Located near Udawalawe, the Elephant Transit Home rehabilitates orphaned wild elephant calves before releasing them back into nature. Visitors can observe feeding from a safe distance without touching or riding. It’s a responsible, heartwarming wildlife experience that supports conservation and animal welfare, a must visit for travellers who care deeply about ethical wildlife tourism.

• Ethical elephant conservation and rehabilitation centre
• Government managed, transparent and well respected initiative
• No touching, riding or performances allowed
• Calves are returned to the wild
• Feeding sessions at scheduled public times
• Ideal for families and conscious travellers

The Elephant Transit Home (ETH), located just outside Udawalawe National Park, offers one of Sri Lanka’s most genuine and ethical elephant encounters. Operated by the Department of Wildlife Conservation, ETH is a sanctuary for orphaned wild elephant calves, many of whom have lost their mothers due to poaching, injury or human elephant conflict.

Unlike traditional elephant orphanages that keep elephants in captivity indefinitely, ETH’s sole mission is rehabilitation and rewilding. Calves are cared for until they are strong and independent enough to be released back into the park. Visitors can watch daily feeding sessions from a viewing platform, ensuring a respectful distance that prioritizes the animals’ welfare.

There are no rides, no chains and no tourist tricks, just the heartwarming sight of young elephants jostling for milk under the watchful eyes of caretakers. Information boards and guides explain the journey of each calf, adding a powerful layer of education to the experience.

Sri Lanka Tailor-Made includes ETH in itineraries for travellers who want to witness real conservation in action. It’s a visit that inspires empathy, supports ethical tourism and leaves you with the joy of having contributed to something meaningful.