A Gentle Step towards the Wild: Shangri-La Reaffirms Its Commitment to Sri Lanka’s Wildlife
View(s):Shangri-La Colombo and Shangri-La Hambantota have reaffirmed their long-standing commitment to sustainability, biodiversity, and meaningful local partnerships through the adoption of a baby elephant, affectionately named El-la (‘El’ for elephant + ‘La’ for Shangri-La)—in collaboration with the Elephant Transit Home (ETH) in Udawalawe.
Sri Lanka is home to approximately 4,000 wild elephants, a number that has declined dramatically from over 12,000 in the early 20th century. Today, the survival of these iconic animals is under increasing threat. In 2024 more than 388 elephants lost their lives, and in the first seven months of 2025 alone, over 44 elephants were killed by gunfire—largely due to escalating human-elephant conflict, driven by shrinking habitats and the encroachment on traditional elephant corridors.
Behind these statistics are stories, of orphaned calves left alone after their mothers were killed, of fractured herds, and of young elephants with no clear path forward. El La’s story is one of them. Born in the forests of Sri Lanka’s North Central Province, El La was separated from her herd and fell into an agricultural well. Alone and vulnerable, she was rescued by wildlife officers and brought to the Elephant Transit Home, a place of healing, preparation, and hope.
Since 1995, the ETH, under the Department of Wildlife Conservation, has been at the forefront of elephant rescue and rehabilitation. Located on the border of Udawalawe National Park, the centre has rescued over 300 orphaned elephants, with more than 198 successfully released back into the wild.
Unlike traditional sanctuaries, the ETH ensures minimal human interaction, preparing the young elephants for a fully independent life in their natural habitat.
Shangri-La Colombo and Shangri-La Hambantota are committing over USD 10,000 to care for, rehabilitate, and prepare El-la release over the next four years, protecting one life, and with it, a piece of Sri Lanka’s wild future.
Through a five-year adoption agreement, Shangri-La will fund and support El La’s care, nutrition, medical treatment, and rewilding process—becoming a part of her journey from vulnerable orphan to strong, free-roaming elephant.
This initiative reflects Shangri-La’s promise to be more than a place to stay—it is a tangible act of guardianship, where our spirit of sanctuary extends to protecting the living heritage around us. Rooted in the brand’s ethos, it embraces sustainability, biodiversity, heartfelt hospitality, and a deep respect for culture, heritage, and community.
Searching for that next furry family member but couldn’t find one in your area? Hitad.lk has the solution with our extensive listings of dogs for sale in Sri Lanka!