Enchanting Wonders on Sri Lanka Tourism

Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage – See the Giant Beasts

By Nuzla Rizkiya

Nestled in the heart of the Indian Ocean, filled with romantic landscapes, stirring mountains, lush green tea gardens and golden beaches, Sri Lanka as an island is nothing short of magnificent.  The country has no shortage of beautiful awe-inspiring spots, natural, historic and cultural, making her “paradise like” beckoning travelers from around the globe to embark on an unforgettable journey.

Recently ranked 9th place among 50 other countries on the basis of social media popularity,tourist arrivals in Sri Lanka recorded a 10-month high in February this year  (due to covid and economic crisis) with tens of thousands of foreign visitors coming to the island nation.

Read on to know about 2 gorgeous destinations in Sri Lanka voted frequently to be the most beautiful place in the island.

Ella, a charming hill town nestled in the central highlands of Sri Lanka, is a popular destination known for its breathtaking beauty, pleasant climate, and lush landscapes. Located in the Badulla District, Ella sits at an elevation of around 1,041 meters above sea level, offering visitors a refreshing escape from the tropical heat and a chance to explore the scenic wonders of the region.

Renowned for its picturesque landscapes, Ella makes it a paradise for nature lovers and photographers. The town is surrounded by rolling hills, verdant tea plantations, and cloud-kissed mountains. Cascading down a rocky outcrop just a short distance from Ella town is Ravana Falls. The legend of King Ravana from the Indian epic Ramayana adds a mystical touch to this natural wonder, making it a must-visit spot for tourists.The Nine Arch Bridge, also known as the Bridge in the Sky, is an architectural marvel that stands amidst the lush greenery of Ella. The bridge is famous for its striking design, constructed with bricks and stones without any steel, and is a popular spot for train enthusiasts as it offers stunning views of passing trains against the backdrop of scenic beauty. Ella is also surrounded by tea estates that produce some of Sri Lanka’s finest tea. Visitors can take guided tours of the tea plantations and witness the tea-picking process firsthand. Despite its growing popularity among tourists, Ella maintains a laid-back and relaxed atmosphere. The town itself is small and easy to explore on foot. Offering glimpses of Sri Lankan rural life and traditions, the area houses a range of cozy guest houses, boutique hotels, and cafes while giving the opportunity to visitors to interact with locals, learn about their customs, and visit nearby villages to get a deeper understanding of the local culture.

Pinnawala, situated in the Kegalle District of Sri Lanka, is a charming village that has gained worldwide recognition for its unique and heartwarming elephant orphanage. Established in 1975, the orphanage was initially created to provide a home for orphaned baby elephants found abandoned in the wild. Over the years, the place has expanded its efforts to include rescuing injured elephants and providing a safe haven for those displaced due to habitat loss. Visitors to Pinnawala have the incredible opportunity to watch these majestic creatures bathe in the nearby river, play in the mud, and interact with each other under the attentive care of dedicated mahouts (elephant keepers). Visitors can also participate in the feeding sessions, where they get a chance to feed the baby elephants with milk bottles. The elephant orphanage is situated along the banks of the Maha Oya River, providing a scenic backdrop for visitors. Watching the elephants as they enjoy their daily river bath is a sight of delight offering an insight into the elephants’ natural behavior.

In addition to the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, there is another facility in the area known as the Elephant Transit Home. Unlike the orphanage, which caters to tourists, the Elephant Transit Home focuses solely on rehabilitating orphaned elephants with the aim of releasing them back into the wild once they are ready. This organization operates with minimal human interaction, ensuring that the elephants retain their wild instincts.

Furthermore Pinnawala offers cultural experiences such as visits to nearby temples and local villages, where travelers can immerse themselves in the authentic Sri Lankan way of life.

Ella, Badulla