The Sri Lanka Multi Challenge: Charity Challenge / Voluntourism / bespoke groups possible

  Sri Lanka

Kandy,  Nuwara Eliya

Duration of Program: 1-2 weeks
Typical Duration of Program: 1-2 weeks
Dates: November 2008 + other times available for bespoke group requests

Description: In this charity challenge, discover a land steeped in history and blessed with near-deserted sandy beaches, lush rainforests and a welcoming people. From the dramatic mountain-top fortress of Sigiriya and the former capital Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka boasts a rich cultural heritage. Finish off with the volunteer opportunity to spend some time assisting the local community in the Unawatuna region rebuild their lives in the wake of the terrible 2004 tsunami.

Highlights: From Sri Lanka's modern capital we head to previous seats of power, using a challenging combination of cycling and trekking. The first and oldest town we visit is the imposing citadel of Sigiriya, perched atop an impregnable and stunning monolithic rock. From here we journey forward in time over a thousand years to Polonnaruwa with its beautifully preserved ruins before arriving at Kandy, home to the famous 'Temple of the Tooth'. Eventually we arrive at Galle, a delightful walled city on the southern coast and the small fishing village of Unawatuna with its swaying palms and idyllic beach lifestyle which was so tragically shattered by the tsunami in 2004. Here we assist on various projects working alongside the local communities.

We work directly with a number of small-scale charities and local organizations to provide direct assistance where help is not otherwise available. Participants can choose to devote their time to a project which is relevant to their 'home' charity. Current projects include: a home for elderly men, an orphanage, a displacement school for tsunami victims, a school for deaf and blind children, a home for brain-injured children and a psychiatric hospital as well as environmental support such as tree planting and pollution clearing.

Qualifications: This is an open challenge, open to any individuals or groups alike. Bespoke groups trips also possible at other times - please get in touch.

No specific skills, education or certifications are necessary - just a desire to do something different and make a difference. However, as several days will be spent on the cycling and hiking physical challenge, a good level of fitness and physical ability is required.

Cost in US$: $3200 approx

Experience Required: no

Typical Volunteer: Anyone can be eligible: Our charity challenges are for anyone who wants to use their time to have a great time and do something positive, altruistic and with a meaningful purpose, as well as raise funds for their charity of choice.

Age Range: 18+

This Program is open to World Wide Participants. This Program is also open to Families, Couples and Individuals

Participants Travel to Sri Lanka Independently Or in Groups

Typically Participants Work in Groups

Application Process Involves:

• Other

Different Travel's Mission Statement: We are a volunteer and adventure travel and tourism group specialist, set up in the wake of the Asian Tsunami on 26th December 2004, offering bespoke group challenges and volunteer opportunities to work alongside local people on international development projects abroad combined with responsible travel and great accommodation. We make sure we work to meet the needs of the communities who welcome us into their world - and at the same time offer our travellers amazing experiences which will stay with them a lifetime.

Year Founded: 2004