PINNAWALA

Home of the Gentle Giants

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Destination Details

Step into the heart of Sri Lanka’s wildlife heritage at Pinnawala, home to the world-famous Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage. Established to protect and care for orphaned and injured elephants, this sanctuary has grown into a symbol of conservation and a must-visit attraction for travelers.

Watch herds of elephants roam freely, play together, and enjoy their daily river baths—an unforgettable sight that captures the bond between humans and these gentle giants. Beyond the orphanage, Pinnawala offers scenic beauty with lush greenery, peaceful riversides, and authentic village life experiences that connect visitors to Sri Lanka’s natural charm.

Pinnawala is more than a sanctuary—it’s a celebration of wildlife, conservation, and cultural warmth, inviting travelers to witness the majesty of Sri Lanka’s elephants up close.

WHY VISIT PINNAWALA?

Tour Experience Ideas

  • Orphanage Visit – Observe elephants being fed, cared for, and socialized in a safe environment.

  • River Bathing Experience – Watch herds splashing and playing in the river, a truly magical sight.

  • Elephant Feeding – Take part in feeding sessions where you can hand-feed baby elephants with milk.

  • Village Walk – Explore nearby villages, meet locals, and experience authentic rural life.

  • Nature Photography – Capture breathtaking scenes of elephants, rivers, and tropical greenery.

  • Souvenir Shopping – Browse local handicraft shops offering elephant-themed keepsakes.

Anuradhapura Heritage Tour
  • Meet & Greet at your hotel or Colombo Airport.
  • Travel to Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka’s medieval royal capital.
  • Explore the Royal Palace Complex and Audience Hall of King Parakramabahu.
  • Visit the Sacred Quadrangle (Dalada Maluwa) – home to beautifully preserved temples and shrines.
  • Overnight stay in Polonnaruwa.
  • Morning visit to Gal Vihara, with its world-famous granite Buddha statues.
  • Explore Rankoth Vehera and Lankathilaka Image House, two iconic Buddhist monuments.
  • Stop at Parakrama Samudra, a massive man-made reservoir built in the 12th century.
  • Evening free for relaxation or a cultural village walk.
  • Overnight stay in Polonnaruwa.
  • Optional cycling tour through the ruins, a unique way to explore the city.
  • Visit Isurumuniya-style temples and hidden archaeological sites.
  • Enjoy a traditional Sri Lankan lunch with local villagers.
  • Evening leisure and overnight stay in Polonnaruwa.
  • Breakfast at hotel.
  • Optional sunrise visit to Gal Vihara or Parakrama Samudra.
  • Departure transfer to Colombo or your next destination.
Location
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