Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage | Colombo

Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage is one of the most well-known and popular tourist attractions in Sri Lanka. Located in the village of Pinnawala, near the town of Kegalle in the Sabaragamuwa Province, the orphanage is home to a large number of elephants, many of whom have been rescued or born at the facility. It is not only an important conservation center but also an opportunity for visitors to observe and interact with these magnificent creatures in a safe and natural environment.

1. Location

• Town: Pinnawala
• District: Kegalle
• Province: Sabaragamuwa Province, Sri Lanka
• Coordinates: Approximately 7.3005° N latitude and 80.2339° E longitude

Pinnawala is located about 13 km north of the town of Kegalle, and approximately 80 km from Colombo, making it a popular day trip destination for both locals and tourists.

2. History and Purpose

Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage was founded in 1975 by the Sri Lanka Department of Wildlife Conservation. It began with just a small group of orphaned elephants who had been rescued from the wild, often due to injury, abandonment, or other circumstances that left them vulnerable. Since then, the orphanage has grown significantly, and it is now home to over 80 elephants of various ages, including calves and mature adults.

The main objective of the orphanage is to care for and protect elephants, particularly orphaned ones, and to contribute to the conservation of the species. While many of the elephants here are rehabilitated and returned to the wild when possible, others remain at the orphanage due to their inability to survive independently in the wild.

3. Features and Attractions

• Elephant Feeding: One of the main attractions at Pinnawala is the opportunity for visitors to feed the elephants. You can buy baskets of food, such as fruits and vegetables, and feed the elephants under the supervision of the staff. This interaction allows visitors to get up close with the elephants and learn more about their habits and needs.
• Bathing in the River: Every day, the elephants are taken to the Maha Oya River for their bath. It is an incredible sight to watch as the elephants happily splash around in the river, and visitors can observe or even take part in the experience. Visitors can watch from the riverbank or get closer for an even more interactive experience.
• Elephant Shows: The orphanage also hosts elephant shows, where trained elephants perform various tasks, including playing basketball, painting, or engaging in other playful activities. While these performances showcase the elephants’ intelligence, they are designed in a way that ensures their well-being and does not exploit them.
• Breeding Program: Pinnawala also runs a successful breeding program. Many of the elephants born at the orphanage are kept and raised there. As of recent years, there have been several births, helping to ensure the future of the elephants at the orphanage and contributing to the conservation efforts of the species.
• Elephant Adoption Program: Pinnawala offers an elephant adoption program, where visitors can adopt an elephant. This allows you to support the care and well-being of a specific elephant and contribute to the overall mission of the orphanage.

4. Activities and Things to Do

• Elephant Walks: Visitors can take part in guided walks around the orphanage, where they can learn about the elephants' history, their behaviors, and the conservation efforts in place. Knowledgeable staff members provide fascinating information about the elephants and their care.
• Photography: Pinnawala is a fantastic place for photographers to capture amazing moments. From feeding sessions to the elephants bathing in the river, there are plenty of opportunities to take memorable photographs of these gentle giants.
• Shopping for Souvenirs: There are several souvenir shops within the orphanage where visitors can purchase items such as elephant figurines, clothing, handicrafts, and postcards. The proceeds from these shops often go towards supporting the orphanage’s operations and conservation work.

5. Conservation Efforts and Elephant Welfare

The Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage plays a vital role in the conservation of Sri Lankan elephants. As a species, elephants face numerous threats, including habitat loss, human-elephant conflict, and poaching. The orphanage works to provide a safe and protected environment for these animals, offering them a place to thrive and be cared for.

The orphanage is also involved in educational programs to raise awareness about the challenges elephants face and the importance of conservation. It provides valuable information to visitors about the significance of elephants in Sri Lanka's ecosystem and the ongoing efforts to protect them.

6. Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage is generally during the dry season, which lasts from November to April. During this period, the weather is pleasant, and the elephants are most active. You can enjoy the full experience, including feeding sessions and the river bath, as the weather is typically warm and dry.

During the monsoon season (May to October), the weather can be unpredictable, with heavy rains affecting outdoor activities. However, the orphanage is open year-round, so you can visit during any season, though you may experience less favorable weather during the rainy months.

7. Nearby Attractions

• Muthurajawela Marsh: Located about 40 km south of Pinnawala, the Muthurajawela Marsh is one of Sri Lanka’s largest coastal wetlands. It is home to various bird species, wildlife, and plant life, making it a great spot for eco-tourism.
• Dambulla Cave Temple: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Dambulla Cave Temple is a short distance away from Pinnawala and features an impressive collection of Buddhist murals and statues in a complex of caves carved into a rock face.
• Kandy: The city of Kandy, located about 50 km from Pinnawala, is famous for its sacred Temple of the Tooth and its beautiful lake. Kandy is also home to a rich cultural heritage and is a key destination for those exploring the cultural triangle of Sri Lanka.
• Gadaladeniya Temple: Situated close to Pinnawala, this ancient Buddhist temple is an important historical site with unique architecture and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

8. Conclusion

Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage offers a unique and enriching experience for animal lovers, families, and those interested in wildlife conservation. It provides a rare opportunity to get up close to Sri Lanka’s majestic elephants while supporting efforts to care for and protect these animals. With its educational programs, interactive activities, and dedication to elephant welfare, the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage is an essential destination for anyone visiting Sri Lanka.