Discover the Enchanting Elephant Orphanage
Experience the heartwarming world of elephants at Pinnawala's Elephant Orphanage, a sanctuary committed to the rescue and rehabilitation of these gentle giants.
A brief summary to Elephant Orphanage - Entrance (Gate-B)
- 892P+FHH, B199, Rambukkana, Pinnawala, 71100, LK
- Monday 8:30 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 8:30 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 8:30 am-4 pm
- Thursday 8:30 am-4 pm
- Friday 8:30 am-4 pm
- Saturday 8:30 am-4 pm
- Sunday 8:30 am-4 pm
Nestled in the lush landscapes of Pinnawala, the Elephant Orphanage is a remarkable sanctuary dedicated to the care and rehabilitation of orphaned elephants. This haven not only provides a safe environment for these gentle giants but also serves as an educational center for visitors. Tourists can witness the elephants' daily routines, including feeding and bathing, which occur in a picturesque river nearby. As you explore the grounds, you will encounter a variety of elephants, each with a unique story of resilience. The orphanage plays a crucial role in wildlife conservation and aims to raise awareness about the challenges that elephants face in the wild. Engaging guides share fascinating insights into the lives of these magnificent creatures and the ongoing efforts to protect their habitat. The facility operates daily from 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM, allowing ample time for visitors to immerse themselves in the experience. While the view of elephants can be enjoyed from a distance, the emotional connection you will feel as they interact with their caregivers is truly special. This visit is not just a day out; it is an opportunity to contribute to the welfare of these amazing animals and support conservation efforts. Make sure to bring your camera to capture unforgettable moments as you witness the elephants play and socialize in their natural setting.
Local tips
- Visit during feeding times for the best view of the elephants up close.
- Bring plenty of water and sunscreen, as outdoor activities can be quite warm.
- Consider visiting on weekdays to avoid larger weekend crowds.
- Respect the animals and follow the guidelines provided by the staff for a safe experience.
Getting There
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Public Bus
From Kandy city center, head to the Kandy Bus Station located near the clock tower. Look for buses heading towards Rambukkana or Pinnawala. The bus ride will take approximately 30-40 minutes. Make sure to inform the conductor that you want to get off at the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage stop. Once you arrive, walk towards the entrance, which is marked 'Gate-B'. Follow the signs leading to the orphanage.
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Tuk-Tuk
If you prefer a more direct route, you can hire a tuk-tuk from anywhere in Kandy. Simply tell the driver you want to go to the Elephant Orphanage at Gate-B in Pinnawala. The journey should take about 30 minutes, depending on traffic. Make sure to negotiate the fare before starting your trip.
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Walking to a Nearby Bus Stop
If you are staying in a nearby area, you can walk to the nearest bus stop that services the Rambukkana route. Once there, follow the same instructions as above for taking the public bus to the Elephant Orphanage. Look for buses with 'Rambukkana' or 'Pinnawala' displayed on the front.
Attractions Nearby to Elephant Orphanage - Entrance (Gate-B)
- 47014
- PGB Kalugalla Park
- Night Market - Pinnawala
- Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage
- Elephant Bathing Site
- Pinnawala Zoo
- Iparanigama Theme Park
- Zoo museum
- Nawagamuwa Paththini Devalaya
- Mahamevnawa Amadahara Buddhist Monastery - Pinnawala
- Maha Oya Walk way and bath area
- Asela Elephant Riding
- Happy Elephant
- Millennium Elephant Foundation
- Club Concept Elephant Riding
Landmarks nearby to Elephant Orphanage - Entrance (Gate-B)
- New Elephant Shed (NES)
- MAHARAJA ELEPHANT NO 17
- Alagalla Mountain Range
- Kadugannawa Ambalama
- Maha Oya View Point
- Bible Rock
- Bathalegala
- Aluthnuwara Sri Dedimunda Dewalaya
- Bambaragala Rajamaha Viharaya
- රජ පිහිල්ල (Raja Pihilla)
- Kadugannawa Tunnel (ගල විදපු තැන)
- Balumgala (බැලුම්ගල)
- Siri Gautama Sambuddharaja Maligawa | සිරි ගෞතම සම්බුද්ධරාජ මාළිගාව
- Captain Dawson Tower
- Mahamevnawa Buddhist Monastery - Polgahawela