Pinnawala
Elephant Orphanage
Wildlife Attraction
Family Attraction
Nature Attraction
Overview
Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage is a famous wildlife sanctuary located near Kegalle in the Sabaragamuwa region of Sri Lanka. In addition, this historic center is well known for caring for orphaned Asian elephants.
Because it features daily river bathing sessions and milk feedings, Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage provides an extraordinary wildlife experience for travelers. Therefore, it is a very popular destination for visitors exploring the Kegalle district.
Furthermore, the scenic riverfront offers a peaceful environment to watch large elephant herds in nature. However, visitors should plan their journey according to scheduled bath times to avoid missing the herd procession.
Consequently, travelers can easily plan their trip using Google Maps to find the location.
Location on Map
Things To See
What can we do ?
Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage is an iconic wildlife destination offering elephant bathing spectacles, feeding sessions, and educational walks.
Watch the grand elephant herd river bath as dozens of elephants play and swim in the Ma Oya river
Observe milk-feeding sessions for orphaned baby elephants conducted by trained elephant caretakers
Photograph elephants walking through Pinnawala village during their daily scheduled river processions
Learn about Asian elephant conservation efforts through guided information displays and educational exhibits
Shop for eco-friendly souvenirs including handmade paper products crafted from recycled elephant dung
Which time best for visit ?
The Dry Season from December to April is the best session for traveling to Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, when sunny weather makes watching the daily river bath by the Ma Oya enjoyable.
Early Morning (Sunrise / Golden Hour)
Best for watching the primary elephant herd bathing and playing in the open riverbed
Late Afternoon (Sunset / Golden Hour)
Ideal for witnessing the second river bath session and afternoon milk feeding routines
Midday
Not recommended during heavy rainfall as high water currents in Ma Oya may cancel river bathing
Night
The orphanage complex closes to visitors after 5:00 PM and is not open for night tours
Early Morning (Sunrise / Golden Hour)
Cool weather, soft light, fewer crowds
Late Afternoon (Sunset / Golden Hour)
Warm tones, scenic skies, ideal for photos
Midday
Not recommended due to heat and harsh sunlight
Night
Suitable only for city lights and special photography
How can we arrive?
Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage is located in Rambukkana, roughly 90 km northeast of Colombo and 37 km from Kandy.
By Bus
Board any main bus traveling along the Colombo–Kandy main road (A1 highway). Get off at Karandupana Junction (Kegalle), followed by a short 5 km local bus or tuk-tuk ride straight to Pinnawala.
By Train
Take the Main Line train from Colombo Fort towards Kandy or Badulla. Get off at Rambukkana Railway Station, which is located just 2.5 km away from the sanctuary gate.
ByPrivete Vehicle
Drive via the Colombo–Kandy road (A1 highway) or the Central Expressway (E04) towards Kegalle. Turn at Karandupana Junction onto the Rambukkana road and follow clear highway signs to the parking area.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the daily river bathing times at Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage?
The main elephant river baths occur daily from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM and from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM at the Ma Oya river.
What time are baby elephants fed milk at Pinnawala?
Milk feeding sessions for baby elephants generally take place at 9:15 AM, 1:15 PM, and 5:00 PM.
Can visitors touch or ride the elephants at Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage?
Direct touching or elephant riding is prohibited to ensure animal welfare and safety, though close observation is permitted.
