Volunteer in South India

  India

Bangalore,  Chennai (Madras),  Madurai

Term: Throughout the year 
Durations of Program: 2-4 weeks, 5-8 weeks and 9-12 weeks
Typical Duration of Program: 5-8 weeks
Dates: inquire for specific dates

Description: South India: famous for its lush jungles, white beaches, magnificent temples and a fantastic vegetarian cuisine, is everything you've imagined and more. Explore this unique region and its fascinating culture through ELI's extraordinary volunteer opportunities. We can place you with the most respected humanitarian organizations throughout South India. Choose from working with orphans, the mentally disabled or the elderly. Share your skills and experience with women's empowerment groups, join historic preservation efforts, get hands-on experience health clinics, hospitals and schools or tell us what you'd like to do and we'll try to custom-design a volunteer adventure just for you.

ELI's base in Chennai (formerly Madras) includes outstanding in-country support from English-speaking coordinators with years of experience in volunteerism. You may choose from a variety of destinations throughout the states of Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and Kerala, described by MSNBC as "lovely, incredibly cheap and one of the most peaceful places on the planet." The whole region is considered safe for travel by Westerners and English is widely spoken so language barriers are minimal. Discover this exotic destination, and discover yourself within its rich culture. We promise an unforgettable experience.

Highlights: All ELI Programs are set up on a completely individual basis according to the interests and skills of each participant and the current needs of the local organizations we work with.

Participants in India experience India's vibrant culture in one of the most exciting parts of the country. The rich cultural heritage of South India is evident in the colorful festivals, elaborate temples, and daily rituals.

ELI participants work with local organizations and have a rare opportunity to gain insight into the day to day workings of Indian organizations.

Cost in US$: Costs vary. Please contact us for details

Airport Pickup: Participants are met when they arrive at the airport in Chennai and brought to the program accommodation

In-Country Orientation: Each program starts with a 2-3 day orientation to help participants get their feet on the ground and able to navigate South India

In-country Staff Support: ELI's India coordinator has years of experience working with Volunteers, Interns, and Study Abroad Students. He is very resourceful and on call 24/7 in case of emergency.

Accommodations: Participants stay in housing associated with the project and are provided with three basic vegetarian meals a day.

Experience Required: no

Typical Volunteer: There is no typical ELI volunteer. We work with people from all over the world and a variety of backgrounds. ELI has placed volunteers ranging in age from 18-81. Successful volunteers are flexible, upbeat, energetic, and inquisitive.

Age Range: 18-70

This Program is open to Couples and Individuals

Participants Travel to India Independently

Typically Participants Work Independently

ELI-Experiential Learning International's Mission Statement: ELI's full name, Experiential Learning International, reflects our philosophy. We believe that the most compelling life lessons come through experience, and that international experiences are among the most profound influences on our sense of self and our view of the world. ELI facilitates flexible international learning programs for independent travelers by partnering with local organizations to give participants the opportunity to experience and contribute to sustainable ongoing local projects throughout the world.

Year Founded: 2001