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Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage
Located in the village of Pinnawala in the Kegalle District of Sri Lanka, the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage is one of the most popular and beloved attractions in the country. Established in 1975 by the Sri Lanka Department of Wildlife Conservation, this sanctuary was created to care for orphaned and injured elephants found in the wild.

Overview and Location

Pinnawala is nestled along the banks of the Maha Oya River, offering a lush and peaceful environment for the elephants. The orphanage spans 25 acres and is home to over 80 elephants, making it one of the largest captive elephant herds in the world. The location is easily accessible—approximately 90 km from Colombo and 40 km from Kandy—making it an ideal stop for travelers touring the cultural triangle.

Main Attractions at Pinnawala

1. Elephant Feeding Times
Twice a day, visitors can witness the baby elephants being bottle-fed by their caretakers. This is a heart-melting experience, especially for families and children, as you get to see the bond between the elephants and their human guardians up close.

2. River Bathing Sessions
One of the highlights of visiting Pinnawala is watching the elephants bathe in the river. This occurs daily at set times, where the elephants march down to the Maha Oya and enjoy splashing around, socializing, and playing in the water. It’s a perfect photo opportunity and a moment of pure joy to witness.

3. Elephant Walkways and Observation Points
Visitors can explore walkways and viewing areas where you can safely observe elephants interacting, feeding, or resting. There are also informative signs and guided tours available to learn about elephant conservation and behavior.

4. Eco and Educational Tours
The orphanage promotes wildlife awareness through educational programs. Tourists can learn about the challenges faced by Asian elephants and the efforts being made in Sri Lanka for their conservation.

Visitor Tips
Opening Hours: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM (Daily)
Best Time to Visit: Feeding and bathing times – 9:15 AM, 1:15 PM (Feeding) & 10:00 AM, 2:00 PM (Bathing)
Nearby Attractions: Millennium Elephant Foundation, Kegalle Town, Spice Gardens


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