Home of the Elephants: Pinnawala

Nestled between Kandy and Colombo, Pinnawala is a charming village that has earned global fame thanks to the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage — one of Sri Lanka’s most heartwarming attractions. If you're passionate about wildlife and looking for an up-close experience with Asian elephants, this is a stop you can't miss.

Why Visit Pinnawala?

The main attraction, Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, was established in 1975 to provide care and sanctuary to orphaned, abandoned, and injured elephants. Today, it’s home to dozens of elephants living in a semi-natural environment.

Visitors can watch elephants being fed, bottle-feed baby elephants (during specific sessions), and most memorably, observe large herds bathe and play in the nearby Ma Oya River — a scene straight out of a dream.

Beyond the orphanage, the area around Pinnawala is lush and peaceful, offering a slower, more intimate look at rural Sri Lankan life.

Common FAQs:

1. Where is Pinnawala located?
Pinnawala is in Sri Lanka, about 2 hours from Colombo and 1.5 hours from Kandy.

2. Why is Pinnawala famous?
It is famous for the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, where you can see elephants up close, watch them being fed, and bathing in the river.

3. What is the best time to visit Pinnawala?
The best time to visit is in the morning, around 9:00 AM, when the elephants are fed and taken to the river for a bath.

4. How can I reach Pinnawala?
You can travel by car, taxi, or train. The nearest train station is Rambukkana, and it’s just a short tuk-tuk ride to the orphanage.

5. Do I need to buy tickets?
Yes, you need to buy a ticket at the entrance. Prices are different for local and foreign visitors.

6. Can I touch or feed the elephants?
You can bottle-feed baby elephants during special times. Touching adult elephants is usually not allowed for safety reasons.

7. How long should I plan to stay?
You can spend about 2 to 3 hours. Some people stay longer to see both feeding and bathing times.

8. Is Pinnawala good for families with kids?
Yes! Children love watching the elephants. Just keep an eye on them around the animals.

9. What should I wear when visiting?
Wear light, comfortable clothes and sandals or sneakers. It can be hot, and near the river, it might be a little wet.

10. Can I take photos?
Yes, you can take photos. It’s a great place for pictures, especially when the elephants are playing in the river.

11. Is there food nearby?
Yes, there are restaurants and cafes around the orphanage where you can eat and rest.

12. Are there any shops?
There are many souvenir shops selling elephant-themed gifts, tea, handicrafts, and clothes.

13. Are the elephants treated well?
Pinnawala cares for elephants that are orphaned or injured. Some people feel more could be done to improve conditions. It's good to read a little about it before you go.

14. What else can I do near Pinnawala?
You can visit the Millennium Elephant Foundation, spice gardens, or stop by Kegalle town.

15. Is Pinnawala wheelchair-friendly?
Some areas are flat and easy to move around, but getting close to the river can be tricky for wheelchairs.

16. Is there parking available?
Yes, there is parking space for cars and tour buses near the entrance.

17. What should I bring with me?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, a water bottle, some cash for tickets and souvenirs, and your camera.