Sri Lanka Renovation Project

Hangurenketha, Sri Lanka

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WEEKLY STARTING EVERY MONDAY

MINIMUM

1 WEEK 

PRICES FROM

£269

 

  • OVERVIEW

  • INCLUSIONS

  • FAQS

There are around 119 temples in and around a beautiful area in the hills of Sri Lanka, that require renovation and repair work. This project works to bring 10 temples back to life. Your work will include basic renovation, painting and restoration of artwork in and around the temples.

 

The latest projects are situated in a quiet little village, approximately an hour drive from Kandy. These projects take you deeper into the rural parts of Sri Lanka away from the noisy and overcrowded cities.

 

This is a village of tremendous historical significance, and although most of its palaces and temples were destroyed by invaders in the early part of the 19th century, there are still a large number of historical sites to be discovered. The village faces several problems such as the lack of clean drinking water, frequent power cuts, poorly staffed schools and run-down temples. And our effort is to assist the local community in restoring and saving these symbols of heritage and culture.

Shared standard accommodation 

3 meals per day on weekdays and 2 meals per day on weekends - delicious Sri Lankan cuisine and mainly vegetarian dishes

Water, tea and coffee

Airport pickup during the pickup window (Sunday 05:00-21:00)

24/7 support from our local team & ourselves

Start Dates & Minimum Duration

This volunteer program runs all year round and starts every Monday. However, we recommend arriving on the Sunday to check into your accommodation and prepare for your program to start the following morning.

 

Please note that program start dates could be affected by local holidays. However, we will give you as much notice as possible if any days of your program may overlap with holidays.

 

The minimum duration of this program is 1 week, please contact us if you would like to volunteer for longer.

What are the requirements to take part in this program?

The following requirements are necessary in order for both the participants, local staff and everyone involved to have a meaningful, enjoyable and safe community program:

  • Minimum age: 18
  • Proof of DBS check required
  • Passport copy required
  • Proof of travel insurance required
  • You don't need any qualifications or to have experience in constructions, but do consider this job requires physical strength and endurance in hot weather conditions.
  • High level of efficiency, accuracy, responsibility, team player, and ability to work under pressure
  • Excellent time management and organisation skills, and a strong desire to take on new challenges and learn as much as possible!

 

How many days and hours will I work?

Schedule:

This program runs every week throughout the year, starting on Mondays. After breakfast you will go to your project and start the renovation work. You will mainly engage in renovation and restoration activities during the project time. The work usually starts at 8.30 am and finishes around 2.30 pm, with lunch in between.

***This schedule can be changed and/or amended depending on weather conditions, local conditions and unforeseen circumstances.***

 

Duration:

Program duration is a minimum of 1 week and can be extended dependent on availability.

What tasks will I take part in?

Your work will include basic renovation, painting and restoration of artwork in and around the temples.

What is the accommodation like?

You will be accommodated in our centre which is located few kilometres away from the town centre. There is a beautiful garden to relax, and dining and lounge areas where you can hang out with other participants.

 

Standard rooms will be shared with between 4-10 other participants, and there will also be a shared bathroom.

 

There is a refrigerator which you are welcome to use to store food and drinks. Safety lockers are available to store your belongings.

 

The house is located a few kilometres away from the city center, where you can find anything you might need. The nearest ATM and supermarket are located a 15 minute walk away from the accommodation.

What can I do in my free time?
  • The village is located around a 1 hour drive from Kandy, and it's possible to arrange trips during your free time and weekends.
  • Gala Uda fortress: Diyatala Kanda is located near the city of Hanguranketha and is a well known mountain with historical value. The summit of the mountain commands a panoramic view over the surrounding region.
  • Potgul Maliga Maha Vihara: This Buddhist temple is one of the most visited religious sites in Hanguranketha. Some of the materials used for the construction are recovered from the Hanguranketha Palace, which was destroyed by the British.
  • Kitulpe Ranpatge Vihara: This Buddhist temple is one of the several temples that date back to the Anuradhapura (4 BC to 11 AD) period.
  • Panchanari Getaya: Panchanari Getaya is an example of fine craftsmanship of the ancient Sri Lankan artisans. It is a stone carving depicting five female dancers. This rare piece of stone carving is located near the Vishnu Devala.

What facilities will I have access to?
  • Laundry facilities at an extra cost
  • Safety lockers
  • Refrigerator
  • Bed linen
  • Fan

Is there a dress code?
  • Modest working clothes particularly if your placement takes place at the temples.
  • Participants with body tattoos will need to cover them and those who have visible piercings must take the ring/studs/etc out while at the placement.
  • Whenever you go into a school premises or during your placement, shoulders and knees must be covered.
  • The locals do tend to dress more conservatively, the safest choice of clothes to bring is "smart casual” as a great compliment and a sign of respect for their culture.
  • Comfortable sandals are a must, and should be easy to take off as most Sri Lankans do not wear shoes indoors.
  • Comfortable working clothes that you don't mind getting dirty and wet 
  • Bring a hat and sunglasses to protect from the heat, particularly during the construction activities.
  • Please also bring work gloves and sturdy shoes or boots, as you may take part in some heavy construction tasks.

Airport Pickup

An airport pick up is included on Sundays between 05:00-21:00. We recommend booking your flights to arrive during this pickup window.

 

If you're unable to make the pickup window, please contact us to let us know that you can make your own way to us, or arrange an additional pickup at an extra cost.

 

The arrival airport is CMB (Bandaranayake International Airport). The drive to your accommodation from the airport is around 5 hours.

Secure your spot for only £49!

PRICES FROM ONLY £269

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