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Karandupona-Rambukkna Road, Hiriwadunna 71014, Sri Lanka
Honestly one of the most beautiful experiences of my life. The staff were all lovely, friendly, attentive & were passionate & insightful about their work in looking after these elephants, from start to finish it was a joy to be around them. The elephants were very clearly happy & comfortable, not overwhelmed or abused in any way, and the main concern was their happiness & being allowed to enjoy their daily routine, as the repeated motto of the project was “do not disturb their freedom”. As a small group, we got to feed, walk with the elephants through the jungle, and finally help scrub & bathe them which they loved, all the way learning about the elephants. Afterwards we had a delicious lunch in the beautiful grounds which we would have loved to have stayed longer at if we didn’t have travel plans. I could not recommend enough, especially as the only ethical elephant sanctuary in the country, with no riding or abuse, but also because the staff & attitude & energy of the project is beyond beautiful. Definitely visit & help fund this project if you get the chance. It was a magical experience that I will treasure forever!!! Thankyou Elephant Freedom Project!
We really enjoyed our visit to this place. Food was good before we then went to see the elephants. We wore socks and hiking shoes thinking we’d be doing a lot of walking but actually did very little. Had to borrow footwear suitable for use in a river so bear this in mind. In terms of interaction with the elephants this was done in a way to protect both them and us. I’d happily recommend this place to anyone.
Absolutely gorgeous experience! The staff are so kind, knowledgeable and welcoming. The food was delicious and it is so nice to see the elephants so happy. I wish I could give more so they could save them all! It is so lovely to see ethical orphanages and hope that many more people come and support.
An amazing experience, the staff were very informative and made sure you were safe and fully involved with the elephants. They have started a great cause after seeing other "attractions" with chained elephants. Hopefully they can change the ways elephants are treated in Sri Lanka. Kudos to all the team. The itinerary is quite strict and getting knocked on and told breakfast is out at 8am was a bit of a shock to the system but i guess its a project and not a hotel.
Our best experience in Sri Lanka was here. The elephant freedom project is an ethical centre looking after two rescued elephants, Kumari and Manike, two gentle sweethearts. No chains, no poking or riding or ordering the elephants about, the centre allows you to follow these two elephants during their daily routine, allowing you to feed them and help with bathing and scrubbing. Madhuka and Chalini were excellent guides and were very passionate about the project, they were very welcoming and happy to answer any questions and chat. Would highly recommend!









