Dehiwala Zoo | Colombo

Information

Landmark: Dehiwala Zoo
City: Colombo
Country: Sri Lanka
Continent: Asia

Dehiwala Zoo, Colombo, Sri Lanka, Asia

Dehiwala Zoo, officially the National Zoological Gardens of Sri Lanka, is located in Dehiwala-Mount Lavinia, a suburb of Colombo, Sri Lanka.

Visual Characteristics

The zoo covers approximately 29 acres. It features a variety of enclosures constructed from concrete, metal bars, and glass. Enclosures are designed to house diverse species, with some incorporating naturalistic elements like rock formations and water features. The overall color palette is dominated by the greens of vegetation and the grays and browns of built structures.

Location & Access Logistics

The zoo is situated approximately 10 kilometers south of Colombo's city center. Access is via Galle Road (A2), a major arterial route. Public transport is readily available; numerous bus routes, including the 100, 138, and 150 series, stop directly in front of the zoo. The nearest train station is Dehiwala, located about 1 kilometer west of the zoo entrance. Parking is available on-site, with designated areas for vehicles.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Established in 1936, Dehiwala Zoo was initially a private collection before being nationalized. Its purpose was to serve as a zoological garden for public education and conservation. The site was chosen for its accessibility and space within the then-developing urban fringe.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can observe a collection of over 3000 animals, including mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians. Specific exhibits include the primate house, the elephant enclosure, and a reptile park. The zoo offers elephant rides and a children's petting zoo. Daily animal feeding demonstrations are scheduled.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are located throughout the zoo. Shaded areas are provided by trees and covered seating structures. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally consistent within the zoo grounds. Food vendors and small eateries are present within the zoo premises, offering snacks and meals.

Best Time to Visit

The best time of day to visit is in the morning, between 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM, when animals are typically more active. The cooler months, from December to March, offer more comfortable weather conditions. Avoid visiting during midday heat, especially in April and May.

Facts & Legends

Dehiwala Zoo houses one of the oldest living chimpanzees in captivity in Asia. A local anecdote suggests that the zoo's original founder had a personal connection with a specific lion that was later transferred to the collection.