Hotels in Pinnawala

Uncover the Serenity of Pinnawala: Where River and Nature Dance in Harmony

Nestled in the lush hills of Sabaragamuwa Province, Pinnawala, Sri Lanka, is a captivating blend of nature and culture. Famous for the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, visitors can witness majestic elephants bathing in the river and interacting with caretakers. Stroll through colonial-era buildings, explore the nearby Pinnawala Zoo, and savor the breathtaking views of verdant tea plantations. This enchanting destination invites travelers to connect with wildlife and immerse themselves in the serene beauty of paradise island, making it a perfect retreat for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. For the best hotel rates in Pinnawala and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Where to stay in Pinnawala

Some of the best places to stay in Pinnawala are Hantana, Kandy and Hatton. Hantana, Kandy, and Hatton offer unique experiences for travelers in Sri Lanka. Hantana is known for its stunning mountain views and nature trails, making it ideal for hiking enthusiasts. Kandy, a cultural hub, boasts the famous Temple of the Tooth and vibrant local markets, making it perfect for first-time visitors. Hatton, surrounded by tea plantations, provides a tranquil escape. Accommodation options vary, with cozy homestays and hotels featuring amenities like swimming pools, ensuring comfort for all travelers. Here are some of the best hotels in Pinnawala that our travelers love:

1. HantanaOpens in a new window: Hantana is a scenic retreat in Sri Lanka, perfect for travelers seeking outdoor adventures and cultural experiences. It's known for its beautiful landscapes and proximity to Kandy Lake, the Temple of the Tooth, and the Dhamma Kuta Vipassana Meditation Centre. For accommodations, consider The Golden Crown HotelOpens in a new window, a luxurious 5.0-star hotel offering a full spa, outdoor pool, and business amenities. Another option is The TourmalineOpens in a new window, a family-friendly 5.0-star hotel that includes children's amenities, meeting rooms, and a conference center. Additionally, FOX Resorts KandyOpens in a new window is a pet-friendly resort that welcomes families and offers shared playground facilities.
2. KandyOpens in a new window: Kandy is a cultural hub that captivates visitors with its rich history and stunning scenery, including Kandy Lake and the famous Temple of the Tooth. It provides a vibrant atmosphere for both leisure and business travelers. The TreeOpens in a new window is a cozy 3.0-star guesthouse featuring a restaurant and entertainment options, making it a great budget-friendly choice. Lavendish Wild Safari ResortOpens in a new window, another 3.0-star hotel, focuses on natural experiences with wellness amenities and outdoor spaces. Lastly, Hotel Elephant BorderOpens in a new window is a centrally-located hotel suitable for families and business travelers, offering meeting facilities and a playground for children.
3. HattonOpens in a new window: Hatton is renowned for its breathtaking scenery, with attractions like Adams Peak and Devon Falls attracting nature enthusiasts. This area is perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in the outdoors. The GlenrockOpens in a new window is a 4.0-star hotel that offers a spa and both indoor and outdoor pools for relaxation. For a unique experience, Ahaspokuna by Eco TeamOpens in a new window is a luxurious safari tent lodge providing an upscale stay. Also, ThotalagalaOpens in a new window is a romantic 5.0-star hotel featuring wellness services and outdoor amenities, ideal for couples seeking a serene getaway.

Things to do in Pinnawala for first time

Pinnawala offers a captivating blend of lush landscapes, serene rivers, and vibrant forests, perfect for nature lovers. Spend three days enjoying activities like hiking through verdant trails, leisurely walks along tranquil waterways, and immersing yourself in the rich wildlife. This paradise island is a must-visit for unforgettable experiences. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Pinnawala:

• Day 1: Start your adventure in Pinnawala with a hike at Alagalla Mountain, where breathtaking views of the lush landscape await you. Afterward, head to Lankatilaka Vihara, an impressive ancient Buddhist temple known for its stunning architecture and serene surroundings. Conclude your day with a visit to Gadaladeniya Temple, famous for its intricate stone carvings and rich history, providing a perfect backdrop to reflect on your day.
• Day 2: Begin your exploration at New Paradise Spice & Herbal Garden, where you can discover the diverse flora of Sri Lanka and enjoy a guided tour about the spices and herbs used in local cuisine. Next, visit the Embekke Temple, which is renowned for its intricate wood carvings and traditional craftsmanship. Wrap up your day at Suriyakantha Centre d'Art et de Culture, where you can immerse yourself in local art and culture, making for a truly enriching experience.
• Day 3: Kick off your day at Wewaladeniya King's Temple, a site steeped in history and spirituality. Then, make your way to Kandy Lake, where you can take a leisurely stroll along the water's edge and enjoy the tranquil ambiance. Finally, visit Uthuwankanda Church, a charming site that offers a peaceful retreat and a glimpse into the local community’s faith, providing a reflective conclusion to your trip.

5 tips to find a great Pinnawala hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable time to visit Pinnawala is during February, May, and July, as hotel prices tend to drop during these months. For those traveling on a budget, staying for at least 2-3 days is perfect for enjoying the area's main attractions, which include the beautiful river and stunning natural scenery. This makes it a fantastic destination that offers great value for money while allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the local environment.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute hotel deals in Pinnawala, you're in luck! You could find great availability and discounted rates by checking the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on Hotels.com. To enhance your chances of scoring a bargain, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com for updates on flash sales and exclusive promotions. This way, you’re more likely to seize opportunities for savings on your Pinnawala hotel stay.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate depending on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. Therefore, if you remain flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses in Pinnawala.
4. Consider your location: When booking on Hotels.com for your vacation, keep your location in mind. Staying near major attractions or city centers can offer convenience, but it usually tends to come with a higher price tag. To find more affordable options, consider hotels in less central neighborhoods, striking a balance between cost and the ease of getting to the places you want to visit.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Book your next stay in Pinnawala and join Hotels.com’s One Key programme which allows members to earn and redeem rewards points for hotel bookings. Move through blue, silver, gold and platinum tiers and unlock benefits such as earning free nights, room upgrades, special discounts, and exclusive deals for members. Sign up now.

Best time to go to Pinnawala

Pinnawala experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 72.0°F (22.2°C), while April is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 77.0°F (25.0°C). November tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Pinnawala are January to March, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by light rainfall. In contrast, May, June, and October are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by light to frequent rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.