Discover India on this incredible group volunteering trip in the heart of Goa or Rajasthan with your school, college or university group. Experience the hustle and bustle of the buzzing Indian streets, embrace the captivating Indian culture, and volunteer on community projects on this amazing trip to India.
*Trip Price displayed is per person, based on a group of 12. Contact us for details.
Available Locations:
Goa
Udaipur
Volunteering in India
Many children and community groups in India are severely under supported and are in great need of external support from volunteers and volunteer organisations. It is easy to travel and see this for yourself, however a true traveller will engage with the community and help to develop the opportunities for the people they meet, whether that is through teaching, care work and mentoring, or sports a recreational activities.
With such a huge divide between the living standards of the rich and poor in India, and such vast opportunities for improvement in the disadvantaged slum communities, your group will have the opportunity to actively support and develop the future potential of these community groups.
Volunteer Projects
Slum Outreach Programme
Teaching underprivileged children from slums who cannot afford to attend school is a hugely rewarding experience. Classes are held in the open air and a set apart from the conventional teaching methods that you would find in mainstream education. Games and other activities are encouraged, as the children are likely to engage more with fun and educational activities.
Education Programme
The Education programme is an opportunity for your group to engage with the lower end of the education system in India. Volunteers can assist with the teaching of children in a range of institutions, including Orphanages, Kindergarten / Pre-school, and High Schools with a focus on teaching English, however there will be options to also teaching other subjects of interest.
School for learning difficulties (Udaipur Only)
Coordinating with qualified teachers and child care workers, assisting them in various tasks at a school for learning difficulties will give your group a greater understanding of the social problems facing those with hearing, visual, physical and learning difficulties. In this placement your group will have the opportunity to teach and interact with a range of impaired children and help to improve their quality of life.
Women’s Shelter (Goa Only)
The women’s shelter is an institution designed to promote the health, wellbeing, and opportunities available to women from the disadvantaged slum areas. Volunteers will support the shelter by teaching the women and girls English in fun and interesting ways. You group will also be able to use creativity to play educational games to provide both physical exercise and to build confidence in the women.
The Orphanage (Goa Only)
The orphanage centre houses around 40 orphans and boys from broken families aged between 9 to 17 years. Volunteers are encouraged to interact with the boys to help teach English and other skills, as well as help to build self-confidence and develop social and interpersonal skills.
Group Volunteering in India
India is one of the most charming and welcoming countries in the world, with a rich cultural heritage and colourful history, this is one experience your group will never forget! From exploring the majestic temples, to supporting the local community on your volunteer projects, there is nothing quite like India for amazing sights and opportunities.
For more information please take a look at the Extra Info & Included tabs.
Click Here To Download Our Group Trips Brochure!
Quick Facts
- Trip Name
- Group Volunteering in India
- Trip Code
- INVSG1
- Continent
- Asia
- Country
- India
- Airport
- Goa Dabolim International Airport (airport code: GOI) or Udaipur Maharana Pratap Airport (Airport code: UDR)
- Minimum Duration
- 10 Days
- Minimum Age
- 13
- Trip Type
- Group Tours
- Activity
- Teaching, Care Work, Educational Groups
- Cost
- From £395 for 10 Days
- Deposit
- £ 95.00
- Preferred Duration
- This is a 10 day group volunteering trip only. Please contact us for more information about longer or shorter durations.
- Pre-requisites
- No previous experience or qualifications required. Participants must complete a DBS (Criminal Records) check in order to be eligible for this trip.
- Ideal for
- School Volunteering Trips; Group Volunteering in India; School Group Travel; University Groups; College Groups.
• • •
Arrival Dates
Arrival date are flexible so please contact us for more information about your desired trip date.
Note: Arrivals in to Udaipur should preferably be on a Sunday to benefit from the structure of the orientation and induction itinerary (Monday and Tuesday).
Visa
British Nationals will not require a visa to enter India. For a stay up to 30 days you can get an evisa, for longer stays you are required to get a tourist visa. To read more about visa requirements you can click here.
• • •
Included
- Accommodation
- You will be staying in basic but comfortable dorm style accommodation with all the amenities you need.
- Food
- Three nutritious and balanced meals during the week. Two meals at the weekend.
- Airport Transfers
- You will be met at the airport by a Changing Worlds representative and taken to your accommodation. You will also receive a return transfer.
- Induction
- Full Project induction and orientation during your first few days.
- Support
- Pre departure help and advice; local in country team; 24 hour emergency support
- Equipment & Medical Discounts
- Changing Worlds customers will receive 10% off Travel Equipment, Medical Supplies and Vaccinations from Nomad Travel Store.
- Orientation Activities
- Entrance fees for a range of excursions are included during your induction and orientation days (as per itinerary on Included tab).
- Private Transport
- Private transport to and from your project sites / excursion locations during your induction week is provided by our in-country team.
• • •
Not Included
Flights; Airport transfers in the UK; Travel Insurance (approx. £30 - £50); India Tourist Visa (approx. £100); Vaccinations; Spending Money
• • •
India is a land of overwhelming richness, both in its landscapes, among its people and its captivating culture which is truly unique. Snow-capped mountains line the northern border while palm-fringed beaches line the southern coastlines. Tribal villages co-exist with cosmopolitan cities.
Modern India has also become an epicentre for business in Asia with its political and commercial influence steadily on the rise. However, while business thrives in India’s cities, over 250 million people still live below the poverty line. This is why India needs its tourism and voluntourism sector to bring added income and support to the many people living in disadvantaged communities across the country.
Quick Facts
- Name
- Republic of India
- Location
- Southern Asia
- Bordering Countries
- Bangladesh, Bhuta, Burma, China, Nepal and Pakistan
- Capital City
- New Delhi
- Government
- Federal Republic
- Population
- 1.2 billion approx.
- Language
- 14 official languages; English, Hindi, Bengali, Tamil, Urdu, Punjabi and more
- Currency
- Rupees (INR)
- Name
- Republic of India
- Poverty
- 25% of population below the poverty line
- Main Exports
- Petroleum products, Textiles, Gems, Chemicals, Leather
- Climate
- Varies from tropical monsoon in the south to temperate in the north
- Time Zone
- GMT +5:30
- Flag

Fun Facts
• India is the largest tea producer in the world
• India has more post offices than any other country
• Bollywood is the largest film industry in the world
• India has a Bill of Rights for Cows!
Travel Highlights
• Trek through the foothills of the Himalayas
• Whizz through bustling Indian streets on a rickshaw
• Sample the flavours of a real autentic Indian curry
• Discover the history and architecture behind the Taj Mahal
• Ride an elephant and gain a new view of the world
Where is India?
The Republic of India is located in Southern Asia, bordering the Arabian Sea and the Bay of Bengal, between Burma and Pakistan. India’s bordering countries are Bangladesh, Bhuta, Burma, China, Nepal and Pakistan.
History of India
The first great Indian empire was carved out by the Indus Valley Civilisation, commonly referred to as the Harrapans. They constructed cities, established trade routes and introduced religious deities that have now evolved into the modern day Hindu gods of Kali and Shiva. The Aryans followed the Harrapans. They established the caste system and wrote the sacred teachings of Buddhism and Hinduism, known as the Vedas.
In 326BC, Alexander the Great invaded India. The attack was short lived and the Mauryan Empire soon became the ruling force over much of the Indian Empire. Political and religious stability was achieved and the caste system grew steadily during this period. Ambassadors for the Buddhist faith were dispatched to ‘spread the word’ in Sri Lanka and Nepal. However, the unified India became divided throughout the next 1000 years, with the Vijayanagar Empire seizing control over the south and the Guptas ruling in central India. These pockets of power were later amalgamated by, perhaps, the most famous Empire in Indian history – the Islamic empire of the Mughals. The Mughal Empire brought architectural grandeur and gigantic leaps in art. Many of these symbols still exist today, including Agra’s Red Fort, Hamuyan’s Tomb in Delhi and Shah Jahan’s Taj Mahal.
The Mughal Empire ruled from the 16th century until European expansionism saw the rise of the British East India Company in Asia. The British become the dominant colonial power in India, their influence spreading from Kashmir in the north down to Tamil Nadu in the south. The British Raj ruled for over 150 years, exploiting India’s natural resources and imprinting their culture on the country. The British were soon resented throughout the empire and uprisings became commonplace. Such unrest eventually led to the independence from the British in 1947. Much of this victory was thanks to one of India’s most famous and well loved figures – Mahatma Ghandi. However, this break from British rule led to the Hindus, Sikhs and Muslims fighting to assert their place on the Asian continent. Sadly, this has been the cause of much bloodshed, particularly between Pakistan and India where Kashmir has been a hotspot for fighting and civil unrest.
India’s history is certainly a turbulent one, but political and economic stability in recent years has seen the country emerge as a leading international figure, particularly in politics, business and e-commerce. Nevertheless, India is still home to vast regions of deprivation and millions continue to live in poverty.
Climate in India
India is a vast country which means the climate various significantly between regions. While the northern areas of Jammu and Kashmir are doused in snow, the central plains receive baking sunshine. Temperatures increase to around 45°C from February to May before the monsoon season starts. Although it doesn’t rain all day in the monsoon season, there are heavy downpours every day. The monsoons end in October time and a period of pleasant sunny weather lasts to February time for the majority of India. In the north, October brings a much colder climate. The Himalayan region of Kashmir, Ladakh and parts of Himachal Pradesh are covered in snow and many mountain passes are closed for the winter.
Language in India
Hindi is the most widely spoken language in India and the primary tongue of over 40% of the population. There are over 14 official languages, but English is widely spoken and seen as the most important language for political, social and commercial communication.
Food in India
There is no simple definition of an Indian meal. The food is as diverse as the country’s landscape. And not all Indian food is hot and spicy, as many assume. There is a wide variety of mild dishes, flat breads and sweet deserts that make up India’s cuisine. Each region has its own specialities, so you will discover new dishes and flavours as you explore the country. Indian food is often eaten with the hands but you should always use your right hand and never let food pass the first joint of your fingers. Your fingers should also never touch your mouth directly.
Travelling in India
Air: India is huge country which makes travelling by plane a very attractive option. The local airlines are reliable and there are plenty of departures between the key cities and tourist destinations. Prices are reasonable, but booking tickets can sometimes be tricky.
Rail: travelling by rail is one of the most popular options in India, not only because of the reliability and affordable tickets, but because you will get see some of the most spectacular landscapes rolling past your window. You will also get to mingle with locals from all sorts of class backgrounds. However, be prepared for long travel times. The journey from Delhi in the north to Chennai in the south is around 30hours! Nevertheless, rail travel in India is an adventure in itself. There are six seat classes to choose from: First class with air conditioning (1A), Second Tier with air conditioning (2A), Third Tier with air conditioning (3A), Chair Car (CC), Sleeper Class (SL) and Second Class (II). On hot days, air conditioning is highly recommended and for longer journeys, Sleeper Class is the most popular choice. Finally, make sure you leave enough time to book your ticket at the station before departure – at least half a day is recommended.
Bus: India’s bus network is fantastic for short journeys, particularly between towns and cities. However, for longer trips, buses can be an uncomfortable option due to their basic seating and India’s unkempt roads. Buses tickets are also very affordable.
Rickshaws, Tuk-Tuks and Taxis: rickshaws and tuk-tuks are very cheap and the authentic means of Indian travel. Make sure you agree prices before you set off and do feel free to haggle your driver down – it’s expected. Rickshaws are bicycle powered, so expect them to be slower than tuk-tuks which are the motorised version. Taxis are slightly more expensive and you should make sure the meter is working before you start your journey. Also ensure that your taxi has an official rate card. You can then compare your final meter reading with the rate card – many of the meters are very old and have the tendency to be inaccurate. Finally, be prepared for your driver to take you to various shops and restaurants as they are on commission for doing so. If you really don’t want to visit these sites, politely and firmly refuse.
Sport in India
India is renowned for sporting excellence, especially in cricket and hockey. Professional cricketers are treated like celebrities and thousands of children dream of being India’s next test cricketer. Sport in India is like religion for many. India is therefore the perfect destination to coach sport or play sport. Sport in India is sadly limited to the few who can afford it which means sport is nonexistent in many schools. Furthermore, while cricket and hockey receive a lot of focus, children are passionate about other sports, including football, athletics, netball and basketball.
Gap Years and Career Breaks in India
Embrace the rich culture and heritage of India, and become one with the charming communities that will take you in and treat you like one of their own. The lively marketplaces that give you a real feast for the senses, the beautiful scenery that takes you to another world, and the enchanting architecture and historical artifacts, will all combine to make this a gap year or career break to be envied.
Example Itinerary - Udaipur
Sunday
Arrival day
Monday – Orientation and Induction
08:30 am - Breakfast
09:30 am - Introduction to Program’s Do’s and Don’ts, Culture Shock
11:00 am - Discussion on Women traveller and safety tips, Transport
12:30 pm - Lunch at house
02:30 pm - Visit City center
07:30 pm - Welcome Dinner and 'Bagor Ke Haveli' sound and light show
Tuesday – Orientation and Induction
07:00 am - Yoga Class
08:30 am - Breakfast
09:30 am - Talk on Volunteering projects
11:00 am - Language Classes
12:30 pm - Lunch at house
02:30 pm - Visit Nehru park, Boating, Fateh Sagar lake, Prathap memorial
07:30 pm - Dinner at House
Wednesday – Community Volunteer Schedule
09:00 am to 12:00 pm – Brief sign language lesson and School for Learning Difficulties
01:00 pm - Lunch
04:00 pm to 06:00 pm - Slums Outreach
07:30 pm - Dinner at House
Thursday – Community Volunteer Schedule
09:00 am to 12:00 pm – School for Learning Difficulties
01:00 pm - Lunch
04:00 pm to 06:00 pm - Slums Outreach
07:30 pm - Dinner at House
Friday - Sunday
Excursion*
Monday – Community Volunteer Schedule
09:00 am to 12:00 pm – School for Learning Difficulties
01:00 pm - Lunch
04:00 pm to 06:00 pm - Slums Outreach
07:30 pm - Dinner at House
Tuesday – Community Volunteer Schedule
09:00 am to 12:00 pm – School for Learning Difficulties
01:00 pm - Lunch
04:00 pm to 06:00 pm - Slums Outreach
07:30 pm - Dinner at House
Wednesday
Departure day
*Excursion Options - Udaipur
(Leaving Udaipur on Friday; Returning to Udaipur on Sunday) – The exact itinerary and costs can be planned after knowing the dates of travel.
1. Taj Mahal - approx. £75 per person
This weekend trip would see your group travelling from Udaipur to Agra by bus to visit tha famous Taj Mahal, and the stunning UNESCO World Heritage Site, Fatehpur Sikri, before returning to Udaipur on Sunday.
2. Desert Camp - approx. £75 per person
The weekend Desert Camp trip would see your group travelling from Udaipur into the Rajasthan desert by bus, visiting the breathtaking fort of Jaisalmer, riding a camel, camping under the stars in the desert, before returning to Udaipur on Sunday.
There are quite a few things to consider and to organise before you travel to your chosen destination to take part in your trip or tour with us.
Flights and Insurance
Flights and insurance are not included on your placement which means you will have to arrange them before you leave. But don't panic, this is simpler than you may think! To make life much easier for you, we offer a free, personal booking service through our chosen flights and insurance partner – StudentUniverse, part of Flight Centre. They will guide you every step of the way.
Please only use this service here and do not go into one of their branches as this can complicate things for us.
Browse or book flights using our search engine. Click here to access it.
Alternatively you can call them on 03300 585032 and mention you are considering or are going away with Changing Worlds and let them do the hard work. They will also be able to provide you with adequate travel insurance.
Travelling after your trip with us? Need a round-the-world ticket? Not a problem... just discuss this with them too.
Why are flights not included?
By not including flights in our trips and tours, it avoids us having to pass on unnecessary admin charges to you. This keeps the cost of your trip lower and also means you have the freedom to search around for the lowest fares and most flexible tickets that fit your travel plans. It also means you can benefit from the expertise of our preferred partner.
What happens when flights and insurance are booked?
When you book any trip with us, you will gain access to our online Travel Centre, personalised for you. In here you will have all the information about your trip and how to plan for it, including the contact details for our in-country team and address you will be staying at.
There are also some forms we need you to complete before you depart, covering areas like your dietary requirements, next-of-kin, medical information, flight arrivals details and more.
Do I really need travel insurance?
We take the safety of our travellers very seriously. You must therefore book adequate travel insurance before you come away with us – you simply won’t be able to participate in your trip or tour if you don’t. Although policies vary, your insurance must include emergency medical expenses, personal accident cover, and repatriation. We also recommend that you book baggage, personal liability and cancellation cover.
Visas
Some of the countries where we work will require you to have a visa. We provide guidance for this against the Trip Summary tab so you can check whether your nationality requires it. If a visa is required we will provide a letter of invitation, if the embassy requests this, as well as all the relevant information you will need to complete the visa application process. This information is provided after you book with us. With all visa applications it is important that you have sufficient space available in your passport for the relevant visas required for your travels, and that your passport is valid for at least six months after your planned date of return.
Please note we have no control over the issuing of visas and this is at the embassies discretion. We will help wherever possible though.
Vaccinations
At least 6 – 8 weeks before your chosen travel date you should visit your local GP or Nomad Travel Clinic to discuss your vaccination and medication requirements. Your medical professional will be able to advise you of any recommended and required vaccinations for your chosen destination(s).You should inform your doctor of all of your destination countries, and what activities you plan on doing, and in which regions you plan to stay while you are there, as different regions and activities have different health risks in some countries.
Some destination countries will require you to produce a certificate of vaccination in order to enter the country, so be sure that you understand any vaccination requirements for your chosen destination, so that you do not have any issues when passing through customs.
Above all you should make sure you are well prepared for your travels, so that you have the best experience possible whilst overseas!