Protection
of the World Heritage Site at Hampi
Hampi
February 13 - February 26, 2012
Hampi
August 6 - August 19, 2012
Hampi
November 12 - November 25, 2012
Volunteer project: Located in the central part of the state of Karnataka, in the southern part of India, Hampi is definitely one of the most interesting travel destinations on the map of India. It is famous for its ruins belonging to the erstwhile medieval Hindu kingdom of Vijayanagar, now declared a World Heritage site. The temples of Hampi, its monolithic sculptures and monuments are breathtaking. The Hindu style of architecture found at Hampi speaks of the splendor of the Vijayanagar Empire.
The volunteer projects in Hampi will primarily concentrate on the protection of
the cultural heritage sites of historical importance and on creating awareness among the locals
and the tourists. The volunteers will be involved in cleaning the
heritage surroundings, planting trees and plants, thereby converting dry
areas into beautiful spots for an eye to rest on.
An awareness walk or street play on culture and heritage conservation
will be performed by the volunteers. The work will require a lot of creativity
and motivation from the volunteers to convey the message through drama,
plays and other creative arts.
Language: English
Accommodation: At a guesthouse, in shared rooms.
Location: Hampi, North Karnataka, 350 km from Bangalore
and 13 km from Hospet.
Hampi Bazaar (the full name of the village) is accessible by bus from
Bangalore and Goa. The nearest train station is in Hospet (13 km). The
nearest international airports are Goa, Bangalore and Mumbai.
Age range: 18 and over
Extra fee: 12,500 Indian Rupees (about $240 US)
The extra fee is intended to support the hosting organization who does not have sufficient funds. It is due upon arrival on the project.
Teaching
children, raising awareness and renovating schools in Konark
Konark - Orissa
February 13 - February 26, 2012
Volunteer project: Konark, literally meaning “Essence of the Corners”, is a small town in Puri district in the state of Odisha (formerly Orissa), on the Bay of Bengal. It is the site of the 13th-century Sun Temple (also known as the Black Pagoda), built in AD 1236-1264. Konark is also home to an annual cultural dance festival devoted to classical Indian dance forms, including the traditional classical dance of Odisha. Konark beach is a popular tourist destination.
The volunteers in this project will be involved in teaching children from poor and marginalized communities in the formal and non-formal schools about basic English and Mathematics, Health and Hygiene, and Environmental protection through creative learning methods like art, music, games, etc. There will also be House visits and meetings with the local people to raise awareness on health, education and hygiene. Volunteers can take the school children to picnics and exposure visits in the town. In addition, volunteers will also help with some renovation work at local schools and orphanages including activities like painting, building playgrounds, planting trees, promoting rainwater harvesting, etc. As part of the cultural exchange, volunteers will witness and participate in the cultural programs with the local community.
Language: English
Accommodation: At a guesthouse, in shared rooms.
Location: Geographically marked by the latitude of 19°53'N and by the latitude of 86°06'E, Konark’s location is easy to identify on the map of Odisha. The temperature remains mild and suitable as a result of Konark's closeness to the sea. The legendary city is located 30 km north of Puri and 64 km from Bhubaneswar. It is accessible by bus from Puri and Bhubaneswar. The nearest train station is in Puri (30 km). The nearest international airports are Bhubaneswar and Kolkata.
Age range: 18 and over
Extra fee: 9,500 Indian Rupees (about $180 US)
The extra fee is intended to support the hosting organization who does not have sufficient funds. It is due upon arrival on the project.
Ayurveda
and Yoga experience
Kerala March 5 -
March 25, 2012
Kerala April 2 -
April 22, 2012
Kerala June 4 -
June 24, 2012
Kerala July 2 -
July 22, 2012
Kerala August 6 -
August 26, 2012
Kerala September
10 - September 30, 2012
Kerala October 1 -
October 21, 2012
Kerala November 5
- November 25, 2012
Kerala December 3
- December 23, 2012
Volunteer project: Ayurveda is a 5000 years old Indian health care system that is widely practiced even today. "Ayur" in Sanskrit means "life" and "Veda" means "science". It is a perfect Science of health and longevity. This holistic science is the knowledge of complete balance of the Body, Mind and Spirit, including the emotions and psychology, on all levels. It includes in its consideration, longevity, rejuvenation and self-realization therapies through herbs, diet, exercise, yoga, massage, aromas, tantras, mantras, and meditation. According to Ayurvedic tradition, health is the balance of elements air, earth, fire, and water, and illness is an excess or deficiency of any particular element. Ayurveda treats illness at its source, rather than at the level of symptoms, and helps an individual to take responsibility for their own health and well-being. Ayurveda is also known as 'Ashtanga Veda' (the word literally means 'Eight branches of knowledge') as it is divided into eight specialized branches.
Yoga is a complete science of life that originated in India several thousands of years ago. It is the oldest system of personal development in the world, encompassing the entire Body, Mind and Spirit. It is the union between a person's own consciousness and the universal consciousness. The classical techniques of Yoga date back more than 5000 years. The word Yoga means "to join or yoke together," and it brings the body and mind together into one harmonious experience.
The volunteers will be learning the Basics of Yoga and Ayurveda in the three weeks of the project. Every day, there will be topics covered by a professional master (the person in charge of yoga and ayurveda classes), which will be practiced by the volunteers. Yoga will be practiced every day.
Apart from this, volunteers will also help in creating awareness among the locals on issues like Health and Hygiene, environmental protection, solid waste management etc. Volunteers will need to be creative in their approach to give out the message through dramas and street plays. Volunteers who participate in this project need to bring materials and ideas for the program, after which the whole group will chalk out a plan of action.
Language: English
Accommodation: At a guesthouse, in shared rooms.
Location: Kannur, Kerala, South India. The state of Kerala is accessible by air, domestic and some international airlines. Trains and buses operate on an everyday basis from almost all major towns/cities in South India.
The culture of Kerala is a synthesis of Dravidian and Aryan cultures, developed and mixed for centuries, under influences from overseas lands. It is defined by its antiquity and the organic continuity sustained by the Malayali people. Modern Kerala society took shape owing to migrations from different parts of India throughout Classical Antiquity. Kerala trace its non-prehistoric cultural genesis to its membership (around the 3rd century BC) in a vaguely-defined historical region known as Thamizhagom — a land defined by a common Tamil. The culture of Kerala evolved through the Sanskritization of Dravidian ethos, revivalism of religious movements and reform movements against case discrimination. Kerala showcases a culture unique to itself developed through accommodation, acculturation and assimilation of various faculties of civilized lifestyle. It has had long periods of insular existence. This has resulted in the distinctiveness of their language, dress, culture and institutions.
Age range: 18 and over
Extra fee: 15,000 Indian Rupees (about $290 US)
The extra fee is intended to support the hosting organization who does not have sufficient funds. It is due upon arrival on the project.
Cadip volunteer project review:
"I thoroughly enjoyed the
3 wk. project in South India. I didn't want it to end. As I am very
passionate about children, yoga, and holistic modalities this was the
perfect project for me. I also met new international friends and had
many cultural exchanges with them and the children at St. Mary's school.
This was a life changing experience for me and I plan to return to India
in the future to study and live at a yoga ashram. I was fortunate enough
to visit and stay at Amma's ashram near Allepey for a couple of days
after the project finished. I personally think Kerala, South India is
pure love! The head sister at the school was so warm and welcoming as
were the people in Kannur. We learned about some of the Indian
traditions and celebrations from our coordinator and team leader as
well. I highly recommend this project if you are passionate about
children, holistic practices and have an open mind.
Thank you."
Lisa Z.,
Cadip volunteer 2010
Learn
about Tibetan culture, support a local school and hike in the Himalayas
Dharamsala
March 5 - March 25, 2012
Dharamsala
April 9 - April 29, 2012
Dharamsala
June 4 - June 24, 2012
Dharamsala
July 9 - July 29, 2012
Dharamsala
August 6 - August 26, 2012
Dharamsala
September 10 - September 30, 2012
Dharamsala
October 8 - October 28, 2012
Dharamsala
November 5 - November 25, 2012
Volunteer project: Valleys of the Himalayas - where the heaven meets the earth. This small paradise is home to His Holiness the Dalai Lama and to a significant Tibetan settlement in India. Dharamsala is set in the backdrop of the snow-clad peaks of Dhauladhar Mountains. It is the capital of the Tibetan Government in exile and the residence of the Dalai Lama.
In the first two weeks of the project, the volunteers will get the opportunity to learn about the Tibetan culture and the different issues related to the exile of its people and the re-settlement in India. There will be cultural activities and exchange with the Tibetan Youth with the support of the Tibetan Welfare Office. The project will also include an awareness campaign for the protection of the environment and solid waste management in cooperation with the Tibetan Welfare Office. Furthermore, the volunteers will support a local Indian/Tibetan school in need of simple renovation work and interact with the school children. The renovation work will vary and may include gardening and tree planting, kitchen renovation, compost pits, painting, classroom flooring, renovating children's playground, etc.
On the third week of the project, the volunteers will take part in a 4-day trekking activity around the mountains of Dharamsala and Triund.
Language: English
Accommodation: At a guesthouse, in shared rooms.
Location: Dharamsala, Himachal Pradesh, North India,
500 km north of Delhi.
Dharamsala is accessible by bus on a daily basis from New Delhi and
other smaller cities of North India. The nearest train stations are
Pathankot and Kangra Mandir. Delhi is the nearest international airport.
Age range: 18 and over
Extra fee: 15,000 Indian Rupees (about $290 US)
The extra fee is intended to support the hosting organization who does not have sufficient funds. It is due upon arrival on the project.
Support
schools for tribal children and spread environmental awareness in Kabini
forest reserve
Mysore
March 12 - March 25, 2012
Volunteer project: Kabini is one of the most popular wildlife destinations of Karnataka, probably because of its easy accessibility, lush green landscape surrounding a large picturesque lake, and fantastic sightings of large herds of elephants.
Presently the tribal people in this area live outside the forest (mostly on its fringes), being forced out by laws, which they are yet to come to terms with. The entire tribal population had to be forced out twice from their settled habitation by the construction of the Kabini reservoir and the Forest conservation acts. This, apart from producing tremendous psychological stress, coupled with changing economic demands, rendered the traditional education that the tribal child was getting obsolete and woefully inadequate to equip it for facing an inhospitable and culturally complex world.
The international volunteer group will work with several local NGOs and tribal groups to create awareness among the tribal villages; working with local schools in teaching English, building playgrounds and assisting various underprivileged schools. The volunteers will be assigned to create awareness on solid waste management among school going children. They will also be involved in activities such as creative education and teaching basic English and Math through games, art and songs to the children from the local schools. The assignment would include some degree of manual work for the renovation of the schools and improving the school infrastructure such as painting and building playgrounds.
Language: English
Accommodation: In a guest house, in shared rooms.
Location: Kabini wildlife sanctuary, situated on the banks of River Kabini, features a large quaint lake surrounded by verdant landscape. It is 80 kilometres away from Mysore and 205 kilometres from Bangalore. It comprises of the south-eastern part of Nagarole National Park. Situated on the banks of River Kabini, this forest reserve is spread over 55 acres of forestland, steep valleys, and water bodies. Once a private hunting lodge of the Maharaja (Emperor) of Mysore, Kabini was a popular shikar (hunting) hotspot for British Viceroys and Indian royalty. Now it is considered to be one of the best wildlife sanctuaries in Karnataka and famous for its spectacular wildlife and bird life. Kabini is an ideal place for tourists to pitch their camps and plan out a trek to Kumara Parvatha or Tadiyadamol nearby. Kabini backwaters are an ideal camping site that allows tourists to let down their hair and enjoy the pristine surroundings.
Mysore is about 140 km from Bangalore. Bangalore is accessible by air, domestic and some international airlines fly directly to Bangalore International Airport. Trains and buses operate on an everyday basis from almost all major towns/cities in South India.
Age range: 18 and over
Extra fee: 9,500 Indian Rupees (about $180 US)
The extra fee is intended to support the hosting organization who does not have sufficient funds. It is due upon arrival on the project.
Rural development projects in the scenic region
of Coorg
Coorg
March 12 - March 25, 2012
Coorg
August 6 - August 19, 2012
Volunteer project: Coorg or Kodagu (originally called Kodaimalenadu) means “dense forest on a steep hill”. It is a rural district located near the city of Mysore (Karnataka State) amidst a scenery of misty hills, lush forests, acres and acres of tea and coffee plantation, orange groves, undulating streets and breathtaking views. This is one of the most beautiful places in India, completely surrounded by nature! The district is not only unique in the types of vegetation but also in respect of the management of tree growth in the different land tenures of which there are 38 types.
The Coorg District accounts for a heavy concentration of tribal population; 90% of the tribes in Coorg subsist on their traditional economic system of hunting and gathering minor forest produces besides attempting subsistence farming. However, a part of the tribal life and culture in Coorg nowadays has become more or less homogeneous to the rural life of Coorg in general. The tribal life and culture in Coorg Karnataka is best reflected in their fairs and festivals. Much of the fairs and festivals in Coorg concern the worship of local deities. The harvest festival - Huthri - is also an important name on the festival map of Coorg.
Kodagu also has all the environmental problems associated with an ecologically, culturally and economically conducive place of human settlement. The major issues are related to a) lack of a comprehensive forest policy for Kodagu; b) monoculture and exotic tree species; c) depletion of soil nutrients; d) water pollution; e) solid waste; f) human-animal conflict.
The international volunteer projects in Coorg will focus on environmental protection, afforestation, tree planting, working with different local NGOs to spread health and hygiene awareness among the tribal villages. The project involves assisting in various underprivileged schools by teaching English, health and hygiene, and building playgrounds. The activities will vary and will involve some manual work.
Language: English
Accommodation: In the project home base, in shared rooms.
Location: In villages located in the District of Kodagu (Coorg), Karnataka State. Coorg is accessible from Mysore, Bangalore or Mangalore by bus. Bangalore has an international airport.
Age range: 18 and over
Extra fee: 9,500 Indian Rupees (about $180 US)
The extra fee is intended to support the hosting organization who does not have sufficient funds. It is due upon arrival on the project.
Teaching
children and renovating school facilities in Mount Abu
Rajasthan - Mount Abu
April 9 - April 22, 2012
Rajasthan - Mount Abu
August 13 - August 26, 2012
Volunteer project: Rajasthan was inhabited long before
2500 BC and the Indus Valley Civilization had its foundation here in
north Rajasthan itself. Around 1400 BC the Aryans paid a visit and
settled forever in the area. The local population was pushed down south
and towards the east. Afghans, Turks, Persians and Mughals followed in
mixing their blood, first in war then in peace, with the existing
original inhabitants. This blending gave the martial lineage to the
Rajputs.
Mount Abu is the highest peak in the Aravalli range and the only hill station in Rajasthan state. The mountain forms a distinct rocky plateau 22 km long by 9 km wide. The highest peak on the mountain is Guru Shikhar at 1722 metres above sea level. It is referred to as an 'oasis in the desert', as its heights are home to rivers, lakes, waterfalls and evergreen forests. Mount Abu is home to a number of Jain temples.
This volunteer project involves teaching basic English and Mathematics, Health and Hygiene, and Environmental protection to children from poor and marginalized communities in the non-formal schools. The volunteers will be teaching through creative learning methods like art, music, games etc. There will also be House visits and meetings with rural people to spread awareness about health, education and hygiene. Volunteers can take the school children to places in the city like picnics, exposure visits and city walks. Also, the volunteers will get a chance to take part in the renovation work at local schools and orphanages, and engage in activities like painting, building playgrounds, tree plantation, promoting rainwater harvesting, etc.
Language: English
Accommodation: At a guesthouse, in shared rooms.
Location: Mount Abu is located in the State of Rajasthan and is accessible by domestic airlines. Trains and buses operate on a daily basis from New Delhi and Mumbai.
Age range: 18 and over
Extra fee: 12,500 Indian Rupees (about $240 US)
The extra fee is intended to support the hosting organization who does not have sufficient funds. It is due upon arrival on the project.
Promoting
sustainable agriculture and rural development in Mysore
Mysore
April 16 - April 29, 2012
Volunteer project: Mysore is a city in the state of Karnataka in Southern India. It was the erstwhile capital of the Wodeyar Dynasty and is considered the cultural capital of the state. The city has recorded history dating back a thousand years and a mythical history which explains the origin of the name - apparently, this was the place where the demon Mahishasura was slain by the Goddess Chamundi. You will find a statue of the demon on Chamundi hill which commemorates this event.
Climate change, hunger and poverty, loss of biodiversity, forest destruction, water crises, and food safety – what all these threats have in common is that a principal cause for each of them is in the way we produce, trade, consume and discard food and other agricultural products. We have more and more food stocked in supermarket aisles, while one quarter of humanity goes hungry.
In this project we will work along with different organizations involved in the agricultural development of the farmers. Our aim is to create awareness among the people and to give them more instruments to feel confident and free to decide for their future, and for the future of a new generation. The kind of schedule and the focus of the project will be adapted to the season, the possibilities and the needs of the moment so as to improve the achievements in a long-term perspective.
Language: English
Accommodation: In a guest house, in shared rooms.
Location: Mysore Rural & Urban, South India. Mysore is
about 140 km from Bangalore.
Bangalore is accessible by air, domestic and some international airlines
fly directly to Bangalore International Airport. Trains and buses
operate on an everyday basis from almost all major towns/cities in South
India.
Age range: 18 and over
Extra fee: 9,500 Indian Rupees (about $180 US)
The extra fee is intended to support the hosting organization who does not have sufficient funds. It is due upon arrival on the project.
Bring
knowledge and opportunity to underprivileged communities in Kundapur
Kundapur
June 4 - June 17, 2012
Kundapur
July 9 - July 22, 2012
Kundapur
August 20 - September 2, 2012
Volunteer project: Kundapur is a town in Udupi district in the Indian state of Karnataka. It is the headquarters of Kundapur Taluk and is about 36 kilometers away from Udupi. This is one of the prime locations for international volunteer initiatives and development interventions in partnership with the local NGOs and civil society organisations.
In this project, we will work along with different organisations involved in the development of the underprivileged. Our aim is to create awareness among the people and enable them to decide for their future and for the future of a new generation. The volunteers will cooperate with several local NGOs in assisting various government schools by creating awareness on environment, health and hygiene; work with local schools in teaching basic English and Math through creative learning methods; renovation of school buildings, playgrounds, painting, tree planting etc.
The mission of this project is to:
• Organize a multi-purpose project to involve the community and
sensitize the local people on Health & Hygiene problems.
• Educate the children to build a better and more conscious society.
• Raise awareness of environmental issues among children and villagers.
• Work with other NGO’s in community service projects.
The schedule and the focus of each project will be adapted to the season, the possibilities and the needs at the moment, with the aim to improve the achievements in a long term view. The work could be with orphans, school kids, street or slum children.
Language: English
Accommodation: In a guesthouse, in shared rooms.
Location: Kundapura is surrounded by water from three sides. It is well connected to other parts of the country by National Highway -17. Kundapura is also connected by the Konkan Railway, which runs from Mumbai to Mangalore. The nearest airport is Mangalore International Airport, around 100 km from Kundapura.
Age range: 18 and over
Extra fee: 9,500 Indian Rupees (about $180 US)
The extra fee is intended to support the hosting organization who does not have sufficient funds. It is due upon arrival on the project.
Various
community service projects in rural and urban Bangalore
Bangalore
June 11 - June 24, 2012
Volunteer project: In this project, volunteers will work along with different organizations involved in the development of the underprivileged. Our aim is to create awareness among the people and to give them more instruments to feel confident and free to decide for their future, and for the future of a new generation. Previous volunteer groups have assisted various government schools by spreading awareness about the environment and health and hygiene; working with local schools in teaching basic English and Math through creative learning methods; helped with some renovations like building playgrounds, painting, tree planting etc.
The mission of this project is to:
• Organize a multi-purpose project to involve the community and
sensitize local people about the Health & Hygiene problems.
• Educate the children to build a better and more conscious society.
• Spreading awareness of environmental issues among children and
villagers.
• Working with other NGOs in community service projects.
The schedule and the focus of the project will be adapted to the season, the possibilities and the needs at the moment, with the aim to improve the achievements in a long term view. The work could be with orphans, school kids, street or slum children.
Language: English
Accommodation: In the project home base, in shared
rooms.
Location: Bangalore rural & urban, South India. Bangalore is accessible by air, domestic and some international airlines fly directly to Bangalore International Airport. Trains and buses operate on an everyday basis from almost all major towns/cities in South India.
Age range: 18 and over
Extra fee: 9,500 Indian Rupees (about $180 US)
The extra fee is intended to support the hosting organization who does not have sufficient funds. It is due upon arrival on the project.
Yoga
and Meditation in the holy city of Rishikesh
Uttarakhand - Rishikesh
July 2 - July 15, 2012
Volunteer project: Rishikesh is a city and a municipal board in Dehradun district in the Indian state of Uttarakhand. Located in the foothills of the Himalayas in northern India, it is known as The Gateway to the Himalayas. It is located around 45 km north of another holy city, Haridwar. The city attracts hundreds of thousands of pilgrims and tourists each year, from within India, as well as from other countries. It is a vegetarian city by law, an alcohol-free city, and has also banned the use of plastic bags. Rishikesh, sometimes nicknamed "the world capital of Yoga", has numerous Yoga centres that also attract tourists. Rishikesh is world famous for rafting and adventure.
The volunteers will be learning the basics of Yoga and Meditation during the project. Every day there will be topics covered by a professional master (the person in charge of yoga and meditation classes), which will be practiced by the volunteers.
Apart from this, volunteers will also help in creating awareness among the locals on issues like health and hygiene, environmental protection, eco-clubs, eco-tourism, solid waste management etc. Volunteers need to be creative in their approach to give out the message through drama and street plays. Volunteers who participate in this project need to bring materials and ideas for the programme upon arrival, after which the whole group will chalk out a plan of action decided by the team.
Language: English
Accommodation: At a guest house, in shared rooms
Location: Rishikesh is in close proximity of Dehradun’s
s Jolly Grant Airport (about 15 km)
- a small, quiet and recently
renovated airport handling just two flights from Delhi. A quiet branch
line connects Rishikesh to Haridwar, but there are only about three slow
trains daily. From Delhi the city is about 230 km away and is well
connected with buses. A bus journey may take about 5 to 7 hours.
Age range: 18 and over
Extra fee: 12,500 Indian Rupees (about $240 US)
The extra fee is intended to support the hosting organization who does not have sufficient funds. It is due upon arrival on the project.
Rural
development and environmental awareness projects in Rajastan
Rajasthan - Jodhpur
July 2 - July 15, 2012
Rajasthan - Jodhpur
December 3 - December 16, 2012
Volunteer project: Rajasthan was inhabited long before 2500 BC and the Indus Valley Civilization had its foundation here in north Rajasthan itself. Around 1400 BC the Aryans paid a visit and settled forever in the area. The local population was pushed down south and towards the east. Afghans, Turks, Persians and Mughals followed in mixing their blood, first in war then in peace, with the existing original inhabitants. This blending gave the martial lineage to the Rajputs (member of any of several powerful Hindu landowning and military lineages).
Jodhpur is a popular tourist destination featuring many palaces, forts and temples. The city is known as the Sun City for the bright sunny weather it enjoys all year. It is also referred as the Blue City due to the indigo tinge of the whitewashed houses around the Mehrangarh Fort. Culture and lifestyle in Jodhpur is quite fascinating. Lending a romantic aura to Jodhpur, are its exquisite handicrafts, folk dances, folk music and the brightly attired people. The desert people are quite affable. The famous Marwar festival brings out the festive spirits of the people of this city.
The volunteer projects here will be organised with the cooperation of local community for rural development and watershed management, environmental education and working together with local villages in rural development projects. Most of the schools around Jodhpur lack basic infrastructure like a school building, education materials, playgrounds and drinking water. Volunteers can make a big difference in the daily lives of these children by spending time with them and working to provide the necessities listed above.
Language: English
Accommodation: At a guesthouse, in shared rooms.
Location: Jodhpur and neighboring regions, State of Rajasthan. Accessible by domestic airlines. Trains and buses operate on a daily basis from New Delhi and Mumbai.
Age range: 18 and over
Extra fee: 9,500 Indian Rupees (about $180 US)
The extra fee is intended to support the hosting organization who does not have sufficient funds. It is due upon arrival on the project.
Heritage
conservation and awareness work at the Badami Cave Temples
Badami
July 16 - July 29, 2012
Volunteer
project: Historically Badami or Vatapi was the centre of
ancient Chalukyan glory. It is located at a distance of about 500 km
from Bangalore and is a Taluk in the Bagalkot district of Karnataka. It
was founded in 540 A.D. by Pulakesi-I (535-566 AD), an early ruler of
the Chalukyas. Badami, today a sleepy little town on a red sandstone
ridge, was once the capital of the great Chalukyan Empire that
controlled most of Peninsular India between the 4th and 8th centuries
AD. The Chalukyas are credited with some of the best traditions of
Dravidian architecture including an experimental blend of older South
Indian temple architecture and the Nagara style of north India. Badami
is home to several rock-cut temples and structural temples.
The volunteer project in Badami will concentrate on the protection of the cultural heritage and the sites of historical importance and on creating awareness among the locals and the tourists. The volunteers will be involved in cleaning the heritage surroundings, planting trees and plants, thereby converting dry areas into beautiful spots for an eye to rest on. The awareness activities will require a lot of creativity and motivation from the volunteers to convey the message through dramas, and plays and other creative arts.
Language: English
Accommodation: In a guest house, in shared rooms
Location: Badami (Kannada), formerly known as Vatapi, is a town and headquarters of a taluk by the same name, in the Bagalkot district of Karnataka, India. It is famous for its rock cut and other structural temples. It is located in a ravine at the foot of a rugged, red sandstone outcrop that surrounds Agastya lake. Bangalore is the nearest international airport.
Age range: 18 and over
Extra fee: 9,500 Indian Rupees (about $180 US)
The extra fee is intended to support the hosting organization who does not have sufficient funds. It is due upon arrival on the project.
Teach
in schools and explore the mountains of Himachal Pradesh
Himachal Pradesh - Manali
July 16 - July 29, 2012
Volunteer project: Manali (altitude of 6,398 feet), in the Beas River Valley, is an important hill station in the mountains of Himachal Pradesh, India, near the northern end of the Kullu Valley. It is located about 250 km north of the state capital Shimla. The small town was the beginning of an ancient trade route to Ladakh. Manali and the surrounding area is of great significance to Indian culture and heritage as it is said to be the home of the Saptarshi, or Seven Sages. It is known for the beautiful pristine forest of Nehru Park and serves as a base camp for trekking and mountaineering expeditions.
The volunteer project involves teaching children from poor and marginalised communities in non-formal schools about basic English and Mathematics, Health and Hygiene, and Environmental protection through creative learning methods like art, music, games, etc. There will also be home visits and meetings with the rural people to raise awareness on health, education and hygiene. Volunteers can take the school children out for picnics and exposure visits. The volunteers will help in the renovation of local schools and orphanages including painting, building playgrounds, planting trees, promoting rainwater harvesting, etc.
The volunteers will also take part in a four-day trekking activity in the mountains of Himachal Pradesh.
Language: English
Accommodation: At a guesthouse, in shared rooms.
Location: Manali is well connected by road to Delhi through NH-21. It is not easily approachable by rail. The nearest broad gauge railheads are at Chandigarh (315 kilometres) from Pathankot. The nearest airport is at Bhuntar, which is about 50 kilometres from Manali. Currently, Kingfisher Red operates daily nonstop services from Delhi, Air India provides twice a week nonstop services and MDRL Airlines provides services to Delhi six days a week.
Age range: 18 and over
Extra fee: 12,500 Indian Rupees (about $240 US)
The extra fee is intended to support the hosting organization who does not have sufficient funds. It is due upon arrival on the project.
Promoting
public health dialogue through forum theatre
Bangalore and Mysore
August 6 - August 26, 2012
Volunteer project: Public health dialogue on public health issues is becoming increasingly important for improving the health status of the people in India. The project “Health on Stage” is the continuation and the follow up of global effort to mobilize the local community for public health dialogue. It is a unique model that attempts to pool up international volunteers and engage them in an intensive dialogue with local community by using “forum theatre” as the medium for communication.
Health on stage will be implemented in slums of Bangalore and rural areas in Mysore. Water related issues and water borne diseases will be the important components of Health on Stage programme. The volunteers, split in groups, will perform forum theatre and promote Health on Stage.
After a brief inter-cultural exchange and learning the applications of ‘forum theatre’, the volunteers of “Health on Stage” would perform, focusing on public health with all its social and cultural dimensions. Under the broader framework of Water and Public Health, a wide range of local issues will be taken up for dialogue and seeking solutions. Hygiene and sanitation, waterborne diseases, preventive and curative aspects of health, water and environment, water conservation, indigenous water purification measures will be the issues to be dealt with.
The forum theatre will not be so much language based; it will predominantly be body language and action based communications. Initially the volunteers would spend time in social mapping to identify the local water and health issues and through forum theatre analyze the issues with the community and design locally available solutions. This will trigger the thought of the people and they would realize that it is they who are principally responsible to find out locally available solutions to their numerous water and public health problems.
Language: English
Accommodation: In a guest house, in shared rooms
Location: In Bangalore: Bangalore Rural & Urban, South
India
Bangalore is accessible by air, domestic and some international airlines
fly directly to Bangalore International Airport. Trains and buses
operate on an everyday basis from almost all major towns/cities in South
India.
In Mysore: Mysore Rural & Urban, South India. Mysore is about 140 kilometres from Bangalore.
Age range: 18 and over
Extra fee: 15,000 Indian Rupees (about $290 US)
The extra fee is intended to support the hosting organization who does not have sufficient funds. It is due upon arrival on the project.
Raising
awareness for the conservation of the unique Chilka Lake ecosystem
Orissa
August 20 - September 2, 2012
Volunteer project: Chilka Lake is a brackish water lagoon, spread over the Puri, Khurda and Ganjam districts of Odisha (formerly Orissa) state on the east coast of India (Bay of Bengal). It is the largest coastal lagoon in India and the second largest lagoon in the World. It is the largest wintering ground for migratory birds on the Indian sub-continent. The lake is home to a number of threatened species of plants and animals. The lake is an ecosystem with large fishery resources. It sustains more than 150,000 fisher–folk living in 132 villages on the shore and islands. The lagoon hosts over 160 species of birds in the peak migratory season.
In 1981, Chilka Lake was designated the first Indian wetland of international importance. Over the years, the ecosystem of the lake encountered several problems and threats such as: 1) Siltation due to littoral drift and sediments from the inland river systems; 2) Shrinkage of water surface area; 3) Choking of the inlet channel as well as shifting of the mouth connecting to the sea; 4) Decrease in salinity and fishery resources; 5) Proliferation of fresh water invasive species; and 6) An overall loss of biodiversity with decline in productivity adversely affecting the livelihood of the community that depended on it.
To address these environmental issues, international volunteers will help raise awareness on the need of promotion and conservation of eco-systems. Taking a sustainable approach, the group will engage in various environmentally friendly activities in the community by adopting the strategies of home visits, survey, community based organisations training, advocacy and campaigning. They will help with green youth group development, cotton bag promotion, implementing of small scale Eco projects and creative activities as per the needs. The volunteers are encouraged to bring in their new ideas for innovations, suggestions and creativity to the project. The project activities include school sessions, Eco-friendly Street and Eco clubs, and community work.
Language: English
Accommodation: At a guesthouse, in shared rooms.
Location: Chilka Lake, located in the heart of coastal Odisha, is situated along the district borders of Pun, Khurda and Ganjam of Orissa. Chilka Lake is a popular tourist destination. The nearest airport is Bhubaneswar, which is about 120 km away from the Chilka. The nearest rail station is at Balugaon, on the Howrah-Chennai track. From Balugaon buses are available to the lake. By road, a part of Chilka Lake is visible from NH5 and the Howrah-Chennai train track. Many buses ply from Bhubaneswar.
Age range: 18 and over
Extra fee: 9,500 Indian Rupees (about $180 US)
The extra fee is intended to support the hosting organization who does not have sufficient funds. It is due upon arrival on the project.
Developing
a model eco-village in the outskirts of Chennai
Chennai
September 3 - September 16, 2012
Volunteer project: Chennai, formerly known as Madras is the capital city of the Indian state of Tamil Nadu, located on the Coromandel Coast off the Bay of Bengal. Chennai is the 4th most populous metropolitan area and the 5th most populous city in India, and also the world's 36th largest metropolitan area. Chennai is a major centre for music, art and culture in India. The city is known for its classical dance shows and Hindu temples. It has a vibrant theatre scene and is an important centre for Carnatic music, as well as Bharatanatyam (a classical dance form that originated in Tamil Nadu).
The Model Village Project was initiated in 8 villages of Chennai.
Environmental degradation was one of the major issues in Chennai. To
address environmental issues, the volunteers will adopt one Model
Village to create awareness on the need of recycling and organic compost
making by engaging the local community. We'll get the residents to
separate their garbage and the volunteers will visit regularly to ensure
locals understand the need of this activity and carry it out. This is a
small scale model to trial the scheme and in future we hope it will be
replicated and scaled up for the benefit of many. Taking a sustainable
approach to Eco friendly activities in the community, by adopting the
strategies of home visit, survey, community based organisations
training, advocacy and campaign, green youth group development, cotton
bag promotion, implementing of small scale Eco projects as per the need
and other creative, need-based activities will be undertaken in the days
of the project. The volunteers are encouraged to bring in their
innovations, suggestions and creativity to the project. There are no
limitations so far as development is concerned. However, scheduled work
(school sessions, Eco-friendly street, Eco clubs and
community work)
will be the usual events for the volunteers to participate in.
Language: English
Accommodation: In the project home base, in shared rooms.
Location: In the 8 villages of the Model Village Project, which is located in Kanchipuram district (about 30 km from Chennai city). Kanchipuram is popular for its world famous silk saris and temples. Chennai has an international airport and is accessible from Mysore and Bangalore by bus and train.
Age range: 18 and over
Extra fee: 9,500 Indian Rupees (about $180 US)
The extra fee is intended to support the hosting organization who does not have sufficient funds. It is due upon arrival on the project.
Cadip volunteer project review:
"Dear CADIP, I wanted to
thank you for providing me the opportunity to experience a piece of the
Indian Life. I attended workcamp in India during the month of August
where our main objectives were to learn about the social and health
problems affecting Indians, teach basic knowledge about environmental
health, and help paint an elementary school in desperate need of a
facelift. I wanted to share some of my memorable moments with the CADIP
family.
Most of the day was spent
at either school in Thirineermalai or at the School in Chrombet. In the
morning we painted at Thiruneermalai and in the afternoon we taught
environmental lessons in Chrombet. The evenings were reserved for
cultural events, informal meetings with local government ministers, team
meetings, and special dinners where we learned a lot about the inner
workings of the culture – such as how Indians serve their guest first,
watch you while you eat, then take food after the guests are finished.
Taking the time to glance
from the ground during our hour long walk to the elementary school in
Thiruneermalai, one could not help but be amazed at the colorful saris
worn by the women. It became easier as days passed to distinguish
economic status of a person by the type and quality of the sari – i.e.
more expensive saris were made of fine silk and adorned with intricate
beading.
Other great moment was
the visit to the village of the students in Thirineermalai, which is a
poor town of Chennai. This put a human perspective on the way people
deal with their current realities. There was also the trip to
Mamalapurium, a touristy location, but not without its insights. For
example, for the first time during the work camp I saw a garbage can in
India. It was empty. There were many talks, interviews, and discussions
concerning cultural habits that may contribute to the waste problems in
India, and also how India hopes to change perception of waste
management.
There were many others
things to describe as well: the Hindu Temples, the Jain, the unique way
in which Indians eat food – they eat everything with their hands, and so
did I – from the intricate caste system that was present as we ate our
dinner in a minister’s luxury home while the help hid from view and ate
scraps in their corridor, to the invisible people who clean the trash in
the street and the many, many street vendors selling fruit and
everything imaginable.
My time in Chennai, India
was short, but heavily concentrated with rich cultural events. It was
not all fun and games, we literally worked. But we learned every step of
the way, each day a little more about the Incredible India. Thank you
CADIP for making this opportunity possible."
Murphy C.,
Cadip volunteer 2009
Recycling
awareness campaign in Kundapur
Kundapur
September 10 - September 23, 2012
Volunteer project: Kundapur is a town in Udupi district in the Indian state of Karnataka. It is the headquarters of Kundapur Taluk and is about 36 kilometers away from Udupi. Invariably this is one of the prime locations for international volunteer initiatives and development interventions in partnership with the local NGOs and civil society organisations.
Environment degradation is one of the major issues at Kundapur. To address the environmental issues, the volunteer group will adopt one street in Kundapur and will help raising awareness on the need of recycling and organic compost making by engaging the local community. We'll get the residents to separate their garbage and the volunteers will visit them regularly to ensure locals understand the need of this activity and carry it out. This street is a small scale model to trial this scheme and in future we hope it will be replicated and scaled up for the benefit of many. It is the process of sustainability approach of Eco friendly activities in the community, by adopting the strategies of home visit, survey, community based organisations training, advocacy and campaign, green youth group development, cotton bag promotion, implementing of small scale Eco projects as per the need and other creative, need-based activities will be undertaken in the days to come. The volunteers are encouraged to bring in their innovations, suggestions and creativity to the project. There are no limitations to this project in so far as development is concerned. The volunteers will take part in school sessions, Eco-friendly street and Eco clubs, and community work as part of the scheduled project activities.
Language: English
Accommodation: In a guesthouse, in shared rooms.
Location: Kundapura is surrounded by water from three sides. It is well connected to other parts of the country by National Highway -17. Kundapura is also connected by the Konkan Railway, which runs from Mumbai to Mangalore. The nearest airport is Mangalore International Airport, around 100 km from Kundapura.
Age range: 18 and over
Extra fee: 9,500 Indian Rupees (about $180 US)
The extra fee is intended to support the hosting organization who does not have sufficient funds. It is due upon arrival on the project.
Educational
activities and better school environment for children from poor
communities
Rajasthan - Udaipur
September 17 - September 30, 2012
Volunteer project: Udaipur, also known as the City of Lakes, is a Municipal Council and the administrative headquarters of the Udaipur district in the state of Rajasthan in India. It is located 403 km southwest of the state capital, Jaipur, 248 km west of Kota, and 250 km northeast of Ahmedabad. Apart from its history, culture, and scenic locations, it is also known for its Rajput-era palaces. It is often called the "Venice of the East".
The group will work with children from poor and marginalised communities in the non-formal schools. The volunteers will teach the kids basic English and Mathematics, Health and Hygiene, and Environmental protection through creative learning methods like art, music, games, etc. There will also be home visits and meetings with rural people to spread awareness on health, education and hygiene. Volunteers can take the school children to places in the city like picnics, exposure visits and city walks. In addition, the volunteers will take part in the renovation work at local schools and orphanages and help with activities like painting, building playgrounds, planting trees, promoting rainwater harvesting, etc.
Language: English
Accommodation: At a guesthouse, in shared rooms.
Location: Udaipur is well connected to the major cities of India by land, rail and air. Dabok Airport is situated in a satellite town about 20 km from Udaipur. Daily India Airlines flights connect Udaipur with Jodhpur, Jaipur, Mumbai, and Delhi. Udaipur City has direct trains on the broad gauge network to most of the major cities in Rajasthan and the rest of India. The city lies on the Golden Quadrilateral National Highway (NH) 8, midway between Delhi and Mumbai, located around 700 km from either city.
Age range: 18 and over
Extra fee: 9,500 Indian Rupees (about $180 US)
The extra fee is intended to support the hosting organization who does not have sufficient funds. It is due upon arrival on the project.
Promoting
education, health and environmental awareness in tribal communities
Mysore
October 1 - October 14, 2012
Mysore
December 10 - December 23, 2012
Volunteer project: Mysore is a city in the state of Karnataka in South India. It was the erstwhile capital of the Wodeyar dynasty and is considered the cultural capital of the state. The city has recorded history dating back a thousand years and a mythical history which explains the origin of the name - apparently, this was the place where the demon Mahishasura was slain by the Goddess Chamundi. You will find a statue of the demon on Chamundi hill which commemorates this event.
In the frame of the project, the volunteers will be working with the tribal community in the field of education, renovation, environmental protection, reforestation, tree planting, spreading health and hygiene awareness among the tribal villages. We will be working together in building a more peaceful and working environment with the help of a local organization. Volunteers will need to be creative in their approach to give out the message through drama and street plays. Volunteers who participate in this project need to bring materials and ideas for the program on their arrival, after which the whole group will settle on a common plan of action.
Language: English
Accommodation: In a guest house, in shared rooms.
Location: Mysore Rural & Urban, South India. Mysore is
about 140 km from Bangalore.
Bangalore is accessible by air, domestic and some international airlines
fly directly to Bangalore International Airport. Trains and buses
operate on an everyday basis from almost all major towns/cities in South
India.
Age range: 18 and over
Extra fee: 9,500 Indian Rupees (about $180 US)
The extra fee is intended to support the hosting organization who does not have sufficient funds. It is due upon arrival on the project.
Marine
turtle protection project on the west coast of Karnataka
Kundapur October 8
- October 21, 2012
Kundapur November
12 - November 25, 2012
Kundapur December
10 - December 23, 2012
Volunteer project: Kundapur is a town situated on the
west coast of Karnataka, near the beach, and very close to the Western
Ghats (a mountain ridge). The Western Ghats is India's prime zone for
bio-diversity, known for the number of animal and plant species in this
region.
In 2004, a Marine Turtle protection project was started here in co-operation with the Forest and Wildlife Department of the State of Karnataka. Over a 60-kilometer stretch of beach, surveys are conducted and the turtle nests are protected until the hatching of the eggs. Last year, more than 1500 baby turtles reached the ocean safely thanks to the efforts of international volunteers. This year again we continue these efforts. The projects will also focus on spreading awareness to the general public, fishermen community and in the schools about the importance of turtles in the bio-diversity. The volunteers will also be involved in building Turtle Information Center huts along the beach.
Language: English
Accommodation: In a guesthouse, in shared rooms.
Location: Kundapur is the headquarters of the Kundapura
Taluk and is about 36 km from Udupi. Kundapur is surrounded by water
from three sides. It is well connected to the other parts of the country
by National Highway-17 and the Konkan Railway, which runs from Mumbai to
Mangalore.
Kundapur is situated 100 km north of the city
of Mangalore, 300 km from Panjim (Goa), and 450 km from Bangalore.
Kundapur is accessible by bus/train from Mangalore, Bangalore, Panjim
(Goa), and Mumbai. There are international and domestic airports in
Mangalore, Bangalore, Goa, and Mumbai.
Age range: 18 and over
Extra fee: 9,500 Indian Rupees (about $180 US)
The extra fee is intended to support the hosting organization who does not have sufficient funds. It is due upon arrival on the project.
Organizing
entertainment activities for street and orphaned kids in Calcutta
Kolkata
October 15 - October 28, 2012
Volunteer project: A city of Joy and Love, Grandeur and Glory... Kolkata alias Calcutta is full of life and bustle, verging on the chaotic as traditional occupations rub shoulders with ultra modern industries. Kolkata is India's second largest city, the capital of West Bengal and formerly, the capital of British India (1772-1912); it is a city with a great deal of charm with its imperial monuments, strong cultural and religious flavour.
However it is also suffering from a terrible lack of hygiene, illiteracy and unemployment are rampant, and the first to suffer from these poor living conditions are the children. In an effort to bring a bit of joy back to the faces of the street and orphan children of Calcutta, an international group of volunteers together with local NGOs will conduct a Happy Hearts Workcamp: it will consist of a series of “Happy Hearts” Sessions in which the group of volunteers will organise activities to entertain and open the minds of the children to the outside world. The volunteers will also undertake some renovation work in the schools like painting, renovation of toilets, kitchens and playgrounds, etc.
This special project will feature one week of creative education and one week of continuous special activities. Each day of the second week there will be different visits, e.g. to the planetarium, amusement park, movies, and so on.
Language: English
Accommodation: At a guesthouse, in shared rooms.
Location: Calcutta, West Bengal. Accessible by air; Kolkata has a domestic and an international airport. Trains and buses operate on a daily basis from many major towns/cities in India.
Age range: 18 and over
Extra fee: 9,500 Indian Rupees (about $180 US)
The extra fee is intended to support the hosting organization who does not have sufficient funds. It is due upon arrival on the project
Take
part in the amazing Pushkar Camel Fair and help raise environmental
awareness among tourists and locals
Rajasthan - Pushkar
October 29 - November 11, 2012
Volunteer project: Pushkar is a city situated in the
state of Rajasthan in India. It is famous for its temples and attracts
devotees from all over the world who come here to take a dip in the holy
waters of the Pushkar Lake. But by far the greatest attraction of
Pushkar is its annual Camel Fair, which is a spectacle to behold, and a
large number of tourists visit Pushkar during the time of the fair. An
astounding 50,000 camels converge on the otherwise tranquil and peaceful
tiny desert town of Pushkar for the annual Pushkar Fair. It's a
fascinating and peculiar sight, and a great opportunity to witness an
old traditional style Indian festival.
The original intention behind the Pushkar Camel Fair was to attract local camel and cattle traders to do business during the holy Kartik Purnima festival, held in Pushkar around the full moon in the Hindu lunar month of Kartika. The fair has now also become a major tourist attraction. Pushkar fair continues for five days and these five days are a period of relaxation and merry-making for the villagers. This fair time is also the busiest time for them, as this is one of the largest cattle fairs in the country.
Along with the camel fair, volunteers will also take part in environmental awareness activities with the help of a local NGO. In the light of the growing concern about the environment and rising activism, questions are being raised about the ecological degradation at Pushkar valley of Rajasthan. It has been pointed out that tourist activity is a major reason for this. With little or no interest and intervention from the state, tourists often tend to mishandle resources. They consume resources at higher rate, leaving much more garbage behind.
Language: English
Accommodation: In a guesthouse, in shared rooms.
Location: Pushkar is just 14 km northwest of Ajmer, at a height of 510 meters. Sanganer Airport in Jaipur is the nearest airport connecting Pushkar to the rest of India and abroad. The airport is well-connected to the major cities of India including Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Indore, Jodhpur and Udaipur. Ajmer is the closest railway station to Pushkar and is conveniently connected with the major cities of Rajasthan and India. Pushkar is easily connected to the major roadways and national highways. The Marwar bus stand is situated in the north of Pushkar and is linked to long distance places, like Delhi, Jodhpur and Bikaner.
Age range: 18 and over
Extra fee: 12,500 Indian Rupees (about $240 US)
The extra fee is intended to support the hosting organization who does not have sufficient funds. It is due upon arrival on the project
Creative,
entertainment and awareness activities in schools and kindergartens in
Pondicherry
Pondicherry
December 3 - December 16, 2012
Volunteer project: Pondicherry, also known as Puducherry, is one of the former French Colonies and is located on the East Coast of India. It is one of the most tourist places in the region and has a lot to offer to the visitor. Its laidback atmosphere and amazing beaches give it a very distinctive touch. It is a prime location for learning yoga and meditation in one of its many ashrams. It is also the home of Auroville, a famous international community created by the Guru Sri Auro Bindo.
The volunteer project is organized in cooperation with a local
NGO, active in the field of education and renovation. In the past years
many schools and villages have benefited from the work done by
international volunteers, including the 2004 Tsunami-hit regions. A
shelter for children and old aged people was opened in a village 10 km
from the city, providing support to the poorer sections of the
population in the district.
The volunteers will be involved in various activities, ranging from
manual work at the center; creative and entertainment activities in
schools and kindergartens and spreading awareness on issues related to
education, environment protection, health and hygiene; teaching basic
English and Math through creative learning methods; renovation work like
building playgrounds, painting; tree planting, etc.
Language: English
Accommodation: In a guesthouse, in shared rooms.
Location: Pondicherry is located approx. 200 km south from Chennai (Madras), Tamil Nadu State (East Coast). Pondicherry is accessible from Chennai and Bangalore by direct bus from both cities. There are domestic and international airports in Bangalore and Chennai.
Age range: 18 and over
Extra fee: 9,500 Indian Rupees (about $180 US)
The extra fee is intended to support the hosting organization who does not have sufficient funds. It is due upon arrival on the project.
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