Pinnawala Hotels from ₹1,460

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

• Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage: Witness rescued elephants in a captivating setting, a must-visit for animal lovers.
• Scenic Trekking: Explore picturesque trails that offer stunning views and a chance to connect with nature.
• Cultural Experiences: Discover local temples and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of the region.
• Relaxation and Wellness: Indulge in beauty treatments and spa experiences for a rejuvenating stay.
• Charming Accommodations: Enjoy a variety of lodging options, from homely guesthouses to inviting hotels.

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 captivating blend of outdoor adventure and scenic beauty, making it an ideal getaway for tourists. Nestled by the riverside, visitors can enjoy spectacular views while exploring charming nearby villages. The vibrant atmosphere, enriched by friendly locals and cultural experiences, enhances your stay. Don't miss the enchanting Java Island and the main road that connects you to this picturesque region, perfect for immersing yourself in the natural splendour and local culture.

• Kadigamuwa: Situated approximately 5km from Pinnawala, Kadigamuwa is a charming city known for its picturesque scenery and outdoor activities. The region experiences moderately seasonal visitor arrivals, with peak times from December to February. Travellers flock to Kadigamuwa for its stunning landscapes, making it a romantic getaway. Nearby attractions include serene lakes and lush national parks, where you can immerse yourself in nature and enjoy leisurely hikes or picnics amidst the breathtaking surroundings.
• Egoda Kulipitiya: Located 8km from Pinnawala, Egoda Kulipitiya is a quaint village that offers a tranquil escape for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Like Kadigamuwa, it sees seasonal visitor patterns, peaking between December and February. This village provides a perfect backdrop for family outings and outdoor adventures, allowing visitors to engage with the local culture and explore its scenic beauty. Although not as well-known as nearby cities, Egoda Kulipitiya's charm lies in its simplicity and the warmth of its community.
• Kadugannawa: Positioned around 16km from Pinnawala, Kadugannawa is a vibrant city that attracts visitors year-round, with peak months in February, July, and December. Known for its outdoor adventures and stunning scenery, Kadugannawa is a hub for those seeking thrills and picturesque views. Local highlights include captivating water features, expansive national parks, and historic temples, making it an ideal spot for exploration and cultural immersion. Whether you're hiking through the parks or visiting sacred sites, Kadugannawa promises an enriching experience.

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

Getting to Pinnawala is straightforward if you fly into Colombo’s Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB), located approximately 56km away. This airport is served by numerous airlines, including SriLankan Airlines and Emirates. Convenient hotel options nearby include the luxurious Sentido Heritance Negombo, just 8km from the airport, offering shuttle services. Jetwing Beach, another 5-star hotel, is situated 10km away, while Jetwing Lagoon Wellness, an adults-only luxury resort, is 6km from the airport. All these hotels provide access to airport transportation to facilitate your journey to Pinnawala.