'THE GATHERING OF GIANTS-2025' RETURNS TO CINNAMON HABARANA COMPLEX

The North Central Province of Sri Lanka is home to one of nature's most awe-inspiring wildlife spectacles-'the Gathering of the Giants'.

- BY SANATH WEERASURIYA

As temperatures soar between July and September, the dry wilderness of Minneriya and Kaudulla National Parks comes alive as herds of wild elephants descend upon the ancient reservoirs, or 'tanks', in search of food and, most crucially, water.

This natural phenomenon, popularly known as 'The Gathering', sees as many as 400 elephants-of all agescongregating near the banks of the Minneriya and Kaudulla reservoirs. It has been hailed by Lonely Planet as 'One of the 10 Greatest Wildlife Wonders of the World'.

More than just a survival instinct, the Gathering is a majestic ritual where elephants come to socialise, mate, and feed in the lush grasslands that emerge as the waters recede. The sight of these gentle giants moving together in such large numbers, often just meters away, offers a rare and unforgettable experience for wildlife enthusiasts and tourists from around the world.

The Gathering of Giants, a pioneering conservation initiative by Cinnamon Nature Trails in collaboration with Cinnamon Hotels and Resorts and in partnership with Seylan Bank, is set to take place from 25 to 27 July 2025 at the Cinnamon Habarana Complex. Cinnamon Nature Trails-the dedicated excursions arm of the hospitality groupplays a vital role in curating and sharing this extraordinary natural spectacle with guests staying at Cinnamon Lodge and Cinnamon Village Habarana, the brand's premier resorts located just nine kilometres from the parks.