Summer 2012 - 2013 Volunteer Program Palampur/Dharamsala, India

What are the project locations in India ?

Our volunteer programs are located in and around Delhi , South India, Palampur/Dharamsala in Himalayas and in Kolkata.

People from which country can join the Volunteering Solutions program ?

We welcome people from any part of the world to join our program regardless of which country he or she may belong too.

Does Volunteering Solutions help with Visa?

Receiving a tourist visa for tourism purpose is the volunteer's responsibility. Volunteering Solutions strongly recommends all volunteers to apply and get a tourist visa before departing for India. If needed, Volunteering Solutions do provide with written document which would help volunteers in getting the Visa.

When should I apply for the volunteer programs in India?

We are able to offer placements from any Monday of each month year round. Because of the increasing volume of applications, participants are requested to apply in advance to secure their spots.

How long does it take to process my application?

Once you have applied, we will send you details of your placement usually within 4-7 working days.

When do I need to arrive in India for my program? What will happen once I arrive in India?

All volunteers need to arrive one day before their program start date. Our local coordinator or representative will pick volunteers from the respective Airport/Railway Station/Bus Station depending upon the arrival details provided by the volunteers. Those volunteers who are arriving overland or are already in India will be picked up from the bus station or at a meeting point decided beforehand.

How do I get to the program location?

Your country coordinator will take you to your placement and introduce you to everyone after giving you a basic orientation about the program/city/culture etc.

I want to know more about accommodation arrangements?

We provide you with accommodation from your start date to the end of the program. Accommodation will either be in the volunteer’s home or with a host family. Accommodation is shared along with other volunteers. You need to bring your own toiletries, mosquito net and sleeping bag.

Are there any necessary requirements to participate in the India-based volunteer programs?

What immunizations/vaccinations will I need?

1. Hepatitis A and B
2. Typhoid

Are there more expenses once I arrive in India?

Your program fee covers you for food, accommodation, airport pick up, Orientation, Pre departure information and in country staff support. You will need to cover yourself for your personal expenses, such as traveling, telephone, internet, shopping, sightseeing etc. However you should carry around $40 - $50 per week for your basic personal expenses, such as water, local transport, phone etc.

Is there phone and internet available on projects?

Yes there is usually a phone at every placement we provide. You’ll have easy access to e-mail, telephone etc. Public telephone booths & cyber cafes are located practically everywhere. You can choose to carry your mobile phone if you want better connectivity with people back home.

What hours will I volunteer every day?

Volunteers usually work for 5 to 6 hours a day depending on their program. You will have weekend off so you can go to travel on weekends. However some organizations will need you to work on some Saturdays as well.

Where can I change my money in India? Are there ATM’s in India?

You can change money in any bank or at the airport by showing your passport. There are ATM's located all around the city (Delhi, Palampur, Kolkata and South India).

Can couples or families join the volunteer program?

Yes, couples and families are welcome to join our programs. We make special provisions for families joining our volunteering programs; we will be able to provide them with program placements and accommodations together.

What will be the food arrangement?

The host family provides two or three meals per day which consists of both vegetarian and non-vegetarian meals. The meals consist of Chicken, Rice, Beans, Fish, Salads and Fruits. Traditional Indian food will be provided to volunteers.

Do I need to buy health insurance?

Volunteers have the option to purchase Travel and Medical Insurance at a nominal extra cost from Volunteering Solutions. To buy insurance from Volunteering Solutions, please click here

What sorts of clothes are required for India?

Lightweight clothing and rainwear is recommended as well as warmer clothing for the evenings (light jacket and/or light sweaters). A pair of walking shoes is highly recommended as well.

What should I do in case of an emergency during my trip?

You’ll be provided with a pre-departure manual after you’ve signed up with us for our program. It’ll have the entire phone no’s and addresses of our country coordinators whom you may contact in case of any emergency.

Do you recommend any cheap airlines flying into India?

We would recommend you to visit, http://www.kayak.com, http://www.orbitz.com to have more details on cheap airlines to India.