Witness the soul of Sri Lanka's wilderness in the world's most compassionate elephant nursery.
Established in 1975, the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage was born out of a profound need to protect the orphaned wild elephants of Sri Lanka. What began with seven orphans has blossomed into the world's largest captive herd, a sanctuary where these majestic creatures are cared for, studied, and loved.
"Here, the rhythm of the day is set by the trumpets of the giants."
Twice a day, the entire herd migrates to the Maha Oya river. Witnessing dozens of elephants splashing, socializing, and relaxing in the water is a sight of raw, unfiltered majesty. Tourists can watch from the riverside cafes, capturing the perfect moment as the giants cool off in the tropical heat.
The most heart-warming experience at Pinnawala is witnessing the baby elephants being bottle-fed. Visitors can observe these playful calves eagerly drinking milk from giant bottles, a vital part of their rehabilitation and growth. It's a rare chance to see the delicate side of these heavy-weights.
Our mahouts (elephant keepers) provide 24/7 care to ensure every orphan thrives.
While traditional riding is increasingly replaced by ethical observation, Pinnawala offers educational sessions where you can walk alongside these giants and learn about their biology and behavior. Occasionally, witness the rare rhythmic movement—affectionately termed 'Elephant Dancing'—as they interact playfully with their mahouts during training.
The bond between a mahout and his elephant is lifelong. At Pinnawala, you don't just see animals; you witness a heritage of companionship that has existed in Sri Lanka for centuries. Learn the commands, the psychology, and the ancient art of elephant management.
Located just a few minutes from the orphanage, the Pinnawala Open Zoo is the first of its kind in Sri Lanka. It provides a spacious, open-air habitat for a variety of endemic and exotic species.
