"Our stay was wonderful, we were lucky enough to have one of the newly renovated rooms at the hotel. The hotel staff were very polite and accommodating and the hotel is very centrally located - easy walk to the Temple of the Tooth Relic, eateries and shops. "
"We had an amazing stay at the property, the view from my room was beautiful. The staff and everyone there were very friendly and welcoming.
We could see the famous nine arch bridge from the room as well as wake up to the beautiful mountains.
I would definitely recommend going there and enjoying the beautiful town of Ella. "
"The hotel is kept in great condition, the morning breakfast buffet has a good selection of western and Sri Lankan food. The rooms are spacious, the minibar is complementary, beds are comfy and you’re staying right next to the temple and a short walk from the lake."
"The best hotel so far we stayed in srilanka , very professional and very hospitable people , we loved our stay and we will definitely come back ❤️ thank you fox hotels for everything we love you "
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Why not meet the animals who live at Pinnawala Zoo during your travels in Pinnawala? Stroll along the area's riverfront or simply enjoy its restaurants.
Watch baby elephants bathe and play at the famous Elephant Orphanage, where rescued pachyderms find sanctuary and care. Nearby Millennium Elephant Foundation offers ethical elephant experiences where you can help wash and feed these gentle giants.
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.
Find your hotel in Pinnawala
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.
Experience the top activities and must-see sights in Pinnawala
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.
How to find great deals and cheap hotels in Pinnawala
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.
Discover the flavours of Pinnawala
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.
Best time to go to Pinnawala
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.
The Pinnawala info point: What you need to know
Category
Details
Location
Pinnawala, Sabaragamuwa Province, Sri Lanka
Famous for
Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage
Best time to visit
Year-round, but dry season (December to March) is recommended
Length of Stay
1-2 days
Weather
Tropical climate with average temperatures ranging from 25-30°C (77-86°F)
Attractions
Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, Pinnawala Zoo, Pinnawala Open Zoo
What are some of the best holiday rentals that Pinnawala has to offer?
Colonial Residence Kandy : This holiday home rental outside of Pinnawala is located in the mountains, and has a garden, a BBQ and free WiFi to put you at ease in your new surroundings. Kitchen amenities include a fridge, a stovetop and a microwave. See all vacation rentals in Pinnawala.
If I need to cancel my hotel reservation in Pinnawala, will I receive a refund?
Yes, the majority of hotel reservations are fully refundable if cancelled prior to the hotel's cancellation deadline, which often is within 24-48 hours of check in. If you have a reservation that's non-refundable, you may still be able to cancel and get a refund within 24 hours of booking. Filter your search by fully refundable to find flexible hotel deals in Pinnawala.
What's the best family accommodation in Pinnawala?
Visitors to Pinnawala will definitely enjoy the riverfront and restaurants. Tourists can also enjoy so much more including its zoo. In Pinnawala, there are 7 hotels and other accommodation options to choose from. Find out more about Pinnawala.
The hottest months are usually March and April, with an average temperature of 24°C, while the coldest months are January and February, with an average of 23°C. The rainiest months in Pinnawala are November, October, December and April, with each month seeing an average of 355 mm of rainfall.
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