Kegalle is a large town in the Sabaragamuwa province of Sri Lanka, located on Colombo–Kandy Road. It has an agricultural economy, producing rice and primarily rubber, and is also known for its graphite deposits. A major tourist attraction in the area is the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, which is situated near Kegalle.
Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage
Elephant orphanages and sanctuaries are interesting places to visit in Sri Lanka. In Sri Lanka, There are many places to see elephants but one of the most famous places is “Pinnawela elephant orphanage”. In 1975, this orphanage was founded to protect and take care of the growing elephants by the Department of Wildlife Conservation. It is in Wilpattu National Park, then it relocated to Benevola and then shifted to Dehiwala Zoo.
In 1978, the Sri Lankan national zoological department was taken to the orphanage. Now this place is maintained to attract local and foreign visitors, and the income helps to maintain the orphanage.
Earlier in the time, it was filled with coconut plantations, and there was no shortage of mahouts in this area. The Maha Oya River provides the necessary water for the elephants. The orphanage has the largest herd of elephants compared to other countries; that’s why it is popular. Most countless tourists visit daily to see the spectacular sight of elephants bathing. For each animal given 76 kg of green foods and 2 kg of rice bran and maize for a day.
About this orphanage, countless books have been published worldwide. It’s all about the elephants and their lives. It has received worldwide attention from animal welfare activists and researchers.
Not only Pinnawela orphanage but there are also many other places to see in Sri Lanka.
Millennium Elephant Foundation
Elephant Freedom Project
Udawalava Elephants Transit Home
Maharaja Elephants Save Project
The Pinnawala elephant orphanage visiting hours
08.30 am: Opens for the visitors
09.00 am–09.45 am: Fruit Feeding
09.15 am–09.45 am: Milk Feeding
10.00 am-noon: Herd to the river
12.00 pm–01.45 pm: Fruit Feeding
01.15 pm–01.45 pm: Milk Feeding
02.00 pm–04.00 pm: Herd goes to the river
05.00 pm: Milk Feeding
05.30 pm: Ticket Counter Closes
06.00 pm: Closes for the day
Fruit Feeding
The orphanage provides essential nutrients and fruits to the elephants. Tourists usually bring fruit for the elephants and feed them. There is a certain time to allow the visitors inside, and children also enjoy feeding them and touching them. You won’t believe it when you touch them; they will act like babies and be so gentle, and they love the people around them.
Elephant Bathing Time
It’s a delightful sight, especially since it’s heartwarming to see the elephant bathing. In the morning hot weather, the entire herd is taken to the river by their caretaker for a refreshing bath. It is a very fabulous moment to watch baby elephants splashing and enjoying their bath. Visitors are allowed to watch the elephants closely to see this beautiful experience; you can take photographs and videos. Mostly children love and enjoy this event.
If you want to bring more adventure to your holiday, here you go. If you want to see wild elephants and do safari tours, you can visit Yala National Park, Udawalawa National Park, Wilpattu National Park, kaudulla National Park, and Wasagamuwa National Park.
And more hotels and resorts to stay at. These are the perfect places to get away from busy life. Those who love animals and are seeking a unique wildlife experience must visit the Pinnawela elephant orphanage. Enjoy your Kegalle Holidays with your friends and family.
