National Zoological Gardens of Sri Lanka: Your Complete Guide to Dehiwala Zoo & Beyond

Introduction: A Century of Wildlife Wonder

Sri Lanka, the Pearl of the Indian Ocean, is renowned for its extraordinary biodiversity. And at the heart of its conservation and education efforts lies the National Zoological Gardens of Sri Lanka – a network of world-class facilities that bring the island’s incredible wildlife to life.

Known to many as Dehiwala Zoo or Colombo Zoo, this institution has been captivating visitors for nearly a century. Home to over 3,000 animals representing 350 species, it is one of the oldest and most beloved zoos in Asia. But the Department of National Zoological Gardens is far more than just a single zoo – it encompasses the iconic Dehiwala Zoo, the world-famous Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, the new Pinnawala Zoo, and the exciting Hambantota Safari Park.

Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a family planning a day out, or a traveler seeking to understand Sri Lanka’s rich natural heritage, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know.

A Rich History: From Elephant Depot to National Institution

The story of Sri Lanka’s national zoo is a fascinating journey through time.

The Hagenbeck Era (1905–1926)

The Dehiwala Zoo traces its origins to 1905, when a German national named Carl Hagenbeck established it as a place to keep wild elephants before exporting them to zoos across Europe. Sri Lanka has a long history of collecting and keeping wild animals, practiced both by ancient Sri Lankan kings and European colonisers.

The John Hagenbeck Years (Late 1920s–1936)

What is known today as the National Zoological Gardens was later founded by John Hagenbeck in the late 1920s. During this period, the facility served as a collection centre, amassing numerous native and exotic species from across Asia.

Government Takeover and National Recognition (1936–1962)

On 3rd July 1936, the company was taken over by the government. The zoo came under the purview of the Government Agent of Colombo. In 1946, it was made an autonomous department, initially focused more on entertainment and satisfying public curiosity than conservation.

Finally, in 1962, it was officially declared as the “Department of National Zoological Gardens“.

Evolution Toward Conservation

As global zoo concepts evolved, the institution shifted its focus toward conservation, education, and scientific research. Today, the Department of National Zoological Gardens has established its functions around five major objectives: conservation, breeding and research, animal welfare, public education, and entertainment.

Dehiwala Zoo: The Heart of the Institution

Location and Size

The Dehiwala Zoo is located at Anagarika Dharmapala Mawatha, Dehiwala, Colombo 10350. It spans 10.1 hectares (0.10 km²) and is beautifully landscaped with lush greenery.

Animal Collection

The zoo houses an impressive and diverse collection:

The total animal population ranges from 2,500 to 3,000, with numbers varying due to breeding programs and free-living colonies of birds. The zoo has a predominance of tropical animals from Sri Lanka and across the globe.

Major Exhibits

Visitors can explore a variety of specialized exhibits:

• Aquarium – showcasing diverse fish species

• Bird Enclosure – home to over 110 species and 1,000 birds

• Reptile House – featuring snakes, lizards, and crocodiles

• Butterfly Garden – a colorful, tranquil space

• Elephant Enclosure – featuring Sri Lanka’s gentle giants

Landscaping and Atmosphere

One of the zoo’s standout features is its beautiful landscaping. The zoo is well-shaded with greenery, making it a pleasant walk even on warm days. It has become famous not only for its collection of local and exotic animals but also for its lush, natural environment.

Conservation: Protecting Sri Lanka’s Endangered Species

The National Zoological Gardens plays a vital role in ex-situ conservation – protecting species outside their natural habitats.

Captive Breeding Programs

The zoo supports and promotes conservation by breeding rare and endangered species through proper animal welfare. A breeding and rewilding project has been initiated for endangered, nearly endangered, and threatened animals.

Saving Endemic Species

The Department partners with organizations like the Wildlife and Nature Protection Society (WNPS) on focused conservation initiatives. One notable project focuses on saving Sri Lanka’s critically endangered endemic species, the Asoka Barb, through captive in-situ breeding programs.

Global Recognition

The zoo is a member of the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA), reflecting its commitment to international conservation standards.

Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage: A Sanctuary for Giants

No guide to the National Zoological Gardens would be complete without mentioning the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage – one of Sri Lanka’s most beloved attractions.

History and Purpose

Established in 1975 in a 7-hectare coconut plantation, Pinnawala was the first elephant orphanage established in Sri Lanka. It was founded to care for and protect orphaned, injured, and abandoned wild elephants.

A Breeding Centre

Beyond rescue and rehabilitation, Pinnawala also serves as a captive breeding and conservation institute for wild Asian elephants. The elephants belong to the National Zoo in Sri Lanka.

The River Bathing Spectacle

The undoubted highlight of any visit to Pinnawala is watching the elephants being taken to bathe in the river. This happens twice daily and is a truly unforgettable sight. In 2025, the orphanage celebrated its 50th anniversary with a special fruit feast for its 68 resident elephants.

New Developments: Pinnawala Zoo and Hambantota Safari Park

Pinnawala Zoo

A need for a new zoo arose with the inability to expand the Dehiwala Zoo and the need to provide adequate spacious enclosures according to modern standards. The new Zoological Gardens at Pinnawala was opened in April 2015.

Ridiyagama Safari Park (Hambantota)

To offer a novel experience, improve animal welfare, and promote eco-tourism, the Safari Park at Ridiyagama is currently underway. This will be Sri Lanka’s first safari park, offering an adventurous experience when it opens to the public. The project includes a butterfly park, which was inaugurated in June 2026.

Visitor Information: Plan Your Visit

Opening Hours

The Dehiwala Zoo is open daily from 8:30 AM to 6:00 PM.

Ticket Prices (2026)

Note: Prices may vary. Check the official website for the most up-to-date information.

e-Ticket Reservation

The Department of National Zoological Gardens recently launched its official website – https://nationalzoo.gov.lk/ – which offers an eTicket Reservation Service.

Recommended Visit Duration

Plan to spend 3 to 5 hours exploring the zoo.

Contact Information

• Phone: +94 112 712 751

• Address: Anagarika Dharmapala Mawatha, Dehiwala, Colombo 10350

• Email: [email protected]

Beyond Dehiwala: Other Facilities

The Department of National Zoological Gardens operates several other facilities:

1. Dehiwala Zoo – The flagship facility

2. Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage – World-famous elephant sanctuary

3. Pinnawala Zoo – Newer facility opened in 2015

4. Ridiyagama Safari Park – Upcoming safari experience

5. Gonapola Farm – Provides fruits and vegetables for the Dehiwala Zoo animals

Educational and Economic Impact

Visitor Numbers

The Dehiwala Zoo and Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage are visited by over 1.9 million visitors every year. Annually, over 1.5 million local and foreign tourists visit the zoo, and over 2,000 students visit for educational purposes.

Revenue

The annual revenue of the zoo is approximately LKR 40 million. The Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage alone is a major revenue generator for the state, earning millions of dollars in entrance fees.

The Zoo’s Vision

The vision for the zoo includes creating a beautifully landscaped 30-acre facility where a rich collection of mammals, birds, reptiles, and fish live in harmony with nature.

Tips for an Unforgettable Visit

1. Arrive early – The zoo opens at 8:30 AM. Early mornings are cooler and animals are more active.

2. Wear comfortable shoes – You’ll be walking for several hours.

3. Stay hydrated – Carry water, especially on warm days.

4. Bring a camera – You’ll want to capture the incredible wildlife and beautiful landscaping.

5. Check feeding times – Many zoos offer scheduled feeding demonstrations.

6. Combine your visit – If you have time, consider visiting Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage as well.

7. Book online – Use the new eTicket Reservation Service to avoid queues.

Conclusion: A Living Legacy of Conservation

The National Zoological Gardens of Sri Lanka is far more than a tourist attraction. It is a living legacy of over a century of wildlife stewardship – from its humble beginnings as an elephant holding depot in 1905 to its current status as a world-class conservation and education institution.

Whether you’re marvelling at the big cats in Dehiwala, watching elephants bathe at Pinnawala, or exploring the new facilities at Ridiyagama, the National Zoological Gardens offers an unforgettable window into Sri Lanka’s extraordinary natural heritage.

With over 3,000 animals, 350 species, and a commitment to conservation, breeding, and education, this institution continues to inspire and educate millions of visitors each year.

Plan your visit today and discover the wild heart of Sri Lanka!

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