3 weeks in each destination. The 12-week program allows you to stay for 4 weeks in each of the three countries.
Volunteers are responsible for arranging their flights to match their country-specific trip dates. You'll need to book your inbound flight to Sri Lanka at the start of the Real Asia Encounter and your outbound flight from Nepal at the end of the program.
Additionally, you’ll need to arrange your intermediary flights for your Real Asia Encounter. Specifically, you will need to book flights from Sri Lanka to India and from India to Nepal, ensuring they match the trip dates. While this may seem a bit complex, the PMGY team is always here to help with any flight-related questions.
Throughout your Real Asia Encounter experience, you'll meet a variety of other travellers and volunteers, with the number and type of people changing as you move from country to country. This will give you the chance to make lasting friendships and share memorable experiences with fellow adventurers!
During the online application process, you can select from any of the standard Asia volunteer programs in each country. Please note that some volunteer projects may have limited availability, and you should choose only one project per destination. Some projects may also have additional costs, which will be clearly stated next to the project option during the application process. You can explore all the volunteer opportunities in each destination below. Your 6-12 week adventure will be truly unforgettable!
🇱🇰 Volunteer in Sri Lanka (2, 3 or 4 Weeks)
Your first stop will be Sri Lanka. Although small, Sri Lanka boasts over 2,000 years of rich culture! The country is home to 8 (yes, 8!) UNESCO World Heritage Sites, stunning beaches, and lush rainforests. Immerse yourself in everything Sri Lanka has to offer, from its welcoming people and beautiful beaches to its abundant elephants. And don’t forget to treat your taste buds to some fantastic local food and the famous Sri Lankan tea. Sri Lanka is spectacular, affordable, and still relatively uncrowded, making it the perfect time to visit!
Your time on this largely undiscovered island will give you the opportunity to explore its full length and breadth. Additionally, you’ll be able to make a positive impact by volunteering on local projects. PMGY’s development work in Ambalangoda runs year-round, offering a range of projects to suit all interests. For instance, you can teach in our community volunteer project or assist with our childcare projects in the afternoons.
Alternatively, choose a volunteer project to learn about the Sri Lankan medical system, or engage in wildlife-based work such as dog rescue and sea turtle conservation. Sri Lanka is the only destination where you can take part in wildlife conservation projects as part of the Real Asia Encounter. You can select your volunteer in Sri Lanka project during the online application process.
🇱🇰 Volunteer Projects in Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka Childcare
As a childcare volunteer in Sri Lanka, you can play a crucial role in bringing joy and positivity to the lives of children from challenging backgrounds. By supporting their early education and promoting a positive outlook, you’ll help lay the foundations for a brighter future. The projects we partner with focus on providing essential early years education, and your encouragement and dedication can make a lasting difference in the local community. Every moment you spend with these children helps to create opportunities for them to thrive.
Background to the Childcare Program
In Sri Lanka, children can attend preschool between the ages of 3 and 5. However, many government-run preschools struggle with limited resources and overcrowding, often relying on just one or two teachers to manage large groups of young children. As a result, many children miss out on vital early developmental opportunities that help prepare them for school and foster essential socio-emotional skills.
The involvement of a childcare volunteer in Sri Lanka provides young children with the unique chance to be introduced to the English language at an early age. This exposure can boost their confidence and lay the foundation for future English learning, which in turn can open the door to improved opportunities later in life.
By choosing to volunteer in Sri Lanka with children, you’ll enjoy a deeply rewarding experience that welcomes people from all backgrounds. Your time and support can make a real difference in ensuring these children get a positive start in their education and development. As a childcare volunteer in Sri Lanka, you’ll play a vital role in assisting local preschool teachers, providing valuable help and encouragement. Additionally, you can explore a range of animal volunteering abroad projects in Sri Lanka to expand your impact.
Childcare Volunteer Placement Examples
Happy Hearts – Opened by our local team on 8th January 2024, Happy Hearts is located a 20-minute drive from the Volunteer House and hosts around 20-30 children daily, aged 3-4 years old. These children come from low or no-income families and are referred by the divisional secretary office as families requiring financial support.
This project is fully funded by the Program Fee and provides free early childhood education and exposure to English for these children, opportunities they might not otherwise have. The children also receive essential items such as stationery, bags, shoes, and uniforms. Happy Hearts is led by a main teacher with over 15 years of teaching experience.
The project supports children from five local villages and is still developing, which is where your role as a childcare volunteer in Sri Lanka becomes invaluable. By assisting the teacher in structuring the day and caring for the children, you’ll play a crucial role in the growth and success of this program.
Urban Council Preschools – Every childcare volunteer in Sri Lanka has the chance to support a network of preschools in Ambalangoda. PMGY works with up to eight preschools in the local community, each with a different background. Some preschools are free for children to attend, while others charge small administrative fees. However, the children attending these schools typically come from low-income families and challenging circumstances.
Your role will involve providing much-needed support to the local community and working parents, many of whom are employed in local cinnamon or garment factories. These preschools offer a safe space for children aged 3-4 years old to enjoy early education and development while their parents work to support their families.
Volunteers will support the preschool teachers with basic education and creative activities. This might include leading dance and exercise sessions, teaching poems, distributing snacks, and organising arts and crafts projects. During school holidays, the Happy Hearts Preschool & Day Care Centre often becomes the site for holiday camps, where volunteers lead fun activities for the children.
By volunteering with children in Sri Lanka, you’ll help create a nurturing and enriching environment that makes a lasting difference in the lives of these young learners and their families.
Your Volunteer Role & Typical Childcare Day
As a childcare volunteer in Sri Lanka, your primary role is to nurture and care for the children, helping to build their confidence and support their early development. Your efforts will enable these children to maximise their potential. You will volunteer in Sri Lanka from Monday to Friday, with morning preschool sessions typically running from 9am to 11:30am. Some preschools may have slightly earlier or extended hours if you wish to contribute more. In the afternoons, you can assist with community education projects for additional involvement. Placement locations are usually about 30 minutes away and are reached by tuk-tuk or private minibus.
Your time on the childcare volunteer abroad program will focus on teaching English and enhancing early childhood development. You will work alongside local teachers to run engaging preschool activities, creating a safe and stimulating environment for the children. Activities include arts and crafts, singing, dancing, games, and basic English teaching. Through these creative and interactive sessions, you’ll help children build essential skills and lay the groundwork for their future education.
We encourage volunteers on the Sri Lanka volunteer program to use imaginative and educational activities to capture the children’s attention and inspire their learning. You could introduce vocabulary through fun games, create colourful posters to teach topics, or use items in the preschool for counting exercises. Additionally, your volunteer work in Sri Lanka may include light housekeeping tasks such as meal preparation or assisting with the children’s hygiene needs.
Working with young children is less structured than teaching older students. Much of their language learning happens through play and interaction, meaning even simple words and phrases can have a significant impact on their progress. Our local team is always available to support you with ideas and activities to enhance your sessions. If you volunteer with children in Sri Lanka, preparing creative and age-appropriate activities will be an essential part of your experience.
Sri Lanka Dog Rescue
Life as a dog in Sri Lanka is far from easy. As a Sri Lanka dog rescue volunteer, one of the first things you’ll notice is the sheer number of stray dogs roaming the beaches and streets. Many of these animals struggle to find enough food, shelter, and care, which drastically shortens their lifespan. The growing issue of rabies in Sri Lanka adds to their challenges. By volunteering, you’ll play a vital role in protecting and caring for these incredible canines while fostering a stronger, more compassionate bond between animals and the local community.
Background to the Dog Program
The growing number of street dogs in Sri Lanka presents significant challenges, including poor treatment, severe injuries, malnutrition, untreated diseases, and the ongoing threat of rabies. This situation often leads to fear within the community, resulting in mistreatment of stray dogs and a lack of awareness about how to help them.
Rabies is a deadly disease transmitted by various animals, with dogs being the primary carriers in Sri Lanka. The virus spreads through the saliva of infected animals, often via bites or contact with open wounds. Until efforts to eliminate rabies intensify, the threat will persist. Dog bite cases are common in Sri Lanka, raising concerns for both locals and tourists and placing a heavy financial burden on government hospitals treating victims.
Recently, the Sri Lankan Government has adopted more humane methods to control the stray dog population and combat rabies, focusing on neutering and vaccinating dogs. This approach has significantly reduced the number of human rabies deaths and related incidents. Our mission is to build on these efforts within the local community with the support of volunteer work in Sri Lanka.
Providing vaccinations and neutering helps manage the stray dog population and reduces the risk of disease, particularly rabies. Many female strays give birth to multiple litters each year, with puppies often abandoned at temples or along roadsides. These puppies face low survival rates due to disease, malnutrition, or road accidents. This is where Sri Lanka dog rescue volunteers make a difference, supporting a project dedicated to offering a safe refuge for abandoned dogs.
Dog Rescue Volunteer Placement Example
Bring Them Home Dog Shelter – This animal care volunteer program focuses on improving the lives of street dogs in the local area. As a Sri Lanka dog rescue volunteer, you’ll support a project dedicated to providing a safe home for abandoned, sick, and disabled dogs. The shelter offers daily care, vaccinations, rehabilitation, and works tirelessly to find these dogs loving new homes. Your involvement plays a crucial role in ensuring every dog gets the care and affection they need while also contributing to the prevention of rabies and fostering better relationships between the community and its canine residents.
The shelter operates an on-call rescue service to transport injured, disabled, or abandoned dogs to safety. Once at the project, dogs undergo a general health check and receive appropriate treatment. At the shelter, each Sri Lanka animal volunteer can observe or assist the vet during check-ups, vaccinations, medical treatments, or minor surgeries. Unvaccinated dogs rescued from the streets are isolated upon arrival to ensure the safety of all animals at the shelter. Once vaccinated, these new arrivals are integrated with the other dogs, and volunteers can engage with them more directly.
The shelter also works to rehome healthy, vaccinated dogs with local families, educating them on how to provide proper care for their new pets. As a volunteer in Sri Lanka, you’ll have the opportunity to assist in these efforts, helping to deliver animal welfare education within the local community. This vital work not only improves the treatment of dogs but also fosters long-term changes in community attitudes and practices.
Some educational sessions and activities on the animal care volunteer program are organised on an ad hoc basis. If this is something you’re interested in, please discuss it with the local staff, who can make the necessary arrangements.
Volunteers should expect around 50 dogs at the shelter at any given time. Direct interaction and enrichment activities will only involve vaccinated dogs, most of whom are friendly, having arrived at the shelter as puppies. However, these dogs can be excitable and may jump up to greet volunteers, sometimes causing light scratches. While playful interactions are encouraged, dogs may occasionally play-fight, and volunteers are advised not to intervene in these situations for their own safety. It is essential to follow the guidance of the local team and remain mindful of your safety at all times.
Your Volunteer Role & Typical Work Day
As a Sri Lanka dog rescue volunteer, your role involves direct care and support for the dogs at the shelter. The project operates Monday to Friday from 9am-12pm, with some tasks also taking place in the afternoons. Transportation to and from the Sri Lanka volunteer program is arranged via tuk-tuk. While you volunteer, your typical duties on this wildlife volunteering abroad program may include:
• Cleaning and maintaining hygiene in the shelter and bedding areas
• Preparing meals and feeding the dogs
• Socialising and playing with the dogs
• Walking and exercising the dogs daily
• Showering and washing the dogs
• Organising recreational activities, such as beach outings
• Developing training and enrichment plans
• Assisting with medication and vaccinations
• Grooming and checking for ticks
• Creating and maintaining documentation, including medical history and vaccination records
• Caring for sick, injured, or disabled dogs
You’ll work alongside the local staff to support these daily tasks. Additional duties will depend on current needs, such as rescuing puppies in danger, facilitating pet adoptions, and raising community awareness. You may also join outreach sessions in the Ambalangoda community, where volunteers provide food for stray dogs. During these sessions, you can expect to feed at least 30 street dogs.
PMGY’s Sri Lanka dog rescue volunteer program offers an incredible opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of at risk animals. Your efforts will contribute to their care, protection, and overall well-being, all while exploring a beautiful and culturally rich destination.
Sri Lanka English Teaching
Volunteer to teach English in Sri Lanka and give young people new skills that can support their future opportunities. English is a powerful skill, especially for improving career prospects and achieving long-term goals. Most importantly, interacting with fluent English speakers inspires students to build their confidence and develop this essential language ability. If you’re full of enthusiasm and positive energy, this project is perfect for you!
Background to the Teaching Program
Sri Lanka’s education system is remarkable for a developing country of its size, offering universal public education from ages 6 to 18. However, government schools, especially in rural areas, often operate with minimal funding despite serving large communities. The facilities in these schools are basic, and classrooms are frequently overcrowded, with average class sizes ranging from 40 to 60 children.
The importance of speaking English in Sri Lanka is growing rapidly. Tourism and migrant work in the Middle East are two major sources of income for the country, both of which require proficiency in English, the world’s global language. Unfortunately, English teaching in government schools is limited. Teachers often lack strong English skills, and class sizes make it difficult to provide effective instruction. Only children from middle- and upper-class families can typically afford private English lessons.
Children in Sri Lanka attend government schools in the mornings, but many cannot afford the tuition needed for additional classes that go beyond basic education. These extra lessons are crucial for excelling at school, especially in subjects like English. In government schools, time dedicated to learning English is minimal, and teaching methods are often “parrot style,” where students memorise textbook passages without understanding their meaning. For families with limited income, paying for these essential tuition classes is simply not an option.
As a result, children from low-income families often speak little to no English. The goal of the volunteer teaching English abroad program is to bridge this gap by providing underprivileged children in Ambalangoda with the same opportunities as their wealthier peers. By volunteering to teach English in Sri Lanka, you can help these children improve their English skills and boost their future career prospects. Additionally, if you’re passionate about animals, there are also a variety of volunteering abroad with animals opportunities in Sri Lanka to explore.
Teaching Volunteer Placement Examples
A volunteer teaching English in Sri Lanka will work at one of the designated locations where free English lessons are provided. Most importantly, you’ll support the local village communities through our after-school education program. Additionally, you’ll have the incredible opportunity to teach English in Sri Lanka to young Buddhist monks.
Community Village School Projects – These English teaching projects form the core of PMGY’s after-school education program, which has been running since 2013. As the main initiative for a volunteer teaching English in Sri Lanka, it focuses on providing free language lessons to children in villages across the Ambalangoda district, particularly those from lower-income families.
The aim is to help improve the children’s English skills by offering free after-school lessons in the afternoons. These sessions typically take place in makeshift classrooms or community centres within the villages. On this English teaching program, students are grouped by their level of English. Class sizes range from 4-15 children, and you may teach students aged 6-18, depending on current project needs. A local team member will always be available to support you while you volunteer in Sri Lanka.
Volunteers participating in medical or wildlife projects in the mornings are encouraged to assist with the afternoon village school projects at no extra cost. Transport to the project site will be arranged, and you’ll collaborate with other teaching volunteers to improve learning outcomes for the children. Having more teaching volunteers allows for better lesson planning and structured learning that can be tracked over time.
Temple Schools – Every volunteer teaching English in Sri Lanka also has the option to join our Temple School project. This opportunity can be added to the core afternoon community village school project. The Temple School project operates in the morning, offering the chance to teach English to novice Buddhist monks.
Many of the Buddhist monks have minimal English skills, and the temple schools often welcome disadvantaged children from the local community to join these sessions as well. Class sizes are typically small, with 5-10 students aged 6-18 years. The project runs for approximately 1.5 hours each morning, allowing you to contribute without conflicting with your afternoon commitments.
Participation in the temple schools is optional, while the afternoon school project remains mandatory for all teaching volunteers. This is because the afternoon village school project serves as the core focus of our teaching program, whereas the temple schools may operate on a more ad hoc basis.
Your Volunteer Role & Typical Teaching Day
As a volunteer teaching English in Sri Lanka, your main role is to share your time, knowledge, and skills to help local communities in Ambalangoda. By teaching conversational English, you’ll boost their confidence and help unlock their full potential.
The after-school education Sri Lanka volunteer program runs from Monday to Friday, 3pm-5.30pm. You’ll travel to the project site via tuk-tuk or minibus, which typically takes around 10 minutes. The first part of the session focuses on teaching English, while the last hour is reserved for games and activities. Volunteers are encouraged to make lessons as interactive and engaging as possible. Incorporate fun educational tools such as interactive word searches, Hangman, team quizzes, or games like Hot Seat. Songs, art, sport, and music are also excellent ways to keep children excited about learning. Resources and syllabus guidance are available at the Volunteer House to help you plan activities before heading to the project.
As an international volunteer, your presence provides students with a unique opportunity to learn about different cultures and gain a global perspective. By sharing your creativity and knowledge, you’ll inspire these eager learners to reach their full potential. Each volunteer in Sri Lanka will lead their own classes and have the freedom to design a lesson plan. If you need inspiration, you can follow pre-existing topics or curriculum materials. Depending on the number of volunteers and current needs, you may teach individually, in pairs, or in small groups. Typically, three to six classes are conducted in each community.
A local coordinator will be available daily to assist you and provide support. However, the local staff will not lead the class, so volunteers are encouraged to avoid over-reliance on coordinators for translation. To ensure your sessions are effective, you’ll have dedicated planning sessions once a week with the teaching coordinator. We also recommend spending at least 30 minutes each day preparing your lessons.
For those teaching at temple schools, classes run from 8:30am to 10am, Monday to Friday. The project site is a short five-minute tuk-tuk journey. Lessons at the temple focus on calm, structured learning and exclude active or loud games. You’ll often find the monks eager to share insights about their religion and way of life in return for your contribution.
By taking part in this program, you’ll make a meaningful difference in the lives of Sri Lankan children and Buddhist monks, creating memories and experiences that will stay with you forever.
Sri Lanka Medical
As a medical volunteer in Sri Lanka, you can gain valuable medical experience in a new culture, an opportunity not to be missed in this gorgeous part of the world! If you are looking for a learning experience or would like to pursue a career in the medical field, then this program is the ideal way to give you an insight into the Sri Lankan healthcare system.
Background to the Medical Program
Sri Lanka has a rich and fascinating medical history, dating back thousands of years to the time of its ancient kingdoms. The Sinhalese are believed to have introduced the concept of hospitals to the world, with royalty not only commissioning hospital homes but also practising medicine themselves.
The ancient practice of Ayurveda is deeply rooted in the Sri Lankan medical system. As one of the oldest healing sciences, Ayurveda translates from Sanskrit as “The Science of Life.” Originating in India over 3,000 years ago, this approach emphasises balance in all aspects of life, including mental health, diet, lifestyle, and overall well-being.
Ayurvedic medicine, which focuses on holistic and natural health practices, seeks to prevent illness and maintain balance across physical, emotional, and mental states. In Sri Lanka, Ayurveda is widely practised alongside modern healthcare, with many citizens choosing Ayurvedic treatments for certain conditions and western medicine for others.
Sri Lanka’s healthcare system is universal, offering free access to both traditional Ayurvedic and modern medical care at government hospitals. Today, most hospitals in Sri Lanka follow a “western medicine” approach, using procedures and medications recognised globally. However, as a medical volunteer in Sri Lanka, you may notice that healthcare facilities can seem basic or outdated in some respects. Despite these challenges, Sri Lanka has achieved a higher life expectancy and lower infant mortality rate compared to its regional neighbours. To address capacity and resource limitations in government hospitals, private healthcare services have also become more prevalent.
Joining a hospital placement on the Sri Lanka volunteer program offers an exceptional opportunity for clinical exposure and insight into healthcare systems in a developing country. You’ll encounter a wide variety of cases, providing a unique contrast to what you might see in your local hospital. PMGY’s medical volunteer program is designed for both medical students and aspiring healthcare professionals. By becoming a medical volunteer in Sri Lanka, you can gain invaluable hospital work experience while immersing yourself in the beauty and culture of this incredible island.
Medical Volunteer Placement Examples
Your placement schedule on the medical volunteer abroad program will depend on your educational background. University students studying a health-related degree can gain experience in both private and government hospitals, provided we receive the required paperwork in the correct format at least three weeks before your program start date. High school leavers and those without a medical background will be placed at a private hospital. However, they will still benefit from clinical workshops and an introduction to Ayurvedic medicine, an experience offered to all medical volunteers in Sri Lanka.
Roseth Private Hospital – As a medical volunteer in Sri Lanka, you may work at a small private hospital in Ambalangoda. This hospital offers a structured and informative approach, providing participants with a well-rounded insight into a Sri Lankan medical facility.
Departments available at the private hospital include:
Physiotherapy, Dental Surgery, Radiology (X-ray machine and computerised radiology), Laboratory, Phlebotomy, In-Patient and Out-Patient Wards.
Balapitiya Government Base Hospital – PMGY partners with a government hospital located just 15 minutes from Ambalangoda. This medium-sized hospital has over 500 stations, staffed by 20 doctors and 2 surgeons. As a volunteer, you can gain experience in the following departments;
Out-Patient Unit, Emergency Treatment Room, General Medicine, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Antenatal and Postnatal Care, Labour Room & Paediatrics.
Please note that placements at the government hospital are only available to students studying medicine, nursing, or healthcare at university, as required by the Sri Lankan Health Ministry.
Government Village Hospital – As a medical volunteer in Sri Lanka, you may also have the chance to assist at a local blood pressure clinic based in a smaller village hospital. This clinic operates on an ad hoc basis and provides free blood pressure checks to local residents.
Sri Lankan Ayurvedic Medicine – Every medical volunteer in Sri Lanka will have the opportunity to attend an Ayurveda lecture, whether placed at a private or government hospital. Delivered by a local Ayurvedic specialist, this session explores the history of Ayurveda, its role in Sri Lankan healthcare, and its application in treating a variety of conditions.
Ayurvedic medicine focuses on the use of herbal remedies, special diets, and natural health practices to promote balance and wellness. The roots of Ayurveda in Sri Lanka are deeply linked to ancient practices and the legendary physician King Ravana, dating back to prehistoric times.
These diverse placements provide a unique opportunity to explore both traditional and modern healthcare systems, offering an unforgettable experience for aspiring medical professionals.
Student Elective Opportunities
PMGY offers specialist elective placements for students in Sri Lanka, providing a unique opportunity to gain invaluable international experience. Whether you’re pursuing a career in medicine or midwifery, our programs allow you to learn directly from health professionals in distinctive medical settings. As a medical volunteer in Sri Lanka, you can specify your desired clinical elective during the online application process. Simply highlight your preferences in the ‘Special Requirements’ section, and the PMGY Sri Lanka team will organise everything to ensure your elective placement runs smoothly.
Medical – Undertake your medical elective in the Galle District of Sri Lanka, where you’ll explore placements across both government and private hospitals. Gain firsthand experience by checking vital signs at a village clinic, preparing herbal medicines, and learning about traditional Ayurveda practices. Dive into Sri Lanka’s healthcare system and develop an understanding of its approach to medicine. On your medical elective, observe consultations, witness procedures, and ask questions to deepen your knowledge before returning to medical school.
Midwifery – Embark on a midwifery elective in Sri Lanka, exploring the country’s unique midwifery practices. Rotate through various maternity units, including theatre, labour, and postnatal care, at both government and private hospitals. Shadow midwives and other medical staff as they perform their daily tasks, gaining invaluable exposure to the care provided for new mothers and babies. You’ll also have the chance to learn about Ayurveda medicine, one of the world’s oldest holistic treatment systems, as part of your midwifery experience.
These elective placements offer an incredible opportunity to expand your medical knowledge and skills while experiencing the rich cultural heritage of Sri Lanka.
Your Volunteer Role & Typical Work Day
As a medical volunteer in Sri Lanka, your primary role is to observe and learn about the Sri Lankan healthcare system, its procedures, and the cultural context of medical care. You’ll gain an understanding of how healthcare in Sri Lanka differs from what you may be used to at home. During your time, you might witness cases such as dengue fever, snake bites, and motorcycle accidents, providing a unique insight into healthcare challenges in the region.
The medical project typically runs for around three hours a day, Monday to Friday, between 9am and 12pm, depending on the opportunities available. You may have the chance to stay longer if significant cases, such as a major surgery or labour, arise during your placement. While there is an option to join the project in the afternoons, please note that doctors are usually only present in the wards during the morning. The hospitals are conveniently located 5–15 minutes away by tuk-tuk.
Given the observational nature of this role, we recommend that volunteers sign up for no more than two weeks. While you’ll gain invaluable insights and knowledge during your time at the hospitals, many volunteers prefer to transition to alternative volunteer work in Sri Lanka after a couple of weeks. Although PMGY cannot offer hands-on experience as a medical volunteer in Sri Lanka, you are welcome to join our community projects, such as teaching English in Sri Lanka.
Our local team will discuss these options with you during your in-country orientation. You can choose to combine morning hospital placements with afternoon community projects. Additionally, if you’d like to stay longer than two weeks, you can spend part of your time as a medical volunteer in Sri Lanka and the remainder on another project.
Balapitiya Government Base Hospital – At this medium-sized government hospital, which is home to over 500 stations, you can rotate through multiple departments or focus on a few based on your preferences and the hospital’s needs. A mixed timetable is recommended to experience various hospital settings.
While each medical volunteer in Sri Lanka will be assigned a staff mentor in their department, it’s important to recognise that local staff are often extremely busy. Volunteers are encouraged to be proactive, ask questions, and request additional guidance when needed. As with other placements, there may be occasional communication barriers, but staff will do their best to translate when possible.
Government Village Hospital – As part of the Sri Lanka volunteer program, you may also have the opportunity to assist with a village clinic campaign. Here, you’ll support the local doctor by helping to check blood pressure and blood sugar levels for members of the Ambalangoda community.
Regardless of the hospital setting, medical volunteers in Sri Lanka should expect an observational role only. This program is designed as an internship-style experience, offering a valuable learning exchange. Language barriers with local healthcare professionals may arise, and exposure in some settings may be limited compared to other medical volunteer projects. Nonetheless, the opportunity to observe unique cases and immerse yourself in Sri Lanka’s healthcare system is a rewarding and educational experience.
Sri Lanka Mental Health (Students Only)
Background to the Mental Health Program
Sri Lanka faces some of the highest suicide rates globally, as highlighted by the World Health Organisation, and the country’s mental health needs continue to grow. In tsunami-affected areas, an estimated 40% of people suffer from common mental disorders, with a 3% prevalence of severe mental disorders. Historically, a cultural stigma surrounding mental health in Sri Lanka, rooted in Buddhist beliefs about reincarnation, has been a barrier to progress. However, there are promising signs that attitudes and systems are evolving to address these challenges.
Progress began in the late 1970s with the establishment of a Non-Government Organisation, ‘The National Council for Mental Health.’ This initiative led to the introduction of Medical Officers of Mental Health (MOMHs) with a goal of appointing one MOMH per 70,000 people across Sri Lanka’s 276 subdistricts. Despite this progress, the ratio has presented challenges, with MOMHs managing heavy workloads, limited time with patients, and shortages of essential medicines and community-based psychiatric care facilities.
To address these issues, systematic training programs have been developed to support mental health officers. These programs include workshops, role-plays, and active learning sessions, enabling officers to pass their training on to other medical staff. Topics include assessing depression and suicide risk and explaining medication side effects to improve patient adherence.
Emerging mental health issues are now being integrated into Sri Lanka’s primary healthcare system across both public and private hospitals. This includes addressing trauma and stress-related disorders, supporting the mental health needs of physically ill patients, and providing rehabilitation for individuals with prolonged mental illnesses. Community mental health education is also helping to raise awareness and reduce stigma.
Our mental health volunteering abroad program offers participants a unique opportunity to gain a broad understanding of mental health care in a different cultural setting. Volunteers will gain valuable insight into how mental health needs are addressed within Sri Lanka’s healthcare system, focusing on challenges and innovative solutions.
The Sri Lanka volunteer program is primarily based in the Galle District, though some placements may extend to the Colombo region. This mental health project is widely regarded as one of the most diverse and engaging volunteering abroad programs.
Mental Health Volunteer Placement Examples
The mental health & psychology program provides a unique opportunity to work across diverse settings in a new cultural environment. The following placements are available, provided we receive the required paperwork from you in the correct format at least 3 weeks prior to your program start date. Please note that this project is not available to high school leavers or applicants without a psychology-related background. Placement opportunities for mental health volunteers in Sri Lanka include:
Government Base Hospital – As a mental health volunteer in Sri Lanka, you will observe mental health counsellors in a hospital setting during consultations with both in-ward and out-ward patients. You may also shadow speech therapists or art therapy sessions.
During hospital placements, doctors aim to translate and explain as much as possible while consultations are ongoing. Many doctors speak good English, enabling debriefs and opportunities for questions. However, as doctors’ schedules are busy, volunteers should be flexible and understanding, as it may not always be possible to translate every patient interaction.
In most cases, the primary treatment for mental health patients remains medication due to its accessibility. Alternative therapies such as creative treatments and meditation are less common and not widely administered to patients.
Rehabilitation Centre – Part of your placement will involve the Sithniwana Rehabilitation Centre, a facility designed to reintegrate individuals with mental illness back into society. Each mental health volunteer in Sri Lanka can participate in or observe the centre’s daily schedule, depending on the timetable.
Located about an hour from Ambalangoda, this placement is a weekly highlight for many volunteers. The Rehabilitation Centre focuses on providing occupational therapies and preparing patients to re-enter mainstream society without relapsing. The facility is primarily for adults, managed by a dedicated team of nurses and support staff.
You will have opportunities to interact with residents, ask questions, and learn about their experiences. Volunteers also provide support with occupational therapy, such as creative arts, structured daily exercise classes, and learning activities. Being proactive and asking questions is encouraged to help volunteers better understand mental health care and its associated cultural stigmas in Sri Lanka.
Lectures, Seminars & Workshops – You will also participate in a series of workshops that offer insights into mental health care in Sri Lanka. These sessions may include local consultants sharing their experiences within the country’s mental health system.
One key topic is Ayurveda, an ancient medicine system rooted in the Indian subcontinent. Ayurveda promotes natural practices, including herbal remedies, special diets, and unique treatments. A seminar will provide insights into how Ayurveda is used in mental health care alongside the traditional Sri Lankan medical system. Volunteers may also experience oil treatment sessions, which aim to alleviate depression and anxiety.
Every mental health volunteer in Sri Lanka will also have the opportunity to attend a lecture by a Buddhist monk. These sessions explore how Buddhist values, meditation, and cultural practices are used to address mental health challenges.
Additional Opportunities – On occasion, you may be invited to attend additional workshops or events. These might include visits to alcohol and drug information centres, exploring the impact of substance abuse on Sri Lankan communities. Volunteers may also visit suicide prevention centres to participate in workshops about local prevention strategies.
Depending on availability, volunteers may tour the National Institute of Mental Health, Sri Lanka’s largest mental health hospital. This includes a presentation about mental health in Sri Lanka and visits to in-patient services such as psychogeriatric, ECT, and isolation units. While rare, these opportunities provide valuable insights into how therapies, medications, and treatments are administered.
We also support students wishing to join our mental health & psychology program as part of an elective or university placement. Please contact our team to discuss your requirements in more detail.
Your Volunteer Role & Typical Work Day
As a mental health volunteer in Sri Lanka, your primary role is to gain an understanding of the country’s mental health system, procedures, and cultural influences. You will observe how these differ from the experiences you may have at home. Each day offers a varied schedule, incorporating hospital visits, consultation observations, lectures, and meditation sessions.
Your daily schedule will differ depending on the placement and activities planned. Typically, you will spend 2-5 hours per day on your placement, Monday to Friday, with timings ranging between 8am and 6pm. Depending on the location, travel times may vary from 5 minutes by tuk-tuk to local hospitals, to up to 2 hours by private car for placements in Colombo.
Sri Lanka Sea Turtle Conservation
Background to the Turtle Conservation Program
Sri Lanka is home to five species of turtles that you might encounter during your time as a Sri Lanka turtle conservation volunteer. These include the Green Turtle, Hawksbill, Loggerhead, Olive Ridley, and Leatherback. The Green Turtle is the most common species, and you are likely to see these frequently during your volunteer experience. On the other hand, the Loggerhead Turtle is the rarest in Sri Lanka and is more commonly found along the East Coast of the United States.
The Hawksbill, famous for its striking shell, and the Olive Ridley, the smallest of the sea turtles, are also harder to spot. The Leatherback, the largest of the five species, is critically endangered, with all three facing significant threats to their survival due to human activity.
Fishing, a major industry in Ambalangoda, directly impacts these turtles. The location of the volunteer work in Sri Lanka is close to the local fisheries port, where turtles are often accidentally caught in fishing nets. Many suffer severe injuries, such as limb loss, leaving them disabled and unable to survive in the wild. Local fishermen frequently bring these injured turtles to the sanctuary for rehabilitation and care.
Everyday human choices also affect marine life significantly. Millions of microplastics, straws, and bottles litter the seas and beaches worldwide. Plastic pollution has become a growing global crisis, and as a Sri Lanka turtle conservation volunteer, you will play an essential role in combating this issue.
Volunteering with turtles in Sri Lanka as part of our wildlife conservation program offers you the chance to protect and care for these remarkable creatures. At the same time, you’ll get to experience the beauty and culture of a country that is truly unforgettable.
Turtle Conservation Volunteer Placement Examples
Ambalangoda Turtle Conservation Sanctuary – As a Sri Lanka turtle conservation volunteer, you’ll work at a sanctuary in Ambalangoda dedicated to the care and rehabilitation of disabled turtles. This sanctuary, part of the Sri Lanka volunteer program, focuses on providing daily care to turtles and aims to release healthy ones back into their natural habitats. The sanctuary also protects turtle eggs that have been stolen by local poachers, ensuring the survival of these endangered species.
From the very start of your placement, you’ll gain extensive knowledge about turtle conservation. This includes learning how to nest eggs, identify different species, monitor hatching processes, treat injured turtles, and safely return them to the sea. You’ll gain firsthand experience while making a real difference.
Beach Cleans – Female turtles only lay their eggs on beaches they consider safe, making beach cleanliness critical for nesting. As part of the Sri Lanka turtle conservation program, volunteers play an active role in cleaning local beaches, removing litter and dangerous debris.
With climate change and plastic pollution worsening at an alarming rate, this task is vital. Each Sri Lanka animal volunteer contributes to raising awareness and promoting conservation efforts through our wildlife volunteer program.
This core task aims to collect up to 200 kilograms of rubbish daily from the beaches. Volunteers are the driving force behind this impactful initiative, directly supporting coastal conservation efforts.
Turtle Hatchery & Baby Turtle Release – Volunteers also assist in nesting, monitoring, and caring for turtle eggs brought to the hatchery. These eggs are often relocated from unsafe areas where human activity or poaching poses a threat, including locations near tourist hotels.
Across Asia, there’s a long-standing myth that consuming turtle eggs and meat increases lifespan, leading to the illegal sale of these eggs on the black market. At the hatchery, eggs are safely nested and monitored according to National Wildlife Department guidelines. With the help of each Sri Lanka turtle conservation volunteer, the baby turtles are released back into the wild, giving them a strong start in life.
This unique opportunity allows you to support the survival of endangered species while contributing to the protection of Sri Lanka’s stunning coastal ecosystems.
Your Volunteer Role & Typical Work Day
As a PMGY Sri Lanka turtle conservation volunteer, you’ll spend your days by the beach caring for rescued sea turtles at the project site. You’ll also take part in regular beach cleans to maintain a safe and clean environment for the turtles and their nests. The volunteer abroad program runs from Monday to Friday, typically between 9am and 12pm. On beach clean days, sessions may be shorter due to the high heat and humidity when working without shade. Each morning, you’ll travel to your project site by tuk-tuk or minibus, which takes approximately 15 minutes.
Your typical responsibilities as a volunteer in Sri Lanka will include:
• Preparing fresh food and assisting with daily turtle feeding
• Cleaning the project premises and surrounding beach areas
• Maintaining the nesting area
• Regular beach cleans and patrols
• Cleaning and refilling the turtle tanks
• Administering medication and monitoring turtle health
• Cleaning the turtles’ shells
• Safely counting and burying turtle eggs
• Designing educational boards around the sanctuary
• Participating in marine conservation sessions
• Releasing hatched baby turtles into the sea
• Collecting sand to prepare nests for eggs
As a Sri Lanka turtle conservation volunteer, you’ll work closely with the local staff to understand daily tasks and expectations. Your role will involve both teamwork and individual responsibilities. Participating in the wildlife volunteering abroad project also gives you the chance to contribute to the fight against global plastic pollution. Cleaning beaches where turtles lay their eggs is crucial to their conservation and well-being.
While beach cleaning may seem like a mundane task, its impact is immense. The Wildlife Department recognises and appreciates the hard work of volunteers, and it’s not unusual to collect up to 20 bags of litter in a single session. Your efforts make a tangible difference in protecting Sri Lanka’s marine environment and its endangered sea turtles.
🇮🇳 Volunteer in India (2, 3 or 4 Weeks)
Your second stop is India. With its architectural wonders, vibrant street life, peaceful retreats, and plenty of culture shocks, India offers a wealth of experiences that will leave you inspired. This vast and diverse country has so much to offer, from bustling cities to tranquil landscapes. The Golden Triangle – comprising Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur – is one of India’s most popular tourist routes, and all three cities are easily accessible from our project location.
Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan, is a city of contrasts, blending the desert landscape with incredible heritage. It’s home to the iconic Amber Fort and some of Asia’s best bazaars. Delhi, the sprawling capital, is a city that will captivate you with its endless sights – you could spend weeks exploring and still not see it all! Agra, once the heart of the Mughal empire, is home to the breathtaking Taj Mahal, one of the world's most famous landmarks.
Your volunteering opportunities in India are diverse and rewarding. You can choose to teach English and help children achieve their full potential. Alternatively, if you’re interested in healthcare, you can gain practical experience and insight through elective medical programs. Lastly, during your travel in India, you can support disadvantaged children and make a real difference in their lives. You can select your volunteer in India project during the online application process.
🇮🇳 Volunteer Projects in India
India Childcare
As a childcare volunteer in India, you’ll have the amazing chance to bring joy and brighten the days of children from underprivileged backgrounds. Your mornings will kick off with dancing and singing alongside these delightful youngsters, setting an upbeat and positive tone for the day ahead. As a role model, you’ll support their educational journey while organising fun activities, games, and basic lessons to keep them engaged and learning. By making a meaningful difference in local communities, you’ll help create a brighter future for these children. Your role will include assisting with general childcare and daily routines at your placement, where your dedication to fostering a nurturing and supportive environment will help these young minds flourish.
Background to the Childcare Program
In India, like many other developing countries, hundreds of thousands of children lack opportunities to thrive, particularly in their early years. Many families face financial challenges that prevent them from providing adequate early childhood education. As a result, children often miss out on the crucial development they deserve. Those with disabilities face even greater barriers both within and outside the education system.
Volunteers with PMGY in India work to support children’s centres in the Faridabad community. These centres are established by PMGY to assist children from nearby slum areas. Volunteers not only offer a friendly face to brighten a child’s day but also take an active role in leading engaging activities to make each day at the centres fun and productive. To succeed, volunteers need plenty of energy, enthusiasm, and creativity to maximise their contributions. Volunteering with children is a deeply rewarding experience and is open to people from all walks of life.
Each day on this childcare volunteer abroad program in India is unique, and the impact you make depends on how much effort and creativity you bring. It’s a good idea to arrive prepared with ideas for activities to dive into the project right away. As a childcare volunteer in India, you’ll have the chance to think creatively and make a meaningful difference in the lives of young children within the local community.
Childcare Volunteer Placement Examples
Sector 10 Program – Established by the PMGY local team, this project provides essential support for children from the Sector 10 community. This is the area where the local team is based, and they’ve been passionate about creating a community childcare and education program to give back to their immediate neighbourhood.
Around 50 children attend the Sector 10 program each day, many of whom come from nearby slum communities. The children are divided into two groups: younger children and slightly older children. As a childcare volunteer in India, your role is to work with the younger children, where activities focus less on formal education. Instead, you’ll engage in arts and crafts, playground games, hygiene education, and early years development. For those who are more interested in teaching, working with the older children involves teaching basic English, Maths, and other subjects.
Often, older children attending the project are responsible for their younger siblings, as they don’t have access to childcare at home. These children bring their younger siblings with them to the project. India childcare volunteers play a vital role in supporting these children as well as the others at the project.
The program typically runs in the morning for around three hours. The day starts with the national anthem, nursery rhymes, and some light exercise with the whole group. For the next couple of hours, childcare volunteers will focus on the younger children while teaching volunteers assist the older children. The group then comes together for the final hour, which includes Bollywood dancing and snack time. A local teacher and coordinator are on hand to guide volunteers with their tasks and activities.
KRC School – Founded by a physiotherapist several years ago, this centre aims to provide children with disabilities the care and attention they deserve. In India, many disabled individuals face limited access to resources and awareness, leaving them without essential care. The goal of the centre is to equip children with the skills and rehabilitation necessary for greater independence. The centre works with children with conditions like Down Syndrome and Infantile Hemiplegia.
While there are local staff members at the project, much of the additional support comes from PMGY participants. Daily activities include storytelling, physical exercises, life skills lessons, singing, and games. Volunteers may also get involved in teaching English. The activities help promote interaction between the children, encouraging the development of social skills they may not otherwise fully develop. Volunteers with relevant experience may assist with physiotherapy and speech therapy sessions, working under the guidance of the local staff. Each day, volunteers bring toys and educational materials to the community centre.
Participants in this community development volunteer abroad program bring their energy and enthusiasm, stimulating and supporting the children. The project is very engaging, and volunteers play key roles in teaching English, feeding the children, and assisting with motor skills activities.
Although this volunteer work in India can be challenging, feedback from participants suggests it is one of the most rewarding volunteer opportunities. The connections international volunteers build with the children are unique and special to each person. As funding and volunteer support grow, we can continue to enhance our support for both the communities and the centre.
Your Volunteer Role & Typical Childcare Day
As a childcare volunteer in India, you’ll play a vital role in coordinating activities and providing care, attention, and support to underprivileged children. The volunteer project typically runs for three hours each day, Monday to Friday. Most volunteering abroad activities take place in the morning, although this may vary depending on the project’s needs.
Your role as a childcare volunteer can vary day-to-day. Some days, you might assist the children with homework or help them with school projects. On other days, you could be organising activities, leading games in the park, or teaching basic hygiene lessons. To make the most of your time, you’ll need to be proactive, identifying the children’s needs and planning suitable activities. While challenges may arise, they are always balanced by the rewards of making a real difference, so you can expect your time as a volunteer to be both meaningful and enjoyable.
If you’re volunteering with disabled children in India, patience, energy, and enthusiasm are essential. Each day will be unique, with different activities, challenges, and possibly a new group of students. Tasks could include teaching basic English, leading activities to enhance fine motor skills, and assisting during meals or assembly times. The lack of a strict structure means you’ll need to adapt to the needs of the children and the project as they arise.
As a volunteer overseas in India, you’re welcome to get involved in other projects for additional volunteer work. Alternatively, you can use your free time to plan activities or explore Delhi and its surrounding areas.
PMGY’s India volunteer program includes a private transport network that will take you to and from your project each day. You’ll travel by tuk-tuk or minivan, and this service is included in your Program Fee.
India English Teaching
Background to the Teaching Program
India has experienced rapid economic growth in recent years, yet approximately 28% of the population still lives below the poverty line. The stark contrast in wealth is evident, and the extreme differences in living conditions can be confronting. Sadly, life in the slums remains a harsh reality for many.
Education holds significant importance in Indian culture, but the education system is still developing. Class sizes are often far too large, and schools are severely understaffed. To address this, PMGY supports two schools located within Faridabad’s largest slum community. These efforts aim to encourage parents to send their children to school rather than leaving them to wander the streets, beg, or collect rubbish to earn money.
The children attending these schools range in age from 3 to 16. The facilities are very basic and often cramped, given their location in the slum areas. Despite these challenges, the children’s enthusiasm and eagerness to learn are truly inspiring. Volunteers teaching English in India play a vital role in supporting the limited local staff. The presence of fluent English speakers greatly enhances the children’s educational development and future prospects.
When there are more volunteers teaching English in India, PMGY can expand its support to additional slum communities and disadvantaged areas. This helps us provide more English classes and further contribute to community development. If you’re seeking inspiration for gap year ideas, our volunteer programs in India offer incredible opportunities to make a meaningful impact.
Teaching Volunteer Placement Examples
Sector 10 Program – Established by the PMGY local team, this volunteer teaching English abroad project provides free basic primary education for children from the Sector 10 community. This is the same community where the local team is based, and they are passionate about giving back by creating opportunities for children from underprivileged backgrounds.
Around 50 children, aged 3-15, attend the Sector 10 program each day. The children are usually divided into two groups: younger children and slightly older children.
As an English teaching volunteer in India, you’ll primarily work with the older children on education-focused activities. These include teaching basic English and Maths, planning lessons, and organising engaging educational activities. Volunteers teaching English in India are encouraged to discuss additional ideas with the project coordinator to tailor their approach while keeping the experience fun and engaging.
Many of the older children attending the program are responsible for their younger siblings during the day. While these older students focus on their education, childcare volunteers step in to care for the younger children, keeping them engaged with arts and crafts, playground games, and hygiene education.
The project typically runs for about three hours each morning. The day begins with the national anthem, nursery rhymes, and group exercises. Afterward, childcare volunteers focus on the younger children while teaching volunteers work with the older group. The final hour brings everyone back together for Bollywood dancing and snack time. A local teacher and coordinator are always available to guide and support volunteers throughout the day.
Volunteers teaching English in India may also get the chance to observe or participate in medical projects based within the Sector 10 community, providing a unique opportunity to learn about other impactful initiatives.
Prerna Teaching Placement – This inspiring centre offers free education and care for children from slum communities, allowing their parents or older siblings to work or further their own education. Many primary caregivers in India are young mothers or older siblings, so this support plays a crucial role in improving the family’s overall prospects.
At the centre, volunteers are essential in delivering English and Maths lessons to students from grades 1 to 8. While challenges such as home-life disruptions can affect attendance, the program’s consistency helps students establish routines, track their progress through assessments, and prepare for exams to improve their English skills.
The number of children attending each day typically ranges from 10 to 35. Volunteers are encouraged to be proactive and fully engaged during their 3-4 hours onsite to maximise their impact. With a variety of resources and workbooks available, this project is ideal for volunteers who want to focus on teaching English while making a meaningful contribution.
Your Volunteer Role & Typical Teaching Day
As a volunteer in India, you’ll have the rewarding opportunity to lead English and Maths lessons for one or more classes in an underprivileged school. Volunteers teaching English in India are also welcome to teach additional subjects, such as Science and Geography, based on their interests and the school’s needs.
If you’re new to teaching, there’s no need to worry! To teach English in India successfully, all you need is energy, creativity, patience, and a proactive attitude. Our local coordinators are available to provide guidance on lesson planning and content if needed. However, it’s important for volunteers to take the initiative in assessing the educational levels and needs of their students.
The teaching project typically runs for 3-4 hours each morning, Monday to Friday, with standard hours from 9am to 12:30pm. However, these timings may vary depending on the school’s requirements. We encourage volunteers to use their free time outside the project to prepare lessons in advance. If you’re new to teaching, your confidence will grow quickly after leading a few classes, and advance planning will make each session run more smoothly.
During your first few days, you’ll usually assist a local teacher or work alongside another volunteer to become familiar with the class. After this initial period, you may be asked to lead classes independently due to staff shortages. If you’re uncomfortable teaching alone, we will do our best to pair you with a local teacher or fellow volunteer to ensure you feel supported.
PMGY’s India volunteer program includes a private transport network to take you to and from your project each day. You’ll travel by tuk-tuk or minivan, and this service is included in your Program Fee.
India Medical
Background to the Medical Program
Despite advancements in India’s healthcare system, much of the population continues to face significant health challenges. This is often due to a lack of awareness about health issues and the inability of many to afford regular medical care, if any at all. The projects we support aim to bridge this gap by providing free or highly subsidised healthcare to people from slum and rural communities.
Our primary focus for medical volunteers in India is supporting medical camps in slum areas. These communities often lack basic health education and access to medical services. To address this, we have established a year-round primary healthcare clinic located in the heart of the main slum community we support. Additionally, our team runs pop-up clinics across some of the poorest areas in the region, ensuring both our local team and international volunteers can make the greatest impact.
As a medical volunteer in India, you’ll have the chance to gain experience across a variety of healthcare settings. This may include shadowing surgeries, observing GP consultations, and supporting day-to-day healthcare initiatives. We welcome individuals from all backgrounds. Whether you’re a school leaver seeking valuable work experience to enhance your university application or a nursing/medical student planning an overseas elective placement, we can accommodate you. Our medical project in India is widely regarded as one of the best places to volunteer abroad.
Medical Volunteer Placement Examples
Slum Outreach Health Campaigns – The healthcare clinics we run are at the heart of the medical volunteer project in India. Our primary clinic is located in the Sector 10 community, which is also home to the Volunteer House and our local team. This clinic serves as the main healthcare provider for the community, many of whom would otherwise have no access to medical care.
Our medical staff treat 15-30 patients daily at the Sector 10 clinic, offering primary healthcare and medical check-ups. PMGY also organises free medical camps across other poor communities in Faridabad. These camps are prioritised for the areas with the greatest need and expand in reach as the number of medical volunteers in India increases. A local doctor leads these campaigns, supervises volunteers, and ensures the necessary medical supplies and equipment are available.
While not guaranteed, medical volunteers in India may have opportunities for basic hands-on tasks, such as measuring blood pressure, checking blood sugar levels, and dressing minor wounds, all under professional supervision. The local staff are welcoming and eager to help volunteers learn. Doctors explain procedures in English, and interpreters are available to bridge any language gaps when interacting with patients.
This medical volunteer abroad program is open to individuals of all backgrounds. Volunteers often learn basic clinical skills and gain valuable insights into the unique health challenges faced by slum communities. The experience is complemented by ongoing training and mentorship from local doctors.
Shadowing in a Hospital Setting – PMGY partners with several hospitals, offering volunteers the chance to observe and learn in various departments. Volunteers may shadow doctors during consultations or assist with basic health checks during rounds.
Common departments for medical volunteers in India include ultrasound, paediatrics, ophthalmology, gynaecology, laboratory services, non-urgent care, and theatre. Placements are typically arranged in private hospitals, which offer more opportunities for volunteers and greater support from doctors. There is also the chance to observe surgeries, though these are arranged on an ad hoc basis and subject to confirmation. Witnessing surgeries can provide a fascinating comparison between hospital standards in India and those back home.
Community Visits – Volunteers accompany local doctors on visits to different community settings, such as local schools and Sector 10 community projects, to conduct health screenings for students. These visits may also involve providing basic first aid or assisting with healthcare checks at care homes for the elderly and vulnerable. Volunteers can extend their support by helping prepare meals for residents, further contributing to the community. The aim is always to provide as much help as possible to underprivileged local populations.
Student Elective Opportunities
PMGY offers specialist elective placements for students in India, providing a unique opportunity to gain invaluable international experience. Whether you’re pursuing a career in medicine or nursing, our programs allow you to learn directly from health professionals in distinctive medical settings. As a medical volunteer in India, you can specify your desired clinical elective during the online application process. Simply highlight your preferences in the ‘Special Requirements’ section, and the PMGY India team will organise everything to ensure your elective placement runs smoothly.
Medical – Gain invaluable experience during your medical elective in India. Support slum outreach health campaigns, shadow doctors in clinics, observe surgeries, and perform basic health checks as part of this rewarding program. Learn about the local healthcare challenges and compare hospital practices to those in your home country. This is the ultimate medical elective placement for aspiring healthcare professionals.
Nursing – A nursing elective in India is full of diverse experiences. Shadow nurses in hospital settings, assist with slum outreach medical camps, and support doctors during health checks at community clinics. You’ll gain insight into local healthcare practices, learn about prevalent diseases, and observe departments such as paediatrics, emergency, and neurology. Make your nursing elective in India an unforgettable experience!
Your Volunteer Role & Typical Work Day
As a volunteer in India, most participants in the medical program will have the opportunity to experience a variety of facilities. The primary placement for medical volunteers in India will be within the health campaign programs operating in the slum communities. Volunteers can expect to work 3-5 hours in the mornings, typically from 9:30am to 1pm. Observing surgeries may be possible at different times during the day. Afternoons can be spent engaging in other placement settings or exploring the vibrant city of Delhi.
To maximise the experience, volunteers are encouraged to spend at least three days at a specific placement. This helps build relationships with the staff, often resulting in greater exposure and more responsibilities. However, the level of involvement will ultimately depend on each volunteer’s qualifications and experience.
PMGY’s India volunteer program includes a private transport network to ensure reliable travel to and from your project each day. Volunteers will travel by tuk-tuk or minivan, with this service included in the Program Fee.
🇳🇵 Volunteer in Nepal (2, 3 or 4 Weeks)
Your final stop is Nepal, a long-time hotspot for travellers. While the world around it has changed, Nepal remains a captivating country that has yet to fully catch up. This unique charm is one of the many reasons why it’s such an intriguing place to visit. Its landscape is diverse, rugged, and absolutely stunning. Many of its people live in poverty, yet they remain incredibly proud and welcoming. You may leave Nepal at the end of your journey, but it's certain you'll never forget it.
Combine adventure travel with community volunteering while ticking off all the ‘must-see’ experiences in Nepal. You can choose to volunteer at a Nepalese Buddhist monastery, teaching monks English. Living at the monastery will give you a chance to immerse yourself in the monks’ culture and way of life. Alternatively, you could teach young people English in a school or kindergarten. You can select your volunteer in Nepal project during the online application process.
🇳🇵 Volunteer Projects in Nepal
Nepal English Teaching
Background to the Teaching Program
As a volunteer teaching English abroad in Nepal, your role is to help students develop vital English skills that will empower them to achieve their future goals. Conversing with fluent English speakers significantly enhances their language abilities, which are crucial for better employment opportunities. Through your volunteer work in Nepal, you’ll contribute to the education of young people, helping to drive economic, political, and social progress.
Unfortunately, Nepal’s education system suffers from underinvestment, with many schools lacking qualified teachers, especially for English. This has led to high illiteracy rates, with 41% of the adult population unable to read or write, limiting career prospects to low-paying manual labour jobs.
Tourism is Nepal’s largest industry outside of agriculture and offers lucrative job opportunities. However, English proficiency is a key requirement for these roles. As government schools often provide limited English education, only children from wealthier families attending private international schools receive quality language instruction. By volunteering to teach English in Nepal, you’ll offer hope and inspiration to students who lack access to private education, opening doors to brighter futures. If you’re seeking volunteer gap year options, our Nepal projects provide incredible opportunities to make a lasting difference.
Teaching Volunteer Placement Examples
During your Nepal volunteer program, you’ll be placed in a local school or kindergarten that serves underprivileged communities. Depending on the project’s needs at the time, you may also have the chance to work in a day-care centre, providing basic education and care to pre-school children.
Smart Kids Kindergarten – Situated in Kathmandu Valley, this kindergarten was established in 2015 with a focus on child-centred education. It provides a fun and engaging learning environment for children aged 3 and older. Despite limited resources and minimal English communication, this placement offers an excellent opportunity to teach English and boost children’s confidence. Activities are interactive, focusing on learning through play to help young learners grow.
Chitwan Primary School – Volunteers teaching English in Nepal may be placed in this small school in Chitwan town in southern Nepal. Class sizes typically range from 20 to 30 students, aged 5 to early teens. You’ll often work with one teacher throughout your placement, following a curriculum or designing your own lessons depending on the school’s resources. Creativity and imagination go a long way in overcoming limited materials, making this a rewarding challenge for volunteers.
Your Volunteer Role & Typical Teaching Day
You’ll start your day early with your host family, enjoying breakfast before heading to your placement. Depending on your location, your project may be a short walk from your homestay, or transport will be provided.
Your primary role as a volunteer in Nepal is to teach English. However, there may also be opportunities to teach other subjects like Maths and Arts. While local staff are available to assist, most international volunteers will lead their own lessons. Lessons are informal, allowing volunteers the freedom to be creative with their teaching methods.
To make lessons engaging, volunteers teaching English in Nepal are encouraged to use interactive activities, such as games, songs, and art. Educational games like Hangman, Hot Seat, or team quizzes are effective ways to build vocabulary and inspire learning. Flashcards, stickers, and souvenirs from your home country can also enhance lessons, making them both fun and educational.
Most schools have basic resources, though some offer outdoor spaces, playgrounds, and a selection of books and toys. You might wish to bring extra materials, such as educational books or games, to support your teaching. Resources can be purchased locally, which is a cost-effective way to support the local economy.
Volunteers typically teach 3–5 hours per day, Monday to Friday. Schools often start around 9–10am, with kindergartens beginning earlier. After finishing at 2–4pm, you’ll have free time to explore your neighbourhood, visit local markets, or join cultural activities.
Nepal English Teaching to Monks
Are you ready to immerse yourself in a completely new culture while sharing your skills? As a volunteer teaching English to monks in Nepal, you’ll step into a fascinating way of life. Live within a traditional Nepalese Buddhist monastery and embrace this unique experience. Join the monks in their daily routines, start your mornings with peaceful meditation before sunrise, and spend your day sharing knowledge and helping these communities improve their English skills.
Background to the Teaching Program
While Buddhism is not the most widely practised religion in Nepal, its influence runs deep throughout the country’s history and culture, and Nepal is the birthplace of Buddha. From the numerous temples and stupas scattered across the land to the Tibetan Buddhists who have sought refuge, Nepal holds a significant place in the Buddhist world.
Many young Nepalese men dedicate part of their lives to training as monks. Most of the children in monasteries are either Tibetan refugees or come from disadvantaged ethnic hill tribes. For many, becoming a monk provides the opportunity for a brighter future.
Training as a monk begins at a young age. These young monks learn about Buddhist philosophies and practices while also receiving a general mainstream education, which includes learning English. The ability to speak English is crucial, as it allows monks to translate sacred texts and share the teachings of Buddhism with a wider audience. As the Dalai Lama famously said, “To learn English is to spread the word.”
Providing monks with both formal education and religious training is essential. Many monks leave the monastery as they grow older, and strong English skills significantly enhance their career opportunities in mainstream society.
By volunteering to teach English to monks in Nepal, you can play a key role in their educational journey. Working alongside international volunteers, you’ll help monks improve their communication and pronunciation skills, opening doors to new opportunities and enabling them to share their wisdom with the world.
Teaching Volunteer Placement Examples
If you are keen to teach English to monks in Nepal, you will live within the monastery in separate living quarters. The location of your placement during your volunteer in Nepal experience will be at one of the monasteries we support in Kathmandu, Pokhara, or Chitwan. Monasteries in Kathmandu are located across the valley, with some near the city centre and others in more rural, tranquil areas.
Sundarijal Monastery – Situated in the eastern Kathmandu Valley, Sundarijal Monastery is about an hour’s drive from central Kathmandu and is home to around 50 monks. These monks range in age from 6 to over 20, with approximately half aged between 6 and 15. Volunteers here lead educational classes for around three hours each day, working closely with the monks. Beyond teaching, volunteers are encouraged to immerse themselves in the monastery’s daily rituals and join the monks in games, creating a truly enriching cultural exchange.
Kwung Gumba Monastery – Another opportunity for your volunteer work in Nepal is with Kwung Gumba Monastery, located in a small neighbourhood in Kathmandu. This placement offers convenient access to shops and the main town. The monastery has western toilets and intermittent Wi-Fi. Volunteers teaching English to monks in Nepal will work in one of three classrooms surrounding the library, which are equipped with whiteboards and benches. Students are grouped by ability, enabling volunteers to tailor their lessons effectively.
Daunne Monastery – The Daunne Monastery in Chitwan offers a more rural experience, nestled within a jungle environment where monkeys are your neighbours! This Nepal volunteer program provides an authentic setting with basic facilities and limited resources. Volunteers here teach both male and female monks and support a local school that also caters to village children. The school is a short uphill walk into the forest, providing a serene backdrop for a rewarding teaching experience.
Shree Urgen Choling Buddhist Monastery – Located in the picturesque Pokhara region, Shree Urgen Choling Buddhist Monastery offers a unique and flexible experience in a more informal setting. As there is no local teacher, volunteers tutor young monks in the early mornings before accompanying them to a nearby government school. During the day, volunteers can relax by the lakeside or help with general monastery tasks. In the afternoons, volunteers support the children with tutoring and spend evenings engaging in games, singing, and dancing. This immersive role allows volunteers to bond closely with the young monks while experiencing life at the monastery.
Your Volunteer Role & Typical Teaching Day
As a volunteer teaching English to monks in Nepal, your day will begin early, with the resonating sound of the monastery’s gong calling everyone to morning prayers. This unique start to the day provides an incredible opportunity to immerse yourself in the Buddhist way of life.
You will typically have a teaching schedule of two hours per day. With the shorter teaching hours on this program, you’ll find plenty of downtime at the monastery, allowing you to focus on personal activities or explore informal teaching opportunities. These may include conversational English, learning games, or helping the monks with homework and exam preparation. Your volunteer programs abroad run from Monday to Friday. While your main role will be to teach English, there may also be chances to teach other subjects such as Maths or Science.
This volunteer teaching English abroad project follows a flexible curriculum. Most of the time, you will independently plan your lessons or collaborate with fellow volunteers. Government course guidebooks focusing on English, Maths, and Science are often available to help you structure your classes.
In Kathmandu, the monasteries typically host 40 to 150 young monks, depending on the location, while in Chitwan, there are around 100 monks. Their ages range from approximately seven years old to their mid-teens, with class sizes averaging 10 to 15 students. The monks’ proficiency in English varies, so thoughtful lesson planning is essential. Sharing knowledge about your own culture is especially appreciated and helps deepen the learning experience.
During your free time on the Nepal volunteer program, you can explore the local community, visit nearby markets, or learn more about Buddhist traditions. Evenings may include playing games, engaging in sports, or leading extracurricular activities with the young monks.
Depending on your specific Nepal volunteer program, you may also assist with practical tasks like preparing meals or gathering firewood and wild mushrooms from the surrounding jungle. The monks are welcoming and genuinely grateful for your support, eager to share their culture and way of life with you. As a volunteer in Nepal, this experience offers a unique insight into Buddhist practices and traditions rarely available to tourists.
Upon your arrival, the young monks are often eager to meet you, though some may be shy during the first few days. You’ll have the chance to share meals with them and participate in morning meditation rituals (Puja) if you’re up early enough. While the monks won’t be able to formally teach you these practices, they are always open to your proactive involvement, making this a truly enriching and immersive experience.
🌏 Trip Schedule
The Real Asia Encounter provides a balanced experience across three incredible destinations, with your time evenly divided based on the program length you select. The 6-week option offers 2 weeks at each location, providing a brief yet impactful introduction to each country. For a more in-depth experience, the 9-week Real Asia Encounter allows 3 weeks per destination, while the 12-week option extends your stay to 4 weeks in each location, offering a truly immersive journey. This structure ensures you have the opportunity to explore, contribute meaningfully to local projects, and fully embrace the unique culture and environment of each destination.
Your Real Asia Encounter begins in Sri Lanka on the Saturday, where you’ll be welcomed with warm hospitality and stunning coastal views. Upon arrival at Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo, a PMGY team member will meet you and accompany you on a two-hour journey to Ambalangoda. Spend your first day relaxing, settling in, and meeting fellow volunteers.
On Sunday, orientation begins with an introduction to Sri Lanka’s culture, customs, and essential safety advice. The local team will familiarise you with the transport system, discuss the community projects, and help you plan your volunteer experience. In the afternoon, you’ll explore local highlights, including Buddhist temples and a moonstone mine. You’ll also have the chance to exchange money, purchase a SIM card, and shop for essentials.
From Monday to Friday, you’ll immerse yourself in volunteer work. Whether teaching, assisting in community projects, or supporting local initiatives, you’ll make a meaningful contribution. The PMGY team is always nearby to provide guidance and support.
Weekends are perfect for exploring Sri Lanka’s incredible attractions. Discover the historic city of Galle, unwind on Hikkaduwa’s beaches, or hike Adam’s Peak for a breathtaking sunrise. The local team can also arrange structured trips, such as a visit to the Cultural Triangle or an Adventure Safari at the weekend.
The following week(s) mirror the first, with weekday volunteering and weekends free for travel and relaxation. On your final Saturday, bid farewell to the local team, pick up souvenirs, and prepare for your next destination – India.
On Sunday, you’ll leave Sri Lanka behind and fly to India. Upon arrival at Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi, you’ll be greeted by a PMGY team member and transported to the Volunteer House in Faridabad, just outside the capital. Use the day to rest, meet other volunteers, and acclimatise to your new surroundings.
Orientation begins Monday with a briefing covering cultural norms, health and safety, and language basics. You’ll visit the main project base in a local slum community, meet project staff, and learn about the impact of PMGY’s initiatives. After lunch, the local team will help you arrange SIM cards, exchange money, and explore nearby temples and markets. Optional activities such as Bollywood dance classes or pottery workshops can also be arranged.
Volunteering begins on Tuesday, with placements typically running for 3–5 hours daily. You’ll spend your mornings contributing to meaningful teaching, healthcare, or community development projects. Evenings are free for cultural activities or relaxing with fellow volunteers.
The weekend offers endless travel opportunities. Visit iconic landmarks like the Taj Mahal or trek in the Himalayas. Our team can assist with planning popular trips, such as the Golden Triangle or Dharamshala excursions.
The next week(s) follows the same structure of volunteering during weekdays and exploring on weekends. On your final Sunday, pack your bags, say goodbye to new friends, and prepare for the next leg of your journey – Nepal.
Your final destination is Nepal, where you’ll arrive on Sunday at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. A PMGY team member will greet and escort you to your host family’s accommodation. Spend your first evening enjoying a traditional Nepalese meal and settling in.
Orientation begins Monday with a two-hour Nepalese language lesson, followed by a briefing on safety, transport, and cultural norms. In the afternoon, explore Kathmandu’s iconic sites, including the Monkey Temple and Boudha Stupa, while learning about the city’s rich history from local guides. On Tuesday, complete your orientation with a cultural session before preparing for your volunteer placement.
On Wednesday, travel to your project location in either Kathmandu, Chitwan, or Pokhara. Volunteers heading to Chitwan or Pokhara will take a tourist bus with comfortable amenities, while those staying in Kathmandu will transfer locally. Volunteering begins on Thursday, with placements tailored to your interests, such as education, healthcare, or community development. The PMGY team provides continuous support to ensure you feel confident and engaged throughout your placement.
Weekends are an opportunity to explore Nepal’s diverse landscapes. Trek in the Annapurna region, enjoy a jungle safari in Chitwan or enjoy the lakes and trekking in Pokhara. Our team can help arrange structured trips to maximise your experience. The next week(s) mirrors the first, with weekday volunteering and weekends for exploration.
On your final Saturday, return to Kathmandu for one last day of sightseeing and reflection. Your Real Asia Encounter concludes with a transfer to the airport. As you depart Nepal, you’ll take unforgettable memories and valuable experiences from this life-changing journey.
Accommodation & Meals - Shared & Comfort Options Available
🇱🇰 Sri Lanka
Volunteer House
During your time on the Sri Lanka volunteer program, you will stay in our Volunteer House located just outside central Ambalangoda, in a quieter part of town on Sri Lanka’s south coast. The house is around a 10 minute tuk tuk journey from the main town, where you can find ATMs, supermarkets and local restaurants.
You will share the house with other PMGY volunteers from around the world, creating a friendly and social environment throughout your stay. There is free WiFi and a communal area where volunteers can relax, spend time together or prepare lesson plans if teaching English. A refrigerator is also available for storing items that need to be kept chilled.
Both shared and private room options are available within the Volunteer House. All bedrooms have air conditioning, with bed linen, cupboard space and personal lockers provided. A member of the local team also lives at the house, providing onsite support and security throughout your stay.
Transport to and from your placement is provided by tuk tuk or private car, with placements typically around 5 to 30 minutes from the Volunteer House. This service is included in your Program Fee.
🛏️ Shared Option - Standard Offering (Recommended for 18-25 Year Olds)
Our Shared Option offers a social way to experience life at the Volunteer House. Bedrooms are separated by gender and accommodate up to 12 volunteers in bunk beds, making it easy to meet other participants and become part of the volunteer community.
Bathrooms are shared with other volunteers, with ample bathroom facilities available throughout the house. These include western style toilets and showers. Shower water is cold, which is common locally and can be particularly refreshing in Sri Lanka’s warm tropical climate.
🔒 Comfort Option - Private Room 150 USD100 GBP120 EUR210 AUD170 CAD Per Week (Recommended for 26+ Year Olds)
For volunteers who prefer more personal space, our Comfort Option provides a private bedroom while still allowing you to enjoy the communal and social experience of the Volunteer House.
Comfort rooms can accommodate a solo traveller or up to 2 participants travelling together, with either 1 or 2 single beds or a double bed depending on the room available. Bathrooms are typically shared, although some rooms have private bathrooms. There are ample bathroom facilities containing western style toilets and showers available for the private rooms. Shower water is cold, as with the rest of the Volunteer House.
Meals
You will be served three freshly prepared meals daily at the Volunteer House. Sri Lankan cuisine features a lot of rice, with fish or chicken as the main protein options. Vegetarian meals are always available.
The meals blend local and western cuisine, and a weekly menu is provided so you can know in advance what’s on offer. For those craving western comforts, restaurants in the nearby town of Hikkaduwa serve a range of western meals.
* 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 – Eggs, Toast, Jam, Fruit, Pancakes, Tea
Lunch – Dhal, Spinach Curry, Poppadoms, Paprika Tofu, Rice
Dinner – Vegetables, Noodles, Tomato Curry, Omelette
🇮🇳 India
Volunteer House
On the India volunteer program, you will stay in our Volunteer House in the centre of Faridabad, a satellite city around 15 miles south of Delhi. Restaurants, convenience stores and ATMs are just a short tuk tuk ride away.
The Volunteer House is spacious and comfortable, with volunteers from around the world staying together and sharing the experience. There are communal areas for relaxing and socialising, as well as fridge space for keeping food and drinks cool. Handwashing facilities are available for clothes, with a laundry service also available for a small fee.
Free WiFi is available at the Volunteer House, although the connection can occasionally be intermittent. Volunteers can also purchase a local SIM card for use with an unlocked mobile phone. Power cuts can occur from time to time in India and typically last no more than a couple of hours.
Both shared and private room options are available within the Volunteer House. All bedrooms have fans and bed linen is provided. We recommend bringing a small padlock for personal belongings, while valuables can also be stored securely with the local team.
Most volunteer projects are not within walking distance of the Volunteer House, so the local team provides daily transport to and from your placement by tuk tuk or minivan. The cost of this transport is included in your Program Fee. The Volunteer House is located on the same campus as the host family who coordinate the projects, giving volunteers regular opportunities to interact with the local team and experience local hospitality.
🛏️ Shared Option - Standard Offering (Recommended for 18-25 Year Olds)
Our Shared Option provides a social way to experience life at the Volunteer House. Bedrooms are arranged dorm style and separated by gender, with up to 8 volunteers sharing a room. Living alongside other participants makes it easy to get to know the group and settle into the volunteer community.
Bathrooms are shared with other volunteers, with ample bathroom facilities available throughout the Volunteer House. These include western style toilets and showers. Hot water is not available. This is our standard accommodation option and is particularly popular with younger volunteers who enjoy the communal experience of living with other participants.
🔒 Comfort Option - Private Room 150 USD100 GBP120 EUR210 AUD170 CAD Per Week (Recommended for 26+ Year Olds)
For volunteers who prefer additional privacy, our Comfort Option provides a private bedroom within the Volunteer House. This gives you your own space to relax while still enjoying the communal areas and social experience of living alongside other volunteers.
Comfort rooms can accommodate a solo traveller or up to 2 participants travelling together and contain 2 single beds. Bathrooms are generally shared, with ample bathroom facilities containing western style toilets and showers available throughout the Volunteer House. Hot water is not available. Depending on participant numbers and availability, we may occasionally be able to allocate a bathroom for sole use, but this is not guaranteed and should be considered an additional benefit where available.
Meals
During your volunteer trip to India, you will be served three freshly prepared meals daily. Most dishes are traditional Indian vegetarian cuisine, made with a variety of flavours while ensuring they are not too spicy. Occasionally, the local team may prepare western options such as pasta or vegetarian burgers. Filtered water is available at the Volunteer House free of charge.
* 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 – Cereal, Milk, Bread, Jams, Fruit, Juice
Lunch – Mixed Rice, Vegetables, Curries, Chapati, Soup
Dinner – Vegetarian Burgers, Pizza, Momo
🇳🇵 Nepal
During your time on the Nepal volunteer program, you will stay in locally hosted accommodation, giving you the opportunity to experience everyday life and culture in Nepal. Your accommodation will depend on your chosen program, with Teaching volunteers staying with a local host family and Teaching Monks volunteers spending the main part of their placement at a monastery.
Accommodation is welcoming and comfortable, although facilities may be simpler than you are accustomed to at home, particularly in more rural locations. Rooms are generally shared with other volunteers, with bed linen provided and space available for storing your clothes and personal belongings.
Bathroom facilities are shared, and the style of facilities varies depending on your accommodation and location. Electricity can occasionally be intermittent, while WiFi availability varies. Your local team will explain what to expect from your specific accommodation during orientation.
Living within a local home or monastery is an important part of the Nepal experience, providing an opportunity to learn more about Nepalese culture, traditions and daily life while becoming part of the local community throughout your stay.
🛏️ Shared Option - Standard Offering (Recommended for 18-25 Year Olds)
🛏️ Teaching, Host Family
During your Nepal Teaching program, you will stay with a local host family who are familiar with welcoming international volunteers. This provides a friendly and supportive base throughout your placement, while offering a more personal insight into everyday family and community life in Nepal.
Rooms are shared with fellow volunteers and typically accommodate up to 4 participants. Bathroom facilities include Western style toilets and conventional washing facilities. Your host family can also help you settle into the local area and become familiar with your daily routine.
🛏️ Teaching Monks, Monastery
The first few days of your Teaching Monks program will be spent in Kathmandu, where you will stay with our host team in their family home. This provides a comfortable introduction to Nepal, with WiFi available and time to get to know the local team before travelling to your monastery placement. Your final night will also be spent at the family home in Kathmandu before departure.
For the main part of your program, you will stay at one of our partner monasteries in Kathmandu, Pokhara or Chitwan. Volunteers stay in separate living quarters from the monks, with rooms typically shared between up to 4 participants. Staying onsite provides a unique opportunity to experience daily monastic life while remaining close to your volunteer placement.
Facilities vary between monasteries. Those around Kathmandu generally have more modern facilities, with Western style toilets more commonly available. Placements around Pokhara and Chitwan tend to be more rural, where facilities can be simpler and may include traditional Nepali style toilets and bucket showers. Hot water and WiFi should not generally be expected at the monasteries.
Living within a working monastery offers plenty of opportunities to experience its daily routines and traditions. You may hear the morning gong calling the monks to prayer and meditation and gain a closer insight into monastic life throughout your stay.
Meals
Meals are prepared for you each day by your host family or, when staying at a monastery, by the local staff on-site. Food is simple, fresh and rooted in traditional Nepalese cooking, often featuring lentils, rice, potatoes, vegetables, yoghurt and spices such as cumin, coriander and chilli. Dishes can sometimes be on the spicy side, offering an authentic taste of local cuisine. At homestays, you are welcome to help in the kitchen and learn how to prepare Nepalese meals if you wish. Whether at a family home or within the monastery grounds, the meals you receive reflect everyday Nepali life and eating culture.
Dhal Bhat, Nepal’s national dish, is commonly served for breakfast and dinner. It consists of rice, lentils, and seasoned vegetables. Most meals are vegetarian, including pasta or noodles with locally grown vegetables. Occasionally, chicken, pork, or fish dishes are also served.
* Our team will do their best to cater for dietary requirements. However, this cannot be guaranteed. You may need to purchase additional ingredients at your own expense. Please note any dietary requirements in your application and re-confirm them with the local team upon arrival. For major concerns, contact the PMGY International Team before confirming your place on the program.
Here’s an example of the meals you can expect:
Breakfast – Dhal Bhat, Tea
Lunch – Traditional Nepalese Snacks
Dinner – Dhal Bhat, Noodle Soup, Chapati, Bread, Rice
Other Things to Consider on the Real Asia Encounter
Return Airport Transfer - Your return airport transfer is not included in the Program Fee. However, our local team can assist with arranging onward transport to the airport or another destination. Making arrangements once you’re in-country allows for flexibility, especially as plans can often change, and some participants may share similar flight schedules. Costs will vary depending on your chosen method of transport and destination, and they can often be split if you’re travelling with fellow trip participants. We strongly advise against using public transport or ridesharing apps for the return journey to the airport due to safety risks and potential inconvenience.
Different Experiences Across Different Destinations – The PMGY Encounter programs are designed to offer a diverse and exciting experience across some truly fascinating and unique destinations. While we aim to structure our programs in a similar way, the volunteer experience in each destination will vary. For instance, some locations may offer more basic accommodation but provide a highly impactful volunteer role, while others may be more tourist-focused, meaning your role at the project may be more limited. Additionally, teams have different safety policies depending on the local environment. Therefore, it’s important to stay open-minded when joining our programs across different destinations, as each country offers its own distinct experience.
Flights Not Included – Please note that none of the flights outlined in the itinerary are included in the Program Fee. You will need to budget separately for your main international flights to and from your home country, as well as any relevant internal flights between the Encounter destinations.
FAQ's
PMGY welcomes volunteers of all nationalities, religions, and backgrounds. The minimum age to join the program is 18, with no upper age limit. Additionally, all participants need to have good English, although it does not need to be your first language. While it’s not necessary to speak the local dialect, you’ll find that learning a few local words will go a long way in building connections and enriching your experience.
As a PMGY volunteer, you must provide a clean criminal background check before travelling with us abroad. This ensures the safety and well-being of the children and communities we work with. Unfortunately, we are unable to accept anyone with previous criminal convictions.
In general, no formal experience or qualifications are required to join the Encounter programs — just lots of energy, enthusiasm, and a proactive approach to preparation! However, please note that medical and healthcare projects often require additional documentation before participation begins in-country.
Travelling overseas can be a rewarding yet demanding experience. It can be physically and mentally challenging, so all volunteers must be fit in both areas. If you have any medical or mental health conditions that may affect your participation, these must be disclosed to us during your online application. This ensures we can best support you and assess the program’s suitability.
If you have any concerns or queries regarding your eligibility or suitability for the Real Asia Encounter, we recommend that you contact us before committing to the program. Our team is always happy to assist you in making an informed decision and ensuring a positive and enriching experience for all involved.
The Real Asia Encounter starts on the 1st & 3rd Saturday of every month year round.
For your trip to Asia, you should book your flights to Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo (airport code CMB) to arrive on the designated Saturday start date. This is the official arrival day for the program, ensuring a smooth and well-organised beginning to your experience as a Real Asia Encounter volunteer.
Upon your arrival, you will be warmly greeted at the airport by a member of our local team or an appointed driver. They will be easy to spot, holding a sign with your name to ensure you feel welcomed from the moment you land. From there, they will escort you to your accommodation, where you will have the rest of the day to relax, settle in, and prepare for the exciting journey ahead.
The program officially ends in Nepal on the Sunday of your final week. This means you will need to vacate the accommodation on this day to make way for new participants arriving for their own life-changing experiences. Our local team will be available to assist with arranging transport to the airport or providing guidance for any onward travel plans you may have.
Once you’ve signed up for the program, we’ll provide you with a detailed guide via email outlining the dates you need to book flights. This ensures you’ll arrive at the right place on time and be ready for your airport pick-up at each destination.
Please note that flight costs are not included in the Program Fee for the Real Asia Encounter. You’ll need to budget for these separately, and the costs will vary depending on your location and the routes you select.
We organise programs with various start dates, durations, and itineraries in each location. To enhance the social experience, volunteers are grouped together in each destination, creating a dynamic and inclusive environment. However, you may not exclusively be with others following the exact same itinerary as you.
Participants typically book the most cost-effective flight routes between destinations, so while it’s possible you’ll share a flight with others, this cannot be guaranteed. As a general rule, plan to travel independently and meet a new group of participants at each destination.
Based on feedback from previous volunteers, we’ve found that 4 weeks per destination is the ideal amount of time to fully immerse yourself in the experience of volunteering. This duration provides ample opportunity to integrate into the local community, build meaningful relationships, and contribute to your chosen project. Over this time, you’ll be able to make a lasting positive impact while having plenty of time to explore incredible sights and culture during your weekends.
Many of our volunteers who joined us for just 2 weeks often expressed that their time was too short. They leave wishing they had stayed longer to further engage with the projects they’ve grown passionate about. If your schedule allows, we highly encourage you to consider a longer stay to make the most of this life-changing experience!
At PMGY, we understand the importance of safety, especially for first-time travellers, and we work diligently to ensure that all our programs, provide a secure and enriching experience. Our programs are carefully designed to balance structure and independence perfectly. This means you’ll enjoy a guided and supportive environment while free to explore and immerse yourself in local culture. For further details, please refer to our Safety & Wellbeing page.
Participant safety in each destination is a top priority and is monitored regularly. A member of our International Team has thoroughly inspected every PMGY program to ensure it meets our high standards. We also stay current with advice published by the UK’s Foreign and Commonwealth Development Office. Through constant communication with our local teams, we ensure that our participants are always placed in secure and stable regions.
Our International Team has personally visited and participated in every program we offer, paying close attention to every detail — from the living conditions and local neighbourhoods to the food you’ll enjoy. These meticulous checks ensure that all aspects of your stay meet our rigorous standards. Additionally, our local teams are experienced professionals with years of experience hosting international travellers. They serve as PMGY’s trusted representatives, offering 24/7 support to all volunteers throughout their stay. To further enhance your safety, PMGY provides a 24-hour international emergency line accessible at all times. In-country staff also maintain connections with local medical professionals, ensuring that immediate assistance is available should it be required during your placement as a Real Asia Encounter volunteer.
Before you embark on your journey, you’ll receive a comprehensive Volunteer Handbook, which covers key topics such as health, safety, visas, and dress codes. If you have additional or specific questions, our dedicated support team is available 24/7 to assist. Furthermore, on a monthly basis, PMGY hosts an Introductory Webinar and a Safety Webinar. These interactive sessions offer invaluable information about our projects and practical tips for staying safe abroad.
When you arrive in-country, you’ll participate in a detailed orientation session. This introduction will cover the general program and your specific project, including essential safety advice tailored to your destination. During this session, you’ll also have the opportunity to purchase a local SIM card — a step we highly recommend to ensure you remain contactable at all times. Additionally, you’ll receive a comprehensive list of essential contact numbers to keep on hand during your stay.
While no travel experience can ever be guaranteed 100% trouble-free, PMGY has taken every precaution to ensure that your time as a Real Asia Encounter volunteer is as safe and enjoyable as possible. We strongly suggest following the local team’s guidance and advice to ensure your safety throughout your journey.
