Pinnawala — Sanctuary of Gentle Giants
Pinnawala is world-renowned for its Elephant Orphanage, a sanctuary where rescued and orphaned elephants are nurtured amidst the lush greenery of Sri Lanka’s heartland. Established in 1975 to protect and rehabilitate these majestic creatures, it has grown into one of the island’s most cherished wildlife experiences. Visitors can marvel at herds of elephants roaming freely across open grounds, watch them bathe playfully in the Maha Oya River, and observe the tender bonds between mothers and calves — moments that embody both compassion and conservation.
Beyond the orphanage, Pinnawala immerses travelers in the rhythms of elephant life. The daily procession of elephants to the river is a spectacle of harmony, as dozens of giants stride gracefully through the village streets, their presence commanding awe and reverence. Calves learn to forage and play under the watchful eyes of their elders, while the herd’s interactions reveal the intelligence and social bonds of these gentle giants. Against the backdrop of tropical forests and rolling hills, Pinnawala offers a rare opportunity to witness nature’s grandeur in motion.
