Sep 145 min read

8 Farms to Volunteer at Your Next Vacation in India

Updated: Sep 18

Spend your next holiday at a farm learning about agriculture and reconnecting with nature.

Volunteering on farms can be a fulfilling and educational way to connect with nature, learn about sustainable agriculture, contribute to local communities, and is an opportunity not only to immerse yourself in nature while actively contributing to meaningful initiatives. Whether you're passionate about animal welfare, reforestation, organic farming, or community development, there's a farm waiting for your support. Plan your next vacation with a purpose and embark on a journey of learning, giving back, and experiencing the beauty of India's diverse landscapes and cultures. In this article, we will explore eight farms from different regions of India where you can consider volunteering during your next vacation.

1. Peepal Farm - Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh

Located in the picturesque surroundings of Dharamshala, Peepal Farm is a renowned animal rescue and rehabilitation centre. Volunteers at Peepal Farm get the unique opportunity to work with rescued animals while participating in organic farming and sustainable living practices. The farm's journey began on December 9, 2014, with a commitment to creating a space where injured stray animals could heal and where people with a shared passion for animal welfare and sustainable living could come together. This unconventional approach prioritises organic farming and purposeful living over conventional amenities, making Peepal Farm an ideal choice for those passionate about animals and dedicated to living deliberately according to their life philosophy. The farm is open on six days a week and from 9 AM to 6 PM. This holistic experience combines animal welfare with eco-conscious farming, making it a perfect choice for those passionate about animals and the environment.

2. Sadhana Forest - Auroville, Tamil Nadu

Located in the eco-conscious community of Auroville, Sadhana Forest is a reforestation project that welcomes volunteers to actively participate in tree planting, water conservation, and sustainable living. Founded on December 19th, 2003, it has been an educational experience for over 5000 residential participants. The project focuses on experimenting with sustainable living, reforestation, and water conservation. They have successfully reforested 70 acres of severely degraded land with indigenous Tropical Dry Evergreen Forest and host a vibrant volunteer community welcoming over 1000 volunteers annually from more than 50 countries. People of all ages and abilities are welcome to come to stay and get involved with the activities here. It is a shining example of ecological and humanitarian efforts in India and beyond. Join them for a tour of the community and the forest, an eco film, and a free vegan, organic dinner every Friday at 4:30 p.m.

3. Spiti Ecosphere - Kaza, Himachal Pradesh:

Spiti Ecosphere offers a unique and responsible travel experience in Kaza, Himachal Pradesh. Here, you can witness the untouched splendour of the Spiti Valley, engage in community-based conservation projects, and get a taste of the region's distinctive culture. By prioritising eco-friendly tourism, Spiti Ecosphere is not just a destination but a force for positive change, benefiting travellers and the local community while preserving the breathtaking Spiti Valley. There are curated programmes which are available where one can join for volunteer opportunities. They have more volunteer opportunities during summer time, from May to October. These programs have a minimum commitment period, usually starting with one week and going up to one month based on the volunteer program selected.

4. Navdanya - Dehradun, Uttarakhand

Nestled in the breathtaking Himalayan foothills, Navdanya promotes organic farming and seed sovereignty. At Navdanya, they live and breathe the philosophy of Earth Democracy, considering our planet as one Earth Family, fostering a harmonious connection between nature and humans. They've passionately preserved a rich seed heritage with more than 150 community seed banks spread across 22 states in India. Navdanya organisation has volunteer opportunities and intern opportunities available on the farm in Dehradun. Activities at Navdanya include cooking with Indian spices sourced from Ayurvedic traditions. As a bijak (meaning sower of seeds), one is expected to work for at least three hours every day and learn while on the job. Volunteers at Navdanya can engage in seed saving, organic farming, and educational programs, all while surrounded by the region's stunning natural landscapes.

5. Shikshantar - Udaipur, Rajasthan

Shikshantar is an alternative learning community in Udaipur that focuses on sustainability, local culture, and holistic education. This alternative learning space has no exams, textbooks, or compulsions. Shikshantar fosters self-designed learning, offering guidance, coaching, and hands-on internships. This initiative is an inspiring paradigm shift in education. People from ages 3 to 85 years informally volunteer with Shikshantar. This group includes those who go to schools and colleges, those who have walked out of or never gone to school, working people, housewives, retired people, people from different parts of India and other communities worldwide. Volunteers can participate in community-based projects, explore organic farming, and immerse themselves in the spirited culture of Udaipur. It's a unique opportunity to contribute to community development and sustainable living.

6. Wayanad Social Service Society (WSSS) - Wayanad, Kerala

Established in 1974, Wayanad Social Service Society is a charitable organisation under the Catholic Diocese of Mananthavady. WSSS is working on rural development and sustainable agriculture in the Wayanad district of Kerala. They aim to enhance self-reliance, mobilise resources, create employment, and ensure social justice by organising education and action research programs. Volunteers can assist in projects related to organic farming, women's empowerment, and overall community development. This farm experience allows you to make a tangible impact on local communities while enjoying the natural beauty of Kerala.

7. Pragya - Delhi, India

Pragya is a Delhi-based organisation that works toward sustainable development in rural and tribal areas across India. While Pragya doesn't have a specific farm, their work includes rural livelihoods, natural resource management, and women's empowerment projects. By volunteering with Pragya, you can engage in various initiatives that promote sustainable agriculture, ecological conservation, and community development.

8. Vanastree - Sirsi, Karnataka

Vanastree, situated in the Western Ghats of Karnataka, focuses on forest conservation and empowering women through sustainable agriculture. In Kannada, "Vanastree" translates to "women of the forest," underscoring the women-led seed-saving collective's mission. Volunteers can actively participate in activities centred around biodiversity conservation, seed preservation, and women's self-help groups. It offers a unique opportunity to be part of conservation efforts in one of India's most biodiverse regions.