Pinavella
🔆 Pinnawela: majestic procession of giants Imagine how in the morning a huge herd of elephants walks along the main street of a small town in complete silence. They are heading to the river to swim, and you are standing a few meters away from them. This is not a dream or a still from a film - this is Pinnawela. In 1975, a shelter was opened here for elephant calves left without mothers. Now this is the world's largest nursery for Asian elephants: about 90 giants live here, rescued after injury, illness or loss of the herd. 🔆 The main spectacle is swimming in the Maha Oya River Twice a day, at 10:00 and 14:00, the herd leaves the enclosures and heads to the river. They walk along the asphalt, past shops and cafes. The real fun begins on the shore: elephants splash and pour water on each other. Baby elephants run clumsily between the legs of adults, and some giants themselves expose their backs to the jets from water cannons. This spectacle is mesmerizing - it’s not for nothing that tourists from all over the world come here for it. 🔆 Little joys: feeding and paper made from manure Three times a day - around 9:15, 13:15 and 17:00 - the babies are fed milk from huge bottles. Adults can be fed fruit for a small fee. Be sure to check out the factory that produces paper from elephant dung - it sounds unusual, but it is an eco-friendly souvenir that will definitely surprise your friends. 🔆 How to plan a visit The nursery is open from 8:30 to 17:30. The best time is from 10:00 to 12:00 or from 14:00 to 16:00 when the elephants are bathing. The most convenient way to get there is by car or on a tour. 🔆 Be careful! There are private farms in Pinnawala that offer elephant rides, but tourists are often tricked into getting there. If you want to see a real state shelter, check with the driver and look at the signs. Better yet, book an excursion, our team will organize a comfortable trip for you without surprises or delays. 🔆 Summary Pinnawela is not just a nursery, but a place where you can see majestic animals up close and feel their power and grace. The procession of elephants along a city street, their shadows frolicking in the river, a warm trunk taking fruit from your hands - these are impressions that will stay with you forever. Come here on your way from Colombo to Kandy and treat yourself to an encounter with giants.