Kandy to Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage by Tuk

Setting out on a tuk-tuk journey from Kandy to the renowned Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage promises an unforgettable experience. Witness the remarkable efforts to rehabilitate and care for these gentle giants, while immersing oneself in the captivating scenery along the way. From the serene Kadugannawa View Point to the lush Peradeniya Botanical Garden, this excursion offers a well-rounded exploration of Sri Lanka’s natural wonders. As visitors explore the daily activities at the orphanage, they’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the dedicated work being done to protect and preserve these magnificent creatures. The stage is set for an exceptional adventure that blends cultural exploration and animal conservation.

Good To Know

A tuk-tuk excursion from Kandy to the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, covering a distance of 41 km and taking approximately 2 hours with multiple stops.
Highlights of the tour include a 3-hour guided visit to the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, where visitors can observe daily activities like feeding and bathing.
The tour includes pickup from Kandy hotels, entrance fees, and complimentary water, while additional fees may apply for certain attractions.
Travelers are recommended to bring a passport or ID, comfortable clothing, and cash, as food and gratuities are not included in the tour.
The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a "pay later" option, providing flexibility for travelers.

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Overview and Booking Details

This excursion from Kandy to the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage by tuk-tuk offers travelers an opportunity to explore Sri Lanka’s rich cultural and natural heritage.

Priced from €12.06 per person, the tour lasts around 10 hours and includes free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Pickup from Kandy hotels is provided, and travelers can reserve now and pay later.

The itinerary features stops at scenic viewpoints, tea factories, and cultural attractions, culminating in a guided tour of the renowned Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage.

Travelers can expect a well-rounded experience blending sightseeing, wildlife, and Sri Lankan culture.

Itinerary and Highlights

The excursion from Kandy to the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage by tuk-tuk begins at 8:30 AM with pickup from the hotel.

The 41 km journey takes around 2 hours, with stops at the Kadugannawa View Point, Ceylon Tea Factory, Peradeniya Botanical Garden, Kandy City View Point, and a Kandyan Culture Dance Show.

The highlight is the 3-hour guided tour of the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, a unique facility caring for orphaned Sri Lankan elephants.

Visitors can observe the elephants during their daily activities, including feeding and bathing in the river.

Optional activities like the Avanhala dance show and free time at various stops are also available.

Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage

Situated along the banks of the Maha Oya River, the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage stands as a unique facility in Sri Lanka, dedicated to the care and rehabilitation of orphaned and abandoned elephants.

Established in 1975, the orphanage serves as a nursery and breeding ground for these majestic creatures, playing a vital role in conserving the endangered Sri Lankan elephant.

Visitors can witness the daily schedule of the herd, observing the elephants as they’re fed, bathed, and taken to the river.

With its symbolic, cultural, and economic significance, the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage offers a captivating glimpse into the lives of these beloved gentle giants.

Daily Schedule at the Orphanage

The Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage‘s daily schedule revolves around the care and well-being of its resident pachyderms.

The orphanage opens at 8:30 AM and kicks off with fruit feeding from 9:00 AM to 9:45 AM, followed by milk feeding from 9:15 AM to 9:45 AM.

The herd is then led to the river from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM, with another fruit and milk feeding session from 12:00 PM to 1:45 PM.

In the afternoon, the herd takes another trip to the river from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM, and the day concludes with a final milk feeding at 5:00 PM before the orphanage closes at 6:00 PM.

Included and Excluded Services

Included in the experience are hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation by tuk-tuk, a complimentary bottle of water, and entrance fees for various attractions like the Spice & Herbal Garden and Ceylon Tea Factory.

However, travelers will need to pay additional fees separately for the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, Royal Botanical Garden, Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, and Kandyan Culture Dance. These fees vary from $6 to $15 and can be paid by card or cash.

Food and gratuities are also excluded. Travelers should bring their passport or ID, cash, and wear comfortable clothing.

Important Information for Travelers

Travelers booking this Kandy to Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage tour should keep a few key points in mind.

They’ll need to bring their passport or ID, a hat, and comfortable clothes. However, pets, large bags, alcohol, and drugs aren’t allowed.

This tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or individuals over 95 years old.

Cancellation and flexibility options are available if plans change.

Cancelation and Flexibility Options

Cancellation and flexibility options allow travelers to change or cancel their Kandy to Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage tour as needed.

The activity offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Plus, travelers can take advantage of the reserve now & pay later option, providing greater flexibility.

Key highlights of the cancellation and flexibility policy include:

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour
Full refund for canceled bookings
Reserve now & pay later option available
Flexibility to modify tour details as needed

These options ensure travelers can plan their trip with confidence and make any necessary adjustments without penalty.

Suitability and Restrictions

Not everyone may be able to participate in the Kandy to Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage tour.

The activity isn’t suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or individuals over 95 years old. Certain items are also prohibited, including pets, large bags, alcohol, and drugs.

Travelers should bring their passport or ID, a hat, comfortable clothes, and cash. This tour may not be the best option for those with mobility issues or special needs.

However, the organizers aim to provide a flexible and accessible experience for as many travelers as possible, with cancellation options available.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks to the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage?

Visitors can bring their own food and drinks to the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage. However, they’re advised to avoid leaving any litter behind and follow the rules set by the orphanage to ensure the well-being of the elephants.

Is There a Dress Code for Visiting the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic?

The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic has a dress code. Visitors should wear modest, loose-fitting clothing that covers their shoulders and knees. Shorts, sleeveless tops, and revealing attire are not permitted inside the temple.

Can I Take Photographs or Videos at the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage?

Visitors can take photographs and videos at the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, though they’re asked to avoid disrupting the elephants’ activities. Reasonable photography is generally permitted, but flash photography may be restricted in certain areas for the animals’ comfort.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Kandyan Culture Dance Show?

The Kandyan Culture Dance Show doesn’t have any age restrictions, so visitors of all ages can enjoy the performance. The show is open to everyone and offers a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage.

Can I Extend My Stay at the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage Beyond the Included Time?

The tour doesn’t include extended time at the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage beyond the scheduled 3-hour guided visit. However, visitors can stay longer on their own and explore the orphanage further at their own expense.

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The Sum Up

The Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage offers a unique opportunity to witness the rehabilitation and care of orphaned elephants. Travelers can embark on a memorable tuk-tuk excursion from Kandy, exploring scenic viewpoints, tea factories, and botanical gardens along the way. With a flexible itinerary, hotel pickup, and cancellation options, this tour provides a stress-free adventure to connect with Sri Lanka’s iconic elephants.