Kegalle
Immerse yourself in the heartwarming experience of the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, a sanctuary dedicated to caring for Sri Lanka’s majestic elephants. Located along the banks of the Maha Oya River, Pinnawala offers a unique opportunity to observe elephants in their natural habitat.
What you'll find there
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Established in 1975, Pinnawala was created to rescue and protect orphaned and injured elephants. Over the years it has grown into a vital conservation centre, playing a key role in protecting Sri Lanka’s elephant population — now home to over 80 elephants, making it one of the largest elephant orphanages in the world.
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Pinnawala offers a safe haven where elephants can roam freely, socialise and recover from injuries. Visitors can witness feeding sessions, observe their daily routines, and watch baby elephants being bottle-fed.
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One of the highlights is watching the elephants enjoy their daily bath in the nearby river. It is a mesmerising sight as these gentle giants splash and play in the water.
In short
A visit to Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage is more than just an outing — it is an inspiring journey into the world of elephant conservation, and a heartwarming experience for any wildlife enthusiast.
Journeys that go here
Your holiday, your rules
Tell us roughly when you're travelling and what else you'd like to see. A local specialist will send back a free, no-obligation plan within 24 hours.