Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage

Sweet experience where you can get close to Sri Lankan Elephants

The Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, located in Pinnawala, Sri Lanka, is a unique and special place known for its conservation efforts and dedication to the welfare of elephants.

1. Elephant Conservation: The main purpose of the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage is to care for orphaned, injured, and abandoned elephants and provide them with a safe and nurturing environment. The orphanage plays a crucial role in the conservation of Asian elephants, which are an endangered species.
2. Largest Captive Elephant Herd: Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage is home to one of the largest captive elephant herds in the world. Visitors have the opportunity to see a significant number of elephants up close, interacting with each other and going about their daily activities.
3. Feeding and Bathing: One of the highlights of visiting Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage is the daily bathing ritual of the elephants. The elephants are taken to the nearby river for a refreshing bath, providing a delightful sight for tourists.
4. Educational Experience: The orphanage offers an educational experience for visitors, where they can learn about the plight of Asian elephants and the efforts being made to protect and care for them. It raises awareness about the challenges faced by these majestic animals in the wild.
5. Elephant Breeding Program: Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage also has a successful breeding program to increase the population of captive elephants and contribute to the conservation of the species.
6. Tourist Attraction: The orphanage has become a popular tourist attraction in Sri Lanka, drawing both local and international visitors. Tourists have the opportunity to observe and photograph elephants in a naturalistic setting.