Pinnawala

Most famous for the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, one of the world's largest. Established in 1975, it cares for abandoned elephants, offering visitors close observation of bathing, feeding, and social interactions in this popular family-friendly destination.

Book Now

View Itinerary

Pinnawala

Book Now

View Itinerary

Sri Lanka's Coastal Gem

Pinnawala is most famous for the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, one of the largest in the world. Established in 1975, it cares for abandoned or injured elephants, offering visitors the chance to observe bathing, feeding, and social interaction up close. The nearby Pinnawala Zoo and Millennium Elephant Foundation offer more insight into Sri Lanka's elephant conservation efforts. While controversial among some wildlife advocates, it remains a popular family-friendly stop between Kandy and Colombo.

Best Time
Year-round
Experience Category
Wildlife
Cultural Celebrations
Vesak & Poson (May - June)
Animal Conservation Days
Seasonal Highlights
Elephant bathing visible year-round
Peak tourist months: Dec - April

Best Time
Year-round
Experience Category
Wildlife
Cultural Celebrations
Vesak & Poson (May - June)
Animal Conservation Days
Seasonal Highlights
Elephant bathing visible year-round
Peak tourist months: Dec - April

Must see attractions

Discover the archaeological wonders and breathtaking experiences that make Sigiriya one of the world's most remarkable ancient sites.

Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage
Features stunning views that capture the essence of Sri Lanka.
Elephant bathing at Maha Oya River
One of the most photographed locations in the region.
Elephant feeding sessions
A must-see attraction showcasing the beauty of Sri Lanka.
Millennium Elephant Foundation
A must-see attraction showcasing the beauty of Sri Lanka.
Pinnawala Zoo
Features stunning views that capture the essence of Sri Lanka.
Small village shops and markets
Visitors come from around the world to experience this iconic site.
Coconut plantations
One of the most photographed locations in the region.
Local craft stores
Features stunning views that capture the essence of Sri Lanka.
Rural scenery
Features stunning views that capture the essence of Sri Lanka.
Elephant enrichment zones
A must-see attraction showcasing the beauty of Sri Lanka.

Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage
Features stunning views that capture the essence of Sri Lanka.
Elephant bathing at Maha Oya River
One of the most photographed locations in the region.
Elephant feeding sessions
A must-see attraction showcasing the beauty of Sri Lanka.
Millennium Elephant Foundation
A must-see attraction showcasing the beauty of Sri Lanka.
Pinnawala Zoo
Features stunning views that capture the essence of Sri Lanka.
Small village shops and markets
Visitors come from around the world to experience this iconic site.
Coconut plantations
One of the most photographed locations in the region.
Local craft stores
Features stunning views that capture the essence of Sri Lanka.
Rural scenery
Features stunning views that capture the essence of Sri Lanka.
Elephant enrichment zones
A must-see attraction showcasing the beauty of Sri Lanka.
Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage
Features stunning views that capture the essence of Sri Lanka.
Elephant bathing at Maha Oya River
One of the most photographed locations in the region.
Elephant feeding sessions
A must-see attraction showcasing the beauty of Sri Lanka.
Millennium Elephant Foundation
A must-see attraction showcasing the beauty of Sri Lanka.
Pinnawala Zoo
Features stunning views that capture the essence of Sri Lanka.
Small village shops and markets
Visitors come from around the world to experience this iconic site.
Coconut plantations
One of the most photographed locations in the region.
Local craft stores
Features stunning views that capture the essence of Sri Lanka.
Rural scenery
Features stunning views that capture the essence of Sri Lanka.
Elephant enrichment zones
A must-see attraction showcasing the beauty of Sri Lanka.
Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage
Features stunning views that capture the essence of Sri Lanka.
Elephant bathing at Maha Oya River
One of the most photographed locations in the region.
Elephant feeding sessions
A must-see attraction showcasing the beauty of Sri Lanka.
Millennium Elephant Foundation
A must-see attraction showcasing the beauty of Sri Lanka.
Pinnawala Zoo
Features stunning views that capture the essence of Sri Lanka.
Small village shops and markets
Visitors come from around the world to experience this iconic site.
Coconut plantations
One of the most photographed locations in the region.
Local craft stores
Features stunning views that capture the essence of Sri Lanka.
Rural scenery
Features stunning views that capture the essence of Sri Lanka.
Elephant enrichment zones
A must-see attraction showcasing the beauty of Sri Lanka.
Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage
Features stunning views that capture the essence of Sri Lanka.
Elephant bathing at Maha Oya River
One of the most photographed locations in the region.
Elephant feeding sessions
A must-see attraction showcasing the beauty of Sri Lanka.
Millennium Elephant Foundation
A must-see attraction showcasing the beauty of Sri Lanka.
Pinnawala Zoo
Features stunning views that capture the essence of Sri Lanka.
Small village shops and markets
Visitors come from around the world to experience this iconic site.
Coconut plantations
One of the most photographed locations in the region.
Local craft stores
Features stunning views that capture the essence of Sri Lanka.
Rural scenery
Features stunning views that capture the essence of Sri Lanka.
Elephant enrichment zones
A must-see attraction showcasing the beauty of Sri Lanka.

Gallery

Experience the magnificence of Sri Lanka's ancient Lion Rock

through captivating imagery

Signature Experiences

Discover curated journeys designed to awaken your senses and immerse you in the soul of Sri Lanka.

Watch elephant river bathing

Perfect for creating lifelong memories of your journey.

Bottle-feed baby elephants (scheduled times)

Provides insight into the authentic Sri Lankan way of life.

Visit the zoo and learn about local species

Perfect for creating lifelong memories of your journey.

Walk through the elephant sanctuary

A memorable experience not to be missed during your visit.

Shop for elephant-themed souvenirs

Provides insight into the authentic Sri Lankan way of life.

Observe mahouts at work

Perfect for creating lifelong memories of your journey.

Learn from wildlife guides

Locals recommend this activity for an authentic experience.

Relax at a riverside restaurant

Locals recommend this activity for an authentic experience.

Photograph elephants in open space

Provides insight into the authentic Sri Lankan way of life.

Photograph elephants in open space

Provides insight into the authentic Sri Lankan way of life.

Photograph elephants in open space

Provides insight into the authentic Sri Lankan way of life.

Ride a tuk-tuk through the village

Provides insight into the authentic Sri Lankan way of life.

Tread softly. Discover wildly.

Sri Lanka’s hidden trails invite you to journey on foot—into its forests, waterfalls, and moments of quiet awe.

Village trails around coconut farms
A demanding trail that rewards hikers with spectacular views.
6 km
3 hrs
Riverside nature paths
Offers a good balance of challenge and accessibility with rewarding views.
5 km
3 hrs
Village trails around coconut farms
A demanding trail that rewards hikers with spectacular views.
6 km
3 hrs
Riverside nature paths
Offers a good balance of challenge and accessibility with rewarding views.
5 km
3 hrs
Village trails around coconut farms
A demanding trail that rewards hikers with spectacular views.
6 km
3 hrs
Riverside nature paths
Offers a good balance of challenge and accessibility with rewarding views.
5 km
3 hrs
Village trails around coconut farms
A demanding trail that rewards hikers with spectacular views.
6 km
3 hrs
Riverside nature paths
Offers a good balance of challenge and accessibility with rewarding views.
5 km
3 hrs

Village trails around coconut farms
A demanding trail that rewards hikers with spectacular views.
6 km
3 hrs
Riverside nature paths
Offers a good balance of challenge and accessibility with rewarding views.
5 km
3 hrs
Village trails around coconut farms
A demanding trail that rewards hikers with spectacular views.
6 km
3 hrs
Riverside nature paths
Offers a good balance of challenge and accessibility with rewarding views.
5 km
3 hrs
Village trails around coconut farms
A demanding trail that rewards hikers with spectacular views.
6 km
3 hrs
Riverside nature paths
Offers a good balance of challenge and accessibility with rewarding views.
5 km
3 hrs
Village trails around coconut farms
A demanding trail that rewards hikers with spectacular views.
6 km
3 hrs
Riverside nature paths
Offers a good balance of challenge and accessibility with rewarding views.
5 km
3 hrs

Village trails around coconut farms
A demanding trail that rewards hikers with spectacular views.
6 km
3 hrs
Riverside nature paths
Offers a good balance of challenge and accessibility with rewarding views.
5 km
3 hrs
Village trails around coconut farms
A demanding trail that rewards hikers with spectacular views.
6 km
3 hrs
Riverside nature paths
Offers a good balance of challenge and accessibility with rewarding views.
5 km
3 hrs
Village trails around coconut farms
A demanding trail that rewards hikers with spectacular views.
6 km
3 hrs
Riverside nature paths
Offers a good balance of challenge and accessibility with rewarding views.
5 km
3 hrs
Village trails around coconut farms
A demanding trail that rewards hikers with spectacular views.
6 km
3 hrs
Riverside nature paths
Offers a good balance of challenge and accessibility with rewarding views.
5 km
3 hrs

Ready to Explore With Us?

Let Ceylon Quest's expert guides take you on an unforgettable journey through Sri Lanka's most iconic ancient wonder. Book your Sigiriya adventure today and discover the Lion Rock's secrets.

Contact Ucha Lanka

+94 77 2211334