Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage

The morning of the following day, I headed down the forested hills and arrived at Pinnawala about 40 minutes later. In some parts, the road was completely shaded by the tall trees in the forest, reminding me of walks I’ve had in the woods. Overripe sweet corn, bottled water, coconuts, and decorative inflated figures including Scooby Doo were sold here along the roadside. In the distance, unusual rock formations emerged in between the thickly wooded hills. Although the drive was pretty, the winding roads, huge number of buses, and eager passers required close attention to the road. With a sudden increase of hotels and even a “safari ride,” I knew we were close to the orphanage.

After paying the 2,000 rupees (nearly $18 – a price even higher than that of the Taj Mahal) vs. 100 rupees for locals, I headed towards the area where young elephants were being bottle-fed. A larger elephant was eating leaves, stripping them with their curved trunk from the cut branch held down by a foot. Nearby, a large number of elephants were gathering, both young and old. They new bath time was coming soon. While visitors could get up close to the elephants and even touch their rough skin, the mahouts were always close with their pole with a sharp end, just in case any elephant got out of control. No fences were around, but it still felt very touristy and artificial. People then began walking across the road towards the river, past a slew of tourist junk stalls. Paper made from elephant dung was also sold. From the balcony of a hotel, visitors had a good view of the river. Soon, the elephants began their parade to the water. Some quickly immersed themselves in the water, but others seemed more determined to the cross the river to the other side. A few elephants were chained and made to lie in the water for their bath. Interesting to watch, but not worth the money in my opinion. I hope at least the money does indeed go to elephant care.

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