The Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, established in 1975, is a renowned sanctuary for orphaned and injured elephants in Sri Lanka. Located in the village of Pinnawala, about halfway between Colombo and Kandy, the orphanage is a 25-acre coconut plantation managed by the Department of National Zoological Gardens. It provides care and protection to elephants, including both calves and adults, and also operates as a breeding ground for Asian elephants.
Key Features:
Purpose:
To care for orphaned and injured elephants, as well as support a breeding program for Asian elephants.
Location:
Situated on a 25-acre coconut property adjoining the Maha Oya River, providing ample space for the elephants to roam and bathe.
Size:
Home to a herd of over 90 elephants, making it the largest captive herd of elephants in the world, according to Travel Lanka Connection.
Care:
The orphanage employs a team of mahouts (elephant handlers) who provide daily care, including feeding, bathing, and nurturing the elephants.
Visitors:
The orphanage is open to the public, offering visitors a chance to witness the elephants' daily routines, including feeding and bathing.
Elephant Bathing:
The elephants bathe in the Maha Oya twice a day, which is a popular attraction for visitors.
Educational Experience:
Visitors can learn about elephant behavior, the role of mahouts, and the conservation efforts of the orphanage.
Historical Background:
The orphanage was founded in 1975 by the Sri Lanka Wildlife Department to care for orphaned elephants found in the jungles of Sri Lanka.
