22. Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage – A Must-Visit in Sri Lanka

 

🐘 Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage – A Must-Visit in Sri Lanka

Nestled in the village of Pinnawala, the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage is a sanctuary for orphaned and injured elephants. Established in 1975, it offers visitors a unique opportunity to observe and interact with these majestic creatures in a natural setting.





📍 Location & Accessibility

  • Distance from Kandy: Approximately 37–41 km (about a 1-hour drive)
  • Travel Options:
    • By Car: Private transfers are available, taking around 1 hour and 10 minutes .
    • By Bus: Regular buses operate between Kandy and Pinnawala, with a journey time of about 1.5 hours .
    • By Train: Take a train from Kandy to Rambukkana Station, followed by a short tuk-tuk ride to the orphanage

🕒 Daily Schedule

  • Opening Hours: 8:30 AM – 6:00 PM
  •  
  • Key Activities:
  •  
    • Bottle Feeding: 9:15 AM, 1:15 PM, and 5:00 PM .
    • Elephant Bathing in the River: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM

Visitors can witness the elephants being led to the nearby Ma Oya River for their daily baths—a truly enchanting sight .

💰 Entry Fees

  • Foreign Visitors:
    • Adults: Approximately USD 16 .
    • Children (3–12 years): Approximately USD 8
  • SAARC Nationals:
    • Adults: Approximately LKR 1,400 .
    • Children: Approximately LKR 700 .
  • Sri Lankan Residents:
    • Adults: Approximately LKR 295 .
    • Children: Approximately LKR 120 .

Note: Prices are subject to change; it's advisable to check the official website or contact the orphanage for the latest rates.

🍽️ Dining Options

Several restaurants and cafés are located nearby, offering a variety of local and international cuisines. Some establishments provide views of the river, allowing diners to watch the elephants during their bathing sessions.

🛍️ Nearby Attractions

Enhance your visit by exploring these nearby sites:

  • Pinnawala Open Zoo: Adjacent to the orphanage, this open-air zoo features a range of native wildlife .
  • Elephant Freedom Project: An ethical elephant sanctuary offering hands-on experiences .
  • Mahamevnawa Amadahara Buddhist Monastery: A serene place for meditation and learning about Buddhist teachings .
  • Local Handicraft Shops: Browse and purchase traditional Sri Lankan crafts and souvenirs .

📸 Tips for Visitors

  • Best Time to Visit: Arrive early to witness the morning feeding and bathing sessions.
  • Photography: Capture memorable moments during feeding times and river baths.
  • Clothing: Wear comfortable attire and footwear suitable for walking.
  • Respect the Animals: Follow guidelines provided by the staff to ensure the well-being of the elephants.
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