Pinnawala
Pinnawala – About & What to Do
Pinnawala is a small village located in the Sabaragamuwa Province of Sri Lanka, about 90 km northeast of Colombo. It is most famous for the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, which has become one of the island’s top tourist attractions. The village is surrounded by lush green forests and is situated along the Maha Oya River, making it a serene and peaceful place to explore.
Pinnawala is a must-visit destination for animal lovers, nature enthusiasts, and those interested in Sri Lanka’s rich wildlife and conservation efforts.
What to Do in Pinnawala:
1. Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage
The Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage is the main highlight of the area. Established in 1975, the orphanage was initially created to care for orphaned elephants and those who had lost their mothers in the wild. Over the years, it has become a safe haven for elephants, and today it is home to a large population of rescued and rehabilitated elephants.
What to do at the Elephant Orphanage:
Watch Elephant Feeding: Every day, visitors can witness the feeding of the elephants, which is an amazing experience. The caretakers (mahouts) feed the elephants large amounts of fruits and vegetables. The baby elephants, in particular, are a joy to watch.
Observe Elephants Bathing in the River: The elephants are taken down to the Maha Oya River for a daily bath, usually in the early afternoon. This is one of the most exciting and unique experiences at Pinnawala. You can watch the elephants splashing and playing in the river, and even get the chance to see them interact with their handlers.
Elephant Walks: Visitors can walk along with the elephants as they travel from the orphanage to the river for their daily bath. This walk is an amazing way to get up close to the elephants and see them in a natural setting.
Elephant Nursery: There’s also a nursery where you can see baby elephants and learn about the rehabilitation process. The young elephants are adorable, and it’s a great opportunity for photography.
Educational Talks and Exhibits: The orphanage has a small museum and provides informative talks on elephant conservation and the challenges that elephants face in Sri Lanka. You can learn more about the species and their role in Sri Lankan culture and wildlife.
2. Pinnawala Elephant Safari
For a more interactive experience, you can go on an elephant safari near Pinnawala. You’ll be able to ride elephants through the surrounding forests and rural landscapes, making it a memorable adventure. Some local companies also offer safaris where you can visit nearby villages or plantations while riding an elephant.
3. Visit the Pinnawala Zoo (Optional)
There is a small zoo near the Elephant Orphanage, where you can see a variety of local and exotic animals, though the primary attraction is still the elephants. If you’re interested in wildlife, you can explore the zoo after visiting the orphanage.
4. Explore the Surrounding Nature & Scenic Views
The area around Pinnawala is lush with tropical greenery and beautiful landscapes. It’s a peaceful environment where you can go for a short walk or a nature hike through nearby forests and plantations. The views of the Maha Oya River, as well as the surrounding hills and jungles, are stunning and perfect for nature photography.
5. Souvenir Shopping
There are several small shops and markets near the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage where you can buy handicrafts, Sri Lankan jewelry, wooden carvings, and elephant-themed souvenirs. Many of these items are hand-made by local artisans and make for great gifts or keepsakes.
Best Time to Visit Pinnawala:
The best time to visit Pinnawala is during the dry season, from December to March, when the weather is pleasant, and the elephants are most active. However, the orphanage is open year-round, so you can visit any time that fits into your itinerary.
