Pinnawala Elephant
Orphanage Day Tour
Visit Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage on a private day tour from Kosgoda, Ahungalla, Bentota and Induruwa. See elephants up close, feeding time and river bathing.
Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage Day Tour from Kosgoda, Ahungalla, Bentota & Induruwa
The Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage Day Tour is one of the most family-friendly and heart-warming experiences in Sri Lanka. This tour offers a rare opportunity to observe Asian elephants up close in a protected environment while learning about conservation and elephant care.
Starting early from Kosgoda, Ahungalla, Bentota, or Induruwa, this private day tour takes you inland to Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, one of Sri Lanka’s most visited wildlife attractions. The tour is ideal for travelers who want a meaningful wildlife experience without entering a national park.
It is especially popular with guests staying at resorts such as Sheraton Kosgoda Turtle Beach Resort, Heritance Ahungalla, RIU Sri Lanka, and beach hotels in Bentota and Induruwa.







TOUR OVERVIEW
Tour Type: Private Day Tour
Duration: One Day
Destination: Pinnawala
Pick-up Locations:
Kosgoda | Ahungalla | Bentota | Induruwa
Return: Same hotel in the evening
This tour is carefully timed to match the best visiting hours at Pinnawala, including elephant feeding and bathing sessions.
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
- Visit the famous Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage
- Observe elephants at close range in a natural setting
- Watch elephant feeding time
- See elephants bathing in the river (subject to schedule)
- Scenic countryside drive through rural Sri Lanka
DETAILED ITINERARY
Early Morning – Pick-up from Your Hotel
Your day begins with an early morning private pick-up from your hotel in Kosgoda, Ahungalla, Bentota, or Induruwa. An early start ensures smooth travel and enough time to enjoy Pinnawala without rushing.
As you drive inland, you will pass through villages, rivers, rubber plantations, and green countryside, offering a glimpse of everyday Sri Lankan life.
Arrival at Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage
Upon arrival at Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, you will enter a large protected area where elephants are cared for in a semi-natural environment. The orphanage was established to look after orphaned, injured, and displaced elephants and is now home to one of the largest captive elephant herds in the world.
Elephant Feeding Time
One of the highlights of the visit is elephant feeding time, where you can observe young elephants being bottle-fed and older elephants receiving their meals. This is a wonderful opportunity to learn about elephant care and behavior.
Elephant Bathing at the River
Depending on timing, you may also witness the elephants being led to the nearby river for their daily bath. Watching dozens of elephants bathing and playing in the water is a unique and memorable experience.
This session is especially popular with families and photographers.
Free Time to Explore the Area
After the main activities, you will have free time to:
- Walk around the viewing areas
- Observe elephants resting and interacting
- Take photos
- Visit nearby souvenir shops (optional)
Your driver will guide you on the best spots and timing.
Lunch Break (Optional)
After the Pinnawala visit, you will stop for lunch at a local restaurant in the area. Options typically include Sri Lankan rice and curry or simple international meals.
Lunch is not included, allowing you to choose according to your preference.
Afternoon – Return Journey to the South Coast
In the afternoon, you will begin the return journey to the southern coast. You will arrive back at your hotel in the evening after a relaxed and educational day.
WHAT’S INCLUDED
- Private air-conditioned vehicle
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off
- Experienced local driver
- Fuel, parking, and highway charges
WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED
- Entrance fees to Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage
- Lunch and refreshments
- Personal expenses
- Tips (optional)
All inclusions and exclusions are clearly explained before confirmation.
WHO IS THIS TOUR IDEAL FOR?
The Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage Day Tour is ideal for:
- Families with children
- First-time visitors to Sri Lanka
- Wildlife and animal lovers
- Travelers staying at beach resorts
- Guests who prefer gentle, non-adventure tours
This tour is suitable for all age groups.
IMPORTANT NOTES
- This is a private tour only
- Early start is recommended for best experience
- Elephant activities follow fixed schedules
- Elephant interaction is observational only
- Tour timing may change due to traffic or weather
HOTEL PICK-UP LOCATIONS
We provide hotel pick-up and drop-off from:
- Sheraton Kosgoda Turtle Beach Resort
- Heritance Ahungalla
- RIU Sri Lanka Ahungalla
- Bentota beach hotels
- Induruwa beach resorts
Book Your Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage Day Tour with Zoysa Tours
Enjoy a memorable and educational elephant experience on your Sri Lanka holiday.
