About the program
On the marshy edges of Chilika Lake, the village of Mangalajodi tells one of India’s most remarkable conservation turnaround stories — a community of former poachers who became protectors of over 300,000 wintering waterbirds. As a Culture Compass volunteer, you’ll conduct macroinvertebrate surveys to assess wetland health and carry out systematic bird monitoring across this internationally important habitat. Working alongside local conservationists and boatmen-turned-guides, you’ll contribute real field data to one of Asia’s most significant wetland ecosystems, gaining hands-on ecological research experience while witnessing grassroots conservation in action.
5:30 AM – Early wake-up, light tea (bird activity peaks at sunrise)
6:00 AM – Morning bird monitoring session by boat through wetland channels
8:30 AM – Return to base, proper breakfast
9:30 AM – Macroinvertebrate sampling at designated survey points
12:00 PM – Lunch break
1:00 PM – Data logging: species identification, entry, and analysis
3:00 PM – Discussion or briefing with local conservationists on ongoing protection efforts
4:30 PM – Free time — explore the village, relax, or take a leisurely boat ride
6:30 PM – Group dinner, often with informal stories from the local conservation community
8:00 PM onward – Optional data review or quiet reflection time
Conduct macroinvertebrate sampling using standard freshwater/brackish-water survey techniques
Identify, record, and classify collected invertebrate species to assess habitat health
Carry out systematic wetland bird counts and species identification during scheduled observation periods
Maintain accurate field data logs for both invertebrate and bird monitoring activities
Support local conservation teams in mapping biodiversity patterns across the wetland
Assist in community awareness efforts about sustainable wetland use and bird protection
Document field observations and learnings to contribute to ongoing conservation research
Collaborate respectfully with local boatmen, guides, and community conservation groups
- Hours per Day:
- 5 Hours
- Days per Week:
- 4 Days
- No. of Days Off:
- 3 Days
- Schedule Flexibility:
- Varies
- Boat rides through Mangalajodi's wetland channels — an immersive way to spot birds up close in their natural habitat
- Nalabana Bird Sanctuary — a short boat trip into the heart of Chilika, home to thousands of migratory birds
- Kalijai Temple — a scenic island temple, reachable by boat, significant to local fisherfolk
- Satapada — known for Irrawaddy dolphin sightings, a popular day-trip destination
- Local fishing villages around Chilika — insight into livelihoods tied closely to the lagoon
- Evenings often include informal conversations with local conservationists about the community's shift from poaching to protection
- Weekend option: day trip to Bhubaneswar for its temple architecture and museums
Upcoming Batches
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How to Join
Joining a program is simple. Every application follows a clear, step-by-step process designed to help match you with the right program.
If you're eligible after completing the program screening, you'll pay a ₹199 annual membership fee. Once the host accepts your application, simply pay the ₹300 confirmation fee within 48 hours to confirm your participation.
Experience Highlights
- Work within Mangalajodi, part of the Chilika Ramsar wetland — home to over 300,000 wintering birds annually
- Conduct macroinvertebrate surveys to assess freshwater-brackish transition zone health
- Monitor resident and migratory wetland birds using standard field observation and counting techniques
- Learn from a community of former hunters turned conservationists — a genuine grassroots protection story
- Contribute real field data to ongoing wetland biodiversity monitoring efforts
- Small-group structure with mentorship from local ecologists and community conservation leaders
Connectivity
Railway Station: Balugaon Railway Station
Airport: Biju Patnaik International Airport, Bhubaneswar
Bus Stand: Tangi Bus Stand
Location Map
Reviews & Ratings
Here's what your stay covers - from where you sleep to what's on your plate. The host provides these at no cost to you.
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Accommodation - Shared - 2 persons
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Bathroom - Shared Inside
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Meal - Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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Dietary Provisions - Veg, Non-Veg
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Local Transport - Provided for programme activities only
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Pick Up and Drop - Not Available
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Equipment - Not provided
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Personal travel
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Personal expenses and leisure costs
Here's what to expect in terms of staying connected useful to know if you need to check in with family or work remotely.
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Mobile Signal - Good - All major Indian carriers. Calls and mobile data work reliably
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Wi-Fi - Available
The host welcomes solo women travelers.
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Female staff - No
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Separate accommodation - Yes
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Female coordinator - Yes
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Safe pickup - Yes
Who Should Apply?
Basic Requirements
These are the basics to check before applying - age, commitment, fitness, and language. Make sure you fit, so the experience fits you.
- Age
- 18 - 40 Years
- Commitment
- 7 Days
- Physical Fitness
- Moderate
- Language
- English, Hindi
- Nationality
- Open for All
Skills
These skills are required for this program. You may be asked to provide proof of relevant knowledge or experience before you apply.
- Required Skill
- Birdwatching / ornithology
- Secondary Skill
- Species identification
Top Qualities
- Adaptable and comfortable when plans change
- Comfortable with basic and simple living conditions
- Comfortable with early mornings and physical daily routines
- Comfortable with silence, solitude, and low stimulation
- Comfortable working with children
Health and Safety
What to know before you arrive - medical access, insurance, and anything specific to this location. Read this carefully.
- Vaccinations Recommended
- Not Provided
- Health Considerations
- No specific concerns
- Volunteer Insurance
- Not Covered
- Medical Facility
- Community Health Centre (CHC), Tangi
- Safety Gear
- Not Applicable
- First Aid Onsite
- Available
Frequently Asked Questions
Applying
How do I apply to a program?
Complete the host's pre-screening questions to check your eligibility. If you qualify, you'll become a GDT Care member (one-time annual membership), and your application will be sent to the host after you've reviewed the programme details and applicable costs.
What is the pre-screening, and why is it there?
Pre-screening is a short set of questions chosen by the host to check whether you meet the program's basic requirements. It helps match the right volunteers with the right opportunities, saving time for both you and the host.
What happens if I don't pass the screening?
You simply won't be able to apply to that particular program; but there are many others on GDT Care, and you're free to explore and apply to any that interest you. Passing screening is about fit for that specific program, nothing more.
What is the GDT Care annual membership?
The GDT Care annual membership is a one-time fee you pay after passing a program's pre-screening. It remains valid for one year, allowing you to apply to unlimited GDT Care programs without paying the membership fee again until renewal.
Why is there an annual membership?
The GDT Care annual membership helps build a trusted community of genuine, committed volunteers. It supports identity verification and gives hosts confidence that every applicant has completed GDT's membership and verification process.
What happens after I pay the program confirmation fee?
Once your confirmation payment is successful, your spot is secured and you and the host can contact each other directly. If the host requested identity documents during pre-screening, you'll need to share the agreed documents directly with them before your arrival.
Changing your mind, and cancellations
Can I withdraw my application?
Yes - you can withdraw at any stage. Do note that the membership and any confirmation fee already paid are non-refundable, but your membership stays active, so you can apply to other programmes for the rest of your membership year.
What if I change my mind after I've confirmed?
If you can no longer participate, notify both the host and traveler_support@greatdtour.com as soon as possible. Your program confirmation fee is non-refundable, and failing to inform us before the start date will be treated as a no-show, which may affect your profile credibility and future applications.
What if the host cancels the program?
If the host cancels a confirmed program, your program confirmation fee will be refunded. If the cancellation is due to circumstances beyond anyone's control (such as natural disasters or government restrictions), your confirmation fee will be credited towards a future program application.
What if my documents don't match after I'm confirmed?
If a host needs certain documents after confirmation and there's a genuine mismatch or something missing, the placement may be cancelled. In that case the confirmation fee isn't refunded - so it's worth making sure your details are accurate and ready.
Can I volunteer if I'm not an Indian national?
Yes. International volunteers are welcome to apply for eligible programs using their passport for identity verification. You're responsible for having the required visa, travel documents, and permissions, as Great D'Tour does not provide immigration advice.
What if something goes wrong during a programme?
If you need immediate assistance during your programme - such as a medical emergency, safety concern, or an issue on-site - contact your host first, as they are best placed to help you quickly. If you're unable to reach your host, can't locate them, or need support with an issue the host cannot resolve, contact the GDT Support team at traveler_support@greatdtour.com at the earliest.
Can I bring someone with me?
You can check whether guests are permitted in the Program Details section. If allowed, you may bring one guest by adding their details during the pre-screening. The host makes the final decision based on availability and may charge additional costs; if your guest is under 18, parental or guardian consent is required.
What does a fully funded program mean?
A fully funded program means the host does not charge a program fee and provides everything listed in the Inclusions section at no additional cost. If a donation or other expense is required, it will be mentioned in the Program Details and is paid directly to the host, not Great D'Tour.
Physical Demands & Suitability
Do I need prior experience to join this programme?
Every programme has its own eligibility requirements. Some opportunities are beginner-friendly, while others require specific skills or experience. Please review the Requirements section to make sure the programme is the right fit before applying.
How physically demanding is this programme?
The physical demands vary depending on the programme and activities involved. The Requirements section explains the expected fitness level, daily routine, and any physical considerations so you know what to expect before applying.
Is this programme suitable for me?
Every programme has different participation, physical, and environmental requirements. We recommend reviewing the Requirements and Health & Safety sections to determine whether the experience matches your abilities, comfort level, and expectations.
Food
Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?
Many hosts try to accommodate dietary preferences where possible, but this depends on the programme. If you have specific dietary requirements, mention it in the pre-screening assessment.
Logistics
How do I reach the programme location?
The Location section provides the programme address, nearby transport hubs, and other travel information to help you plan your journey. Additional arrival instructions, if required, will be shared by the host before your arrival.
Will someone meet me on arrival?
Arrival assistance varies between programmes. If airport, railway station, or bus station pickup is available, it will be mentioned in the Location or Inclusions section of the listing.
Climate & Packing
What should I pack?
Packing requirements depend on the destination, weather, and programme activities. We recommend reviewing the Location and Health & Safety sections for destination and season specific guidance before travelling.
Volunteer Work
What kind of work will I be doing?
Your responsibilities, expected contribution, and the type of activities you'll support are explained in the Program section. We recommend reviewing it carefully before applying so you know what the programme involves.
Will I receive any training or orientation?
Once your participation is confirmed, the host may share program details before your arrival and provide an orientation when you join. Specialized skill programs expect you to have the required skills, while common skill programs may include basic training.
What does an Apprenticeship mean?
An Apprenticeship focuses on learning by working alongside experienced professionals. You'll gain practical, hands-on experience while contributing to the host's ongoing work and developing real-world skills.
What does Work Exchange mean?
A Work Exchange is an arrangement where you contribute your time and skills in exchange for benefits provided by the host, such as accommodation, meals, or other support. The exact inclusions vary by programme and are listed in the Inclusions section.
What does Operation Support mean?
Operation Support involves helping with the host's ongoing activities and clearly defined operational tasks. You'll contribute where support is needed to keep the programme running effectively.
What does Community Service mean?
Community Service focuses on creating a positive impact by supporting local communities, social initiatives, or public causes. Your contribution helps address community needs while providing a meaningful volunteering experience.
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