Volunteer experiences

Marina, volunteering until August 2016, published a movie on YouTube about her experience.
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Budget

Expenses

Auroville is a diverse community that can accommodate many different living standards. Find below a general range of costs to give you an idea of what your expenses might be. You should consider variations depending on the time of year you will be coming, the length of your stay and your own level of needs. Get prepared to book accommodation long in advance during the “tourist season” (December to March).

Accommodation

Rs. 6,000 to Rs. 25,000

per month

depending on desired standard of living and guesthouse availability.

Food

Rs. 5,000 to Rs 10,000

per month

depending on your diet and whether you cook at the guest house or eat out.

Transport

Two wheeler (rent+petrol)
Rs. 2,700 to 3,000
per month

E-cycles
Rs. 1800 to 3,300
per month

Bicycle
Rs. 750
per month

Miscellaneous

Rs. 5,000 to Rs 20,000

per month

Toiletry, workshops, classes, shopping

Contribution

Rs. 900

per month

Note: This is for registered volunteers only. Contribution for guests can be up to Rs. 4.500 per month depending on the accommodation.

Money

Upon arrival, you will be given an Auroville Card (Auro-Card) operating like a debit card, so that you do not need to keep cash with you. At start you deposit a certain amount to be credited on your card, and then you can “pay” for your meals and some services in Auroville. You will have to recharge from time to time, to access to the services and amenities. This card contains a number of data that need to be updated regularly.

Contribution

All residents of Auroville pay a monthly contribution to help Auroville financing its collective facilities and services. In a similar way, temporary residents -Volunteers or Students- are asked to pay contribution for the whole setup offered freely to them in Auroville: general organization, infrastructure, cinema and cultural events, orientation to volunteers and many other services. This Volunteer contribution is (not refundable) 900 Rs per month.