Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage

The Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage is located in the village of Pinnawala, near Kegalle, Sri Lanka. It was established in 1975 with the aim of caring for orphaned elephants in Sri Lanka. Over the years, it has grown into one of the country’s most popular tourist attractions, where visitors can watch elephants being bathed, fed, and interacting with their caretakers. It is home to over 80 elephants, including babies, juveniles, and adults, making it one of the largest elephant orphanages in the world.

At Pinnawala, the elephants are cared for in a natural environment, where they can roam freely in a large forested area. The orphanage's main attraction is the daily bathing ritual, where the elephants are led down to the nearby Ma Oya River to bathe and socialize. The sight of these gentle giants splashing around in the river is a unique and unforgettable experience for visitors. The elephants are also fed twice a day, and visitors can witness the feeding sessions, where the elephants are given bananas, coconuts, and other food.

Pinnawala is not only a place of sanctuary for orphaned elephants but also a center for elephant conservation and research. The orphanage plays an important role in protecting Sri Lanka's endangered elephant population and promoting awareness of elephant conservation efforts. The staff at Pinnawala are dedicated to ensuring that the elephants are cared for in the best possible way, and they work hard to educate visitors on the importance of elephant conservation.

The Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage also offers a chance to adopt an elephant, where visitors can sponsor an elephant for a period of time and contribute towards its care and well-being. This program allows individuals to become personally involved in elephant conservation and support the work being done at the orphanage.

Aside from the elephants, Pinnawala is also home to a small museum, where visitors can learn more about the history of the orphanage and the significance of elephants in Sri Lankan culture. There is also a gift shop where visitors can purchase souvenirs, including elephant-themed items and handicrafts made by local artisans.

A visit to the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage is an incredible opportunity to get up close to these majestic animals and learn about their care and conservation. Whether you're an animal lover, a conservation enthusiast, or simply seeking a unique and educational experience in Sri Lanka, Pinnawala is a must-visit destination.