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Grand Magellan Ceylon Tours
Where baby elephants are nurtured back to the wild by the riverside
Pinnawala is globally recognized for its Elephant Orphanage, established to protect and care for orphaned and unweaned wild elephants found wandering in the forests of Sri Lanka. Visitors can watch the elephants being fed and observe the spectacular daily ritual of the herd marching down to the Maha Oya river for their bath. It is a heartwarming experience and a major conservation effort.
Year-round. The elephant bathing in the Maha Oya river (10am-noon, 2-4pm daily) is the key event. Weekday mornings are least crowded.
Half-day
Twice daily, the entire herd of 80+ elephants is led down the road to the Maha Oya river for a bath — a spectacular and joyful sight.
Watch keepers bottle-feed baby calves — an opportunity to observe the enormous care given to orphaned young elephants.
The orphanage was established in 1975 and has released many rehabilitated elephants back into the wild — learn the full story in the visitor centre.
From the vibrant heartbeat of Colombo to the majestic Sigiriya Rock Fortress, from the emerald tea plantations of the hill country to thrilling wildlife safaris and the timeless charm of Galle Fort, discover the very best of Sri Lanka on one extraordinary journey.
Our local travel experts can design a fully custom tailor-made itinerary featuring Pinnawala to match your pace, interests, and style.
Inquire NowA coastal town deeply significant for Hindu pilgrims.
A bustling crossroads city dominated by massive rock outcrops.
A vibrant agricultural town famous for its spice gardens.
The eastern terminus of the famous hill country railway.
A major tea-growing town with a superb spring-like climate.
A spectacular ridge town overlooking the southern plains.
A rugged, misty mountain range perfect for serious trekkers.
A Ramsar wetland vital for migratory waterbirds.