Your first week will be spent in the coastal town of Ambalangoda, focusing on meaningful volunteer work and connecting with the local community. After an introduction to Sri Lankan culture and Buddhism, you’ll begin your projects, which include protecting sea turtles, teaching English to low-income village children, and participating in renovation initiatives. Evenings will be filled with enriching cultural activities, such as a traditional dance show and a hands-on crafts session, offering an immersive experience of local traditions.
In the second week, the focus shifts to exploring Sri Lanka’s stunning landscapes and rich history. The adventure begins with a visit to the historic Galle Fort and relaxation on Mirissa’s beautiful beaches. From there, you’ll embark on an elephant safari at Udawalawe National Park before heading to the scenic hill country of Ella for hiking, tea plantations, waterfalls, and breathtaking views. The journey concludes in Kandy, Sri Lanka’s cultural capital, ensuring a memorable and well-rounded expedition. All aspects of your 15-day trip are included, from airport transfers and meals to accommodation, entrance fees, and cultural activities.
Your School Trip to Sri Lanka
- Choose Start Dates & Trip Durations That Work Best For Your School
- Flexible Itinerary & Activities To Suit Your School’s Needs & Priorities
- Build Student Confidence & Teamwork Through Travel & New Experiences
- Focus On Student Growth & Development Through Travel & Cultural Immersion
- Enjoy Exceptional Value Without Compromising On Quality, Safety & Support
- Teachers Travel Free To Support Your Students Throughout Their Sri Lanka Trip
- Support Teaching, Renovation & Sea Turtle Conservation Projects In Sri Lanka
- Explore Galle Fort, Mirissa’s Beaches & Spot Wild Elephants On Safari
- Discover Ella, Nuwara Eliya & Kandy Across Sri Lanka’s Scenic Hill Country
- Experience Sri Lankan Culture Through Temple Visits, Yoga & Cooking Classes
Program Map
How It Works
Plan My Gap Year has the expertise, experience, and networks to ensure your Sri Lanka school trip is accessible, safe, and stress-free. We prioritise safety management and provide detailed risk assessment documentation for all our overseas trips, including Sri Lanka, to ensure that participants are well looked after throughout their journey.
Organising an overseas school trip involves a lot of preparation, from booking flights and insurance to arranging pre-trip training - and that’s before you even begin planning the itinerary! That’s where PMGY comes in. We specialise in organising school expeditions abroad, offering exclusive group trips for large student groups, full board options, meaningful community project work, and exciting travel opportunities. We can take care of everything, including:
- Comprehensive Flight Options, Travel Insurance & Complete Visa Assistance
- Customised, All-Inclusive Volunteer and Travel Itineraries
- Thorough Pre-Departure Preparation with 24/7 Support Both Throughout
As part of our social initiative, we offer affordable pricing without compromising the quality of our programs. Many schools choose our programs as a more budget-friendly alternative to other providers. We can customise your trip to meet your specific needs and work closely with you to design a personalised itinerary for your school trip to Sri Lanka. So, why not follow the steps below and make your tailor-made school trip to Sri Lanka a reality!
Your Sri Lanka School Trip Awaits...
Step 1 - Arrange a Call - Contact us via email, phone or Zoom to discuss your Sri Lanka school trip. One of our expedition specialists will tailor the trip to your needs!
Step 2 - Meet & Greet - After the initial discussion, our specialist will meet you and your colleagues in person to refine the trip details and answer any questions.
Step 3 - Information Session - Once the itinerary and dates are finalised, we’ll host an information session for students and parents to provide all trip details and answer any queries.
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Step 4 – Confirm Trip Numbers –
After the registration deadline, we’ll arrange the group deposit payment and confirm the trip. For every 10 students, 1 teacher travels for free! We’ll also offer flights and insurance options.
Step 5 – Pre-departure Support –
Leading up to the trip, we’ll provide ongoing support, including a bespoke trip handbook, risk assessments, safety management, and project preparation webinars.
Step 6 – Pre-departure Session –
Around 2 months before departure, we’ll host a final pre-departure session at your school for staff, students, and parents to ensure everything is set. PMGY T-shirts will be handed out during the session.
Step 7 – Before You Go –
In the days before departure, we’ll stay in regular contact to ensure everything is in place, including arrival procedures, dietary needs, and medical requirements.
Step 8 – Enjoy the Trip! –
During the trip, our ground team will be your point of contact, with daily check-ins to ensure everything runs smoothly. We’re available 24/7 from afar for any support.
Step 9 – Return Home –
We’ll ensure a smooth return to Colombo International Airport and send each participant a certificate of completion. We’ll follow up shortly after the trip for feedback.
Step 10 – Future Planning –
Once the trip blues have settled, it’s time to start planning your next adventure with PMGY. Whether returning to Sri Lanka or exploring a new destination, we’ll support you every step of the way!
Itinerary
We’ve created a 14-day sample itinerary showcasing the ultimate Sri Lanka school trip, blending volunteering, travel, adventure, and cultural immersion. While this provides a great starting point, we understand every school has unique goals. That’s why we offer bespoke itineraries tailored to your needs - whether you want to adjust the trip length, focus solely on volunteering, or combine it with travel experiences. Whatever your preferences, we’ll ensure your Sri Lanka school trip is affordable, structured, safe, and unforgettable.
After a good night’s rest, your orientation will kick off on Day 2 with a traditional Sri Lankan breakfast. Our local team will guide you through the essentials of life in Sri Lanka, including cultural nuances, safety advice, and an overview of your trip itinerary. You’ll also learn about the projects you’ll be supporting. In the afternoon, you’ll explore some iconic sites in Ambalangoda, such as a historic temple and an original blue moonstone mine. This introduction to Buddhism and Sri Lankan traditions will set the stage for a meaningful week ahead. You’ll also have time to visit a supermarket and exchange currency before reflecting on your first day in this vibrant country.
After a well-earned Sri Lankan lunch back at the accommodation, your afternoons will be dedicated to teaching English. The Community Village School Project, initiated by PMGY, provides free after-school English lessons to children from low-income families across villages in the Ambalangoda district. This program aims to bridge the educational gap by helping children develop their English skills, giving them opportunities similar to those of their wealthier peers. Running in the afternoons, the program includes two hours of English lessons followed by an hour of games and activities, with students typically teaching small groups of 4 to 12 children based on their language level. Students are encouraged to plan engaging and interactive lessons, fostering creativity and cultural exchange. With support from a local coordinator, proactive and enthusiastic students can make a meaningful impact, offering these children a global perspective and improved educational prospects.
Evenings will be filled with cultural experiences like dance performances, traditional crafting sessions, and meditation lectures, offering deeper insight into Sri Lankan traditions and ensuring each day is as enriching as the last.
To end the day, enjoy a beachside bonfire and BBQ, celebrating your contributions before transitioning into the adventure-packed second week of your Sri Lankan journey.
Next, you’ll head to Mirissa, a picture-perfect beach village. You’ll have the rest of day 8 and all of day 9 to unwind and soak in the coastal beauty. Whether you choose to relax on the beach or go whale watching, Mirissa offers the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.
From Ella, you’ll journey to Nuwara Eliya, also known as “Little England” for its colonial charm. Along the way, you’ll stop at tea plantations and the stunning Ravana Falls. In Nuwara Eliya, enjoy a tea factory tour and immerse yourself in the town’s serene beauty, surrounded by rolling hills and English-style bungalows.
Accommodation
During your school trip to Sri Lanka, you’ll primarily stay in hotel-style accommodations that are comfortable, secure, and thoroughly vetted. Your first week will be based in Ambalangoda, where the volunteer portion of your trip takes place, in a peaceful and safe part of town.
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Facilities in Ambalangoda
- Room Setup: Each room accommodates up to 10 people (same-sex) and includes fans, bed linen, and mosquito nets. Teachers have separate rooms.
- Communal Areas: Spaces are available for students to relax, play games, and prepare lesson plans.
- Kitchen Facilities: A refrigerator is provided for storing chilled items.
- Storage: Cupboard space is available; we recommend bringing small padlocks or storing valuables with the local team.
- Transportation: Private transport is arranged daily to and from your volunteer project.
- Additional Facilities: Western-style bathrooms provided and convenient access to local laundry services available.
- On-site security: A local team member resides at the accommodation, alongside an overnight security guard, ensuring 24/7 support and safety.
Accommodation During Travel
For the travelling portion of your trip, you’ll stay in our partner hotels at various destinations, including:
- Mirissa Beach (2 nights)
- Udawalawe (1 night)
- Ella (1 night)
- Kandy (2 nights)
- Negombo (1 night)
Rooms are designed to accommodate up to four students of the same sex, while teachers are provided with private rooms. All accommodations are fanned or air conditioned, clean, and comfortable, featuring western-style bathrooms for added convenience. A local team member will accompany the group throughout the travel experience, ensuring continuous support and guidance. This setup ensures a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable experience throughout your Sri Lanka school trip.
Wi-Fi
Yes (Usually Available)
People Per Room
Up To 10
Single Sex Rooms
Yes
Western Bathroom Facilities
Yes
Airport Transfer
2 Hours
Nearest ATM & Shops
5 Minute Drive
Meals
You will be served three meals a day during your school trip to Sri Lanka. In the first week of volunteering, meals will follow a set menu format and be provided at the accommodation in Ambalangoda. During the second week of travel, you’ll enjoy a variety of buffet options at local restaurants. Most meals will feature traditional Sri Lankan dishes, known for their bold flavours and spice, which can be adjusted to suit the group’s preferences.
Sri Lankan cuisine typically includes rice and curries, fish and chicken as standard protein options, and vegetarian dishes readily available. Meals are freshly prepared daily, with occasional Western dishes like pasta included for variety. Bottled water is provided with meals, and you should avoid drinking tap water during your stay.
* Our team will do their best to cater for dietary requirements, but this cannot always be guaranteed. Volunteers may need to purchase additional ingredients at their own expense. Please note any dietary requirements in your application and re-iterate them to the local team on arrival. For major concerns, contact the PMGY International Team before confirming your place on the program.
Here is an example of the meals you can expect:
