Top Things To Do In Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage (Kandy) In 2026 - 2027

Top 10 things to do in Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage

1. 1. Elephant Bathing

   Witness the spectacular sight of the Pinnawala herd taking their daily bath in the nearby river at the Elephant Orphanage. This activity is a popular one where visitors can see the elephants playing, spraying each other, and submerging themselves in the river's cool waters. It's a chance to observe their natural behaviors and social interactions. The bathing ritual is very important to the elephants' well-being as it keeps their skin clean and provides a much-needed relief from the heat. Visitors can take photographs and enjoy the sight from a safe distance, as the elephants are accompanied by their mahouts (caretakers) ensuring a harmonious experience for both the animals and the onlookers.

   Duration: 1-2 hours · Price: Included in the entrance fee

2. 2. Elephant Feeding

   Participate in the daily feeding routine at the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage. You'll get the opportunity to see the younger elephants being bottle-fed, while the older ones are fed fruit and foliage. The feeding activity is an intimate experience as you watch the orphanage staff prepare the milk formula and hand-feed the calves. Observing the elephants' eating habits and the care they receive from their keepers offers a deeper understanding of the complex needs of these majestic creatures. The feeding times are scheduled and visitors can choose to watch or even pay a little extra to feed an elephant under the supervision of a caretaker, getting up close with the gentle giants.

   Duration: 30-45 minutes · Price: Included in the entrance fee, additional cost for feeding an elephant

3. 3. Educational Tour

   Embark on an educational journey as you learn about the conservation efforts, biology, and behavior of elephants at the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage. The tour is guided by knowledgeable staff who provide insights into the history of the orphanage and the stories of its resident elephants. You will learn about the challenges faced in protecting these animals and the role the orphanage plays in providing a sanctuary for orphaned and injured elephants. Throughout the tour, you'll have the chance to ask questions and gain a deeper appreciation for the importance of elephant conservation in Sri Lanka and worldwide.

   Duration: 1 hour · Price: Inclusive with the entrance fee

4. 4. Photo Session with Elephants

   Capture your memories with a special photo session alongside the elephants under the guidance of their caregivers. This activity allows you to get closer to the elephants in a controlled environment, ensuring the safety of both animals and guests. You'll have ample time to take pictures with the elephants while they engage in their daily activities. Professional photographers may also be available to capture the perfect shot for you. The photo sessions are a unique opportunity to have a tangible memory of your encounter with these magnificent animals while supporting the orphanage's initiatives.

   Duration: 15-30 minutes · Price: Varies, contact for details

5. 5. River Walk with Elephants

   Enjoy a leisurely walk along the river with the elephants as they roam freely in their natural habitat. This activity gives you a unique perspective on the elephants' way of life outside the boundaries of the orphanage. Accompanied by their mahouts, the elephants take their time to graze, play, and interact with one another. The river walk offers an intimate glimpse into the lives of these animals in a more natural setting and allows visitors to understand the importance of their environment for their well-being.

   Duration: 1-2 hours · Price: Included in the entrance fee

6. 6. Adopt an Elephant

   Support the orphanage through the 'Adopt an Elephant' program, where you can sponsor the care and maintenance of an elephant. This opportunity allows you to contribute towards the food, veterinary care, and overall welfare of your chosen elephant. By adopting an elephant, you receive updates on its progress, a certificate of adoption, and free entrance to the orphanage for a specific period. This activity is not only rewarding, but it also increases awareness and funds essential for the continued operation of the orphanage and its various initiatives.

   Duration: 1 year · Price: Varies, contact for details

7. 7. Elephant Ride

   Experience the unique opportunity to ride an elephant at the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage. This activity provides a different perspective as you sit atop an elephant, gently strolling around the premises. The rides are conducted in a controlled environment with the supervision of experienced mahouts to ensure the safety and comfort of both the guests and the elephants. During the elephant ride, you will get to admire the lush scenery around the orphanage and feel a closer connection to these gentle giants.

   Duration: 10-15 minutes · Price: Additional cost, varies depending on duration

8. 8. Gift Shop

   Visit the souvenir shop at the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage to find a wide range of elephant-themed memorabilia and local handicrafts. The items available include sculptures, clothing, accessories, postcards, and other unique gifts that reflect the culture and wildlife of Sri Lanka. Purchases from the gift shop contribute to supporting the orphanage and its conservation efforts. Whether you're looking for a token to remember your visit or gifts for friends and family, the shop offers a variety of options.

   Duration: Flexible · Price: Varies based on item

9. 9. On-site Restaurant

   Dine with a view at the on-site restaurant of the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, which offers a selection of local and international cuisines. The restaurant is strategically placed for diners to watch the elephants as they bathe and roam, providing an immersive dining experience. With an extensive menu, the restaurant caters to various dietary preferences and is an ideal place to relax and enjoy a meal amidst the beauty of the surrounding natural landscape.

   Duration: 1-2 hours · Price: Varies based on selection

10. 10. Volunteer Program

    Get involved with the day-to-day operations of the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage through their volunteer program. This immersive activity allows you to contribute to the welfare of the elephants by assisting with feeding, enclosure maintenance, and observation of the elephants' behaviors. The program offers a deeper connection with the animals and a better understanding of the dedication required to care for them. It's a fulfilling experience that combines learning and giving back, suitable for wildlife enthusiasts and those looking to make a difference.

    Price: Contact for details