Lakpura

Hotel Elephant Bay

Pinnawala, Sri Lanka

Hotel Elephant Bay offers a serene riverside retreat in Pinnawala, with stunning views of the Maha Oya River and the world-famous Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage. It combines comfort with a front-row seat to nature’s wonders.

Location:

Situated next to the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, Hotel Elephant Bay provides an unmatched vantage point to watch elephants bathe and roam freely by the river. The peaceful setting is ideal for relaxation and wildlife observation.

Accommodation:

The hotel features a range of cozy rooms with private balconies facing the river. All rooms are equipped with air-conditioning, modern bathrooms, and essential amenities for a comfortable stay.

Facilities:

Hotel Elephant Bay offers essential facilities to enhance your stay by the river.

  • Dining: A riverside restaurant serving Sri Lankan and international cuisine with a view of the elephants.
  • Outdoor Seating: A terrace area for dining and relaxation by the riverbank.
  • Elephant Viewing Deck: Watch elephants from a safe and scenic platform.
  • Wi-Fi: Complimentary internet access in public areas.
  • Parking: On-site parking available for guests.

Excursions:

Enjoy unique wildlife and cultural experiences during your stay in Pinnawala:

  • Elephant Orphanage Visits: Observe daily elephant bathing and feeding rituals.
  • River Bathing Views: Watch elephants play and bathe from your room or restaurant.
  • Pinnawala Open Zoo: Explore a nearby zoo featuring native and exotic species.
  • Cultural Site Tours: Visit nearby temples and historical landmarks.
  • Local Handicraft Shopping: Purchase elephant-themed souvenirs and crafts.
  • Birdwatching: Spot river birds and other local wildlife along the Maha Oya.
  • Nature Walks: Enjoy gentle walks along the riverside or nearby greenery.
  • Traditional Sri Lankan Cooking: Experience local cuisine through interactive demos.

Hotel Elephant Bay is the perfect destination for travelers seeking a peaceful escape immersed in nature and the gentle presence of Sri Lanka’s cherished elephants.

What guests say

3.7 of 5 bubbles on TripAdvisor
3.7 / 5 · 544 traveller reviews on TripAdvisor
Read all reviews on TripAdvisor ›
Hotel  Exterior view from the hotel balcony the view of the hotel from the riverbed hotel lobby
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A welcoming hotel in Pinnawala

A great hotel, with attentive staff, and delicious buffet! We were a group of 18, and everything went very smoothly from check in to dinner. We enjoyed our time in the pool, relaxing and watching the wildlife.

X7375JZbeccam · May 2026 · via TripAdvisor
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Best accommodation to view elephants closely.

If you want to watch the elephants from the orphanage play and bathe, this is the place. Great view from the pool and restaurant. You can walk down a few steps to get closer. Hotel staff upgraded us and the view from our room was…

cherylcats · Apr 2026 · via TripAdvisor
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Amazing place

dulanjana is very good man. he help all time, have amazing food,🤤🤤🤤 viwe point is very good and we can see elephant bathing...... thanks you very much Mr. dulanjana.

37dilshanu · Mar 2026 · via TripAdvisor

Ratings and reviews provided by TripAdvisor for Hotel Elephant Bay.

Things to do near Pinnawala

Bookable activities, tours, and tickets within a 25 km radius.

Airport & intercity transfers

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