Volunteer in Jagannath Puri – Spiritual & Cultural Heritage Experience +50

Fast Facts

• Location: Jagannath Puri, Odisha, India
• Program Length: Min 1 week – Max 3 weeks
• Arrival Airport: Biju Patnaik International Airport, Bhubaneswar (BBI)
• Airport Transfers: Included from Bhubaneswar airport to Puri
• Volunteer Work: Temple maintenance, heritage preservation, community service, environmental initiatives, cultural programs, educational support for local children

Program Highlights

• Volunteer in the sacred city of Jagannath Puri, home to one of the holiest temples in India, dedicated to Lord Jagannath
• Assist in the maintenance and preservation of the Jagannath Temple and other historical landmarks in Puri
• Participate in community outreach programs to support local families, including educational and healthcare initiatives
• Engage in the spiritual rituals and daily activities at the Jagannath Temple, experiencing the devotion of the pilgrims and local community
• Learn about the unique traditions of the Rath Yatra (Chariot Festival) and the spiritual significance of Lord Jagannath
• Experience the rich cultural heritage of Odisha through workshops on traditional dance, music, and arts
• Clean-up and environmental preservation work along Puri’s beaches and in the temple complex

Program Schedule:

• Arrival Day, Sunday: Volunteers should arrive at Biju Patnaik International Airport (BBI) by Sunday. Volunteers will be picked up and transferred to Puri, where they will be checked into their accommodations. Orientation will be held in the evening, providing a briefing on the spiritual, cultural, and environmental context of the program.
• Day 1, Monday: After the morning orientation, volunteers will engage in their first day of work. The day’s activities will include temple maintenance tasks such as cleaning, assisting with the preparation of offerings, or helping in the preservation of ancient sculptures and structures. In the evening, volunteers can attend the evening Aarti (ritual worship) at the Jagannath Temple.
• Days 2-3, Tuesday & Wednesday: Volunteers will continue their work in the morning, which could include assisting with temple rituals, community outreach programs, or environmental efforts to preserve Puri’s beaches and natural areas. In the afternoons, volunteers will participate in workshops on Odissi dance, Pattachitra painting, or learn about the ancient craft of filigree jewelry making. Evenings will be free to explore the temple and participate in spiritual activities such as group prayers or meditation.
• Day 4, Thursday: Volunteers will focus on working with local children, supporting education programs in underprivileged communities. Tasks may include teaching English, basic literacy, or assisting in other educational activities. In the afternoon, volunteers will assist with community healthcare camps or sanitation initiatives. The evening will include participation in local cultural performances, including classical Odissi dance or music.
• Day 5, Friday: Volunteers will assist with environmental preservation along Puri’s beaches, including cleaning up the coastline and protecting the local marine ecosystem. In the evening, they will attend the famous evening Arati at the Jagannath Temple and engage in group discussions about the spiritual significance of the temple and the rituals of Lord Jagannath.
• Days 6-7, Saturday & Sunday: Weekends are free for volunteers to explore the city and nearby regions:

• • Visit to Konark Sun Temple: Take a day trip to the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Konark, and explore the magnificent Sun Temple, one of India’s architectural marvels.
  • Explore the Sea Beach: Enjoy a relaxing day at Puri’s serene beaches. Volunteers can also visit the nearby Chilika Lake, a hotspot for bird watching and eco-tourism.
  • Rath Yatra Experience (if visiting during the festival): If volunteering during the famous Rath Yatra (Chariot Festival), volunteers can participate in this grand procession, helping with logistics, decorations, or supporting pilgrims.

Program Accomplishments:

• Volunteers will contribute to the upkeep and preservation of the Jagannath Temple and other significant heritage sites in Puri.
• Environmental initiatives will directly impact the cleanliness and preservation of Puri’s beaches, ensuring sustainable tourism.
• Volunteers will aid in educational and health initiatives, supporting underprivileged communities in Puri.
• Cultural workshops will foster deeper understanding and preservation of Odisha’s traditional arts.

What’s Included:

• Accommodations: Volunteers will stay in comfortable guesthouses, homestays, or volunteer lodgings. Accommodation is shared, providing an authentic community living experience.
• Food: Vegetarian meals (3 meals per day, Monday-Friday), with local dishes such as Odisha-style dalma, pakhala, and santula.
• Transfers: Airport transfers from Bhubaneswar to Puri, local transportation for program activities.
• Support: 24/7 emergency support, volunteer coordinator, local guide, and expert spiritual leaders for cultural and spiritual activities.
• Cultural Experiences: Participation in temple rituals, local Odissi dance performances, and the Rath Yatra (if during festival season).

What’s Not Included:

• Flights to Bhubaneswar (assistance with booking can be provided).
• Personal expenses (shopping, optional tours).
• Travel health insurance.
• Weekend accommodations or additional transport if extending stay beyond program dates.
• Special tours (Konark Temple, Chilika Lake, etc.) available at an additional cost.

Volunteer Age Requirements:

• Minimum age: 18. Volunteers aged 16-17 may apply with parental consent.
• Families with children over 12 years old are welcome to join the program.

Weekend Add-On Activities:

• Konark Sun Temple Visit: Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Konark, with a guided tour of the Sun Temple.
• Chilika Lake Bird Watching: Visit Chilika Lake, the largest coastal lagoon in India, for bird watching and nature exploration.
• Beach Day: Spend a day at Puri’s beaches, participating in leisure activities, or visiting nearby temples.

Program Variations and Add-Ons:

• Odissi Dance Workshops: Learn the basics of Odissi dance with local experts and immerse yourself in the culture of Odisha.
• Pattachitra Painting Workshop: Participate in a hands-on workshop to learn the intricate art of Pattachitra painting, a traditional form of scroll painting from Odisha.
• Traditional Cooking Classes: Experience local cuisine with cooking classes, teaching traditional Odisha dishes such as Pakhala Bhata (fermented rice).

Pioneering Efforts:

• Volunteers will help maintain and preserve the Jagannath Temple and other local temples, contributing to the city’s spiritual vibrance.
• Environmental initiatives will promote sustainable tourism and protect the coastal and marine ecosystems.
• Volunteers will aid in educational and healthcare outreach, providing essential support to local communities in need.