Pinnawala is synonymous with its world-famous Elephant Orphanage, a sanctuary that has captured the hearts of visitors from around the globe. Established in 1975, the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage was created to care for orphaned and injured elephants, providing them with a safe and nurturing environment. Today, it is home to the largest herd of captive elephants in the world, offering visitors a unique opportunity to observe these majestic creatures up close.

One of the most popular activities at Pinnawala is watching the elephants as they are led to the nearby river for their daily bath. This is a joyful spectacle, with the elephants splashing and playing in the water, providing a heartwarming experience for visitors of all ages. The orphanage also offers insight into the conservation efforts to protect Sri Lanka’s elephant population, making it an educational visit as well as an entertaining one.