Nestled in the lush greenery of Sri Lanka, Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage is a world-renowned conservation center dedicated to the rescue and care of orphaned and injured elephants. Established in 1975 by the Sri Lanka Department of Wildlife Conservation, the orphanage provides a safe haven for these majestic animals, offering them food, shelter, and medical care.

A visit to Pinnawala is an unforgettable experience where you can watch elephants roam freely, bathe in the river, and interact with their caretakers. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Sri Lanka, drawing thousands of visitors every year who come to witness the gentle giants in their natural habitat.

Why Visit Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage?

Witness Elephants Up Close

Pinnawala is home to over 80 elephants, including calves, juveniles, and fully grown adults. Unlike traditional zoos, the elephants here have ample space to roam and interact freely, providing visitors with a unique chance to observe them in a more natural setting.

Elephant Bathing at the Maha Oya River

One of the most breathtaking experiences at Pinnawala is watching the elephants bathe and play in the Maha Oya River. Twice a day, the herd is led to the river, where they splash in the water, spray each other, and enjoy their refreshing break from the heat.

• Bathing Times:
  
  • Morning Session: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
  • Afternoon Session: 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM

Many restaurants and cafes nearby provide riverside seating, allowing visitors to enjoy a meal while watching the elephants bathe—a truly magical experience!

Feeding Baby Elephants

One of the most heartwarming experiences is seeing the baby elephants being bottle-fed by caretakers. These calves, often orphaned due to human-wildlife conflicts, are nurtured with great care to ensure they grow up strong and healthy.

• Feeding Times:
  
  • 9:00 AM
  • 1:00 PM
  • 5:00 PM

Tourists can watch caretakers feed milk to the baby elephants and sometimes even get the chance to participate under supervision.

Conservation and Research

Pinnawala is not just a tourist attraction; it plays a crucial role in elephant conservation, research, and breeding programs. It has successfully bred elephants in captivity, with several calves born at the orphanage over the years. The facility also provides medical care for sick and injured elephants, helping to rehabilitate them for a better future.

Things to Do at Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage

Explore the Elephant Feeding Area – Watch how caretakers nourish young elephants.
Take Stunning Photos – Capture elephants as they roam, bathe, and interact.
Enjoy a Riverside Meal – Relax at a restaurant with a direct view of the elephants bathing in the river.
Visit the Elephant Care Center – Learn about the rehabilitation and medical treatment of elephants.
Shop for Unique Souvenirs – Purchase handmade elephant-themed crafts, artwork, and eco-friendly gifts.

Best Time to Visit Pinnawala

The best time to visit Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage is during the feeding and bathing times, as these allow for the most engaging experiences. Mornings (9:00 AM – 11:00 AM) and afternoons (2:00 PM – 4:00 PM) are the best hours to witness the elephants in action.

• Peak Season: December to April (Dry season, perfect weather)
• Off-Peak Season: May to November (Rainy season, fewer crowds)

How to Get to Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage

Location: Pinnawala, Sri Lanka (Approximately 90 km from Colombo)

By Car/Taxi: A direct drive from Colombo takes about 2.5 to 3 hours via the Colombo-Kandy Road (A1 Highway).
By Train: Take a train from Colombo or Kandy to Rambukkana Railway Station, which is about 2 km from the orphanage. A tuk-tuk or local bus can take you the rest of the way.
By Bus: Regular buses operate from Colombo and Kandy to Kegalle, from where you can take a tuk-tuk or local transport to Pinnawala.

Entry Fees & Tickets

The entrance fee to Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage varies based on nationality:

• Foreign Visitors: Approx. $15 per adult / $8 per child
• Sri Lankan Citizens: Lower rates apply for locals
• Students & Groups: Special discounts available

(Ticket prices may change, so it’s best to check before visiting.)

Nearby Attractions

If you have extra time, explore these nearby attractions:

• Millennium Elephant Foundation – A smaller elephant sanctuary where you can interact with elephants more closely.
• Kandy City & Temple of the Tooth Relic – A UNESCO World Heritage Site, just a 1-hour drive from Pinnawala.
• Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home – Another elephant conservation project located further south.

Plan Your Visit to Pinnawala Today!

A visit to Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage is an unforgettable experience, offering a rare glimpse into the lives of Sri Lanka’s most cherished animals. Whether you’re a wildlife lover, a photographer, or simply looking for a unique adventure, Pinnawala promises memories that will last a lifetime.

Book your trip today and experience the beauty of Sri Lanka’s gentle giants!