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 · 556 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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Hotel to avoid at all costs, not maintained

Horrible. A very poorly maintained hotel, rather low-end rooms with cockroaches and centipedes, and atrocious meals and breakfasts. Melted ice cream, smell of frying. We all got sick. Pathetic service: when we asked for towels for…

supertripsuper · Aug 2026 · via TripAdvisor
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Uncomfortable and sad experience

A very disappointing and, above all, deeply uncomfortable experience. The hotel is poorly maintained, the cleanliness leaves something to be desired, and the whole place clearly deserves to be renovated. But beyond the condition…

894maylisa · Aug 2026 · via TripAdvisor
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Great

The room view was amazing! You can even watch the elephants swimming, which made the experience very special. The staff were also very helpful and friendly. Highly recommended!

104abdallaha · Jul 2026 · via TripAdvisor

Ratings and reviews provided by TripAdvisor for Hotel Elephant Bay.

Airport & intercity transfers

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