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The Elephant Orphanage


Pinnewala Elephant Orphanage is the place for all things elly.


Captive elephants and Pinnewala itself is no stranger to controversy but there is no escaping the sense of awe and delight at seeing quite so many of them at the nearby Pinnewala Elephant Orphanage.

Of the hundred or so resident elephants, few are actually orphans and many of the younger ones bred on site; and come in all sizes and ages. Perhaps the best time to arrive is for the twice daily elephant bathing where the herd take to the river from 10am and again at 2pm.

The surrounding village is awash with all things elephant, including paper made from dung, and teaming with restaurants, and cafes.

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