The Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage is a renowned sanctuary located in Pinnawala, Sri Lanka, approximately 90 kilometers from Kandy. Established in 1975 by the Sri Lanka Department of Wildlife Conservation, the orphanage provides a safe haven for abandoned, injured, and orphaned elephants. It has since become a popular tourist attraction and an important center for elephant conservation and education.

Visitors can observe and sometimes participate in the feeding of baby elephants with milk bottles. This activity usually takes place in the morning and afternoon, offering a heartwarming experience as you watch the young elephants being nurtured.Adult elephants are fed large quantities of fruits and vegetables. Visitors can assist in feeding them, providing a unique opportunity to interact closely with these gentle giants.

One of the most popular attractions at Pinnawala is watching the elephants bathe in the nearby Maha Oya River. Twice a day, the herd is led to the river, where they spend a couple of hours playing and cooling off in the water. Visitors can observe this spectacle from the riverbank and even take photographs.During bath time, some supervised interaction with the elephants is allowed, offering a chance to see their playful and social behavior up close.

Witness the majestic sight of the entire herd walking through the grounds as they move from the orphanage to the river and back. This daily routine is a testament to the communal and structured life of elephants in a semi-wild environment.Knowledgeable guides provide informative tours about the orphanage`s history, the individual elephants, their habits, and the broader efforts in elephant conservation. This educational aspect helps visitors understand the challenges and importance of protecting these magnificent creatures.There are exhibits and information boards throughout the orphanage that offer insights into elephant biology, behavior, and conservation efforts.

The orphanage has a successful breeding program, and visitors may have the chance to see newborn elephants. Learning about the breeding program provides an understanding of the orphanage`s role in increasing the elephant population and ensuring genetic diversity.The Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage is open daily from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM.Baby elephants are fed at 9:15 AM, 1:15 PM, and 5:00 PM. Adult elephants are usually fed in the morning and afternoon.The elephants are taken to the river for bathing at 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM.There is an entrance fee for visitors, which contributes to the maintenance and conservation efforts of the orphanage. Additional fees may apply for activities such as feeding.

The Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage offers a unique and memorable experience for visitors of all ages. By providing a sanctuary for elephants and educating the public about these magnificent creatures, the orphanage plays a crucial role in wildlife conservation in Sri Lanka. A visit to Pinnawala is not only an opportunity to see elephants up close but also a chance to support and learn about important conservation efforts.