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

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Check prices for these dates

Tonight
5 Sept - 6 Sept
Tomorrow
6 Sept - 7 Sept
Next weekend
11 Sept - 13 Sept
In two weeks
18 Sept - 20 Sept

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Our top choices for Pinnawala hotels

1. Radisson Hotel Kandy

Radisson Hotel Kandy
Kandy
United States
Indraneel
AU$134
includes taxes & fees
5 Sept - 6 Sept
Radisson Hotel Kandy

2. Cinnamon Citadel Kandy

Cinnamon Citadel Kandy
Kandy
Canada
Nagalingam
Cinnamon Citadel Kandy

3. The Golden Crown Hotel

The Golden Crown Hotel
Kandy
United States
Dharshana
AU$180
includes taxes & fees
11 Sept - 12 Sept
The Golden Crown Hotel

4. Kandy Myst by Cinnamon

Kandy Myst by Cinnamon
Kandy
United States
Jason
Kandy Myst by Cinnamon

5. Earl's Regency

Earl's Regency
Kandy
Canada
Chandra
AU$108
includes taxes & fees
6 Sept - 7 Sept
Earl's Regency

6. Grand Serendib Hotel

Grand Serendib Hotel
Kandy
United Kingdom
Peter
AU$120
includes taxes & fees
6 Sept - 7 Sept
Grand Serendib Hotel

7. Hotel Elephant Park

Hotel Elephant Park
Pinnawala
Australia
Sanjeewa
AU$69
includes taxes & fees
18 Sept - 19 Sept
Hotel Elephant Park

8. Cassendra Kandy

Cassendra Kandy
Kandy
Australia
Warren
AU$58
includes taxes & fees
7 Sept - 8 Sept
Cassendra Kandy

9. The Radh Hotel

The Radh Hotel
Kandy
Canada
Nagalingam
AU$191
includes taxes & fees
30 Sept - 1 Oct
The Radh Hotel

10. Sevana City Hotel Kandy

Sevana City Hotel Kandy
Kandy
United States
Ketheeskumar
AU$50
includes taxes & fees
5 Oct - 6 Oct
Sevana City Hotel Kandy

11. Fox Kandy by Fox Resorts- Luxury in the Mist

Fox Kandy by Fox Resorts- Luxury in the Mist
Kandy
Canada
Rashmika
AU$113
includes taxes & fees
29 Sept - 30 Sept
Fox Kandy by Fox Resorts- Luxury in the Mist

12. Amaya Hills Kandy

Amaya Hills Kandy
Kandy
United States
Ahmed
AU$106
includes taxes & fees
7 Sept - 8 Sept
Amaya Hills Kandy

13. Queen's Hotel

Queen's Hotel
Kandy
United States
Renee
Queen's Hotel

14. The Grand Walawwa

The Grand Walawwa
Kegalle
United States
karni
AU$121
includes taxes & fees
12 Sept - 13 Sept
The Grand Walawwa

15. Rosyth Estate House

Rosyth Estate House
Pinnawala
AU$435
includes taxes & fees
13 Sept - 14 Sept
Rosyth Estate House

16. The Grand Kandyan

The Grand Kandyan
Kandy
United Kingdom
John
AU$124
includes taxes & fees
5 Sept - 6 Sept
The Grand Kandyan

17. Santani Wellness Kandy

Santani Wellness Kandy
Medadumbara
United States
andrea
Santani Wellness Kandy

18. Jetwing Wahawa Walauwa, A Luxury Reserve

Jetwing Wahawa Walauwa, A Luxury Reserve
Rambukkana
United Kingdom
Graham
AU$221
includes taxes & fees
12 Sept - 13 Sept
Jetwing Wahawa Walauwa, A Luxury Reserve

19. Thilanka Hotel

Thilanka Hotel
Kandy
United Kingdom
Wendy
AU$144
includes taxes & fees
5 Sept - 6 Sept
Thilanka Hotel

20. Hotel Casamara

Hotel Casamara
Kandy
Mexico
Benjamin
AU$71
includes taxes & fees
9 Sept - 10 Sept
Hotel Casamara
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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

Grand Serendib Hotel

Grand Serendib Hotel

10/10 Excellent
"Honestly, I can't fault this joint. The staff are incredible, the views are as good as it gets, the shower is amazing. 5/5, would do again."
Brian 1-night trip
Posted 2 days ago
Grand Serendib Hotel
Sevana City Hotel Kandy

Sevana City Hotel Kandy

10/10 Excellent
"Good staff and clean room"
Ketheeskumar 1-night trip
Posted 4 days ago
Sevana City Hotel Kandy
Amaya Hills Kandy

Amaya Hills Kandy

10/10 Excellent
"Great Hotel"
Ahmed 1-night trip
Posted 4 days ago
Amaya Hills Kandy
Aarunya Nature Resort &  Spa

Aarunya Nature Resort & Spa

10/10 Excellent
"Excellent location. My room tent nutmeg. Out of this world. World class service. Exceptional and chilled. Massages we great too and food divine"
Alexander 1-night trip
Posted 5 days ago
Aarunya Nature Resort & Spa
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 6 days ago
The Radh Hotel
Fox Kandy by Fox Resorts- Luxury in the Mist

Fox Kandy by Fox Resorts- Luxury in the Mist

10/10 Excellent
"Great hotel, staff was very attentive and friendly and assisted us during a late check in. Room was clean and we really enjoyed the view. Highly recommend if you are looking for a place to stay in Kandy."
Rashmika 1-night trip
Posted 7 days ago
Fox Kandy by Fox Resorts- Luxury in the Mist
Cassendra Kandy

Cassendra Kandy

10/10 Excellent
"Good"
Harnath 1-night trip
Posted 8 days ago
Cassendra Kandy
Queen's Hotel

Queen's Hotel

10/10 Excellent
"Clean and vintage vibe rooms. Helpful staff and the location is tge best. Laundry service was available which was a added plus!"
Thamarasi Vithana 1-night trip
Posted 12 days ago
Queen's Hotel
Radisson Hotel Kandy

Radisson Hotel Kandy

10/10 Excellent
"Great hotel and location, easy walk or tuk tuk ride to the city centre. Our room was spacious and with a balcony which was a bonus and had a great view. The pool area is on the rooftop and the bar serves good food. Great hotel"
Emanuele 2-night trip
Posted 13 days ago
Radisson Hotel Kandy

More cheap accommodation in Pinnawala

Pearl House

Pearl House

200/22, Peradeniya Rd Kandy
AU$18
5 Oct - 6 Oct
includes taxes & fees
8.6/10 Excellent! (33 reviews)
Pearl House
Vendol sky resort

Vendol sky resort

20 Sri Pushpadana Mawatha Kandy CP
AU$19
5 Sept - 6 Sept
includes taxes & fees
Vendol sky resort
Eden Kandy

Eden Kandy

16 Bahirawakanda Ln Kandy CP
AU$33
17 Sept - 18 Sept
includes taxes & fees
Eden Kandy
Kandy City Stay

Kandy City Stay

155 S W R D Bandaranayaka Mawatha Kandy Central
AU$35
12 Sept - 13 Sept
includes taxes & fees
7/10 Good! (62 reviews)
Kandy City Stay
Blue Pillars

Blue Pillars

10 Wariyapola Sri Sumangala Mawatha Kandy CP
AU$40
26 Sept - 27 Sept
includes taxes & fees
10/10 Exceptional! (5 reviews)
Blue Pillars
Lake Avenue

Lake Avenue

14 Anagarika Dharmapala Mawatha Kandy CP
AU$145
6 Sept - 7 Sept
includes taxes & fees
8.4/10 Very good! (5 reviews)
Lake Avenue

Find out more about Pinnawala

Top reasons to visit Pinnawala

  • Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage: A unique opportunity to observe and interact with rescued elephants in a beautiful setting.
  • Scenic Nature Walks: Immerse yourself in stunning landscapes and serene river views, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
  • Cultural Experiences: Visit sacred temples and explore the rich cultural heritage of the area.
  • Botanical Gardens: Discover beautiful gardens that showcase the region's diverse flora.
  • Charming Accommodations: Enjoy a range of guesthouses and hotels that reflect the warmth of local hospitality.

Find great hotels near Pinnawala

Pinnawala offers a delightful selection of accommodation options, ranging from charming guesthouses to comfortable hotels. Ideal for both leisure and business travellers, you can enjoy spa-themed amenities and family-friendly experiences. Whether you're searching for hotels in Pinnawala or specifically Elepath Lodge, you'll find a variety of choices that cater to your needs, ensuring a memorable stay in this picturesque region of Sri Lanka.

  • Earl's Regent Kandy: Earl's Regent Kandy, boasting a guest rating of 8.0, is located 24km from Pinnawala and offers a family-friendly atmosphere ideal for both leisure and business travellers. The hotel features amenities designed for children, including a First Aid Kit and breakfast options tailored for younger guests. Its commitment to family comfort ensures a welcoming environment where parents can relax while their children are entertained.
  • Amaya Hills Kandy: Amaya Hills Kandy, situated 26km from Pinnawala, provides a serene retreat for families and business travellers alike, with a strong focus on wellness and relaxation. The hotel features a full spa service, including a sauna, steam room, and various facial and body treatments, making it a perfect choice for those seeking a rejuvenating experience. Additionally, children can enjoy an arcade game room and shared playground, ensuring that younger guests are well catered for during their stay.
  • Kandyan Reach Hotel: Kandyan Reach Hotel, located 21km from Pinnawala, is an excellent option for those looking for a spa-themed holiday experience. This hotel features a full-service spa, offering treatments and massages designed to promote relaxation. With an outdoor pool and professional spa services, guests can unwind after a busy day of exploring. Its business facilities also cater to professionals, making it a versatile choice for various types of travellers.

Where to stay near Pinnawala

Pinnawala, a charming village in Sabaragamuwa Province, offers a delightful blend of natural beauty and cultural atmosphere. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and romantic getaways, visitors can explore lush landscapes, serene rivers, and the enchanting Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage. Quaint accommodations enhance the experience, allowing travellers to savour the warmth of friendly locals. Immerse yourself in the magic of Pinnawala, where adventure and tranquillity coexist, creating unforgettable memories in this picturesque corner of Sri Lanka.

  • Kadigamuwa: Located a mere 5km from Pinnawala, Kadigamuwa is a charming city known for its stunning outdoor scenery and romantic experiences. The region attracts visitors primarily between December and February, when the weather is particularly pleasant. Highlights include nearby lakes and national parks, offering a perfect backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Whether you're seeking a quiet picnic by the water or a leisurely hike through the lush landscapes, Kadigamuwa provides a serene escape for all who visit.
  • Egoda Kulipitiya: Situated 8km from Pinnawala, Egoda Kulipitiya is a quaint village that promises a family-friendly atmosphere and opportunities for outdoor exploration. This village experiences a steady influx of visitors, with peaks occurring in the winter months from December to February. The tranquil environment is perfect for families looking to immerse themselves in nature and enjoy leisurely activities. With its close-knit community feel and beautiful surroundings, Egoda Kulipitiya is an ideal spot for those wanting to connect with local culture and the great outdoors.
  • Kadugannawa: Approximately 16km from Pinnawala, Kadugannawa is an adventurous city that offers a mix of outdoor activities and beautiful scenery. Unlike some of its neighbours, this city sees a year-round influx of visitors, with peaks in February, July, and December. Visitors can take advantage of lookout points and urban parks, perfect for capturing stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Whether you're an adventure seeker or simply looking to relax amidst nature's beauty, Kadugannawa has something to offer every traveller.

Things to do in Pinnawala

Pinnawala, located in Sabaragamuwa Province, Sri Lanka, is an idyllic destination for those seeking outdoor adventures and stunning scenery. Visitors can enjoy a range of activities including serene nature walks, thrilling elephant bathing experiences, and engaging tourism activities. The area also features recreational spots and shopping centres, making it a perfect blend of adventure and leisure for all types of travellers.

Shopping

Pinnawala offers unique local crafts and souvenirs at the charming village market, where you can find handmade items and traditional Sri Lankan goods. If you're up for a drive, the Kandy City Centre, about 21km away, features a variety of shops for a broader shopping experience.

Recreation

At the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, witness the gentle giants during their daily bathing routine and participate in feeding sessions for a truly immersive experience. For relaxation, consider a traditional Ayurvedic spa treatment, which offers rejuvenating therapies using natural herbs and oils to promote well-being.

Adventure

In Pinnawala, visit the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage to observe and interact with rescued elephants in a natural setting. For a unique adventure, explore the nearby lush landscapes on a guided trek, immersing yourself in Sri Lanka's rich biodiversity and stunning scenery.

Nightlife

Explore the Riverstone Bar for a relaxed atmosphere and a selection of local spirits. For a vibrant evening, visit the Pinnawala Night Market, where you can savour street food and enjoy live performances from local artists, creating a lively backdrop for your night out.

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

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Pinnawala

  • 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 March 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 Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Make use of Expedia’s search wizard to refine your preferences, including your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are currently available. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, simply arrange the price filter from low to high.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You may find it beneficial to 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 Sri Lanka's Sabaragamuwa Province, offers a delightful mix of outdoor adventures and cultural experiences. Visitors can enjoy stunning lookouts, explore beautiful botanical gardens, and visit sacred temples. Key attractions include the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage and Pinnawala Zoo, perfect for those seeking a unique and romantic getaway in a picturesque setting.

  • Alagalla Mountain: Located 8km from Pinnawala, Alagalla Mountain offers an exhilarating adventure for outdoor enthusiasts. Its stunning scenery and lush landscapes make it an ideal spot for hiking and photography, surrounded by nature’s beauty.
  • Ambuluwawa Temple: About 23km away, this unique lookout combines outdoor adventure with a touch of romance. The temple is renowned for its striking architecture and panoramic views, making it a perfect spot for couples and nature lovers alike.
  • Royal Botanical Garden: Situated 23km from Pinnawala, this expansive garden is a delight for families and couples. With its diverse flora and serene atmosphere, it provides a peaceful escape to enjoy leisurely strolls and connect with nature.

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 is convenient via Colombo's Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB), located approximately 56km away. Notable hotels near the airport include Sentido Heritance Negombo, situated 8km from CMB, offering airport shuttle services. Jetwing Beach, 10km from the airport, and Jetwing Lagoon Wellness, a luxury adults-only resort 6km away, also provide accessible transportation to CMB. These accommodations ensure a comfortable stay for tourists while facilitating easy access to the airport, making your journey to Pinnawala seamless.

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 cancelled 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 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 AU$18 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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