A Day with Elephants at Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage – 8 Hours

Your unforgettable day begins at 9 AM with a pickup from your hotel in Kandy, Negombo, or Colombo. The journey takes you first to Mawanella, where you’ll visit a local spice garden. This immersive experience offers a firsthand look at Sri Lanka’s spice trade, showcasing how native spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and nutmeg are grown and processed. Your knowledgeable guide will explain the traditional uses of these spices in Sri Lankan cuisine and Ayurvedic medicine.

From Mawanella, continue to Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, a sanctuary for orphaned and injured elephants. Arrive in time to witness these majestic animals up close, including the popular milk feeding session (currently unavailable). Watch as the elephants roam freely, bathe in the nearby river, and interact with their caregivers in a heartwarming display of compassion and care.

Following your visit to Pinnawala, enjoy a delicious lunch at a riverside restaurant, where the serene surroundings offer the perfect backdrop for a meal. Try traditional Sri Lankan dishes and a refreshing bottle of Lion beer, completing the authentic dining experience.

As the day winds down, relax on the drive back to your hotel, arriving around 5 PM. This enriching tour offers a balance of cultural insight and close encounters with nature, making it an unforgettable day in Sri Lanka.