Hotel Elephant Bay, Pinnawala (Kegalle)
About the Hotel
Hotel Elephant Bay is located just 4 km from the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, making it a prime spot for visitors seeking to observe these majestic creatures. Set amid tropical gardens along the Maha Oya river, the hotel offers a serene atmosphere. Guests can enjoy comfortable accommodations with views of the river and lush surroundings. This laid-back hotel is approximately a 70-minute drive from Bandaranaike International Airport.
Location
Hotel Elephant Bay is conveniently positioned 4 km from both the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage and Rambukkana Railway Museum. It is easily accessible, located a two-hour drive from Colombo and offering an airport shuttle service. The surrounding area includes notable attractions, with Kandy and Nuwara Eliya being within an easy driving distance for day trips.
Rooms
All guestrooms at Hotel Elephant Bay feature premium bedding, air conditioning, and flat-screen cable TVs. Each room includes free WiFi, safes, and private bathrooms with complimentary toiletries. Many rooms come equipped with large private balconies that provide spectacular views of the Maha Oya River. The hotel offers a range of room types, including doubles, triples, and quadruples, catering to various guest needs.
Eat & Drink
Ivory Inn Restaurant serves a variety of international dishes, emphasizing local flavors. Guests can start their day with a complimentary breakfast offered in a casual setting overlooking the forest. The bar/lounge area provides an ideal spot for relaxation after a day of exploring. A rooftop terrace enhances the dining experience, offering scenic views.
Leisure & Business
Guests can unwind at the outdoor pool, engage in cycling, or take leisurely strolls through the tropical gardens. The hotel also features a children's pool, playground, and sun terrace for family enjoyment. A business center is available for guests needing to catch up on work during their stay. Various activities such as hiking and fishing can also be arranged.
Select your room type
Price and Room Availability Calendar
Getting around
A list of all available modes of transport
Facilities
General
- Non-smoking rooms
- Free Wi-Fi in public areas
- Parking
- Safe deposit box
- VIP check-in/ -out
- Express check-in/ -out
- No pets allowed
- Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
- Wheelchair access
- 24-hour security
- Luggage storage
- Locker room
- Currency exchange
- ATM/Cash machine
- Fire extinguishers
Sports & Fitness
- Cycling
- Badminton
Guest Parking
- Electric kettle
Services
- Paid airport shuttle
- Housekeeping
- Car hire
- Laundry
- Tours/Ticket assistance
- Grocery shopping service
- Shops/Commercial services
- Welcome drink
Dining
- Restaurant
- Bar/ Lounge area
- Dinner
- Packed lunches
Business
- Business centre
- Meeting/ Banquet facilities
- Fax/Photocopying
Children
- Cots
- Board games
- Children's menu
- Children's play area
Facilities for people with disabilities
- Toilet for disabled
Spa & Leisure
- Infinity pool
- Plunge pool
- Sun loungers
- Entertainment
- Sun terrace
- Garden area
- BBQ facilities
- Leisure/ TV room
- Spa & wellness centre
- Back massage
- Head massage
- Full body massage
- Foot massage
- Pool with view
Room features
- Air conditioning
- Sitting area
- Garden furniture
- Tea and coffee facilities
- Dining table
- Ironing facilities
Bathroom
- Free toiletries
Self-catering
- Electric kettle
Media
- Flat-screen TV
Location
Reviews and Ratings
I had a mixed experience at this hotel. The rooms offered a unique view of bathing elephants and were complemented with balloons, which was delightful. However, there were issues with the toilet not working. The service was a blend of unprofessional behavior from the Housekeeping Manager and untrained waiters, but some staff members had the correct attitude for hospitality. The location was picturesque, right on the banks of the river where elephants bathe. The dining experience, although included healthy snacks, was not exceptional. The facilities were adequate, although there was room for improvement.
The hotel offers a breathtaking view of bathing elephants, providing a unique and memorable experience. The service is exceptional, with the Housekeeping Manager going above and beyond, but some minor language barriers with restaurant waiters. The location is unbeatable, right on the banks of the river surrounded by picturesque greenery. The dining experience is fantastic, especially with delicious tandoori dishes available. The facilities are top-notch, ensuring a comfortable and luxurious stay.
The hotel offers stunning views of bathing elephants, but the service can be lacking at times. The location inside the sanctuary is truly unique, while the dining options are limited. The facilities are well-maintained and provide a comfortable stay overall.
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