Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage Opening Hours Open Daily: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM. Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage is one of Sri Lanka’s most visited wildlife attractions, welcoming thousands of visitors each year to see rescued and orphaned elephants. The orphanage is open daily, allowing guests to watch elephant feeding sessions, river bathing, and other daily activities.
There are many places to see elephants in Sri Lanka. Most famous places are Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, Udawalawa Elephants Transit Home, Minneriya Safari, Udawalawe Safari, Yala Safari
Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage Opening Hours
Open Daily: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM
Visitors can enter throughout the day, but arriving in the morning is recommended to enjoy both the feeding and bathing sessions.
Daily Schedule
Baby Elephant Feeding Times
- 9:15 AM
- 1:15 PM
- 5:00 PM
Elephant River Bathing Times
- 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
- 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM
The bathing sessions take place in the nearby Maha Oya River and are among the most popular attractions at Pinnawala.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to visit is between 9:00 AM and 12:00 PM, when you can watch both the morning feeding session and the elephants bathing in the river. This provides the best opportunity for photography and elephant viewing.
Visitor Tips
- Arrive at least 30 minutes before feeding times.
- Wear comfortable clothing and walking shoes.
- Bring a camera for excellent wildlife photographs.
- Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends and public holidays.
- Carry water, sunscreen, and a hat during hot weather.
Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage Opening Hours, Entrance Fee & Packages
Day Tour Price to Pinnawala
- Day Tour & Transport Cost for Pinnawala:
From Colombo – Start from 25 USD PP (Pax 1 to 8)
From Kandy – Start from 15 USD PP (Pax 1 to 8)
Private tour in an A/C car or van with an English speaking chauffeur-guide
Vehicle Options:
Car (up to 2 persons): Toyota Axio, Prius Hybrid, Premio/Honda Fit Shuttle or similar
Van (3 to 8 persons): Toyota KDH/Nissan Caravan or similar - Included – Entrance Tickets, Refreshment, Transport
- Entrance ticket fee for Pinnawala Elephnat Orphanage & Transport – US$ 65 / EUR 62 / GBP 58) per foreign adult and US$ 33 / EUR 31 / GBP 29 per foreign child of age 03 – 12 years are applicable.