A zoo with elephants, palm trees, and a mountain in the background.

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Check prices for these dates

Tonight
17 Aug - 18 Aug
Tomorrow
18 Aug - 19 Aug
This weekend
21 Aug - 23 Aug
Next weekend
28 Aug - 30 Aug

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Our top choices for Pinnawala hotels

Hotel
Breakfast included
Pet-friendly
Reserve now, pay later
Wi-Fi included

1. Hotel Elephant Park

Hotel Elephant Park
Pinnawala
Australia
Sanjeewa
NZ$86
includes taxes & fees
23 Aug - 24 Aug
Hotel Elephant Park

2. The Elephant Bay - Pinnawala

The Elephant Bay - Pinnawala
Rambukkana
NZ$143
includes taxes & fees
17 Sept - 18 Sept
The Elephant Bay - Pinnawala

3. Elepath Lodge - Pinnawala

Elepath Lodge - Pinnawala
Pinnawala
NZ$29
includes taxes & fees
25 Aug - 26 Aug
Elepath Lodge - Pinnawala

4. Ma Oya Retreat

Ma Oya Retreat
Rambukkana
NZ$1,590
includes taxes & fees
24 Aug - 25 Aug
Ma Oya Retreat

5. Rosyth Estate House

Rosyth Estate House
Pinnawala
NZ$495
includes taxes & fees
1 Sept - 2 Sept
Rosyth Estate House

6. The Flame Tree Estate & Hotel

The Flame Tree Estate & Hotel
Galagedara
United Kingdom
andrew
NZ$413
includes taxes & fees
1 Sept - 2 Sept
The Flame Tree Estate & Hotel

7. The Cloud Resort

The Cloud Resort
Kadugannawa
NZ$187
includes taxes & fees
17 Sept - 18 Sept
The Cloud Resort

8. The Tusker's Hideout

The Tusker's Hideout
Alawwa
NZ$99
includes taxes & fees
19 Aug - 20 Aug
The Tusker's Hideout

9. inselor

inselor
Warakapola
NZ$113
includes taxes & fees
25 Aug - 26 Aug
inselor

10. Hotel Sharmia

Hotel Sharmia
Divulapitiya
NZ$73
includes taxes & fees
18 Aug - 19 Aug
Hotel Sharmia

11. Kandyan Reach Hotel

Kandyan Reach Hotel
Kurunegala
Canada
Lalith
NZ$165
includes taxes & fees
21 Aug - 22 Aug
Kandyan Reach Hotel

12. Elephant Lovers Inn

Elephant Lovers Inn
Rambukkana
NZ$3,244
includes taxes & fees
7 Sept - 8 Sept
Elephant Lovers Inn

13. The Springfields Kandy

The Springfields Kandy
Kandy
United States
Archana
NZ$55
includes taxes & fees
24 Aug - 25 Aug
The Springfields Kandy

14. Royal Avenue Kandy

Royal Avenue Kandy
Kandy
NZ$87
includes taxes & fees
28 Aug - 29 Aug
Royal Avenue Kandy

15. Athulya Villas

Athulya Villas
Udunuwara
Sweden
Catrin
NZ$176
includes taxes & fees
4 Sept - 5 Sept
Athulya Villas

16. Berghotel Escondite

Berghotel Escondite
Kadugannawa
NZ$199
includes taxes & fees
29 Aug - 30 Aug
Berghotel Escondite

17. Tree of Life Nature Resort

Tree of Life Nature Resort
Harispattuwa
United States
Lingson
NZ$140
includes taxes & fees
1 Sept - 2 Sept
Tree of Life Nature Resort

18. Star Bish Mount View

Star Bish Mount View
Lagundeniya
NZ$33
includes taxes & fees
18 Aug - 19 Aug
Star Bish Mount View

19. toropi homestay

toropi homestay
Udunuwara
NZ$77
includes taxes & fees
18 Aug - 19 Aug
toropi homestay

20. Hideaway Homestay Kandy

Hideaway Homestay Kandy
Halloluwa
United Kingdom
Elisabeth
NZ$40
includes taxes & fees
24 Aug - 25 Aug
Hideaway Homestay Kandy
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Stay near popular Pinnawala attractions

Pinnawala Zoo

9.4/10 (3 reviews)
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.
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Learn more about Pinnawala

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.

See all hotels in Pinnawala
A herd of elephants in a river with water spraying from a fountain.
Photo by Sylwia Olejnik-Antkowiak

Top Pinnawala Hotel Reviews

Recent Reviews in Pinnawala

Hotel Casamara

Hotel Casamara

10/10 Excellent
"The hotel is located very convenient near the temple of the sacred tooth relic. The staff is incredibly welcoming and helpful. We came by car and could park at the hotel car parking in front of the hotel. From there we were incredibly friendly and sufficient guided through the whole process. Within no time we were in our rooms.. with a nice few and wonderful balcony. The diner and breakfast were wonderful. The owner of the hotel can be proud on this staff group!! Also the Barista across the street was a big plus."
Maurits 1-night trip
Posted 2 days ago
Hotel Casamara
The Trees Kandy

The Trees Kandy

10/10 Excellent
"We drove past The Trees on our first trip to Kandy and were particularly impressed by the beautiful architecture and the walls covered with solid wood panels. We haven't been disappointed by the room, the nice view from the balcony, nor the à la carte options during our short stay. We didn't get to enjoy the stunning rooftop pool overlooking the lake on that rainy day unfortunately but look forward to another stay to do so."
Larbi 1-night trip
Posted 2 days ago
The Trees Kandy
Radisson Hotel Kandy

Radisson Hotel Kandy

8/10 Good
"The room was very clean and the staff excellent - very helpful and obliging. However, a few maintenance issues have to be addressed. The toilet leaked continously and there were mosquitoes in the room. Also, the electronic key kept failing every 2 days and had to be reactivated"
John 7-night trip
Posted 3 days ago
Radisson Hotel Kandy
Cassendra Kandy

Cassendra Kandy

8/10 Good
"Nice clean room with working shower and hot water. Staff were friendly and attentive."
Aaron 2-night trip
Posted 5 days ago
Cassendra Kandy
The Grand Kandyan

The Grand Kandyan

10/10 Excellent
"HILARY was great and entire staff made us feel warmth and welcoming, very helpful team which is important to keep up the reputation"
Parameshwara rao 5-night trip
Posted 6 days ago
The Grand Kandyan
Grand Serendib Hotel

Grand Serendib Hotel

10/10 Excellent
"Very helpful and friendly staff."
Mark 2-night trip
Posted 8 days ago
Grand Serendib Hotel
Sevana City Hotel Kandy

Sevana City Hotel Kandy

8/10 Good
"The hotel is well located, in city center of Kandy. The rooms were very spacious and despite the outside traffic, it was very quiet inside. The restaurant has very good food. The view from the pool was outstanding but the pool itself was small. The staff was helpful and friendly."
Danielle 3-night trip
Posted 2 weeks ago
Sevana City Hotel Kandy
View 360

View 360

8/10 Good
"Stunning views all around. Rooms are spacious, but some areas could be cleaner. Pool is stunning if you can brave the cold! Staff were excellent, very attentive and helpful. The staff made the trip!"
Sarah-Jane 1-night trip
Posted 2 weeks ago
View 360
Amaya Hills Kandy

Amaya Hills Kandy

10/10 Excellent
"Excellent location, food, staff, facilities and room. Brilliant."
Timothy 1-night trip
Posted 3 weeks ago
Amaya Hills Kandy

More cheap accommodation in Pinnawala

Vendol sky resort

Vendol sky resort

20 Sri Pushpadana Mawatha Kandy CP
NZ$21
18 Aug - 19 Aug
includes taxes & fees
Vendol sky resort
Eden Kandy

Eden Kandy

16 Bahirawakanda Ln Kandy CP
NZ$33
7 Sept - 8 Sept
includes taxes & fees
Eden Kandy
Kandy City Stay

Kandy City Stay

155 S W R D Bandaranayaka Mawatha Kandy Central
NZ$41
18 Aug - 19 Aug
includes taxes & fees
7/10 Good! (61 reviews)
Kandy City Stay
Blue Pillars

Blue Pillars

10 Wariyapola Sri Sumangala Mawatha Kandy CP
NZ$51
1 Sept - 2 Sept
includes taxes & fees
10/10 Exceptional! (5 reviews)
Blue Pillars
Kings Ridge

Kings Ridge

NO 113 Rajapihilla Mawatha Kandy Kandy CP
NZ$87
13 Sept - 14 Sept
includes taxes & fees
Kings Ridge
Kandy City Rooms & Hostel

Kandy City Rooms & Hostel

281 Peradeniya Road Kandy
Get rates
5.4/10 (3 reviews)
Kandy City Rooms & Hostel

Find out more about Pinnawala

Top reasons to visit Pinnawala

  • Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage: Witness and learn about elephants up close at this renowned sanctuary, a must-see for animal lovers.
  • Scenic Outdoor Adventures: Enjoy elephant rides, safari tours, and trekking through stunning landscapes and picturesque lookouts.
  • Cultural Experiences: Explore local temples and nearby villages to immerse yourself in the rich culture and traditions of Sri Lanka.
  • Pinnawala Zoo: Encounter a variety of wildlife and enjoy a fun day out with family.
  • Diverse Accommodation: Choose from charming guesthouses to relaxing spas, catering to every type of traveller.

Find great hotels near Pinnawala

Discover a delightful range of accommodation options in Pinnawala, perfect for every type of traveller. From charming guesthouses to relaxing spas, Pinnawala offers a variety of stays including Cafe Pinnalanda, Pinna Flower Homestay Cabana, Oya Retreat, and Diyagal Villa. Whether you're on a family holiday or a business trip, you'll find the ideal base to explore this enchanting region of Sri Lanka.

  • Earl's Regent Kandy: Nestled 24.1km from Pinnawala, Earl's Regent Kandy is a well-rated 4-star hotel, ideal for families and business travellers seeking a comfortable base. The hotel boasts a welcoming atmosphere complemented by amenities tailored for children, such as window guards and breakfast options at a fee. Guests appreciate the attentive service and family-centric features, making it a great choice for those travelling with kids.
  • Amaya Hills Kandy: Situated 25.7km from Pinnawala, Amaya Hills Kandy is a refined 4.5-star hotel that blends family-friendly accommodations with a spa retreat experience. With a range of amenities such as a shared playground and arcade game room, it caters well to younger guests. The on-site spa offers a comprehensive menu of services, including Ayurvedic treatments and facial therapies, alongside a pool area designed for relaxation. This hotel is perfect for travellers looking to unwind after a day of exploration.
  • Kandyan Reach Hotel: Located 20.9km from Pinnawala, Kandyan Reach Hotel is a 3-star accommodation that balances business needs with a spa experience. The hotel features an outdoor pool and full-service spa facilities, including massage treatment rooms. With a focus on relaxation, guests can indulge in soothing treatments and enjoy the serene surroundings. It's a sensible option for those on a work trip who also wish to enjoy moments of tranquility.

Where to stay near Pinnawala

Pinnawala, nestled in the Sabaragamuwa Province of Sri Lanka, offers an enchanting blend of outdoor adventure and scenic beauty. Visitors can delight in the friendly atmosphere while exploring nearby villages and enjoying spectacular views along the riverside. The main road provides easy access to cultural experiences, and the charm of Java Island adds a unique touch to your journey. Whether you seek tranquillity or adventure, Pinnawala promises an unforgettable vacation experience.

  • Kadigamuwa: Situated a mere 4.8km from Pinnawala, Kadigamuwa is a charming city that beckons travellers with its stunning outdoor scenery and romantic vibes. The area experiences a moderate influx of visitors, particularly between December and February, making it a lively destination during these months. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the nearby lake and national parks, which offer ample opportunities for exploration and relaxation. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a serene picnic by the water or embark on an adventurous hike, Kadigamuwa promises a delightful escape into nature.
  • Egoda Kulipitiya: Located 8.0km from Pinnawala, Egoda Kulipitiya is a quaint village that offers a welcoming atmosphere for families and outdoor lovers. Although it sees seasonal fluctuations in visitor numbers, it remains a peaceful retreat throughout the year. The village is perfect for those seeking to immerse themselves in local culture while enjoying activities such as nature walks and family outings. With its serene surroundings, Egoda Kulipitiya serves as an ideal base for exploring the natural beauty of the Sabaragamuwa Province.
  • Kadugannawa: About 16.1km from Pinnawala, Kadugannawa is a vibrant city known for its adventurous spirit and scenic landscapes. This location attracts a steady stream of visitors, particularly during February, July, and December. Outdoor adventurers can delight in the various water features, national parks, and temples that dot the area. Kadugannawa is perfect for those looking to combine outdoor activities with cultural exploration, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking an enriching experience in Sri Lanka.

Things to do in Pinnawala

Shopping

In Pinnawala, visit local shops for handmade crafts and elephant-themed souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, head to Kandy City Centre, around 32.2km away, where you can find a range of shopping options, from local handicrafts to international brands.

Recreation

Explore the tranquil surroundings of the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, where you can observe elephants in their natural habitat. For a rejuvenating experience, visit a local Ayurveda spa offering traditional treatments and therapies that promote relaxation and well-being amidst lush greenery.

Adventure

Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage offers an incredible opportunity to observe and interact with elephants up close. You can witness feeding sessions and bathe these gentle giants in the river. For a unique adventure, explore the nearby scenic nature trails that showcase Sri Lanka's lush landscapes and biodiversity.

Nightlife

Explore the lively atmosphere at the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, where you can enjoy evening activities and local food stalls. For a relaxed vibe, visit the nearby cafes offering a taste of Sri Lankan tea and desserts as you unwind after a day of sightseeing.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Pinnawala

To save money on your trip to Pinnawala, consider visiting during the cheaper months of May to June and September. Booking your accommodation about a month in advance or taking advantage of last-minute deals can help you find lower prices, especially on Wednesdays, the cheapest day to stay. Use Expedia’s search tool to compare prices and filter for eco-friendly options, and consider bundling your hotel with flights and activities for additional savings. Always look for flexible booking options to ensure you get the best deal possible.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Pinnawala are May to June and September, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to August and December to January, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: Booking a hotel in Pinnawala about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Pinnawala is Wednesday. The most expensive day to stay in Pinnawala is Monday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool is designed to help you find the perfect accommodation by allowing you to set your budget and preferred location, among other options. You can easily sort the results to display prices from the lowest to the highest, ensuring you see the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you can refine your search by hotel type—if you select the Eco-certified filter, you'll discover a range of sustainable and eco-friendly hotels that are available for booking.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some dollars by combining your Pinnawala hotel booking with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions near Pinnawala

Pinnawala, nestled in Sabaragamuwa Province, Sri Lanka, is perfect for outdoor adventures and scenic experiences. You can explore attractions like the renowned Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, where you can witness and learn about these majestic creatures. The area also features beautiful lookouts, a botanical garden, and local temples that cater to those seeking cultural and romantic experiences. Don't miss a visit to Pinnawala Zoo for more wildlife encounters during your stay.

  • Wewaladeniya King's Temple: Located 6.4km from Pinnawala, this temple is rich in cultural vibes, showcasing traditional Sri Lankan architecture and serene surroundings. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local heritage and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
  • Ambuluwawa Temple: About 22.5km away, this lookout offers an adventurous experience with stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. It’s a great spot for outdoor enthusiasts and couples looking for a romantic backdrop to their adventures.
  • Gadaladeniya Temple: Situated 19.3km from Pinnawala, Gadaladeniya Temple is another cultural gem, featuring beautiful stone carvings and a tranquil setting. It’s an excellent place to appreciate the artistry and history of Sri Lankan temples.

Best time to go to Pinnawala

The best time to visit Pinnawala can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Pinnawala falls in April, when visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with moderate rain. The coolest average temperature in Pinnawala falls in January, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January72.0°F (22.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
February73.4°F (23.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
March76.1°F (24.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
April77.0°F (25.0°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May76.3°F (24.6°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
June75.4°F (24.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
July75.0°F (23.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
August74.8°F (23.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
September74.8°F (23.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
October74.7°F (23.7°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
November73.8°F (23.2°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
December72.7°F (22.6°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High

The nearest major airports for your trip to Pinnawala

Flying into Pinnawala, Sri Lanka is convenient via Colombo's Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB), located approximately 56.3km away. Excellent accommodation options near the airport include Sentido Heritance Negombo, a 5-star hotel situated 8.0km from CMB, offering an airport shuttle service. Jetwing Beach, another 5-star hotel, is located 9.7km from the airport, also providing easy access. Additionally, Jetwing Lagoon Wellness, a luxury adults-only resort, is just 6.4km away and features similar transport accessibility. These hotels ensure a comfortable stay with seamless transport arrangements to help you reach Pinnawala easily.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best area to stay in Pinnawala?
The best area to stay in Pinnawala is generally along the banks of the Maha Oya river, particularly near the Elephant Orphanage.This area is the primary focus for visitors, offering direct access to the main attraction. Hotels here are typically located amongst lush greenery, providing a tranquil setting. You'll find accommodations with views of the river and, in some cases, even the elephants during their bathing times. This makes it ideal for couples and families looking for a unique and memorable experience.For couples, staying by the river offers a romantic and serene escape. You can enjoy the sights and sounds of nature, often with the added bonus of watching the elephants bathe from your hotel's vantage point. It's a peaceful setting great for relaxation after a day of exploring.Families will find the convenience of staying close to the Elephant Orphanage invaluable. It minimises travel time with children and allows for easy access to the morning and afternoon bathing sessions, which are a highlight for many.
When is the best time to go to Pinnawala?
The best time to visit Pinnawala is generally during the dry season, from December to March and from June to September, when the weather is most pleasant for outdoor activities.During these months, you'll find less rainfall and more sunshine, making it ideal for experiencing the main attraction: the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage. The elephants bathe in the Maha Oya river twice daily, usually between 10:00 AM and 12:00 PM and again from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM. Visiting during the dry season ensures clear skies for these viewings and comfortable conditions for exploring the orphanage grounds.For those prioritising a relaxed trip with predictable weather, the period from December to March is particularly good. This coincides with the peak tourist season across much of Sri Lanka, so while the weather is excellent, you might encounter more visitors.If you prefer slightly fewer crowds but still good weather, the June to September period is also a solid choice.
Can I cancel my hotel reservation on Expedia?
You can cancel your hotel reservation on Expedia, although it depends on the cancellation policy of your booking. Most bookings are refundable if cancelled within 24 to 48 hours of the scheduled arrival. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. If free cancellation is available, you can cancel directly through your Expedia account by logging in, going to 'My Trips' and selecting your reservation. To find flexible deals, filter your search by 'Fully refundable property' for hotels in Pinnawala.
How can I save on a hotel booking in Pinnawala with Expedia?
One Key™—Expedia's free travel rewards program—gives you instant access to discounts with Member Prices on Pinnawala hotels. Plus, you'll earn OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings to use on future trips. Booking an Expedia hotel and flight package is another great way to save, where bundling can result in significant savings. *Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.
How much is the nightly rate for a hotel in Pinnawala?
Prices for hotels in Pinnawala often vary, but you can find a great deal from NZ$21 on Expedia. All sorts of factors affect price, such as the time of year or the days of the week you choose for your stay. Find the best deals by being flexible with your dates, and sort search results by 'Price: low to high' for our cheapest rates.

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