Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage

by Wonders Of Ceylon 2 years ago 4 min read

Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, located in the town of Pinnawala in Sri Lanka, is a must-visit destination for any elephant lover. This orphanage, established in 1975, is home to over 90 orphaned and abandoned elephants, who are taken care of and protected by the dedicated staff.

History and Purpose of the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage

The Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage was founded by the Sri Lanka Department of Wildlife Conservation to provide a safe haven for orphaned and abandoned elephants. Since its establishment, the orphanage has grown to become one of the largest elephant breeding centers in the world and has successfully bred over 20 elephants.

The Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage is spread over 25 acres of land. It is home to over 90 elephants, including babies and adults of all ages. The elephants are provided with proper care and nutrition and are treated by veterinarians when necessary. The orphanage also employs mahouts trained to care for and handle the elephants.

The initial purpose of the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage was to provide temporary shelter and care for the orphaned and abandoned elephants, with the goal of eventually releasing them back into the wild. However, as the number of elephants under their care increased, the focus shifted towards providing a long-term sanctuary and breeding center for these gentle giants. The success of the orphanage has garnered worldwide recognition and appreciation, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike.

Activities at the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage

Visitors to the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage can witness the elephants being fed and bathed in the nearby river, which is a truly unique and unforgettable experience. The milk feeding times are at 9.15 am and 1.15 pm, and the bathing times are at 10am and 2pm. The fruit feeding times are 9 am and 12 pm. You can also observe the elephants being trained and taken for walks through the nearby jungle.
Aside from observing the elephants during their feeding and bathing sessions, you can also participate in various interactive experiences, such as bottle-feeding baby elephants or even assisting in their bath time. These activities often require an additional fee but provide a unique opportunity to connect with these incredible creatures on a personal level.

Animals

The Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage is home to elephants and other animals, such as monkeys, peacocks, and crocodiles. You can see these animals roaming around the orphanage grounds, making for a diverse and exciting experience. The rich biodiversity of the region adds to the charm of the orphanage and provides a chance for visitors to appreciate Sri Lanka's incredible wildlife.

How to Get There

We recommend that you visit Pinnawala when you are visiting Kandy. It will make for an ideal day trip. The best way to get there is to take a bus or car from Kandy. It takes only a little more than 1 hour. While traveling to Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage from Kandy is the popular choice, the orphanage is also accessible from other parts of Sri Lanka. For instance, those coming from Colombo can reach the orphanage within approximately 2.5 hours by car.

Conservation Efforts

The Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage is not just a tourist destination but also plays a vital role in elephant conservation. The staff at the orphanage work hard to protect and preserve the elephant population in Sri Lanka. The orphanage also works with other organizations to ensure the welfare of elephants in the wild.

The Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage's conservation efforts go beyond the sanctuary itself. They also engage in research and collaborate with other organizations to study elephant behavior, social structures, and their relationship with the environment. This research aids in developing effective strategies for the conservation of wild elephant populations.

The orphanage also serves as a platform to raise awareness about the challenges faced by elephants, including habitat loss, human-elephant conflicts, and poaching. Through their educational programs and other efforts, the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage plays a crucial role in encouraging a deeper appreciation for these magnificent animals.

Visitor Guidelines and Tips

To ensure a pleasant experience, it's essential to follow some basic guidelines while visiting the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage:

Observe the elephants from a safe distance and avoid disturbing them. Remember that they are wild animals and may react unpredictably if they feel threatened.
Do not feed the elephants without permission from the staff. The orphanage provides a carefully curated diet to meet the nutritional needs of each elephant.
Be respectful of the environment and the animals. Avoid littering, and do not make loud noises that could disturb the elephants and other wildlife.
Follow the instructions of the staff and mahouts at all times. Their primary concern is the safety and well-being of the elephants and visitors.
Be prepared for the possibility of getting wet during the bathing sessions, especially if you choose to participate in the activities.
Bring your camera to capture memorable moments and breathtaking scenery. Be mindful of the flash settings, as they may startle the elephants.
Consider supporting the orphanage by purchasing souvenirs from the gift shop or making a donation. The funds help maintain the facility and contribute to the ongoing conservation efforts.
Remember that the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage is a sanctuary, not a zoo. The primary focus is the well-being and care of the elephants, so some areas may be off-limits to visitors to make sure the animals have enough space and privacy.

Nearby Attractions

While the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage is a major draw for visitors to the area, there are several other attractions worth exploring during your stay:

Kandy: As the second-largest city in Sri Lanka, Kandy is a cultural and historical gem situated about 40 kilometers from Pinnawala. Key attractions in Kandy include the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, the Kandy Lake, and the Royal Palace Complex. Kandy is the ideal place to stay to visit Pinnawala for a day trip. Find out more about the best things to do in Kandy.
Rambukkana: This small, picturesque town near Pinnawala is known for its lush green landscapes and tea plantations. You can enjoy scenic walks, visit local temples, and experience the warm hospitality of friendly locals.
Knuckles Mountain Range: For outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers, the Knuckles Mountain Range offers a breathtaking landscape of rugged peaks, lush forests, and beautiful waterfalls. The area is perfect for hiking, camping, and birdwatching, providing an unforgettable experience amidst the natural beauty of Sri Lanka.
Pinnawala Open Zoo: Located close to the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, this open zoo is home to various species of animals, including deer, ostriches, and peacocks. The zoo focuses on providing a natural environment for the animals. It's an excellent destination for families and nature lovers.

Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage is a unique and unforgettable destination that offers visitors the opportunity to get up close and personal with elephants while supporting conservation efforts. With plenty of activities to keep you entertained and educated, it's a perfect destination for families and animal lovers alike.