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

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Sep 30 - Oct 1
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Our top choices for Pinnawala hotels

1. Hotel Elephant Park

Hotel Elephant Park
Pinnawala
Australia
Angela
CA $58
CA $69 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 1 - Oct 2
Hotel Elephant Park

2. Elepath Lodge - Pinnawala

Elepath Lodge - Pinnawala
Pinnawala
CA $20
CA $24 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 8 - Oct 9
Elepath Lodge - Pinnawala

3. The Elephant Bay - Pinnawala

The Elephant Bay - Pinnawala
Rambukkana
United States
Danielle
CA $107
CA $128 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 14 - Oct 15
The Elephant Bay - Pinnawala

4. Ma Oya Retreat

Ma Oya Retreat
Rambukkana
CA $1,033
CA $1,254 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 8 - Oct 9
Ma Oya Retreat

5. Green Acres Leisure Resort

Green Acres Leisure Resort
Kadigamuwa
CA $305
CA $362 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 4 - Oct 5
Green Acres Leisure Resort

6. Rosyth Estate House

Rosyth Estate House
Pinnawala
CA $374
CA $444 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 1 - Oct 2
Rosyth Estate House

7. Jetwing Wahawa Walauwa, A Luxury Reserve

Jetwing Wahawa Walauwa, A Luxury Reserve
Rambukkana
United Kingdom
Graham
CA $179
CA $233 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 1 - Oct 2
Jetwing Wahawa Walauwa, A Luxury Reserve

8. Bravon Sky Hotel

Bravon Sky Hotel
Kurunegala
Canada
Lalith
CA $36
CA $43 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 8 - Oct 9
Bravon Sky Hotel

9. The Cloud Resort

The Cloud Resort
Kadugannawa
CA $95
CA $113 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 8 - Oct 9
The Cloud Resort

10. Elephant Lovers Inn

Elephant Lovers Inn
Rambukkana
CA $2,297
CA $2,710 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 30 - Oct 1
Elephant Lovers Inn

11. Hotel Sharmia

Hotel Sharmia
Divulapitiya
CA $52
CA $61 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 30 - Oct 1
Hotel Sharmia

12. Berghotel Escondite

Berghotel Escondite
Kadugannawa
CA $132
CA $171 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 27 - Oct 28
Berghotel Escondite

13. The Springfields Kandy

The Springfields Kandy
Kandy
United States
Archana
CA $39
CA $46 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 6 - Oct 7
The Springfields Kandy

14. LUMBINI B&B

LUMBINI B&B
Kandy
CA $29
CA $34 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 30 - Oct 1
LUMBINI B&B

15. Mahaweli Reach Hotel

Mahaweli Reach Hotel
Kandy
United States
Joseph
CA $94
CA $126 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 2 - Oct 3
Mahaweli Reach Hotel

16. Kandy Myst by Cinnamon

Kandy Myst by Cinnamon
Kandy
United States
Jason
CA $103
CA $137 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 2 - Oct 3
Kandy Myst by Cinnamon

17. Rock Wild Yala

Rock Wild Yala
Kirinda
CA $79,195
CA $93,450 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 3 - Oct 4
Rock Wild Yala

18. toropi homestay

toropi homestay
Udunuwara
CA $27
CA $64 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 1 - Oct 2
toropi homestay

19. Mountbatten Bungalow

Mountbatten Bungalow
Kandy
United Kingdom
Ian
CA $133
CA $177 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 25 - Oct 26
Mountbatten Bungalow

20. Eco Serenity Kandy

Eco Serenity Kandy
Kandy
CA $46
CA $55 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 1 - Oct 2
Eco Serenity Kandy
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Stay near popular Pinnawala attractions

Pinnawala Zoo

9.4/10 (3 reviews)
Why not see the exotic and native animals who live at Pinnawala Zoo during your trip to Pinnawala? Stroll along the area's riverfront or simply enjoy its restaurants.
See properties

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

Grand Serendib Hotel

Grand Serendib Hotel

10/10 Excellent
"We had a wonderful stay at this hotel. The room was spacious, clean, well-organized, and featured a sleek, modern design. The absolute highlight was the views—simply amazing from everywhere we went, including the room, restaurant, bar, and pool. The buffet breakfast was delicious with plenty of variety. A special shoutout to Pingsara, who provided truly outstanding service, alongside the rest of the friendly and attentive staff. The location is ideal: perched on the hill so it’s easy for cars to access, yet still well within short walking distance of the town center, shops, and restaurants. Highly recommended!"
Evelin 1-night trip
Posted 2 days ago
Grand Serendib Hotel
Cassendra Kandy

Cassendra Kandy

10/10 Excellent
"We had a fantastic day at Hotel Cassandra. The staff was exceptionally friendly, professional, and accommodating, with Darshana and Iwantha particularly distinguishing themselves. The rooms were maintained beautifully, stylish, and stunning. The food was delicious and served quickly. We look forward to visiting Hotel Cassandra again on our next holiday."
Asela 1-night trip
Posted 2 days ago
Cassendra Kandy
Hotel Elephant Park

Hotel Elephant Park

10/10 Excellent
"The elephants were great but we were not told about check in being after 3.00pm and early arrival would have to pay an entrance fee! To add to the confusion the hotel emailed me cancelling my 4 rooms at 2.00pm. When I contacted them, no apology just that it was a mistake!"
Andrew 1-night trip
Posted 2 days ago
Hotel Elephant Park
The Golden Crown Hotel

The Golden Crown Hotel

10/10 Excellent
"Wonderful hotel and we had an amazing stay. Very clean and well maintained with absolutely stunning interior and great rooms. The restaurant was excellent with good variety of cuisine from all over the world. Recommend to stay here when in Kandy."
Balaji 2-night trip
Posted 6 days ago
The Golden Crown Hotel
Radisson Hotel Kandy

Radisson Hotel Kandy

8/10 Good
"This budget hotel provides good value for money for an exceptional location."
Ajay 1-night trip
Posted 8 days ago
Radisson Hotel Kandy
Hotel Casamara

Hotel Casamara

8/10 Good
"Common parts well maintained although r"
Andrew 2-night trip
Posted 3 weeks ago
Hotel Casamara
Sevana City Hotel Kandy

Sevana City Hotel Kandy

10/10 Excellent
"Good staff and clean room"
Ketheeskumar 1-night trip
Posted 1 month ago
Sevana City Hotel Kandy
Amaya Hills Kandy

Amaya Hills Kandy

10/10 Excellent
"Great Hotel"
Ahmed 1-night trip
Posted 1 month ago
Amaya Hills Kandy
The Radh Hotel

The Radh Hotel

10/10 Excellent
"The staff went above and beyond to welcome us. When I thought I'd lost my passport they were ready to help in whatever way they could. The breakfast and dinner were terrific. In addition to all the traditional breakfast items there was a wide assortment of local dishes. We sampled as many as we could. The pool was lovey, the gym was clean and the hot tub was delightful. We made it to the nightclub and danced to the DJ who started at 6pm. We went at 8pm and had the dance floor to ourselves. We had an issue with some guests two rooms down from us that were very loud at 3am. I informed the staff and it ended about 15 minutes later."
Mark 2-night trip
Posted 1 month ago
The Radh Hotel

More cheap stays in Pinnawala

Pearl House

Pearl House

200/22, Peradeniya Rd Kandy
CA $14
CA $19 total
Oct 1 - Oct 2
includes taxes & fees
8.6/10 Excellent! (33 reviews)
Pearl House
Eden Kandy

Eden Kandy

16 Bahirawakanda Ln Kandy CP
CA $28
CA $33 total
Oct 18 - Oct 19
includes taxes & fees
Eden Kandy
Blue Pillars

Blue Pillars

10 Wariyapola Sri Sumangala Mawatha Kandy CP
CA $35
CA $42 total
Oct 2 - Oct 3
includes taxes & fees
10/10 Exceptional! (5 reviews)
Blue Pillars
Lake Avenue

Lake Avenue

14 Anagarika Dharmapala Mawatha Kandy CP
CA $110
CA $110 total
Oct 9 - Oct 10
includes taxes & fees
8.4/10 Very good! (5 reviews)
Lake Avenue
Kandy City Stay

Kandy City Stay

155 S W R D Bandaranayaka Mawatha Kandy Central
Get rates
7/10 Good! (62 reviews)
Kandy City Stay
Queens Hotel

Queens Hotel

DS Senanayake Veediya Kandy Central Province
Get ratesQueens Hotel

Find out more about Pinnawala

Top reasons to visit Pinnawala

  • Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage: Visit this renowned sanctuary to learn about and interact with rescued elephants in a beautiful setting.
  • Adventure Activities: Enjoy shopping, nature walks, and city tours, offering an exciting blend of exploration.
  • Wildlife Safaris: Experience thrilling wildlife safaris in the surrounding lush landscapes.
  • Local Culture: Immerse yourself in the warm hospitality and rich culture of the village.
  • Diverse Accommodations: Choose from family-friendly hotels, guesthouses, or spa retreats for a comfortable stay.

Find great hotels near Pinnawala

Discover a range of exceptional accommodations in Pinnawala, Sabaragamuwa Province, Sri Lanka. Whether you're seeking a family-friendly hotel, a quaint guesthouse, or a relaxing spa retreat, Pinnawala offers diverse lodging options to suit every traveler's needs. Explore the best hotels and villas in the area, perfect for both business and leisure stays, ensuring a memorable experience amid the enchanting surroundings of this unique destination.

  • Earl's Regent Kandy: Experience a harmonious blend of family-friendly comfort and business efficiency at Earl's Regent Kandy. Situated 24.1km from Pinnawala, this 4-star hotel is designed for both leisure and corporate travellers. Families will appreciate thoughtful amenities such as window guards and first aid kits, ensuring a safe environment for children. The hotel also caters to business needs with facilities including meeting rooms, a conference centre, and dedicated conference space, making it an ideal choice for those looking to combine work and relaxation in a serene setting.
  • Amaya Hills Kandy: Elevate your vacation at Amaya Hills Kandy, a luxurious 4.5-star hotel located 25.7km from Pinnawala. This property is perfect for those seeking a lavish getaway with options for family and business alike. Guests can take advantage of multiple meeting rooms, a 24-hour business centre, and expansive conference spaces. Families will find amenities like cribs (for a fee), a shared playground, and an arcade game room, ensuring that everyone has a memorable stay. The stunning hilltop views and exquisite dining further enhance the overall luxurious experience.
  • Kandyan Reach Hotel: Relax and rejuvenate at Kandyan Reach Hotel, a 3-star property located 20.9km from Pinnawala. This hotel offers a unique combination of business efficiency and spa indulgence, ideal for those looking to unwind after a day of meetings. Business travellers will benefit from amenities such as a business centre, conference centre, and meeting rooms. For ultimate relaxation, guests can enjoy the full-service spa, outdoor pool, and massage treatments, providing a tranquil retreat to recharge and refresh.

Where to stay near Pinnawala

Pinnawala, a charming village in Sabaragamuwa Province, offers a unique blend of outdoor adventure and cultural experiences. Visitors can explore the renowned Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, where friendly locals share their love for these majestic creatures. The surrounding regions boast lush landscapes and opportunities for family-friendly activities, making it an ideal destination for a memorable vacation. With its rich atmosphere and welcoming vibe, Pinnawala promises an unforgettable Sri Lankan getaway.

  • Kadigamuwa: Located 4.8km from Pinnawala, Kadigamuwa is a charming city that offers a blend of adventure and stunning outdoor scenery. With traveler arrivals peaking from December to February, this area is ideal for those seeking active experiences. You can explore nearby recreational areas, national parks, and even enjoy a refreshing day at the beach. The lush landscapes and abundant wildlife make it a perfect spot for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
  • Uthuwankanda: Just 6.4km from Pinnawala, Uthuwankanda is a quaint village that immerses visitors in rich cultural experiences. This area attracts travelers primarily during the peak season from December to February, as it is home to notable places of worship and a charming church that reflect the local traditions and heritage. Whether you're looking to appreciate local architecture or engage with the community, Uthuwankanda offers a serene escape to experience the heart of Sri Lankan culture.
  • Egoda Kulipitiya: Situated 8.0km away from Pinnawala, Egoda Kulipitiya is a delightful village perfect for family outings and outdoor activities. With a moderate influx of visitors during the peak months of December to February, it serves as a welcoming destination for those looking to enjoy quality time with loved ones. The village's scenic surroundings and family-friendly atmosphere make it an excellent choice for a relaxing day trip or a leisurely exploration of the local environment.

Things to do near Pinnawala

Pinnawala offers a fantastic blend of outdoor family fun and adventure. Visitors can enjoy activities such as shopping at local centres, embarking on nature walks, and joining city tours. Don't miss the unique opportunity to participate in elephant washing and explore wildlife safaris. For those looking to unwind, spa options are also available, making Pinnawala a perfect vacation spot for everyone.

Shopping

Pinnawala offers a unique shopping experience with local markets and shops. If you're up for a drive, visit Euphoria Spice and Herbal, located 32.2km away, where you can find a variety of spices and herbal products, perfect for gifts and souvenirs.

Recreation

At Victoria Golf & Country Resort, enjoy a round of golf surrounded by stunning landscapes. For sports enthusiasts, Pallekele International Cricket Stadium offers an exhilarating atmosphere. For relaxation, the Himalaya Meditation Center provides serene body treatments, promoting wellness and tranquility in a peaceful environment.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of white-water rafting on the picturesque Mahaweli River, where you’ll navigate exciting rapids surrounded by lush greenery. Additionally, embark on a captivating elephant safari at Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, getting up close with these gentle giants in their natural habitat.

Nightlife

Pinnawala offers a unique nightlife experience, blending local culture with relaxation. Enjoy a leisurely evening at the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, where night tours provide a serene atmosphere. For a more vibrant scene, visit nearby restaurants and bars that showcase traditional Sri Lankan music and cuisine, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.

*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, and book your hotel about a month in advance. Look for last-minute deals on sites like Expedia, where Wednesday offers the best rates. Use their search tool to compare prices and filter for budget-friendly or eco-certified accommodations. Consider package deals that combine hotels, flights, and activities for additional savings. You can also save by using public transport to get around, allowing you to enjoy the local attractions without overspending.

  • 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: The cheapest time to book a hotel in Pinnawala is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
  • 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 enables you to specify your budget, desired location, and other preferences. You can arrange your results to display prices from lowest to highest, making it easy to find the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you have the option to refine your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly accommodations that you can book.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your Pinnawala hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions near Pinnawala

Pinnawala, located in Sabaragamuwa Province, Sri Lanka, offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure and cultural experiences, ideal for family vacations. Key attractions include the renowned Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage and the Pinnawala Zoo, along with scenic spots like temples and botanical gardens. Whether you're seeking adventure or a taste of local culture, Pinnawala has something for every traveller, ensuring a memorable getaway.

  • Uthuwankanda Church: Located 6.4km from Pinnawala, Uthuwankanda Church offers a serene atmosphere infused with rich cultural vibes. Its beautiful architecture and tranquil surroundings create a perfect spot for reflection and appreciation of local heritage.
  • Ambuluwawa Temple: A striking lookout situated 16.4km away, Ambuluwawa Temple combines adventure and romance. Climb to the top for breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, making it a great spot for couples and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
  • Alagalla Mountain: Just 8.0km from Pinnawala, Alagalla Mountain beckons with its scenic trails and outdoor adventures. Hike through lush greenery and enjoy stunning vistas that showcase Sri Lanka's natural beauty.

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.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
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 HighAverage
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 SunnyAverageSlightly High
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

To reach Pinnawala, you can fly into Colombo's Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB), located approximately 56.3km away. Several excellent hotels are available nearby, such as the 5-star Sentido Heritance Negombo, situated 8.0km from the airport, offering convenient airport shuttle services. Another option is the Jetwing Blue Resort, 9.7km away, with easy access to the airport. Additionally, the Jetwing Lagoon Wellness, a luxury adults-only resort, is just 6.4km from the airport, also providing efficient transport options. These accommodations ensure a comfortable stay while facilitating smooth travel to Pinnawala.

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, though it depends on the cancellation policy of your booking. Most bookings are refundable if canceled within 24-48 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 much is the nightly rate at a Pinnawala hotel?
Prices for hotels in Pinnawala often vary, but you can find a great deal from CA $19 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 the cheapest rate.

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