The Gathering of Giants – an inspiring conservation initiative is back again on track and is set to take place from July 25 to 27 at Cinnamon Habarana Complex. Deeply rooted to Sri Lanka’s natural heritage, this initiative of Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts, now in its third year in collaboration with Cinnamon Nature Trails and in partnership with Seylan Bank reflects their enduring commitment to safeguarding ecosystems, empowering communities, and inspiring responsible travel.
This landmark event brings together conservationists, travellers, nature enthusiasts, and storytellers to celebrate the breathtaking annual migration of hundreds of wild elephants to Minneriya and Kaudulla National Parks -home to Asia’s largest gathering of wild elephants and recognized as the 6th greatest wildlife spectacle globally by Lonely Planet.
Taking place in the heart of Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle, the Cinnamon Habarana Complex—comprising Cinnamon Lodge Habarana and Habarana Village by Cinnamon, offers guests front-row access to nature’s theatre, all supported by Cinnamon’s signature brand of conservation-conscious hospitality.
This year’s programme will be elevated by a powerful speaker lineup, carefully curated to ignite curiosity and spark conversation:
* Noah Falklind, award-winning BBC wildlife cameraman, will present Living with Leopards, a gripping exploration into the lives of Sri Lanka’s most elusive predators, supported by exclusive behind-the-scenes footage and rare insights from the field.
* Dr. Prithiviraj Fernando, Sri Lanka’s leading elephant expert and Chair of the Centre for Conservation and Research, brings over two decades of field experience to his talk, Elephants & Coexistence, which unpacks the complex relationship between humans and elephants, and the strategies for sharing space.
* Professor Sampath Seneviratne, renowned ornithologist from the University of Colombo, will lead The Avian Migration to Sri Lanka, a session delving into the mysterious journeys of migratory birds and the ecological importance of the island as a global avian corridor.
* This event goes beyond observation—it’s about creating awareness, nurturing responsible tourism, and uniting communities and experts to drive a lasting impact. It’s one of over 35 ongoing community empowerment and conservation initiatives that shape who we are and what we stand for.” said Hishan Singhawansa, Chief Executive Officer Designate, Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts.
This immersive three-day experience blends expert-led wildlife talks, hands-on workshops, and guided ethical excursions into Sri Lanka’s iconic wilderness.
While the elephants remain the heart of the event, this year’s edition also embraces the broader diversity of Sri Lanka’s wildlife, featuring dedicated workshops on leopards and migratory birds alongside our core mission of creating awareness and conserving the largest Asian elephant gathering -Asia’s premier wildlife spectacle.
“The Cinnamon Habarana Complex—comprising Cinnamon Lodge Habarana and Habarana Village by Cinnamon, is more than a location; it’s a gateway to one of Sri Lanka’s richest ecological landscapes,” said Johan Aschan, Area Vice President – Sri Lanka Resorts,Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts. “With The Gathering of Giants, we’re not just creating access to a spectacular wildlife phenomenon—we’re shaping ethical, educational, and deeply moving encounters that foster a lasting connection between people and nature.”
If you are a wild life enthusiast the take your place at this unforgettable conservation event that blends nature, education, and purpose in perfect harmony.
Pix by Shan Rambukwella
