Nil Manel: Temple Project in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is the oldest continually Buddhist country, Theravada Buddhism being the major practice on the island since its official introduction in the 2nd century BC. There are 72 Buddhist temples in the surrounding area of Balapitiya, where many monks will live and gather for teachings and ceremonies. One of the newest temples was built in 1899 and is roughly 1km away from the Ayurveda Mountain Villa, where volunteers stay. Volunteers for this project will teach monks, from age 8 to 60 years, basic English in an engaging and creative way, using any techniques they find most helpful. Another part of this project is maintaining the temples; with daily tasks such as cleaning, repairing and building various areas of the temple (Buddha statue, pagoda, Bodhi tree and shrine). A central element to this project is an opportunity to connect to the Buddhist culture, and as a repayment for the hard-work, monks will give a mediation or chanting session for 10-15 minutes every day.