Pinnawala Elephant orphanage

ready to bath

Sri Lanka is one of the premier destinations for experiencing elephants in their natural habitat as well as in various orphanages. Among the most popular spots to visit these majestic creatures are “Pinnawala” and “Udawalawa,” both renowned for their care of elephants. If you're eager to observe elephants in the wild, consider exploring these top parks:

1. Minneriya

2. Kawudulla

3. Yala

4. Wilpaththu

In this article, we will focus on the “Pinnawala” elephant orphanage, located just 13 kilometers from the bustling heart of Kegalle. This remarkable facility serves as a breeding and conservation institution for wild Asian elephants and boasts the largest herd of captive elephants in the world, with a total of 71 elephants, including adorable baby elephants, as of 2023. Founded in 1975 by the Sri Lanka Department of Wildlife Conservation, Pinnawala aims to rehabilitate injured or handicapped elephants. It began its journey in Wilpattu National Park, later moving to Benthota and the Dehiwala Zoo, before finally settling into its current location at Pinnawala, thanks to a donation of land from the esteemed Pinnawala Adhikaram Mudiyanse family from Kandy.

Visitors to the Pinnawala orphanage will find a wealth of attractions nearby, including delightful restaurants, charming shops, and welcoming hotels to enhance their experience. Just across from the orphanage is the serene “Maha Oya” river, where the elephants take their daily baths. Bath time typically occurs from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., and it’s truly fascinating to watch the elephants enjoy this refreshing ritual. Don't miss the chance to capture some memorable photographs while observing them in the water!

The care of these gentle giants is a priority, and a dedicated team of about 80 staff members ensures that they are well-fed and looked after. Each adult elephant receives around 250 kilograms of food daily, which includes grass, jackfruit, sugar palm, and tamarind, with most supplies sourced from outside. During the night, the elephants are kept in separate stalls for their safety, with male and female elephants secured individually.

If you're planning a visit, make sure to include Pinnawala in your itinerary for an unforgettable encounter with these magnificent animals!