The Department of National Zoological Gardens has unveiled a comprehensive wildlife enrichment and visitor education upgrade at the world-famous Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage in Kegalle today, September 30, 2026.

Spanning 35 acres of shaded riverine forest bordering the Maha Oya, the refreshed sanctuary features spacious, chain-free naturalized paddocks where resident herds—including orphaned calves and geriatric elephants—roam freely through native fruit trees and clay mud-wallows. Visitors now navigate elevated canopy boardwalks engineered from treated bamboo and timber, providing panoramic viewing angles of herd socialization, sand bathing, and daily river excursions without intruding upon the animals' natural habitat. Wildlife biologists stated that the redesigned enclosures prioritize positive animal welfare ethics while creating an inspiring, educational experience for families and international tourists.