Pinnawala

Pinnawala: Up-Close Encounters at the Elephant Sanctuary

Conveniently situated halfway between Colombo and Kandy, Pinnawala is internationally famed for its pioneering Elephant Orphanage founded in 1975. Nestled beside the scenic Maha Oya river, this conservation retreat provides care, feeding, and protection to orphaned, displaced, or injured Asian elephants living as an affectionate herd.

Must-Experience Highlights:

The Great River Bath: Watch a herd of 60+ elephants march through the village to splash, bathe, and play in the Maha Oya.
Riverside Cafe Dining: Enjoy a meal or Ceylon iced tea from elevated restaurant terraces overlooking bathing elephants.
Baby Elephant Bottle Feeding: Observe dedicated caregivers nurse adorable orphaned elephant calves.
Maximus Eco Elephant Dung Paper Factory: Discover sustainable recycling innovations transforming elephant waste into fine artisan stationery.

Best Time to Visit: Year-round; best planned around the scheduled daily river bathing hours (10:00 AM & 2:00 PM).