Pinnawala Hotels from ₹1,016

Pinnawala, in the beautiful Sabaragamuwa Province of Sri Lanka, is a haven for nature lovers and animal enthusiasts. Situated next to the scenic river, this charming town offers a unique experience with its renowned elephant orphanage. Visitors can witness these gentle giants up close and even participate in their daily bath time. Pinnawala also boasts a delightful zoo, where a variety of animals can be observed. The city center is filled with friendly locals and offers a range of dining options. For those who enjoy walking and immersing themselves in nature, Pinnawala is the ideal destination.

Top reasons to visit Pinnawala

• Elephant Orphanage: Pinnawala is renowned for its Elephant Orphanage, where visitors can observe and interact with these gentle giants up close.
• Botanical Gardens: Explore lush botanical gardens that showcase Sri Lanka's diverse flora, perfect for leisurely strolls.
• Cultural Immersion: Engage with local culture through captivating temples and the charming village life in Aluthwalawa Mawatha.
• Outdoor Adventures: Enjoy a range of outdoor activities, from eco-friendly excursions to family-friendly adventures.
• Diverse Accommodation: Choose from a variety of lodgings, from comfortable hotels to quaint guesthouses, ensuring a delightful stay.

Pinnawala offers a range of hotel accommodations to suit all preferences. From 3.0-star to 4.0-star options, there is something for every budget. The popular Hotel Elephant Bay features childcare, airport transportation, concierge services, room service, a free breakfast, and a bar. It is conveniently located in Pinnawala and offers various recreational and business facilities. Another top choice is Maoya Retreat Hotel, a 4.0-star hotel known for its beautiful riverside location. Guests can enjoy friendly service, a zoo, dining options, and nature walks. For a more affordable option, Ma Oya Retreat is a 2.5-star hotel with similar features. With its stunning natural surroundings and accessible facilities, Pinnawala is the perfect destination for a memorable holiday.

• Hotel Elephant Bay - This 3.0-star hotel offers childcare, airport transportation, and a range of services for a comfortable stay in Pinnawala.
• Maoya Retreat Hotel - With a beautiful riverside location, this 4.0-star hotel provides friendly service, a zoo, dining options, and nature walks.
• Ma Oya Retreat - Enjoy the natural beauty of Pinnawala at this affordable 2.5-star hotel, offering similar amenities as Maoya Retreat Hotel.

Experience the charm of Pinnawala and enjoy a relaxing stay at one of its excellent hotels. With its natural attractions and accessible facilities, Pinnawala is the ideal holiday destination.

Where to stay near Pinnawala

Pinnawala offers a delightful escape for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike, with its friendly atmosphere and adventure opportunities. Nearby, Aluthwalawa Mawatha promises a cultural experience that immerses travellers in the local way of life. As you explore this charming village and its surroundings, prepare to be enchanted by the captivating landscapes and the warmth of the community, making your vacation truly memorable.

• Rambukkana: Nestled a mere 3.2km from Pinnawala, Rambukkana is a vibrant city that attracts a diverse array of travellers throughout the year. Known for its family-friendly atmosphere and business-themed experiences, the city sees a peak in visitor numbers from December to February. While here, you can indulge in some shopping at local centres and malls, or explore the historic village that showcases the rich cultural heritage of the region. Rambukkana is an excellent spot for those looking to blend leisure with urban experiences.
• Kadigamuwa: Located 4.8km from Pinnawala, Kadigamuwa offers an exhilarating escape for adventure seekers and nature lovers. With its visitor numbers also peaking in the December to February window, this city is perfect for those wanting to immerse themselves in outdoor activities and scenic landscapes. Explore the nearby national state park and national park, or unwind on the local beach. Kadigamuwa promises a refreshing blend of excitement and natural beauty, making it an ideal stop for your vacation.
• Uthuwankanda: Just 6.4km away from Pinnawala, Uthuwankanda is a quaint village that provides a serene cultural experience. Although visitor numbers are moderately seasonal, the village is particularly charming from December to February. Here, you can visit local places of worship and churches that reflect the rich tapestry of Sri Lankan culture. Uthuwankanda serves as a peaceful retreat for those seeking to connect with the local traditions and spiritual heritage of the area.

Pinnawala is a charming destination in Sabaragamuwa Province, Sri Lanka, offering a unique experience for a cheap holiday.

• Pinnawala Zoo: Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature as you explore this zoo, where you can witness exotic animals in their natural habitat. Enjoy the company of friendly locals and take a leisurely walk along the river.
• Bath in Pinnawala: Indulge in a rejuvenating bath in the picturesque Pinnawala, surrounded by breathtaking scenery. Immerse yourself in the tranquil atmosphere and let the soothing waters wash away your stress.
• Place for Elephant Bath: Experience the incredible sight of elephants bathing in Pinnawala. Marvel at their majestic presence and witness their interactions with each other as they playfully splash around in the river.

• Looking for discounted accommodation in Pinnawala? Expedia offers a wide range of options to suit your budget.
• Make use of the search filters on the Expedia website to find the cheapest hotels in Pinnawala for your stay.
• Consider booking your travel during off-peak times, such as May to July, when prices for flights and hotels may be lower.
• Explore the beautiful river, friendly people, zoo, dining options, and nature walks that Pinnawala has to offer.
• Take advantage of budget-friendly transportation options like local buses or trains to save on travel expenses.

When visiting Pinnawala, you can't miss out on the highlights of the local cuisine and unique dishes. The town offers a variety of restaurants where you can indulge in authentic Sri Lankan flavours. From small family-owned eateries to upscale dining establishments, there is something for everyone.

One of the must-try dishes in Pinnawala is the traditional rice and curry. This delicious meal typically consists of steamed rice served with an array of curries, including meat, fish, and vegetable options. You can also savor other local specialties like hoppers, string hoppers, and kottu roti. Don't forget to pair your meal with a refreshing glass of king coconut water or try the famous Ceylon tea.

Pinnawala boasts a year-around average temperature of 27.9°C, peaking at 28.9°C in April, May, its warmest month, and dipping to an average low of 27.2°C in January, October, November, December, the coolest. Rainfall averages at 149.0mm annually, with August seeing the heaviest showers and February being the driest month.

Month	Temperature (Celcius)	Rainfall (mm)
January	27.2	91.4
February	27.8	53.3
March	28.4	87.6
April	28.9	118.1
May	28.9	101.6
June	28.1	163.8
July	28.0	302.3
August	28.0	305.8
September	27.7	147.3
October	27.2	116.8
November	27.2	160.0
December	27.2	139.7

The nearest major airports for your trip to Pinnawala

Pinnawala can be conveniently accessed via Colombo's Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB), situated 56.3km away. For a comfortable stay near the airport, consider the Sentido Heritance Negombo, a 5-star hotel located 8.0km from CMB, offering an airport shuttle service. Another excellent option is Jetwing Blue, a 5-star resort 9.7km from the airport, also providing easy access to CMB. Additionally, the Jetwing Lagoon Wellness, an adults-only luxury reserve, is just 6.4km away and offers similar transport facilities. These hotels ensure a seamless transition from the airport to your Pinnawala adventure.