Volunteer travel--The latest trend

India Untravelled combines an unrushed fortnight in the spectacular mountain desertscape of Spiti with the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the communities that live there. In a trip that&rsquos meant to be an introduction to volunteer travel, join a skilled team in the hands-on construction of a solar bath and in setting up a solar water geyser or a greenhouse in Kaza over a period of 7-8 days involving physical work where you contribute your skills and learn new ones. Other attractions include visits to Spiti&rsquos historic monasteries, hiking through snow leopard territory, riding mountain bikes (or yaks) over rugged trails, and staying in a Spitian home and enjoying local food (Rs 38,000 per person indiauntravelled.com).