Get Close to Elephants and Make Memories at Pinnawala
Nestled in the heart of Sri Lanka, Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage is not just a sanctuary—it’s a beacon of hope for orphaned and injured wild elephants. Established in 1975 by the Sri Lanka Department of Wildlife Conservation, Pinnawala is now home to the world’s largest herd of captive elephants. With over 70 elephants—spanning three generations—the orphanage plays a vital role in elephant conservation, breeding, and care.
What Makes Pinnawala Special?
- A Historic Legacy: Founded to provide care to orphaned wild elephants, Pinnawala has been a safe haven for elephants in need, with over 75 successful births since 1984.
- Remarkable Births: In 2021, Surangi, a 25-year-old elephant, gave birth to twin baby elephants, marking the first twin birth in Sri Lanka in 80 years!
- Breeding Success: Pinnawala has successfully bred elephants for over 40 years, with the highest number of births recorded in a single year being 17 in 2011.
Experience Pinnawala’s Daily Elephant Care Routine
- Feeding Time: Watch the majestic elephants being fed large quantities of jackfruit, coconut, and tamarind—their daily sustenance.
- Elephant Bathing: Witness the unforgettable sight of elephants marching to the Maha Oya River for their daily bath.
- Bottle-Feeding Baby Elephants: Get the chance to see young elephants fed by hand, especially those born at the Elephant Transit Home (ETH).
- Meet the Mahouts: Our dedicated 70 mahouts (elephant handlers) ensure the elephants are well cared for, maintaining a harmonious relationship with these gentle giants.
A Place of Conservation and Care
- Overcoming Challenges: Many of the elephants at Pinnawala were rescued after being found abandoned, injured, or displaced by development. Some, like Raja (the blind tusker), and Sama, who lost her leg to a land mine, now receive special care at the orphanage.
- Tourism for Conservation: Your visit helps support the orphanage’s ongoing conservation efforts, ensuring the future of these majestic animals.
Book your visit to Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage today and be a part of this incredible journey to support wildlife conservation and care!