India Volunteer Programs from $20/day | Most Affordable & Trusted
India Volunteer Programs from $20/day | Most Affordable & Trusted
Location
  • India
    • Delhi
Length
1 to 24 weeks

Program Details

Language
English
Timeframe
Short Term Spring Break Summer Winter Year Round
Housing
Guesthouse Host Family
Groups
Small Group (1-15) Medium Group (16-30) Large Group (31+)
Travel Type
Budget Family Older Travelers Solo Women

Pricing

$305
Price Details
Fully hosted experience from only $305 for 1 week - this includes accommodation, meals, airport pick-up, orientation and 24/7 in-country support.
What's Included
Accommodation Some Activities Airport Transfers Meals Wifi
What's Not Included
Airfare Travel Insurance Visa
Aug 12, 2026
116 travelers are looking at this program

Frequently asked questions

Get answers to help you plan with confidence.

About Program

Over 163,000 volunteers trust IVHQ who provide the world's #1 rated volunteer programs in India and 50+ destinations worldwide.

For the past 7 years, we've won the "Top Volunteer Abroad Provider Award" from GoOverseas, so you can trust that you're in the safest hands with IVHQ in India.

Our affordable projects start from $20/day for your accommodation, meals, airport pick-up, project placement and local support. Projects run year-round, with durations from 1-24 weeks. Choose from 13 projects, ranging from providing education to young children in Delhi on the Teaching project to shadowing doctors in Kerala's world class healthcare system on the Medical project. Plus, you’ll stay with other like-minded, impact-focused travelers from around the world (private room options available).

With IVHQ’s superior pre-departure support services, you’ll gain exclusive access to your own Volunteer Travel Specialist, comprehensive preparation tools and volunteer training before you leave home.

COMMUNITY REVIEWS SUMMARY

Volunteers consistently praise the supportive, welcoming host families and staff, the rewarding teaching placements, and the immersive cultural experience.

Program Highlights

  • 15+ years experience & B Corp certified volunteer travel organization
  • Projects include airport pick-up, orientation, accommodation, meals, and 24/7 in-country support
  • Affordable way to earn college credit - gain 5 credits for only US$500!
  • Specialised online TEFL course available at a discounted rate through IVHQ
  • Exclusive tours such as 'Backwaters Boat Trip' from $77

Want to WIN $329* FREE IVHQ credit?!

Consider your impact: Volunteering abroad can be a rewarding experience for both volunteers and local communities, and at Go Overseas, we believe all volunteers should have the resources to make informed decisions about the type of volunteer project they want to partake in. However, despite best intentions, some organizations offering placements in orphanages may unknowingly place children in danger. You can read about the potential dangers of orphanage volunteering here. Learn more about how International Volunteer HQ - IVHQ is promoting ethical volunteering.

Video and Photos

Popular Programs

India Childcare Project

Join us in making a life-changing impact on the future of India's young children. International Volunteer HQ's Childcare project in Delhi empowers caring and enthusiastic volunteers to provide crucial assistance to under-resourced childcare centers in Faridabad. With a high demand for volunteer assistance due to poverty and illness, your efforts can make all the difference for children aged 4-8 from disadvantaged backgrounds.

India Healthcare Project

Experience India's world-class healthcare system firsthand as a Medical volunteer in Kerala with International Volunteer HQ. Shadow respected doctors and nurses, observe consultations and surgeries, and gain valuable insights into the medical field. While most work will be observational, medical and nursing students may have opportunities to assist with basic tasks. Join us in making a difference in healthcare access and improving patient outcomes.

India Slum Teaching Project

Millions of vulnerable street children in India lack access to basic education. International Volunteer HQ’s Slum Teaching project empowers volunteers to make a meaningful impact on the lives of disadvantaged children by providing access to education and new opportunities. As a Slum Teacher, you'll lead classes of 5-11 year olds with limited supervision and bring new perspectives to the local community.

Special Needs Care Volunteer in Kerala, India

Volunteer in Special Needs Care to help children with disabilities in India. Many families face social stigma and struggle to provide adequate care and education. You can provide educational assistance to students aged 2-22 in schools and care facilities. Local carers provide support as students have limited English. Make a meaningful difference in their lives.

Physical Therapy Volunteer in Kerala, India

As a Physical Therapy volunteer in India, you'll assist a licensed physiotherapist in providing top-quality care to clients. This project focuses on patient care, and placements are typically based in local clinics with home visits as well. You'll have the chance to learn and contribute to healthcare development in Kerala, while exchanging your skills with grateful communities. Your tasks will vary based on project needs and your qualifications.

Women's Empowerment Volunteer in India

Volunteer in Women's Empowerment in India to help local women build skills beyond English. Assist in embroidery and computer sessions using donated equipment. Volunteers help with lesson planning, documentation, and session support, with guidance from the local team. Come prepared with teaching ideas and activities to incorporate into lessons.

Program Reviews

4.94 Rating
based on 126 reviews
  • 5 rating 94.44%
  • 4 rating 5.56%
  • 3 rating 0%
  • 2 rating 0%
  • 1 rating 0%
  • Impact 4.8
  • Support 4.9
  • Fun 4.9
  • Value 4.8
  • Safety 4.95
Showing 1 - 8 of 126 reviews
Daniel
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

AMAZING!!

I was, probably like some of you, a bit sceptical when initially applying due to the low price compared to other organisations. However, the experience I had was absolutely amazing and I have learnt so much about not only myself, but about different cultures and etiquettes. My program manager, Marissa, was absolutely fantastic at answer all of my questions and adjusting any mistakes I submitted onto my application such as flight number and pick-up time. Despite the huge time difference between Marissa and myself, she was able to reply to my email promptly and with extreme care - I was really at ease throughout the whole process and that made the experience a bunch better. Everything on my volunteering was as described on the program guide and there were no surprises when I landed, everything that happened during my week I was prepared for. I would really recommend this company and I want to thank them once more for the fantastic and truly life-changing experience they provided for me.

What was the most nerve-racking moment and how did you overcome it?
Meeting new people who were different ages, who came from different cultural backgrounds, and who spoke different languages. I over came this by putting myself out there and introducing myself early on, befriending people, and hanging out with such people on the first evening.
Pros
  • Extremely good communication in the lead up to the volunteer program.
  • Affordable prices.
  • 24/7 help available.
67 people found this review helpful.
Barbara Martin Profile Picture
Barbara
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Women's Empowerment Programme in Port Cochin Kerala

I participated in the Women’s Empowerment programme in Fort Kochi, Kerala, with IVHQ and had a truly wonderful experience. The IVHQ team were very quick to answer any questions and solve issues which came up before departure, which I found to be very reassuring. The local team were consistently available, approachable, and responsive, and their support made a real difference throughout my stay.

The accommodation was comfortable and well maintained. The bedrooms had bunk beds with en-suite bathrooms, and even with four people sharing, they felt spacious. The rooms were cleaned daily, and I found my bed to be very comfortable.

I also really enjoyed the meals. There was always plenty of food, with a great variety, and the quality was consistently excellent. There is no evening meal on Sundays which give volunteers the opportunity to try out the numerous restaurants in Fort Kochi – more taste experiences!

Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed my time in Fort Kochi and would happily recommend the programme to anyone considering it. If you’re unsure, I would definitely encourage you to just go for it. Fort Kochi is a very safe destination and particularly well suited to solo female travellers of all ages.

132 people found this review helpful.
Jayne
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Highly recommend IVHQ for volunteer experiences

Absolutely recommend IVHQ for volunteer experiences.

I recently completed a medical program experience in Faridabad (Delhi) with IVHQ. I would absolutely use them again for any future volunteering I may do and certainly recommend them to anyone else thinking about trying volunteering.

The experience with IVHQ was excellent from the very beginning. Easy to use website. Clear information. Fair pricing. The preparation checklist left no room for errors and created a sense of confidence in the program and process before leaving home.

There was clear support before leaving, while away and follow up when arriving home. It makes you feel that IVHQ genuinely care about your experience which is a great thing.

We were well looked after in our home stay and had the best group during our stay. I’m 52, the eldest volunteer at the time was 77, the youngest 24, but we all had a common goal which is a great starting point.
If you are considering volunteering I’d say go for it! With a one week option in lots of programs you can’t go wrong. I absolutely loved my whole time away and have already started looking into my next trip.

What was your funniest moment?
Travelling to and from the medical clinic in a tuk tuk with music blaring in the crowded roads of Faridabad!!
Pros
  • A sense of making a positive difference
  • Meeting new people
  • Spending quality time with the friend I travelled with
What other participants should know
  • More hours in the clinic or other opportunities would have been good
144 people found this review helpful.
Yaritza
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Impactful experience

I had a very enriching and meaningful experience participating in the Delhi program with IVQH. Although my stay was only one week, the impact it had on me was significant, and I truly wish I could have stayed longer.

The clinic and the community it serves are located in an area with a great deal of need, which made the experience even more impactful. I felt very fortunate to connect with other volunteers who were incredibly kind, supportive, and passionate about the work.

I thoroughly enjoyed my time in Delhi. The environment was welcoming and supportive, and the accommodations felt comfortable and home-like. The program overall was well organized, which made it easy to adapt and focus on learning and contributing.

I especially valued the time spent in the clinic working with patients. Despite the language barrier, there was strong support for communication, which allowed for meaningful interactions and even the opportunity to learn a few words in Hindi.
Overall, this has been one of the most meaningful experiences I have had, and I hope to have the opportunity to return in the future.

141 people found this review helpful.
Samia
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Wonderful experience

I had an incredibly rewarding experience volunteering in childcare in Delhi, India. From the very beginning, the organisation was well-structured, supportive, and genuinely committed to making a positive impact on the local community.

The placement allowed me to work closely with children in a safe and nurturing environment, where I was involved in daily activities such as assisting with learning, playtime, and providing general care. It was both challenging and fulfilling, and it helped me develop important skills such as patience, adaptability, communication, and cultural awareness.

The house coordinators and caregivers were absolutely wonderful. They were kind, attentive, and always made me feel welcome and supported, creating a warm and comfortable home environment throughout my stay.

The local team and coordinators were always available to offer guidance, which made the overall experience even more meaningful. Being immersed in Indian culture, particularly in a city as vibrant and diverse as Delhi, was unforgettable and broadened my perspective both personally and professionally.

I would highly recommend this childcare volunteer programme to anyone looking to make a real difference while gaining valuable hands-on experience and cultural exposure.

What was your funniest moment?
Meeting people from my organisation and going around
165 people found this review helpful.
Kamela
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Best Working Vacation

People come to Kerala for a week of vacation, I had the fun of two month vacation for the cost of one week.

I was able to bring my California kindergarten experience across the globe, and the kids loved it as much as I did. The program staff had prepared for all the teaching aid, and volunteers were able to go to speed in within days.

Not having to cook, clean, laundry... for two months was a dream work set up. Weekends were free for local and nearby excursions.

Every other week there were new volunteers to hang out with people all around the world; we went out dining out often.

What is your advice to future travelers on this program?
Its good to come for at least two weeks. It does get humid and hot, but its part of the change and experience.
Pros
  • With the tourist location of Kerala, its very traveller friendly, amenities and services.
  • Staff is very used to make it home for transient nature of vlolunteer.
  • Incredible cultural experience, shopping and tourism.
What other participants should know
  • There are no cons, they are experiences.
180 people found this review helpful.
Morgan
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

So worth it!

I'm so glad I made the decision to finally volunteer abroad. Choosing IVHQ made the process easy and safe. I'll be doing this again. Next time I'll be choosing a different country as there are many options with the program. I'd also like to do another program option such as marine life protection as well. There's many programs and durations to choose from no matter what youre looking to do. Rather you are young, retired, taking a gap year or just looking to travel with a cause, this program is definitely worth your time!

What was the most unfamiliar thing you ate?
Paan. It was so flavorful!
Pros
  • The students
  • Traveling
  • Food
What other participants should know
  • Air pollution
  • Traffic
  • Language barrier
191 people found this review helpful.
Andrea
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

IVHQ Medical volunteering project

The medical volunteering project in New Delhi was truly an amazing experience. The local team and the IVHQ coordinator were very supportive.

The volunteering experience was very tiring, but fulfilling, considering the number of patients who visit the slum clinic each morning. Even as a medical student, I did lots of things there (basically everything). Just consider that the work you'll do there isn't like anything you're used to in your own country. For example, the physical examination is basically non-existent and the medications are prescribed based just on what the patient complains.

If you're thinking about doing this wonderful experience, just consider when to do it. From my personal experience, August is probably one of the worst months. The temperature is around 40° and the humidity level is usually 90% (which is even worse than it sounds). In addition, there are at least 3 monsoons per week, which means all the streets will be flooded with sewage water :)

239 people found this review helpful.

Community Questions

Nope! When I was in India, our orientation group had volunteers of various ages!

Nope! When I was in India, our orientation group had volunteers of various ages!

Nope! When I was in India, our orientation group had volunteers of various ages!