This blog post is all about my review of Peacock Village in Pinnawala.
If you’re travelling through central Sri Lanka and looking for an affordable, nature-filled stay near one of the country’s most iconic elephant attractions, Peacock Village in Pinnawala is an excellent option.
Tucked just a few minutes away from the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, this hotel offers unique container-style accommodation with access to the more upscale Hotel Pinnalanda. Including its pool, breakfast service, and stunning river views.
Here’s everything you need to know about staying at Peacock Village, Pinnawala including my review of our one night there during our travels around Sri Lanka!
RELATED Sri Lanka blog posts to read:
- Ultimate 1 Month Sri Lanka Itinerary and Travel Route
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You can also see my experience first-hand via my YouTube vlog of our 24 hours in Pinnawala below. How we got there from Sigiriya, what the containers were like, the elephants, where we ate and how we got to our next destination (Kandy).
Where is Peacock Village Located?
Peacock Village is located in Pinnawala, a small town best known for being home to the world-famous Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage.
While the guest rooms are nestled in a quiet, green setting away from the crowds, they’re just a short tuk-tuk ride from the main street and Hotel Pinnalanda, which is where guests of Peacock Village enjoy breakfast, use the pool, and access the riverside.
The team arranges tuk-tuk transfers between Peacock Village and Hotel Pinnalanda at no extra cost, making the experience smooth and connected.
If you’re planning a trip to Sri Lanka, make sure to check out my 80+ page travel guide eBook which you can download here to help you plan!
What Are the Rooms Like?
The accommodation at Peacock Village consists of modern, container-style units, each with:
- A private balcony facing the garden or banana trees
- Air conditioning and ceiling fans
- En-suite bathrooms with hot water
- Clean, simple interiors with all essential amenities
These rooms are compact but cleverly designed for comfort. Ideal for budget-conscious travellers and backpackers, they provide a peaceful base with a rustic-meets-modern vibe.
If you’re someone who enjoys a quiet sleep surrounded by nature but wants easy access to more facilities, this setup is perfect!
Access to Hotel Pinnalanda
One of the best perks of staying at Peacock Village is that you’re automatically connected to Hotel Pinnalanda, a more centrally located riverside hotel just a few minutes away.
As a guest of Peacock Village, you get:
- Access to the swimming pool overlooking the river and elephants bathing
- Breakfast service at the riverside restaurant with a view of the elephants
- Access to shops, cafes, and the small town center around Pinnalanda
This hybrid stay combines the tranquility of a countryside retreat with the convenience and amenities of a centrally located hotel.
The Staff and Hospitality
The hosts at both Peacock Village and Hotel Pinnalanda are warm, welcoming, and genuinely helpful. They arranged tuk-tuks, helped plan elephant experiences, and made sure guests felt connected despite staying in two locations.
You’ll feel well looked after throughout your stay, with responsive staff and personal touches that make a difference.
Best Things to Do in Pinnawala
Pinnawala is a small town, but it’s home to several unique experiences that are worth adding to your Sri Lanka itinerary. Here are the top things to do:
1. Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage
Visit this sanctuary where you can see dozens of elephants being cared for. The daily elephant bath in the nearby river is one of the most popular attractions.
2. Elephant Freedom Project
For a more ethical and intimate elephant encounter, visit this nearby sanctuary where guests can walk alongside elephants and learn more about conservation.
3. Watch Elephants Bathe in the River
One of the most memorable experiences is watching elephants bathe from the comfort of the Hotel Pinnalanda pool area or terrace restaurant—an unforgettable sight with your morning coffee.
4. Visit Pinnawala Zoo
A small but well-kept zoo housing native and exotic animals, perfect if you’re travelling with children.
5. Explore Local Shops and Spice Gardens
Take a walk or tuk-tuk ride to explore herbal gardens, spice shops, and local craft markets nearby.
How to Get to Pinnawala, Sri Lanka
Pinnawala is easily accessible from major cities and travel hubs in Sri Lanka:
How to Get to Pinnawala from Colombo
- By train: Take a train from Colombo Fort to Rambukkana (approx. 2.5 hours), then a short tuk-tuk ride to Peacock Village
- By car or taxi: Around 2–2.5 hours
- By bus: Buses run frequently to Kegalle or Rambukkana
How to Get to Pinnawala from Kandy
- By train: Around 1.5 hours to Rambukkana, then tuk-tuk
- By taxi or car: 1.5 hours on average
How to Get to Pinnawala from Dambulla/Sigiriya
- By car: Roughly a 3-hour drive, making Pinnawala a good stop on your way south
Once you arrive in Rambukkana or Pinnawala town, the hosts at Peacock Village or Hotel Pinnalanda can help you arrange transport to the accommodation.
For all of our travels throughout Sri Lanka and Southeast Asia, we booked with 12Go Asia. This included boats, buses, trains, minivans and more!
Things to Know Before You Book
- Wi-Fi is available at the hotel, but may be weaker in the container rooms at Peacock Village
- The container rooms are simple and compact. Ideal for short stays and minimalist travellers
- The pool and breakfast area are located at Hotel Pinnalanda, not on-site at Peacock Village
- The surrounding area is peaceful but may involve some walking or tuk-tuk rides to get around
- Bring mosquito repellent if you’re sitting outside in the evening
If you’re planning a trip to Sri Lanka, make sure to check out my 80+ page travel guide eBook which you can download here to help you plan!
Final Thoughts: Is Peacock Village Worth It?
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly stay in Pinnawala that still offers access to views of elephants bathing, a relaxing pool, and good food, Peacock Village is a great choice.
It combines the quiet charm of countryside living with the benefits of a more centrally located hotel.
It’s ideal for backpackers, couples, or anyone looking to keep costs down without compromising on experience.
Peacock Village offers great value, warm hospitality, and a unique blend of rural serenity and elephant-spotting magic.
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If you’re planning a trip to Sri Lanka, make sure to check out my 80+ page travel guide eBook which you can download here to help you plan!
