The elephant is considered to be the largest mammal on land but it is also one of the softest and kindest (unless provoked), and it is usually given adjectives such as ‘majestic’, ‘magnificent’ or ‘massive’. Yet, in spite of its mammoth size, and probable magnificence, when left parentless or helpless, even an elephant succumbs to its situation. Sri Lankan authorities have therefore taken responsible action towards protecting, breeding and nurturing these creatures.
The orphanage dedicated for the upbringing of these mammals in the area of Pinnawala is a large expanse of land that includes a stream where the elephants bathe. There are also plenty of trees and wilderness areas for the animals to roam freely. Their natural habitat and way of life are not marred by the keepers of the orphanage who have a thorough understanding of elephants.
The Department of Wildlife Conservation first launched this site in the year 1975 as an initiative to care for the baby elephants that were left in the wild. However its scope of work widened in the year 1982, when it commenced the breeding of elephants. Since its beginning, the breeding project has up to date successfully brought to this world more than eighty elephants.
Tourists have the opportunity to watch as these elephants bathe at the extensive river bank as restaurants have been built just a few metres away from the shore. The mahouts lead their herds to the water and much to the glee of the onlookers, the elephants sometimes frolic and spray water at each other. The calves are fed bottles of milk as a tourist attraction though the elephants are fed mostly in their stalls. Coconut, tamarind, grass, sugar palm and jackfruit are the main meals that are provided for these gentle giants.
All Sri Lanka holidays that include travelling towards the hill country should be coupled with a visit to the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage which is located close to Kegalle off the main road to the hill capital of Kandy. Book your Sri Lanka toursearly through a well reputed entity such as Elegant Travels to make sure you do not miss out on a single nook or cranny of the country. Explore the island and enjoy the thrills of sightseeing and travel Sri Lanka has to offer.
Chandrishan Williams is a travel writer who writes under the pen name, Caleb Falcon. He specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers. Google+