On the way to the kingdom of Sri Lanka in the hills is the home of the majestic mammal, the elephant. The path to the orphanage is covered with bushes and trees, giving the area a jungle atmosphere, suitable for the indigenous Sri Lankan elephant (Elephas Maximus Maximus). Most elephant species are now extinct and the Sri Lankan orphanage is highly acclaimed around the world for its commitment to preserving the species.
Asian culture recognizes elephants as intelligent, emotional, and possessing impeccable memory. They play a fundamental role in Sri Lankan traditions, being part of ceremonies, processions and cultural festivals. A series of ornate and highly ornate elephants are a definite inclusion in the renowned ‘Kandy Perahera’ and other religious processions in the country.
The orphanage is run by the Sri Lanka National Zoological Gardens, which also functions as a breeding ground for the large land mammal. Orphaned baby elephants found in the jungle are also fostered and protected. The elephants are free to roam the extensive grounds of the orphanage and are well fed and cared for by the mahouts and volunteers. Large quantities of green manure, coconut leaves, jak, tamarind, kitul (a local palm tree) are fed leaves, corn and rice bran at their stalls. Both foreign and local guests particularly enjoy interacting with the friendly animals as they gracefully stroll to the banks of the Maha Oya River twice a day to quench their thirst and bathe. It is a heavenly habitat for the descendants of the mammoth, although it is not the same as their natural life cycle.
Being one of the largest elephant conservation projects in the world, a visit to the small island must be accompanied by a visit to the orphanage. Traveling to Sri Lanka is now very easy with the emergence of Sri Lanka car rental services.