A Unique & Action Packed
Group
Medical Trip

Head to Sri Lanka on a group elective placement!

Apply now
  • Duration
    2-4 Weeks
  • Minimum age
    17+
  • Start dates
    Every Saturday
  • From
    £500
  • Duration
    2-4 Weeks
  • Minimum age
    17+
  • Start dates
    Every Saturday
  • From
    £500

Sri Lanka Group Medical Trip

Are you looking to organise your elective placement overseas alongside your friends and fellow class mates? If so, our dedicated group medical trip to Sri Lanka will allow you to take advantage of an exclusive itinerary and price. With a minimum of 10 students required to sign up, it’s time to start asking within your course and get organising!

Your group adventure will see you observing within busy government hospitals, immersing yourself in the local culture with planned activities and exploring the island on an organised tour.

Our fully structured, supported and inclusive trip will be led by our experienced local team. Everything is included as part of your trip to Sri Lanka, including the airport transfers, meals, accommodation, donations to hospitals, private transport, three-day weekend trip, pre-departure webinars, full support and cultural activities. 

This is your unique chance to experience an under resourced health care system within a third world country whilst creating memories that will last a lifetime. The adventure will open your eyes to the world of medicine in Sri Lanka, provide you with vital international work experience that will set you apart from others and teach you all about Ayurvedic medicine.

Overview

Who is it for?
University students looking to undertake an elective placement abroad
Elective placements
Medical, midwifery, nursing and physiotherapy
Departments avaialble
General Medicine, Paediatrics, Obstetrics, Gynaecology, Antenatal, Postnatal, Labour Room, A&E, Emergency Treatment Unit, Physiotherapy, Outpatients, Surgery, Eye and Psychiatry
The Mighty Roar group trips

We have extensive experience and expertise to ensure your Sri Lankan group trip is accessible, safe and stress free. The Sri Lankan and international team based in the UK can help complete any required paperwork, provide in-depth risk assessments and sign off on hours to ensure the placement complies with your university requirements.

The Mighty Roar hosts many students on their elective placements every year. We have built up strong relationships with most universities around the United Kingdom and Ireland who actively recommend us - making the process easy.

We specialise in group expeditions abroad and frequently host groups across the destinations we offer. With this in mind, we can guarantee affordable pricing, exclusive itineraries and a memorable experience for your elective.

From flights and insurance to visas and of course packing, our dedicated UK team are on hand to provide comprehensive support with all aspects of your trip, ensuring you are happy and well prepared.

Although we have created this 2-4 week itinerary based on many years of feedback from our previous groups, we are able to tailor the trip around your requirements, offering you a personalised schedule if preferred – just get in touch.

The process

If you’re interested in embarking on an unforgettable group trip in Sri Lanka, then the first step is to get in touch. Feel free to call the office, email in or arrange a Zoom call with one our UK team members to start discussing. Whilst on this call we can ensure you are happy with the itinerary already detailed on the website or create a new one based on your group requirements.

Once the itinerary, duration and dates are confirmed, you can start spreading the word to your fellow course mates and friends. We will arrange a group Zoom call for anyone that is interested (including any parents / guardians that want to join) at a time that suits you all to go through any questions and to talk more in-depth about the trip.

For anyone that is wanting to go, it is then a case of simply applying through the website by clicking ‘Apply Now’ at the top of this page. You are welcome to apply as individuals and under the ‘Special Requirements’ box on step three, state that you are coming as part of your university group. Alternatively, you are all welcome to apply together under one application and entering everyone’s details at the same time.

Once you have signed up you will gain access to your personal My Trip account. Within here you will gain access to your comprehensive volunteer handbook and will be able to upload all of the required details for your upcoming trip.

Throughout the build up to your Sri Lanka group medical trip, we will be on hand to support you in whatever way possible. Around two months before your trip start date, we will organise a group Zoom call with all travellers and other relevant persons to go through the trip in more detail and to answer any questions.

There is nothing left to do, apart from packing your suitcases and enjoying your trip! Our dedicated local team will be there to greet you at the airport and provide the structure and support. If required, our UK team are available 24/7 and they will be in daily communication with the team on the ground to ensure everything is running smoothly.

Overview of the Sri Lankan group trip

Your primary base for the trip will be in the coastal village of Akurala. We cannot think of anywhere better to stay, with our accommodation just a stones throw away from a quiet golden sand beach and the popular backpacker town of Hikkaduwa just a 10 minute tuk tuk ride away. You can read more about our accommodation, see photos and watch a video by clicking the 'Accommodation & Meals' link.

You will be placed in several government hospitals, including the main teaching hospital for local medical and nursing students in the area. You will get up close clinical exposure, learn all about the health care system in a developing country and be exposed to a wide variety of cases that you would not normally find in your home country, including dengue fever, snake bites and rabies.

You will have the opportunity to take part in cultural immersion activities, such as local cooking classes, meditation with a Buddhist monk, learn to surf and more!

There will also be plenty of time to explore the island as a group over the course of a long weekend. You will get to take in the sights at the ancient fort in Galle, relax on the beaches in Mirissa, search for elephants and other animals on safari in Udawalawa, swim under a waterfall in Ella, hike up Little Adams Peak and also see a train pass over the famous Nine Arches Bridge.

Medical placement settings

As you follow the detailed itinerary, you will have the opportunity to be placed within two government hospitals and also spend the day at a traditional Ayurvedic clinic. During your first week you will either be based at Balapitiya or Elpitiya, with the hospital being dictated by the departments and specialities you have requested and space / logistics at the time. Throughout the second week, you will then spend time within the leading teaching hospital in the Southern Province; Karapitiya. You will also spend the day at Ambalangoda Ayurvedic Hospital.

Balapitiya Base Government Hospital - The hospital is the largest within the region and provides care and services to over one third of the population living in Galle and the surrounding areas - a total of over 220,000 people. The 500+ stations are looked after by 20 specialised doctors, 2 surgeons and over 190 nurses who see an average of 14,000 outpatients, 1,200 surgeries, 4,100 inpatients and over 200 babies born in an average month.

We can place participants in the following departments: General Medicine, Paediatrics, Obstetrics, Gynaecology, Antenatal, Postnatal, Labour Room, Surgery, Emergency Treatment Unit and Outpatients.

Elpitiya Base Government Hospital - Being located close to the express road to Colombo, Elpitiya is one of the first point of calls for any emergencies in the area. The hospital was built to provide services to 70,000 people living in the local area, but their duties extend to many more people living in adjacent districts due to the expectational service they provide. With over 300 beds, 16 specialised doctors and 180 nurses, this busy hospitals sees an average of 3,900 admissions, 11,000 outpatients, 1,000 surgeries and the successful delivery of 275 babies per month.

We can place participants in the following departments: General Medicine, Paediatrics, Obstetrics, Gynaecology, Labour Room, Postnatal, Antenatal, A&E, Emergency Treatment Unit, Surgery, Outpatient Unit, Eye and Psychiatry.

Karapitiya Teaching Hospital - Karapitiya provides training facilities to over 1,700 local undergraduate medical, nursing and physiotherapy students every year. The hospital serves as the primary tertiary health centre for the whole of the Southern province and offers many specialised services - except for maternal treatment. 

The following departments are available: General Medicine, Paediatrics, Emergency Treatment Unit, Outpatients Department, Surgery, Physiotherapy and Psychiatric.

Ambalangoda Ayurvedic Hospital - Everyone will get to spend the day at a traditional Ayurvedic clinic based in Ambalangoda (just 10 minutes away from the accommodation). Ayurvedic medicine dates back over 3000 years and is one of the world's oldest medical systems that promotes the use of herbal compounds, special diets and other unique health practices. During your time here you will get to learn all about this type of medicine, how it is used in everyday life and observe the 8 doctors and 2 nurses that assist within the clinic. 

What is my role?

You will have the opportunity to be placed across several departments / specialities so that you can receive a broad overview of the healthcare system in Sri Lanka and gain the necessary experience according to your requirements. We can organise the following elective placements for Sri Lanka: medical, midwifery, nursing and physiotherapy.

Once you have signed up to the programme, you will gain access to your personal My Trip account. Within here you can specify which clinical elective you wish to undertake along with preference on departments. The TMR Sri Lanka team will then have everything planned and organised for your unique rotation when you arrive.

Your role within the government hospital will generally be observational, however, you may be assigned some hands on tasks including taking blood pressures, dressing wounds and more. Please note, we cannot guarantee any level of hands on involvement and it is at the sole discretion of your local supervisor.

As you follow the local professionals, you will get to discover new perspectives and attitudes towards medicine and learn how to collaborate with people from a different culture - ensuring you develop a range of new skills and knowledge. You will encounter different scenarios that are not so common back at home, including dengue fever, rabies, snake bites and motorcycle accidents.

Background to the medical programme

It is widely considered that the concept of a hospital was actually founded in Sri Lanka many thousands of years ago. The country's rich history stems from their extensive kingdoms, with their kings demanding that their own homes have a hospital built and they have their own practitioners. 

The healthcare system is very similar to that of the United Kingdom, with services being provided for free within government run hospitals to all citizens. However, you will quickly observe that the services are still fairly basic and outdated, with long wait lists for treatments due to limited capacities and available resources. 

The ancient practice of Ayurveda is deeply routed in the Sri Lankan medical system and many locals will choose follow these practices for certain illnesses or accidents. It is known as being one of the oldest healing sciences around the world, originating in India over 3000 years ago. Using holistic and natural health practices, Ayurveda places great emphasis on prevention and encourages the maintenance of health through close attention to balance in one’s life, right thinking, diet, lifestyle and the use of herbs.

Other things to consider

Level of involvement - Your role at the hospitals will largely be observational as per the Ministry of Health guidelines in Sri Lanka. At times you may be able to to conduct basic hands-on tasks such as taking blood pressure and blood sugar levels, dressing wounds and recording temperatures, but please note, we cannot guarantee your level of involvement.

Top destination - Sri Lanka is widely considered by our volunteers to be our best volunteer destination. The majority of our feedback suggests that this is due to the superior local support offered by Ayomi and our local team, the volunteer programmes making a real difference, value for money and accommodation location. With this in mind, we believe that Sri Lanka is the perfect destination for first-time travellers, under 18's and families.

3 weeks volunteering with sea turtles in Sri Lanka

  • January 2025
I volunteered in Sri Lanka for 3 weeks where I had the opportunity to work on the sea turtle project. Before I arrived in Sri Lanka the team were helpful in answering any questions, providing loads of info and getting all volunteers in contact with each other. My favourite moments were watching the turtles being released and spending time all together in the evenings. I would recommend this programme to everyone. I felt safe my entire trip, the food and accommodation were great and it was a lovely group of people.

Grace's story

Helping in the TMR kindergarten in Sri Lanka

  • December 2024
I volunteered on the childcare [rogram in Sri Lanka for two weeks over summer. This was my first time travelling solo, and I could not recommend The Mighty Roar more as a chance to make friends and adjust to travelling in a supportive but independent environment. The hands-on support of both the local and external teams made this trip the best it can be. If you are thinking about doing it, go for it! You really will not regret it!

Grace 's story

Sea turtle conservation in Sri Lanka

  • December 2024
I signed up for a 4-week turtle conservation program in Sri Lanka because I’ve always been passionate about marine wildlife and wanted to do something hands-on that would make a real difference. The support from TMR before I left was amazing—whenever I had a question, they got back to me super fast, which really helped calm any nerves and made the whole process smooth.

Holly's story

Childcare volunteering in Sri Lanka

  • October 2024
I signed up for the two-week childcare program in Sri Lanka with The Mighty Roar because my friend had participated and encouraged me to join. Initially, I was a bit nervous, as I had never considered traveling to that part of the world. However, the smooth pre-departure support quickly put me at ease. I loved helping out in the nursery, where we sang, danced, played with the children. It was so much fun and a privilege to help out in the classroom.

Heidi's story

Helping sea turtles in Sri Lanka

  • September 2024
I signed up to the sea turtle conservation program for two weeks in Sri Lanka which was an incredible experience and was so ethical. My time in Sri Lanka was truly eye opening, being apart of local community in the village of Akurala. Overall I had a great experience and would definitely recommend this to anyone!

Luella's story

My medical elective in Sri Lanka

  • August 2024
I’ve had the time of my life volunteering in Sri Lanka throughout June. I took part in the medical programme which was very well organised and opened my eyes to the reality of the healthcare available within these communities. I definitely recommend The Mighty Roar Sri Lanka and a big thank you to Ayomi for welcoming me into her home with such care and kindness.

Ava's story

Helping steet dogs and sea turtles in Sri Lanka

  • July 2024
My daughter Lizzie and I travelled to Sri Lanka in June to do the street dog programme. We have travelled a lot in the past but it was honestly one of the best trips of our lives! If you love animals, you’ll love this programme! TMR were a great support before we even arrived, they gave us all the info we needed in advance and we used the WhatsApp groups to get tips and share ideas or solve issues with our fellow volunteers too.

Julie's story

TMR Sri Lanka sea turtles & dogs

  • June 2024
I went to Sri Lanka and did the sea turtle program and also helped on the street dog project. It was an amazing experience from start to finish. The highlight of my experience was seeing a female lay eggs. I have seen this so many times on the TV but to witness this with my own eyes was just an experience I will never forget! Sri Lanka it's self is a such a beautiful country all the locals are welcoming and kind. Thank you for an unforgettable experience. I have one regret not staying for longer!!

Laura's story

Sri Lanka travel & volunteer experience

  • February 2024
I volunteered on the Sri Lanka Experience Programme in August and was there for 3 weeks. It was my first solo trip outside of the UK; thankfully, I couldn't have chosen a better company to start my adventures with. During my time in Sri Lanka, I was able to get involved with so much, the local team were absolutely incredible and the other volunteers were super friendly. My overall experience was incredible; you really won't believe how quickly the time goes. To this day I still talk about it all the time. I've been inspired.

Jess's story

The best experience in Sri Lanka

  • January 2024
In April, I went to Sri Lanka on the 2 week Travel and Volunteer experience and had the BEST time! The experience was the perfect idea as it meant I could take part in a meaningful project while still getting to explore the beautiful country of Sri Lanka on my holiday from work. It was my first time travelling completely by myself and the team, both in the UK and in Sri Lanka, made it really easy for me. If you're in any doubt of going on a trip with TMR, this is your sign to do it! I'm so grateful to the whole team who gave me this incredible experience.

Katharine's story

Two amazing weeks in Sri Lanka and I loved every moment

  • June 2023
I spent two amazing weeks in Sri Lanka and I loved every moment. During my time I was able to fully immerse in the incredible culture of the country and the local team made you feel welcome and were all there for any queries you had. I’m very grateful and thankful to TMR for making this experience unforgettable.

Olivia's story

Volunteering in Sri Lanka at 17 years old

  • April 2023
In April I spent two weeks volunteering in the turtle conservation program in Sri Lanka. At only 17 I was terrified to travel so far on my own, but it ended up being some of the best few weeks of my life! Sri Lanka as a country is incredible - the people are so friendly, the lifestyle is very relaxed and the food is amazing! The mighty roar team in Sri Lanka could not have been more welcoming, anything we needed help organising would be sorted straight away. This experience was a trip of a lifetime for me and hopefully I will go back one day!

Holly 's story