Pinnawala – A Sanctuary for Elephants in Sri Lanka

Location

Pinnawala is a small town situated along the banks of the Maha Oya River, located in the Kegalle District in the Sabaragamuwa Province of Sri Lanka. It is approximately 90 kilometers northeast of Colombo, Sri Lanka’s capital city, making it an easy day trip from Colombo or Kandy.

Specialty

Pinnawala is world-renowned for its Elephant Orphanage, one of the most famous attractions in Sri Lanka. Established in 1975 by the Department of Wildlife Conservation, this sanctuary provides a safe haven for orphaned, injured, and abandoned elephants. Initially set up to care for young elephants, Pinnawala has evolved into an iconic conservation and educational center that supports one of the largest captive elephant herds in the world. Visitors to Pinnawala can witness the daily routines of these majestic animals, including feeding, bathing, and social interactions, offering an up-close experience of Sri Lanka’s largest land mammals in a natural setting.

Tour Activities at Pinnawala

1. Elephant Feeding Experience

• Every day, the elephants are hand-fed milk and fruits, an activity that attracts many visitors. During feeding times, tourists have the chance to watch elephants, especially young calves, being bottle-fed. This is a perfect time to learn about the animals’ dietary needs and nutritional care from the caretakers.

2. Elephant Bathing at the River

• The highlight of a visit to Pinnawala is watching the elephants bathe in the Maha Oya River. At scheduled times each day, the elephants are led down to the river, where they splash, play, and relax. This picturesque scene, with elephants wading in the water and interacting with each other, is a favorite for photography and offers a rare, authentic view of these creatures in a semi-natural habitat.

3. Educational Tours and Awareness Programs

• The orphanage offers guided tours that educate visitors about elephant behavior, conservation efforts, and the challenges elephants face in the wild. Educational programs provide valuable insight into the orphanage’s work and the importance of wildlife conservation.

4. Observing Daily Elephant Routines

• Visitors can spend time observing the elephants’ daily routines, which include activities like walking, grazing, and socializing within the orphanage’s grounds. It’s a unique chance to see the animals’ interactions and learn about their personalities, as each elephant has its own character and habits.

5. Visiting Pinnawala Zoo

• Opened near the orphanage, the Pinnawala Zoo offers visitors an extended wildlife experience. The zoo showcases native animals and gives visitors a chance to learn about Sri Lanka’s diverse fauna beyond elephants.

How to Reach Pinnawala

From Colombo:

1. By Car or Taxi:
   • The most convenient way to reach Pinnawala from Colombo is by car or taxi, with the journey taking approximately 2.5 hours. You can take the Colombo-Kandy Road (A1) and then follow signs to Pinnawala once you reach Kegalle.
2. By Train:
   • A scenic option is to travel by train from Colombo Fort to Kandy or Rambukkana. The train journey takes around 2 hours, and from Rambukkana station, Pinnawala is a short tuk-tuk or bus ride away.
3. By Bus:
   • Buses from Colombo to Kegalle run frequently, and from Kegalle, you can take a local bus or tuk-tuk to Pinnawala. The bus is a budget-friendly option, though travel time may be longer than other methods.

Conclusion

Pinnawala is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in wildlife and conservation. The Elephant Orphanage provides an unforgettable experience where you can connect with these incredible animals and learn about the importance of protecting Sri Lanka’s wildlife. Whether you’re observing elephants feeding, watching them splash in the river, or simply appreciating the serene surroundings, Pinnawala promises a meaningful and memorable visit.

Popular Tours

Best Places to Stay