Beyond Volunteering: Top Places to Visit in Sri Lanka for an Unforgettable Journey
Make a difference in Sri Lanka and unlock unforgettable adventures beyond volunteering.
Sri Lanka, often called the “Pearl of the Indian Ocean,” is a destination where breathtaking landscapes, rich traditions, and warm hospitality come together to create life-changing experiences. For many travelers, volunteering here offers the chance to give back to local communities while also forming a deeper connection with the culture. But your journey doesn’t end when your volunteer placement does—Sri Lanka is filled with remarkable places to explore before or after your program.
Whether you’re drawn to golden beaches, misty mountains, or ancient cities, Sri Lanka invites you to balance meaningful service with adventure and discovery.
Volunteering in Sri Lanka with Us
At Volunteer in Sri Lanka, we believe in creating opportunities that are both impactful and enriching. As a 100% locally owned and operated organization, our mission is to support communities while offering affordable, ethical programs for international volunteers.
We provide a safe, welcoming environment with private A/C rooms, meals, Wi-Fi, and full local support, all starting at just USD 180 per week. Unlike many international providers, we charge no hidden registration or application fees.
Our Programs at a Glance
Turtle Conservation Program
Contribute to the protection of endangered sea turtles by working on nesting beaches, caring for hatchlings, and raising awareness about marine conservation.
Kindergarten Teaching Program
Work with local children in kindergartens, supporting their early development through play, learning activities, and creative expression. Your energy and care help build confidence and provide a strong foundation for their education.
Teaching English to Buddhist Monks
Share your language skills with young monks, giving them tools to engage with the wider world. In return, you gain insight into Buddhist philosophy and monastic life.
Volunteer English Teaching Program
Help improve language skills for schoolchildren and adults, empowering communities with greater access to education, careers, and opportunities.
Special Needs Care Program
Provide support and companionship for children and adults with disabilities. Volunteers assist with daily activities, therapy, and creative activities that bring joy and inclusion.
Volunteer Program for Senior Citizens
This program is specially designed for older volunteers who want to share their skills, wisdom, and time meaningfully. Senior participants can get involved in a variety of projects, from teaching to turtle conservation.
Best Places to Visit in Sri Lanka Before or After Volunteering
Once you’ve completed your volunteering placement — or even before you begin — you’ll want to experience the incredible destinations Sri Lanka has to offer. From bustling cities to ancient ruins, misty mountains, and golden beaches, here are some of the best places to explore.
Galle – Where History Meets the Ocean
Just minutes from our volunteer base, Galle is the perfect first stop. Its crown jewel is the UNESCO-listed Galle Fort, a 16th-century colonial fortress with cobblestone streets, Dutch villas, boutique cafés, and art galleries. You can watch the sun sink into the Indian Ocean from the ramparts or wander into Unawatuna Beach and Jungle Beach for snorkeling and relaxation. Galle combines coastal charm with cultural intrigue—making it an easy favorite.
Colombo – Bustling Gateway to the Island
As the capital and main entry point, Colombo is a lively blend of tradition and modernity. Explore the Pettah Market, sample local street food, or enjoy a seaside stroll along Galle Face Green. The city also offers cultural landmarks like the Gangaramaya Temple, while its restaurants and shopping centers reflect the island’s cosmopolitan side.
Kandy – The Sacred City in the Hills
A cultural treasure, Kandy is home to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, one of Buddhism’s most significant shrines. The city sits on a serene lake, surrounded by lush highlands and botanical gardens. The annual Esala Perahera festival, with its colorful processions of dancers, drummers, and elephants, is one of the grandest in Asia.
Sigiriya – The Iconic Lion Rock Fortress
Rising nearly 200 meters above the plains, Sigiriya Rock Fortress is often called the “Eighth Wonder of the World.” The climb to the top reveals frescoes, landscaped gardens, and sweeping views. Nearby, the Dambulla Cave Temple houses centuries-old Buddhist murals and over 150 statues. Together, these sites are a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s rich ancient past.
Jaffna – Northern Culture and Resilience
A journey to Jaffna opens doors to Sri Lanka’s Tamil heritage. Here you’ll find colorful Hindu temples, delicious northern cuisine, and the historic Jaffna Fort. The slower pace of life offers a unique perspective and a chance to witness resilience and cultural richness after years of civil conflict.
Nuwara Eliya – A Touch of England in the Tropics
Known as “Little England,” Nuwara Eliya is a highland town surrounded by tea plantations. Cool weather, colonial-era architecture, and attractions like Gregory Lake and Hakgala Botanical Gardens make it a refreshing retreat. Don’t miss touring a working tea factory to see how Sri Lanka’s world-famous Ceylon tea is produced.
Ella – Sri Lanka’s Scenic Gem
The journey to Ella by train is one of the most beautiful in the world, winding through emerald tea fields and misty hills. Once there, you can hike Little Adam’s Peak or Ella Rock, and marvel at the Nine Arches Bridge as trains chug across. With its mix of adventure, natural beauty, and a laid-back backpacker vibe, Ella is a highlight for many travelers.
Mirissa – Relaxation and Whale Watching
For those who crave beach time, Mirissa offers golden sand and turquoise waters perfect for swimming and surfing. It’s also one of the best spots in the world for whale watching—between November and April, you can see blue whales, sperm whales, and dolphins.
Yala National Park – A Safari Adventure
Home to elephants, sloth bears, crocodiles, and an impressive density of leopards, Yala National Park is a paradise for wildlife lovers. A jeep safari through its diverse landscapes offers unforgettable encounters with Sri Lanka’s wild side.
A Journey with Purpose and Adventure
Choosing to volunteer in Sri Lanka is more than just an opportunity to travel—it’s a way to create impact, forge bonds, and gain new perspectives. But pairing your program with exploration of Sri Lanka’s treasures makes the journey even more fulfilling. Whether you’re walking through ancient fortresses, sipping tea in misty highlands, or watching turtles hatch on sandy shores, your time here becomes a story of both giving and discovering.
If you’re ready to make a difference while exploring one of the most beautiful islands in the world, join us at Volunteer in Sri Lanka.
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