Teaching, raising environmental awareness and renovating schools in Jaipur
Jaipur, Rajasthan July 6 - July 19, 2020
Volunteer project: Jaipur, the fascinating capital of the desert state of Rajasthan, is one of the best planned cities of its time and is part of the ‘Golden Triangle’ along with Delhi and Agra. The graceful architecture of the city all in the colour pink has earned Jaipur the title of the ‘Pink City’. It is predominantly known for its musicians, artisans and craftsmen. Today, tourists flock to the city attracted by its fine jewelry, varied textiles and sumptuous cuisine.
The aim of the volunteer project is to create awareness on environmental issues affecting this city, to create better learning facilities for school kids, and to provide community service to slum dwellers and poor children.
The project involves teaching basic English to children from poor and marginalized communities in non-formal schools through creative teaching methods like art, music, games, etc. The volunteers will undertake simple renovation work to improve school infrastructure including renovation of a school kitchen, wall painting and making a kitchen garden. The group will help educate children from the slums and the local community on health, hygiene, and waste management. Volunteers will also plant trees along with community members.
Leisure activities: A world heritage site, Jaipur is chock full of visual treats and Amer Fort or Palace, the erstwhile official residence of the Rajput Maharajas and their families, is only one of them. It was built of red sandstone and marble over a period of 2 centuries. A must-see here is Sheesh Mahal (Hall of Mirrors), built with tiny pieces of mirrors, to create the illusion of stars for royal ladies who were not permitted to sleep in the open.
Jantar Mantar is a world heritage site in itself, featuring the world’s largest stone sundial and 19 other architectural astronomical instruments built by Sawai Jai Singh II, the founder of Jaipur. City Palace, the home of the Jaipur royal family houses a museum where priceless artifacts and royal cenotaphs are on display. Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds) is the tallest building in the world without a foundation. Its intricate, honeycomb architecture with 953 windows allows the breeze to flow through it and keep it cool. Jaipur is home to the most fabulous collection of jewellery. Haathi Gaon (Elephant Village) is where over 100 elephants are housed along with 7th generation keepers. Here, you can feed, bathe, ride the elephants and take as many photographs as you like.
Language: English
Accommodation: In a guest house or hostel, in shared rooms.
Location: Jaipur is located 268 km south of Delhi, the national capital, and is well connected to other parts of the country through air, rail and road. Jaipur International Airport is located 13 km from Jaipur. Jaipur is well connected by bus and trains to most of the major cities in India. Regular buses are available from Delhi and other cities in North India.
Age range: 18 and over
Extra fee: 17,500 Indian Rupees (about $245 US)
The extra fee is intended to support the local host of the project who does not have sufficient funds. It is due upon arrival.