Must-Try Foods In Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage (Kandy) For Tourists 2026 - 2027

Food History of Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, Kandy, Sri Lanka

The Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, although mostly known for its large herd of captive elephants, is situated in a region rich in culinary history. The Kandy district's gastronomy has been influenced by its geographical location in the central highlands of Sri Lanka, historical events, and the cultural diversity of the population. Sri Lankan cuisine, in general, is a reflection of the island’s history of colonization and its trade history, which brought in various spices, cooking methods, and food habits. Many of the dishes have been adapted over time and reflect a blend of Dutch, Portuguese, British, Indian, Arab, and Malay influences.

Traditional recipes passed down through generations are prevalent in the Kandy region. Rice-based meals accompanied by a range of curries that use local spices and coconut milk are customarily the diet staple. In places like Pinnawala, the close proximity to nature and elephant sanctuary tourism also influence the food served, often including fresh tropical fruits and vegetables that are indigenous to the area.

Must Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, Kandy, Sri Lanka

1. Kottu Roti (Non-Veg/Veg) - A popular Sri Lankan street food dish made from godhamba roti (a type of flatbread) and vegetables, egg, or meat, and typically served with a spicy sauce. Vegetarian options are readily available.
2. Hoppers (Appa) (Veg/Non-Veg) - A bowl-shaped pancake made from fermented rice flour and coconut milk, often eaten for breakfast. Hoppers can be paired with accompaniments like spicy sambals or curries.
3. Dhal Curry (Veg) - A fragrant lentil curry made with masoor dhal and flavored with coconut milk, turmeric, and tempered spices. It is a staple dish in the Sri Lankan diet.
4. Pol Roti (Veg) - Coconut roti is a simple, griddled flatbread made with fresh grated coconut, flour, water, and salt.
5. Wambatu Moju (Eggplant Pickle) (Veg) - Deep-fried eggplant (aubergine) pickle that’s been caramelized with sugar, vinegar, onions, and chili.
6. Gotu Kola Sambol (Veg) - A traditional Sri Lankan salad made from finely chopped gotu kola leaves, mixed with grated coconut, onions, and chili.
7. Jackfruit Curry (Veg) - A creamy curry that hugely benefits from the unique texture of unripe jackfruit, cooked with a variety of spices and coconut milk.
8. Fish Ambul Thiyal (Sour Fish Curry) (Non-Veg) - A southern Sri Lankan dish made with firm fish, usually tuna, and flavored with sour goraka.
9. Lamprais (Non-Veg/Veg) - A mixed meat and rice dish that’s a result of Dutch Burgher influence, wrapped and baked in a banana leaf. Vegetarian versions are also available.
10. Fruit Platters (Veg) - With the abundance of tropical fruits in Sri Lanka, enjoy platters of fresh papaya, mango, banana, pineapple, and more.

Top Famous Restaurants in Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, Kandy, Sri Lanka

1. Hotel Elephant Bay
Address: Pinnawala, Rambukkana, Sri Lanka
Famous Food: Buffet with traditional Sri Lankan dishes (Veg/Non-Veg)

2. Pinnalanda Hotel
Address: Pinnawala, Sri Lanka
Famous Food: Hoppers and Fruit Platters (Veg/Non-Veg)

3. The Elephant Park Restaurant
Address: Pinnawala, Rambukkana, Sri Lanka
Famous Food: Seafood Platter (Non-Veg), with vegetarian options available.

4. Green Land Spice Garden
Address: Pinnawala Orphanage Road, Pinnawala, Sri Lanka
Famous Food: Spiced Rice and Curry (Veg/Non-Veg)

5. Cafe Pinnalanda
Address: Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, Pinnawala, Sri Lanka
Famous Food: Kottu Roti (Veg/Non-Veg)

Please note that while these restaurants offer a variety of dishes, it is always recommended to confirm with the restaurant regarding availability of vegetarian and non-vegetarian options, as menus can change and may depend on what is locally available.