Volunteer in Sri Lanka with Projects Abroad

Next Step: Click here to choose a project in Sri Lanka

We offer overseas voluntary work placements in Teaching, Care, Sports, IT and Medicine & Healthcare - including Dentistry, Physiotherapy, Nursing, Midwifery, Veterinary and Animal Care, Journalism, Business and Language Courses.

Where we are Based in Sri Lanka

Projects Abroad Sri Lanka has an office based in the capital city of Colombo, and the majority of our volunteer placements are located along the coast within 2 hours drive of Colombo, between Negombo and Kalutara. 

As with most of the overseas voluntary work placements that we offer, you will normally stay with a local host family, which will give you a rounded insight into Sri Lankan culture and lifestyle.

General Information on Sri Lanka

This beautiful country has been run by the British, Portuguese and Dutch, gaining independence in 1948. It is now a democracy that continues to make economic progress, moving on rapidly from the 2004 tsunami and the tensions of the last decade. Sri Lanka is now a peaceful, safe destination for travellers and many international travel magazines have selected Sri Lanka as a country not to miss.

Sri Lanka's population is multi-religious and multi-ethnic, and its cultural heritage is equally as rich and diverse. Its countryside is lovely and teeming with varied and exotic wildlife species. There are more than ten national parks in Sri Lanka, and the Sinharaja rainforest is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The food in Sri Lanka is a real pleasure. Enjoy the delights of sampling a jackfruit curry accompanied by the sweetest mango juice you have ever tasted. You will be amazed at the range of fresh fruit and vegetables available and don't forget to try some of the fresh fish, straight out of the boat.

Another Sri Lankan passion is cricket. Whether you are talking to an orange-robed Buddhist monk or a young school student they will want to find out what you think of their heroes and which team you support.

Travel and Tourism in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka provides many opportunities in a small space. Like most capitals, Colombo can be hectic, but it's full of heritage. You may want to visit the mass of Hindu temples across the city, but equally you'll gain a flavour of Sri Lankan life simply by strolling through its modern avenues and narrow, crooked streets. You can people-watch in the Pettah bazaar, or take in the sunset from Galle Face Green.

The town of Galle is a sea port with a strong Dutch heritage and plenty of old colonial buildings to explore. Venture inland to hike in the hills, swim in the cool waterfalls and visit traditional hill towns.

Sri Lanka's national parks include safari parks where you can spot leopards and elephants, or visit wetland sanctuaries that are particularly good for bird-watching. There are also rainforest reserves crammed full of tropical biodiversity.

The beach resorts stretching along the south coast offer the opportunity to dive, snorkel and relax at reasonable prices. In all areas you will find the Sri Lankan people extremely friendly to tourists.