Dehiwala Zoo Colombo: Sri Lanka’s National Zoological Garden

Located in the suburban town of Dehiwala, just south of Colombo’s city center, the Dehiwala Zoological Gardens—widely known as the Colombo Zoo—stands as one of the oldest zoos in Asia and Sri Lanka’s premier wildlife attraction . Spanning over 11 hectares of beautifully landscaped grounds, this national zoo is home to more than 3,000 animals representing 350 species from around the world, making it a must-visit destination for families, animal lovers, and travelers seeking an enriching wildlife experience .

A Rich History Spanning Nearly a Century

The zoo’s fascinating history dates back to the late 1920s, when it was founded by John Hagenbeck, a German animal trader and tamer who initially established a collection center for exotic animals . Hagenbeck transformed a five-acre plot of undeveloped land in Dehiwala into a holding area for native wildlife, including elephants, leopards, and monkeys, which he tamed for circus performances . The colonial government acquired the property in July 1936, and the zoo officially opened to the public in 1939, laying the foundation for what would become Sri Lanka’s national zoological institution . Today, the zoo is managed by the Department of National Zoological Gardens and is recognized as a member of the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA) .

An Impressive Collection of Wildlife

The Dehiwala Zoo boasts an extraordinary diversity of fauna, including 72 species of mammals, 65 species of birds, 31 species of reptiles, 89 species of fish, and 30 species of butterflies . Visitors can observe majestic creatures such as lions, tigers, elephants, leopards, chimpanzees, giraffes, zebras, hippopotamuses, and rhinoceroses . The zoo is particularly renowned for its bird collection, featuring over 110 species and more than 1,000 individual birds, including flamingos, macaws, and peacocks .

The zoo is actively involved in conservation and breeding programs, particularly for endangered species native to Sri Lanka and other parts of the world . In 2025, the zoo announced plans to further enhance species diversity through animal exchange programs, with new arrivals expected to include zebras, giraffes, anacondas, and Mandarin ducks .

Attractions and Experiences

The Butterfly Garden

A dedicated butterfly garden allows visitors to witness hundreds of colorful butterflies from over 30 species fluttering among lush shrubs and flowers. This enchanting exhibit serves as an educational area where visitors can learn about the butterfly life cycle .

Aquarium and Reptile House

The zoo features a vibrant aquarium with tropical fish and sea turtles, while the reptile house showcases snakes, lizards, crocodiles, and native tortoises . A walk-in aviary offers an immersive bird-watching experience .

Daily Animal Shows

One of the zoo’s biggest draws is its daily animal performances. The seal show begins at 4:00 PM, followed by the elephant show at 4:30 PM . Visitors can also enjoy elephant rides and horseback rides on weekends from 2:30 PM to 4:00 PM . The elephant feeding session is particularly popular among families .

Well-Organized Grounds

The zoo features a numbered path system to help visitors navigate the expansive grounds and ensure they don’t miss any highlights . The park is well-shaded with lush greenery, making it a pleasant walking experience even during the warmer hours .

Visitor Information

• Location: 120 Anagarika Dharmapala Mawatha, Dehiwala-Mount Lavinia, Colombo .
• Timings: Open daily from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM (some sources note 6:00 PM closing) .
• Entry Fee: Approximately $15.00 USD for foreign adults . Local rates are significantly lower.
• Best Time to Visit: Weekdays are recommended to avoid weekend crowds. Arriving early helps beat the queues .
• How to Get There: Easily accessible by Uber, taxi, or tuk-tuk from Colombo city center .
• Recommended Duration: Allow 3 to 5 hours for a comprehensive visit .
• Tip: Take a photo of the map at the entrance to navigate the zoo effectively .

Why Dehiwala Zoo Should Be on Your Itinerary

For travelers wondering what to do in Colombo, the Dehiwala Zoological Gardens offers an unforgettable wildlife experience that is both educational and entertaining. Whether you’re watching majestic elephants perform, exploring the vibrant butterfly garden, or simply strolling through the beautifully landscaped grounds, the zoo promises a memorable day out for visitors of all ages.