Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage | Colombo

Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage is a sanctuary for orphaned and injured elephants located in the Sabaragamuwa Province of Sri Lanka. It is situated approximately 90 kilometers northeast of Colombo.

Visual Characteristics

The orphanage grounds consist of open grassland and a riverbed. Elephants are typically observed in herds, moving between feeding areas and the river. The primary structure is a large enclosure for nighttime housing. The river is a shallow, rocky waterway.

Location & Access Logistics

Access from Colombo involves traveling via the A1 highway towards Kandy, then taking the A5 towards Rambukkana. The orphanage is located 2 kilometers east of Rambukkana town. Parking is available on-site for vehicles. Public transport options include bus services from Colombo to Rambukkana, followed by a short tuk-tuk ride to the orphanage.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage was established in 1975 by the Sri Lanka Wildlife Department. Its initial purpose was to house and care for orphaned elephants found in the wild, often due to poaching or the loss of their mothers. It has since evolved into a significant conservation and breeding center.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can observe elephants bathing and drinking at the river twice daily. Feeding sessions are also scheduled. Guided tours are available, providing information on elephant care and behavior. The orphanage facilitates bottle-feeding of young calves at specific times.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available on-site. Shaded areas are provided within the viewing enclosures. Cell phone signal (4G) is generally consistent within the orphanage grounds. Food vendors are located outside the main entrance, offering local snacks and beverages.

Best Time to Visit

The best time of day for viewing is during the river bathing sessions, typically around 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM. The dry season, from December to April, offers the most favorable weather conditions. High tide is not a relevant factor for this inland location.

Facts & Legends

Pinnawala is one of the largest elephant orphanages in the world. A unique aspect is the opportunity for visitors to witness the elephants' daily routine, including their supervised walks to and from the river. The orphanage has successfully bred over 30 elephants since its inception.

Nearby Landmarks

• Rambukkana Railway Station (2km West)
• Kandy Lake (35km Northeast)
• Temple of the Tooth Relic (Kandy) (35km Northeast)
• Peradeniya Botanical Gardens (30km Northeast)