Backpacker Budget Tips for Volunteering in Sri Lanka
Volunteer in Sri Lanka on a budget and make every moment count.
Sri Lanka is a dream destination for backpackers — golden beaches, lush tea plantations, historic cities, and a warm, welcoming culture. But if you’re looking to go beyond sightseeing and make a meaningful impact while keeping costs low, volunteering in Sri Lanka is the perfect way to do it.
Whether you’re teaching English to Buddhist monks in Galle, helping with sea turtle conservation along the southern coast, or working with children in local kindergartens, you’ll find that combining travel with volunteering enriches your experience — and can be surprisingly affordable.
Here are some practical tips for keeping your budget in check while making the most of your volunteer adventure.
1. Choose an Affordable Volunteer Program
Not all volunteer programs in Asia are created equal when it comes to pricing. Many international organisations charge high fees, sometimes over USD 1,000 for a single week.
At Volunteer in Sri Lanka, we offer some of the most affordable rates in the country — just USD 180 per week, including a private air-conditioned room, daily breakfast and dinner, access to a shared kitchen, Wi-Fi, and full local support. There are no registration or application fees, and every cent goes directly into the projects you work on.
Pro Tip: Avoid “middleman” agencies based abroad. At Volunteer in Sri Lanka, we run all our programs ourselves, so every dollar you contribute goes directly into the community and the projects you’re part of.
2. Travel in the Shoulder Season
High season in Sri Lanka runs from December to March, when prices for flights and accommodation rise. If you have flexibility, aim for the shoulder seasons — April to early June or September to November. You’ll still enjoy good weather in the south and west, fewer crowds, and lower prices for activities like whale watching or safaris.
Bonus: Program dates at Volunteer in Sri Lanka are flexible all year round, so you can plan your trip for when flights are cheapest.
3. Save on Flights
Flights to Sri Lanka can take up a large chunk of your budget. Start tracking prices at least three months in advance and set fare alerts on sites like Skyscanner or Google Flights.
Budget-friendly hacks:
- Fly into Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) in Colombo, which has the most competition and the lowest fares.
- Be flexible with departure days — mid-week flights are often cheaper.
4. Make the Most of Your Program Inclusions
When your volunteer program already includes accommodation and two daily meals, you’re saving significantly on one of the biggest travel expenses. At Volunteer in Sri Lanka, you’ll have a private room in Rumassala, Galle — just minutes from the beach and Galle Fort — so there’s no need to spend extra on hotels or daily transport.
Pro Tip: Use the shared kitchen to prepare inexpensive lunches, or try your hand at Sri Lankan cooking with fresh produce from local markets.
5. Eat Like a Local
Sri Lankan food is delicious, filling, and incredibly budget-friendly if you stick to local eateries. A hearty plate of rice and curry can cost as little as USD 1–2 at small cafés or street food stalls.
Money-saving meal tips:
- Skip tourist restaurants in favour of local “hotel” eateries (in Sri Lanka, a “hotel” is often just a small restaurant).
- Try short eats — small pastries and savoury snacks that cost a few cents each.
- Carry a refillable water bottle and top up at your accommodation to avoid buying bottled water daily.
6. Use Public Transport
Getting around Sri Lanka can be very affordable if you use buses and trains instead of taxis or private cars.
- Buses are the cheapest option, with fares under USD 1 for short journeys.
- Trains along the southern and hill country routes are scenic and cost just a few dollars for even long distances.
Pro Tip: For local trips within Galle, tuk-tuks are convenient but negotiate the fare beforehand or use ride-hailing apps like PickMe or Uber to avoid being overcharged.
7. Plan Free and Low-Cost Activities
Volunteering keeps your weekdays full, but you’ll want to explore in your free time. Sri Lanka offers plenty of budget-friendly attractions:
- Walk around Galle Fort — free entry and rich in history.
- Spend the day on beaches like Unawatuna or Jungle Beach.
- Hike to Rumassala Peace Pagoda for panoramic coastal views.
- Visit local markets and temples for an authentic cultural experience.
If you’re in the turtle conservation program, you’ll also have the priceless experience of releasing hatchlings into the sea — no extra cost required.
8. Pack Smart to Avoid Extra Costs
The tropical climate calls for lightweight clothing, but it’s important to bring essentials so you’re not buying them at tourist prices. Pack:
- Modest clothes for temples and community work
- Refillable water bottle
- Insect repellent and high-SPF sunscreen
- A rain jacket if travelling during the monsoon season
- Power adapter (Type G plugs)
Pro Tip: Bring small gifts from your home country to share with host families, schools, or fellow volunteers — it’s a thoughtful gesture and cheaper than buying souvenirs last minute.
9. Stay Longer for Better Value
While USD 180 per week is already budget-friendly, your flight cost is a fixed expense. The longer you stay, the more value you get from that airfare. Spending 4–6 weeks allows you to immerse yourself fully in the community, explore more of the country, and spread your travel costs over a longer period.
Long-term stays also give you time to take on more responsibility in your volunteer role — whether that’s leading lessons, managing conservation projects, or building stronger relationships with locals.
10. Combine Volunteering with Backpacking
Sri Lanka is compact enough that you can volunteer for part of your trip and travel the rest. After your program ends, use buses and trains to explore:
- Ella for mountain views and tea plantations
- Kandy for cultural heritage
- Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa for ancient cities
- Arugam Bay for surfing (best May–September)
Travelling after volunteering means you’ve already adjusted to local life, making it easier to budget and navigate the country.
Why Volunteering in Sri Lanka is Perfect for Budget-Conscious Travellers
By choosing Volunteer in Sri Lanka, you’re not just saving money — you’re ensuring your contribution directly benefits local communities. With accommodation, meals, and support included, you can focus on making a difference without constantly worrying about expenses.
Sri Lanka’s low cost of living, friendly locals, and rich cultural experiences make it one of the best destinations in Asia for backpackers who want purpose with their travel. With a little planning, you can keep your spending low while creating memories — and impacts — that last a lifetime.
How to Get Started?
Getting involved is simple. Once you’ve picked the program that excites you most and decided when you want to travel, the rest is straightforward. You don’t need teaching certificates, conservation training, or years of experience — we welcome everyone, from gap-year backpackers and solo travellers to working professionals and retirees.
Here’s how it works:
1. Head over to our application page.
https://volunteerinsrilanka.org/apply-now/
2. Select your preferred program and dates.
Teaching English to Buddhist Monks
Volunteer English Teaching Program
Volunteer Program for Senior Citizens
3. Fill out the quick application form — no upfront payment needed.
4. We’ll confirm your placement and send you all the pre-trip details.
Before you land in Sri Lanka, you’ll receive a guide with packing tips, cultural insights, and what to expect during your stay. On your first day, we’ll welcome you with a friendly orientation, teach you a few Sinhala phrases, walk you through local customs, and explain everything you need to know about your volunteer role.
Ready to Combine Adventure with Purpose?
Join us at Volunteer in Sri Lanka and experience the beauty of this island nation while making a tangible difference.
Apply Now: