Sri Lankan elephant (Elephas maximus maximus)

The Sri Lankan elephant (Elephas maximus maximus) is native to Sri Lanka and one of three recognised subspecies of the Asian elephant.
Scientific classificationEdit this classification
Domain: Eukaryota
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Mammalia
Order: Proboscidea
Family: Elephantidae
Genus: Elephas
Species: E. maximus
Subspecies: E. m. maximus
Trinomial name
Elephas maximus maximus
It is the type subspecies of the Asian elephant and was first described by Carl Linnaeus under the binomial Elephas maximus in 1758.[1] The Sri Lankan elephant population is now largely restricted to the dry zone in the north, east and southeast of Sri Lanka. Elephants are present in Udawalawe National Park, Yala National Park, Lunugamvehera National Park, Wilpattu National Park and Minneriya National Park but also live outside protected areas. It is estimated that Sri Lanka has the highest density of elephants in Asia. Human-elephant conflict is increasing due to conversion of elephant habitat to settlements and permanent cultivation.[2]

1. Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage – An Experience Worth Relishing
This one's considered amongst the best places to visit in Kandy for those who are fascinated by the wildlife! Plan a day out with wild Asian elephants at Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage. This is a -popular breeding ground of 90 plus elephants who stay in their natural habitat. Watch these adorable elephants bathe, play around, and feed them fruits. Tourists can see them when they take a tour around the orphanage to see the majestic animals. If you are in Kandy visiting places, then this spot is perfect if you want to have a small picnic along with your friends or family.

Pinnawala is the place where abandoned elephants are raised. Not only orphans but also elephants who are seriously injured or those who get aloof from their group are given proper shelter & care at the orphanage. The place is situated in the Pinnawala village present in the Sabaragamuwa Province of Sri Lanka. The orphanage was started in 1975 by the Sri Lanka Department of Wildlife Conservation. The place has evolved into an amazing tourist destination in recent years. The elephants are kept quite well and you may definitely see that while at this place. The orphanage also accepts elephants that are donated to them and they bring them back to their health. The elephants have mahouts for them who give them baths and proper food on a timely basis. If you’re looking for natural bathing places in Kandy, then this is it!

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