Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage Sri Lanka – A Sanctuary for Sri Lanka’s Gentle Giants
Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage Sri Lanka Located in the lush hills of Kegalle, the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage is one of Sri Lanka’s most beloved wildlife attractions. Established in 1975, this government-run facility was created to care for orphaned and injured elephants found in the wild. Today, it is home to one of the largest herds of captive elephants in the world, offering visitors a rare chance to observe these majestic animals up close.
The orphanage spans a large, open area where elephants roam freely under the supervision of trained caretakers. Daily activities include bottle-feeding baby elephants and watching the entire herd bathe and play in the Ma Oya River—a visitor favorite and a fantastic photo opportunity.
Perfect for families, animal lovers, and those interested in wildlife conservation, Pinnawala also offers educational insights into elephant behavior, rehabilitation, and the challenges facing wild elephants in Sri Lanka.
Opening Hours: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM
Best Times to Visit: Feeding – 9:15 AM / 1:15 PM | River Bath – 10:00 AM / 2:00 PM
Location: Kegalle District, about 90 km from Colombo
Why Visit?
- Witness elephants in a semi-natural environment
- Observe feeding and bathing sessions
- Learn about elephant rescue and care programs
While the orphanage provides a safe haven for many elephants, travelers are encouraged to visit mindfully and responsibly, choosing ethical experiences that prioritize animal welfare.
Daily features of Interest at the Pinnawala Orphanage
- 08.30 hours – Open to visitors
- 09.15 hours – Bottle feeding
- 10.00 hours – Herd leaving to the river
- 12.00 hours – Return from the river
- 13.15 hours – Bottle feeding
- 14.00 hours – Herd leaving to the river
- 16.00 hours – Return from the river
- 17.00 hours – Bottle feeding
- 17.30 hours – Ticket counters close
- 18.00 hours – Close to public
Day Tour Price
Transport Cost :
- Package Cost (1Pax) : USD 160.00
- Package Cost (2Pax) : USD 80.00 Per Person
- Package Cost (3Pax) : USD 60.00 Per Person
- Package Cost (4Pax) : USD 45.00 Per Person
Private tour in an A/C car or van with an English speaking chauffeur-guide
Vehicle Options:
Car (up to 2 persons): Toyota Axio, Prius Hybrid, Premio/Honda Fit Shuttle or similar
Van (3 to 6 persons): Toyota KDH/Nissan Caravan or similar
Entrance ticket fee for Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage :
- USD 15 Per Person
Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage Photo Gallery
