Nurturing Sri Lanka's Elephants
April 24, 2012

The lush beauty of Asia just wouldn't be the same without elephants. But with growing human populations and shrinking habitats, the struggle between humans and elephants is a drama being played in this corner of the world as it is around the globe. However, in Pinnewala Sri Lanka the struggle has turned into an enduring friendship.

Since 1975, young orphaned or abandoned elephants have found a home at the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage. What started out as just five youngsters has now grown into a herd of 40, some of whom were born there while others are new arrivals. Every effort has been made to create a free roaming, natural environment for the pachyderms, and visitors are delighted by the sight of elephants strolling freely throughout the orphanage.

The best time to visit is feeding and bathing times, which are at 9:15am and 4:15pm. Seeing baby elephants being bottle fed is certainly "awwww" inducing, but watching them bathe in the nearby river truly steals the show. The herd stays for about an hour, allowing visitors plenty of time to take photographs and even have a quick snack at the overlooking restaurant.

Nature lovers be warned: a visit to Sri Lanka will fill your senses and stir your soul. Talk to an Enchanting Asia travel consultant about what could be waiting for you!

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