- Download the app
-
Volunteer Opportunities
Top Destinations
See all volunteer opportunitiesWhat type of experience are you looking for?
- Academy
- Community Blog
- WP Life
- Exclusive discounts
- How it works
- Help Center
- Sign out
- Log In
- Sign Up
- Become a Host
- English
The Secret Pearl Backpackers
The Secret Pearl is a unique volunteer experience for those seeking authentic nature, culture, and community in Sri Lanka.
Located in the jungle of Weligama, our hostel offers a true “live like a local” atmosphere simple, peaceful, and surrounded by nature. Just minutes from beautiful beaches and surf spots, it’s the perfect place to balance volunteering with relaxation, adventure, and the laid-back coastal lifestyle.
Here, you’ll join a friendly, social community of travellers from around the world, sharing experiences and building meaningful connections. If you’re looking for a place where nature, culture, and community come together, The Secret Pearl is waiting for you.
At The Secret Pearl, we live like one big family. We work together, support each other, and create a positive, relaxed environment where everyone feels at home. Even though we collaborate as a team, there’s plenty of free time to enjoy the jungle, the beaches, and everything this beautiful area has to offer.
Our hostel is tucked away in the heart of the jungle, giving the place a magical, peaceful atmosphere. It’s a unique experience where volunteers can connect with nature, meet travelers from around the world, and enjoy a lifestyle that blends creativity and community. Here, everyone is encouraged to express their artistic talents whether it’s adds personality and color to the space.
Overall, The Secret Pearl is more than just a place to volunteer it’s a place to grow, share, create, and live unforgettable moments together. We welcome you to join the family and make this experience truly your own.
Some content was translated automatically. Show original
All experiences
Reviews
Staff & Host
Hours & Tasks
Hostel
Learning & Fun
About the experience in: Weligama, Sri Lanka
Italy
We spent two wonderful weeks at this hostel and had a great experience! Everyone was incredibly kind and welcoming, and the staff were super friendly and fun to be around. There was also plenty of equipment available, which made our stay even more enjoyable.
A special mention goes to Jafar, whose amazing personality, positive energy and kindness really made a difference. He is definitely a huge added value to the hostel and helps create a fantastic atmosphere.
Thank you for making our stay so special. We would definitely recommend this place! ❤️
1 day ago
The Secret replied
Thank you for the kind words. It was lovely having you with us, and we’re glad the team and the equipment helped make the stay enjoyable. Jafar will be happy to hear the nice mention. Wishing you all the best, and we hope your travels continue well.
The Secret Pearl team
About the experience in: Weligama, Sri Lanka
Italy
Leaving the hostel was harder than I expected. My first volunteering experience became part of my everyday life, and I grew attached to the place and its people. The team is wonderful, collaborative and always ready to help. There are chances to connect through activities, social evenings or simply spending time together. And then there's Jafar, one of those people you don't easily forget. I'm truly grateful to have met him. Come with an open mind, ready to connect and make memories. You might feel sad when it's time to leave, just like I did. Thank you, Jafar and the whole team ❤️
8 days ago
The Secret replied
Thank you, Maram. It was really nice having you here, and we’re glad you liked the place and the people. We are sure Jafar will be happy to hear the kind words. Wishing you all the best here.
The Secret Pearl team
About the experience in: Weligama, Sri Lanka
Germany
Volunteering at the hostel has been one of the best experiences I've ever had. From the beginning I felt totally home, everybody was so kind and helpful, especially Jafar the hostel manager really did everything to ensure we had a good time☺️ We did a lot of painting for some signs in the club, gardening and on the weekends we promoted the party. Also a very nice benefit, PARTY 🥳, every weekend, it was really fun. couldn't have imagined a better option for my first time volunteering and traveling solo. I left this place not just with new experiences , but also with new friendships
9 days ago
The Secret replied
Thanks so much, Jona. We’re really glad you felt at home here and that your first solo trip went so well. It was great having you around. Safe travels, and we hope the rest of your trip treats you well.
The Secret Pearl team
About the experience in: Weligama, Sri Lanka
Austria
I volunteered at the hostel for three weeks and I loved it the Hostel manager Jafar was very friendly and always there for you. It was a great experience working there and I would recommend it every person who wants to meet new people and grow through experience. :)
9 days ago
The Secret replied
Thank you, Alina. We are glad you enjoyed your three weeks with us and that Jafar made you feel supported. It was good having you on the team. Wishing you safe travels ahead.
The Secret Pearl team