A Majestic Encounter at Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage
Experience an unforgettable encounter with rescued elephants at Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, a sanctuary dedicated to their protection and care.
The Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, located in Rambukkana, Sri Lanka, serves as a sanctuary dedicated to the care and rehabilitation of orphaned and injured elephants. Established in 1975, this unique attraction is not only a zoo but also an animal protection organization committed to the welfare of these majestic creatures. Visitors can explore the expansive grounds which include lush greenery and tranquil ponds, providing a serene environment for both the elephants and their guests. One of the highlights of the Pinnawala experience is the opportunity to witness the daily feeding and bathing routines of the elephants. Tourists can watch as the caretakers feed the elephants with bottles of milk, a captivating sight especially for younger visitors. The highlight of the day occurs during the bathing session, when the elephants are taken to the nearby river for a refreshing wash. This spectacle is a favorite among tourists, offering ample photo opportunities and a chance to see the elephants interacting with one another in a playful manner. The orphanage houses over 80 elephants, many of whom were rescued from the wild or abandoned due to various circumstances. The facility promotes conservation efforts and raises awareness about the need for wildlife protection. Beyond just a tourist attraction, Pinnawala serves as an educational site, allowing visitors to learn about the challenges faced by elephants in the wild and the importance of conservation. In addition to observing the elephants, visitors can explore the gift shop, which offers a range of elephant-themed souvenirs and handicrafts, contributing to the local economy. The Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage promises an unforgettable experience for families, wildlife enthusiasts, and anyone looking to connect with nature in a meaningful way.
Local tips
- Visit during feeding times for a more interactive experience with the elephants.
- Bring a camera to capture the beautiful moments, especially during the elephant bathing sessions.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be exploring the grounds on foot.
- Consider visiting on a weekday to avoid larger crowds and have a more intimate experience.
- Check the orphanage's schedule online to plan your visit around special events or educational programs.
A brief summary to Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage
- Rambukkana, Pinnawala, LK
- +94352266641
Getting There
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Car
From Udawalawe National Park, head northwest on the A4 road towards Ratnapura. Continue for approximately 25 kilometers until you reach the town of Rambukkana. Follow the signs to Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, which is located just outside the town center. The total drive should take around 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Parking is available at the orphanage, but there may be a small fee.
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Public Transportation - Bus
From Udawalawe, take a local bus to Ratnapura. Buses depart frequently from Udawalawe bus station and the journey will take about 45 minutes. Once in Ratnapura, transfer to a bus heading to Pinnawala. This second leg of the journey will take approximately 30 minutes. The total cost for both bus rides should be around 100-150 LKR. Be sure to ask the bus conductor for the stop closest to the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage.
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Taxi
You can hire a taxi from anywhere in Udawalawe National Park to Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage. The drive will take around 45 minutes, and you can negotiate the fare beforehand. Expect to pay between 1500 to 2500 LKR for a one-way trip. Make sure to confirm the price before starting your journey.
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Tuk-Tuk
For a more local experience, consider taking a tuk-tuk from Udawalawe to Pinnawala. This option is slightly more expensive than the bus but allows for greater flexibility. The journey will take about 45 minutes, and you should expect to pay around 2000 to 3000 LKR. Agree on the fare with the driver before departing.
Attractions Nearby to Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage
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PGB Kalugalla Park
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47014
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Elephant Orphanage - Entrance (Gate-B)
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Night Market - Pinnawala
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Pinnawala Zoo
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Elephant Bathing Site
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Nawagamuwa Paththini Devalaya
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Iparanigama Theme Park
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Zoo museum
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Mahamevnawa Amadahara Buddhist Monastery - Pinnawala
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Maha Oya Walk way and bath area
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Asela Elephant Riding
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Happy Elephant
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Millennium Elephant Foundation
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Club Concept Elephant Riding
Landmarks nearby to Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage
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New Elephant Shed (NES)
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MAHARAJA ELEPHANT NO 17
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Alagalla Mountain Range
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Aluthnuwara Sri Dedimunda Dewalaya
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රජ පිහිල්ල (Raja Pihilla)
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Bambaragala Rajamaha Viharaya
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Vilbawa Rajamaha Viharaya
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Kitulgala water adventures
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Nelligala International Buddhist Centre
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Statue of Lord Sumana Saman - සුමන සමන් දේව ප්රතිමාව
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Tholangamuwa Ambalama
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Walk with Sri Lankan : Buddhima Jayarathne
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Athugala Rock
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Kadurugas junction
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Athugala Viharaya