Winter is a great time to take a break and go abroad, especially if you’re from a colder climate and need to get away from the cold and dark of winter. World Endeavors provides excellent opportunities to travel to warm, beautiful countries during the long winter, and you can put your vacation to use by volunteering in communities in need.

World Endeavors Winter Break Programs are available in the following countries: India, Nepal, and Thailand.

Winter Break Volunteering in India

India is a vibrant country full of contrasts. Its dynamic topography is comprised of the snow-clad Himalayas, the bustling metropolises of Delhi and Mumbai, and the palm-lined beaches of Goa. The country’s population is a fascinating mixture, too—with six major religions, dozens of major languages, and numerous racial and ethnic groups, it would seem that India is more like several distinct countries instead of the second most populous nation in the world. Its vastness defies easy categorization, but one thing is for sure: India is an experience like no other. Volunteers in India immerse themselves completely in India’s culture, working side by side with local community members to help them build a stronger future for themselves and their country.

Winter is an ideal time to travel to India; the temperatures are mild and the sunshine is lovely. Migratory birds flock to the country during this time, and the tourists do, as well. Visitors delight in all that India has to offer along the lines of culture, education, and entertainment. This might include watching local performances or Bollywood movies, shopping at street markets, learning traditional Indian dance, visiting museums, sampling local cuisine, or sipping homemade chai while relaxing with new friends. Volunteers may also take advantage of India’s affordable and efficient train system to explore other parts of northern India. The opportunities to experience new and exciting things are endless in India.

Program Outline

While India boasts a burgeoning economy and is a major religious and cultural birthplace, the country still suffers from poverty and inequity, and volunteers can lend a helping hand and make a difference where it is needed the most. Participants volunteering in India will live with a host family and work in Jaipur, which is located in India’s Rajasthan region.

Winter Break programs available in India: Childcare & Orphanage Assistance, Teaching, Special Education, and Women’s Development

Program Features

• Volunteer Placement
• Onsite English-Speaking Coordinator
• Residential Housing Accommodations
• Onsite Orientation
• 2 Meals per Day
• Travel Medical Insurance
• Visa Support
• Airport Pick-Up and Welcome
• Pre-Departure Guidance and Handbook
• 24/7 Emergency Phone Support
• Reentry Support and Alumni Services

Program Dates

The Winter Break Volunteer program in India lasts for 2-3 weeks and is open during the months of December and January. It is on a rolling schedule, so volunteers can choose the weeks they want to go based on their personal schedule.

Winter Break Volunteering in Nepal

Nepal leaves a lasting impression on those who travel there. For many of us, just the name “Nepal” evokes images of snow-capped mountain peaks, welcoming locals, and brightly colored prayer flags blowing in the breeze. Nepal has seen a significant influx of international visitors in recent years, many of whom come to enjoy the country’s breathtaking scenery. Despite the boost that tourism has brought, this small and isolated country has struggled to develop its economy and infrastructure. Its education system is lagging, and over one third of adults are illiterate. Many rural communities lack access to even basic health care. World Endeavors volunteers in Nepal contribute to this country’s development through culturally immersive, community-based volunteer projects.

The weather in Nepal during winter is ideal for visitors—it is mild and warm instead of hot and humid like the monsoon season. Visitors are enthralled with Nepal from their first moment in it. From the lush green plateaus, to the friendly and amicable people, to the splendid mountain panoramas, to the sights and sounds of Katmandu, Nepal has much to offer.

Program Outline

Many Nepalese people live in rural areas, and don’t have regular access to healthcare and schooling, which is why village schools and rural clinics and doctors are so vital to a large part of the population.  Volunteers offer much-needed support as teachers in village schools or doing medical work in the village. Participants volunteering in Nepal live and work in Pokhara and nearby rural villages. Pokhara is Nepal’s third largest city and the jumping off point for treks through the Annapurna range.

Winter Break volunteer programs available in Nepal: Teaching in village schools, medical work (Healthcare) in the village

Program Features

• Volunteer Placement
• Onsite English-Speaking Coordinator
• Home Stay Accommodations
• Onsite Orientation
• 3 Meals per Day
• Travel Medical Insurance
• Visa Support
• Airport Pick-Up and Welcome
• Pre-Departure Guidance and Handbook
• 24/7 Emergency Phone Support
• Reentry Support and Alumni Services

Program Dates

The Winter Break Volunteer program in Nepal lasts for 2-3 weeks and is open during the months of December and January. It is on a rolling schedule, so volunteers can choose the weeks they want to go based on their personal schedule.

Winter Break Volunteering in Thailand

Thailand has long been a popular destination for tourists. Visitors are drawn to its friendly people, stunning scenery, and world-renowned cuisine. Beyond the Thailand that most tourists experience, however, there are many social and environmental challenges plaguing the country. World Endeavors volunteers in Thailand can make a meaningful contribution to Thai society through a community-focused volunteer project, all while experiencing immersion in authentic Thai culture.

Winter is an excellent time to experience Thailand; the weather is mild, unlike during the monsoon season, when it is hot and humid. Thailand is an experience not easily forgotten—from the floating markets, intricate temples, and buzzing nightlife of Bangkok, to the fascinating hill tribes in the north, or the sparkling turquoise beaches in the south, the country has a way of exceeding visitors’ expectations and making them long for even more.

Program Outline

Although Thailand is abundant in friendly people and beautiful scenery, there are still social challenges that the country faces. World Endeavors volunteers make a direct impact on the lives of the people that they assist, offering a helping hand where it is needed the most. Winter Break volunteers offer much-appreciated support in schools, orphanages, and hospitals. Participants volunteering in Thailand will live and work in Bangkok, the capital of Thailand and its largest city.

Winter Break volunteer programs available in Thailand: Childcare and Orphanage Assistance, Health Education, and Teaching.

Program Features

• Volunteer Placement
• Onsite English-Speaking Coordinator
• Thai Language Instruction: For programs 4 weeks or longer
• Home Stay Accommodations
• Onsite Orientation
• 2 Meals per Day
• Travel medical insurance
• Visa Assistance
• Airport Pick-Up and Welcome
• Pre-departure guidance and handbook
• Cell phone rental
• 24/7 Emergency phone support
• Reentry and Alumni Services

Program Dates

The Winter Break Volunteer program in Thailand lasts for 2-3 weeks and is open during the months of December and January. It is on a rolling schedule, so volunteers can choose the weeks they want to go based on their personal schedule.