Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage

Embark on a heartwarming journey to the world-renowned Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, home to the largest herd of captive elephants in the world and a sanctuary that has been rescuing and caring for orphaned elephants since 1975. This immersive 1-day experience offers you the rare opportunity to get up close and personal with these gentle giants in a setting that prioritizes their welfare and conservation. Begin your day with an early morning arrival at the orphanage, where you'll witness the magical moment when the elephants emerge from their night quarters and make their way to the feeding area, their trunks reaching out for their morning meal of fresh fruits and vegetables. Participate in the interactive feeding sessions, where you can hand-feed these magnificent creatures under the guidance of experienced mahouts who share fascinating stories about each elephant's personality and history. Experience the highlight of your visit - the famous elephant bathing ritual at the nearby Maha Oya River, where you'll watch in awe as the elephants splash, play, and socialize in the water, creating unforgettable memories and perfect photo opportunities. Learn about the orphanage's vital conservation work through educational presentations that explain the challenges facing Sri Lanka's wild elephants and the important role that sanctuaries like Pinnawala play in protecting these endangered animals. This experience combines education, conservation awareness, and pure joy, making it perfect for families with children, animal lovers, and anyone seeking a meaningful connection with one of nature's most intelligent and majestic creatures.