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Description
Volunteering here
We consider volunteering to be an opportunity to share, learn and exchange between each other. Volunteers are an essential part of our community and we enjoy learning from you as much as you are open to learning from us. Volunteering here is about making a meaningful contribution to everyday farm life while learning through participation. You are welcome to live and work with us in awareness and respect for the environment.
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About us
Nestled in the serene foothills of Savandurga, Asia’s largest granite monolith, and just 60 kilometers away from the hustle of Bangalore, lies a forest stay where nature and human habitat harmoniously blend.
We are an ongoing project, a non-profit registered Trust working with marginal farmers in and around Savandurga State Forest and Bandipur National Park. As a small, personally run farm, we offer experiential hospitality for up to eight guests on a two acre site managed according to the principles of permaculture and regenerative design. Two resident caretakers oversee basic maintenance, hospitality, security, animal care, and keeping an eye on the land.
Our sister project Open Shell Farm, south of Mysore, a demonstration site for permaculture, natural building and regenerative living since 2014, also offers opportunities for volunteers.
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Location and climate
We can be found a 5 minute walk from the village of Polohalli, near to the town of Magadi, in the southern Indian state of Karnataka. It can be reached by bus from Bangalore in around 2.5 hours.
We are in a subtropical climatic zone.
Dry season / winter is from December to March with clear skies, sunny and windy days, and chilly nights and mornings. Temperatures can reach up to 30°C during the day.
Summer is from April to May with day temperatures between 24–35°C and occasional pre-monsoon rains.
Monsoon is from June to November with frequent rains.
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Range of work
The essence of volunteering here is to experience land-based living through exchange, curiosity and presence.
Work is seasonal and according to need, but may include:
• Tending to the land
• Caring for soil and trees
• Gardening
• Assisting with community meal preparation
• Mushroom growing
• Maintaining shared living spaces
• Supporting occasional events and workshops
Be prepared for mostly physical work outdoors, where you will be exposed to the sun, wind, rain and high temperatures.
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Experience
Prior experience of farming and rural living is very welcome, but not necessary. Come with an open mind and a happy spirit.
If you have any passions or specialised skills we welcome you to share them with us. Let us know if you can offer particular knowledge in areas such as carpentry, gardening, yoga, animal care, cooking, crafts, natural building, tech, or outdoor/indoor facilitation.
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Length of stay and contribution
A minimum commitment of 10 days is required to enable a worthwhile exchange.
As a nonprofit initiative we do not generate income, which means that we ask volunteers for a nominal contribution of ₹500 per day to cover expenses including a daily breakfast and community lunch.
This contribution must be paid in full on arrival in cash and is non-refundable in case of early departure.
We may be able to offer support to long term volunteers who have already stayed two months, shown dedication and taken on a role of responsibility, and are further committed to a minimum of four months.
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Food & Accommodation
Food
Breakfast and a wholesome vegetarian community lunch cooked with chemical-free, locally sourced ingredients is provided daily.
Dinner is not provided, but volunteers have the use of a fully equipped shared kitchen with:
• Gas stove
• Refrigerator
• Blender
• Toaster
• Cooking utensils
Basic groceries can be purchased nearby.
Accommodation
Accommodation is in tents under the open sky. You are welcome to bring your own tent.
A mattress will be provided, but please bring:
• Sleeping bag or blanket
• Bedsheet
Facilities
Volunteers have access to a shared toilet and shower complex with solar hot water.
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Languages spoken
English
Hindi
Kannada
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Daily routine
Volunteers work 6 hours per day, 6 days per week, with one day off each week.
Typical day:
8:00 AM — Morning circle
8:15 AM – 11:00 AM — Work
11:00 AM — Tea break
11:20 AM – 2:00 PM — Work
2:00 PM — Community lunch
Afternoons are free for rest, personal time, or exploring the surrounding area.
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Zero waste policy
We follow a strict zero waste approach.
Any personal waste (including cigarette stubs and sanitary items) that cannot be composted must be collected and disposed of responsibly in municipal waste bins in nearby villages or towns.
We ask volunteers to use biodegradable toiletries and laundry products wherever possible.
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Conduct and Dress code
Alcohol consumption and use of drugs is not permitted on the premises during your entire stay. Please plan your visit only if this aligns with your lifestyle.
Given that we are in a rural setting in conservative India, please dress modestly at all times. Wear clothes that cover the shoulders and knees and avoid low neck or figure-hugging outfits.
Public displays of physical affection are discouraged out of respect for local cultural sensitivities and the surrounding community.
We request that expressions of personal faith or belief remain private and not be shared in ways that may influence others in the space.
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Wildlife and safety
We are located at the edge of a state forest with abundant wildlife. Please move around the land mindfully and stay aware of your surroundings.
The property is surrounded by a solar powered electric fence to deter wildlife. The fence is switched on between 6:30 pm and 6:30 am. Please do not touch the fence.
When walking around the farm at night, please carry a torch or headlamp and stay on the pathways.
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Electricity and resources
We operate off-grid using solar power. Please use electricity mindfully and switch lights off when not needed.
Water is limited in this region, so please also be conscious of water usage.
Lights off and quiet hours begin at 9:30 pm.
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What to bring
Please come prepared for simple rural living.
Recommended items include:
• Work clothes suitable for farm work
• Long-sleeved clothing for sun protection
• Blanket or sleeping bag
• Bedsheet
• Towel
• Biodegradable toiletries
• Biodegradable laundry soap
• Water bottle or flask
• Flashlight or headlamp (very important)
• Natural insect repellent
• Personal medications if required
• Sun hat / scarf / sunglasses
• Raincoat or umbrella (during monsoon)
• Work gloves if you prefer
• Closed-toe shoes suitable for farm work
• Slippers or sandals
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Checking in
Because we are located at the edge of a forest with wildlife around, please plan to arrive before 4 PM.
Indian nationals:
Please carry a valid ID (Aadhar card or driving licence).
Foreign nationals:
Please carry your passport and valid visa. We are required to submit a C-form to the FRRO (Foreigners Registration Office) upon your arrival.
Please also bring sufficient cash for your stay, as the nearest ATM is located in Magadi town about 10 km away.
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Insurance
Volunteers stay with us as tourists and are not the responsibility of our organisation. Please ensure that you have adequate medical and accident insurance to cover you during your stay.
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Local supplies
There are several places nearby where volunteers can purchase basic supplies.
Maralugondla Cross
A small shop near the main road selling basic items such as tea, milk and soap (about a 25 minute walk from the farm).
Thandya (“Auntie’s shop”)
A slightly larger shop selling fruit, vegetables, grains, eggs and other groceries.
Magadi town
Located about 10 km away, with markets, pharmacies, shops and ATMs.
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Local travel
You can move around the area in several ways:
• Walking — the most common and reliable way
• Bicycle — available for short errands such as visiting nearby shops
• Auto / tuk-tuk — can be arranged locally
• Taxi — available for longer trips such as visits to Magadi
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Activities nearby
During your free time you may wish to explore the surrounding area. Nearby places include:
• Savandurga trek
• Bidurukatte trek
• Basavandurga fort ruins
• Dodda Aalada Mara (The Big Banyan Tree)
• Mandaragiri Betta and Jain temple
These activities need to be organised independently.
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Wifi & internet
Mobile network is available in certain areas of the farm including some community spaces.
There is no wifi, so please come with a SIM card and sufficient mobile data if internet access is important for you.
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Volunteer guidelines
Please help us maintain a respectful and harmonious living environment.
Farm
• Walk mindfully around the land and stay aware of wildlife
• Close tents, doors and windows to prevent insects or animals entering
• Do not feed the farm dogs and cats as they follow their own routine and diet
• Carry a torch when walking at night
Kitchen
• Wash dishes and utensils after use
• Keep the kitchen clean for everyone
• Turn off the gas after cooking
Bathrooms
• Use only biodegradable soaps and products
• Do not flush sanitary items or other waste
• Dispose of non-compostable waste outside the property
Shared spaces
• The pavilion is shared by volunteers, guests and residents
• Please respect each other’s privacy and quiet time
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If this opportunity resonates with you, please complete the form below and we will get back to you.
Types of help and learning opportunities
Charity Work
Art Projects
Language practice
Help with Eco Projects
Teaching
Gardening
DIY and building projects
Animal Care
Farmstay help
Creating/ Cooking family meals
Help around the house
Hospitality/Tourism
General Maintenance
Help with Computers/ Internet
House & pet sitting
Interests
Sustainability
Pets
Farming
Events & social
Culture
Charity work
Writing
Plant care
Photography
Performing arts
Music
Hitchhiking
Gardening
Drawing & painting
DIY & crafts
Cooking & food
Carpentry
Books
Astronomy
Art & design
Architecture
Animals
Yoga / Wellness
Outdoor activities
Nature
Mountain
Hiking
Fitness
Dancing
Camping
UN sustainability goals this host is trying to achieve
Cultural exchange and learning opportunities
Travellers benefit from the exchange mainly by living here day to day rather than being shown anything in a formal way. By doing tasks together, cooking, and sharing the same space, you get a real sense of village and forest life in this part of South India. It’s a slower rhythm than most people are used to, and many end up learning how to be more patient, observant, and comfortable with simplicity.
There’s a lot to pick up just by being around — how we take care of the land, how we build and maintain things using basic methods, how food is prepared and shared, and how a small place like this functions without many systems or staff. Conversations happen naturally, and people often exchange ideas, music, stories, and ways of living. It’s less about being taught something and more about learning through everyday life here.
Registered charity
This host is a registered charity in their country and is looking for volunteers to help with their project(s).
Help
Help here is pretty straightforward and varies depending on what’s going on.
Most days it’s a mix of helping with the land, general upkeep, cleaning and maintaining shared spaces. When we have guests or small retreats, there’s also help needed with preparing rooms, common areas, and sometimes supporting in the kitchen.
We’re also starting small-scale mushroom growing, so helping with setting that up, maintaining it, and learning the process together is part of the work.
Nothing here is rushed or heavy, but it does need people who are reliable, clean, and willing to take responsibility. You don’t need special skills — just a good attitude and comfort with hands-on work.
Languages
Languages spoken
English: Fluent
Hindi: Fluent
Kannada: FluentThis host offers a language exchange
speak English, Kannada, and Hindi. English is commonly used with international Workawayers and guests. Kannada is the local language in the village and nearby communities, and Hindi is widely understood as well. Workawayers are welcome to learn or practice Kannada or Hindi through daily interactions, especially during village visits, local travel, or shared work. Language exchange happens naturally here — through conversations, meals, work, and time spent together rather than formal lessons. If you enjoy learning languages informally and picking things up through lived experience, this can be a great place to do so.
Accommodation
⛺ Tent Accommodation (For Volunteers)
Volunteers stay in individual tents under open skies. A mattress is provided, and volunteers are requested to bring their own sleeping bag/blanket and bedsheet.
Shared facilities include:
• Eco-friendly toilets
• Solar hot water
• Access to a shared kitchen
• Rooftop pavilion for rest and quiet time
What else ...
On days off, most people either rest or spend time outdoors. Walking around the village and forest paths is very common, as the area is quiet and open. Savandurga hill is nearby and people often go there for a hike, especially early in the morning. Some prefer to read, write, practice yoga or music, or just slow down and do very little.
Getting around requires a bit of planning. The nearest village, Polohalli, is walkable. Local buses connect to nearby towns and Bangalore, but they are not very frequent. Autos and taxis are available from bigger towns, and we can help guide you on how to arrange transport, but it’s good to be comfortable being independent. Bangalore is about one and a half to two hours away.
Life here is quiet and simple. Evenings are calm, and we keep noise low out of respect for the land, wildlife, and people sharing the space. We are right next to the forest, so animals like peacocks, deer, langurs, and wild boar are part of the environment. We follow a zero-waste approach, use water carefully, and avoid single-use plastics as much as possible. This place suits people who are okay with rural living, shared spaces, and a slower pace.
A little more information
Internet access
Limited internet access
We have pets
We are smokers
Can host families
Space for parking camper vans
We have space to park small camper vans or cars on the property, close to the pavilion and common areas. The access road is rural and uneven in parts, so it’s best suited for small to medium vans, not large motorhomes or long, heavy vehicles. There are no hookups (no water, electricity, or sewage connections for vans). Facilities like bathrooms and the kitchen are shared and a short walk away. If you’re travelling in a van, it’s important to be comfortable with basic, off-grid conditions. It’s always best to check with me in advance about vehicle size and access before arriving.
How many Workawayers can stay?
More than two
My animals / pets
Zoey (7 years)
Very excited, and food loving female indie
Archie
Chat with Workawayers who've visited this host
Feedback (3)
The food was amazing, I looked forward to lunch everyday;) Its local, fresh and home-cooked. And then… read more
But moreover Sharvan and Malvika who own the place and the two locals caretakers are really lovely, they are openminded, they listen… read more
The project is run by Malvika and her son. From the moment you walk in… read more
Photos
Chat with Workawayers who've visited this host
Feedback
These are extra optional ratings when members leave feedback. The average rating left for each option is displayed.
Accuracy of profile:
(4.7)
Cultural exchange:
(5.0)
Communication:
(5.0)
The food was amazing, I looked forward to lunch everyday;) Its local, fresh and home-cooked. And then… read more
But moreover Sharvan and Malvika who own the place and the two locals caretakers are really lovely, they are openminded, they listen… read more
The project is run by Malvika and her son. From the moment you walk in… read more
