Dehiwala Zoo in Colombo - The Complete Tourist Guide

Dehiwala Zoo in Colombo, officially called the National Zoological Gardens of Sri Lanka, is one of Asia's oldest zoos. It has been a favourite spot for families and animal lovers since 1936, making it a must-visit attraction on most Sri Lanka Tour Packages.

Spread across 26 beautiful acres, the zoo is home to over 2,000 animals from around the world. But it's more than just a zoo, it's a lush garden filled with orchids, fountains, and peaceful lakes that make your visit truly special.

What makes Dehiwala Zoo one of the best places to visit in Sri Lanka? You can experience a unique Night Safari to see nocturnal animals, watch entertaining animal shows, and join educational workshops about wildlife conservation.

Whether you're exploring diverse animal exhibits or enjoying a relaxing picnic in the gardens, Dehiwala Zoo offers an unforgettable experience for everyone!

• Dehiwala Zoo Timings: 8:30 am to 6 pm
• Ticket Price:
• Sri Lankan Adults:₹10 (LKR 100)
• Foriegn Adults:₹726 (LKR 2,500)
• Facilities:
• Butterfly garden
• Zoo aquarium
• Fountains and colourful flowers
• Elephant and pony rides
• Boat rides
• Restaurants
• Ice-cream shops
• Souvenir shop
• Location: 120 Galvihara Rd, Dehiwala-Mount Lavinia, Sri Lanka

Here are 16 best things to do to in Sri Lanka’s Dehiwala Zoo, that make your visit truly memorable.

1. Watch the Elephant Performance: Watch elephants perform tricks and routines that showcase their intelligence and agility.
2. Visit the Reptile House: See snakes, lizards, and crocodiles with information about these fascinating creatures.
3. Stroll Through the Aviary: See colourful parrots, majestic eagles and many other bird species up close in a tropical setting.
4. Check Out Dehiwala Zoo Aquarium: At the Dehiwala Zoological aquarium, see colourful tropical fish, mesmerising jellyfish, and other marine life; one of the best things to do in Dehiwala zoo.
5. Enjoy the Children’s Play Area: Let kids enjoy play structures and activities designed to keep them entertained.
6. Take a Ride on the Zoo Train: Tour the zoo by train to see many exhibits without walking long distances.
7. Learn at the Educational Center: Join programs and workshops about wildlife conservation and animal behaviour.
8. Experience the Night Safari: See nocturnal animals in their natural habitats on this special night tour.
9. Visit the Butterfly Garden: See various butterfly species in a beautiful, flower-filled environment.
10. Check Out the Botanical Garden: Explore a diverse collection of plants and flowers in a peaceful setting.
11. Enjoy a Picnic: Relax and enjoy a meal in designated picnic areas amidst nature.
12. Visit the Animal Hospital: Learn about animal care and see the veterinary staff's work.
13. Take a Guided Tour: Get fascinating insights into the animals and conservation efforts from knowledgeable guides.
14. Learn About the Zoo’s History: Discover the zoo's rich history since its establishment in 1936.
15. Explore the Nearby Attractions: Visit Mount Lavinia Beach, Dehiwala Market and Bellanwila Rajamaha Viharaya temple nearby.
16. Shop for Souvenirs: Buy toys, apparel, and educational materials at the zoo's gift shop.

Suggested Read: Top 15 Things To Do in Colombo, Sri Lanka (2025 Guide)

Explore the best time to visit Dehiwala Zoo, a season-wise breakdown:

Summer - December to April

Weather:

• Perfect weather for walking around; cool and sunny
• December to March is the driest period
• April gets quite hot, so visit in the morning

Crowds:

• This is peak season, so expect more people
• Weekends can get really busy with families and tourists
• Weekdays are much quieter if you want to avoid the rush

Experience:

• Animals are more active in cooler weather
• You can comfortably explore the whole zoo without sweating too much
• Great for families with kids

Monsoon - May to November

Weather:

• Expect rain, but it usually comes in short bursts
• Mostly affects May to September
• The zoo looks beautiful and green after the rains

Crowds:

• Much fewer visitors, so more space for you
• Peaceful and relaxed atmosphere
• Sometimes ticket prices are lower

Experience:

• Animals might be less active when it's humid
• Carry an umbrella just in case
• The Dehiwala Zoological Gardens look absolutely stunning

Pro Tip: Visit early morning (8:30 AM when it opens) to see active animals and beat both the heat and afternoon rain showers, no matter which season you choose!

Suggested Read: Wildlife Safari Sri Lanka: Best Tips & Parks (2025)

Find out how to reach Dehiwala Zoo location using different transportation modes:

How to Reach Dehiwala Zoo by Air

• Fly into Bandaranaike International Airport, about 40 km away from Dehiwala Zoo location
• Once landed, grab a taxi, or book a ride-haling app, or take a bus
• And it takes roughly 45 minutes to an hour to reach the zoo

How to Reach Dehiwala Zoo by Train

• Catch a train from Colombo Fort Station to Dehiwala Station
• This journey offers the best scenery along the way
• Once you get off at Dehiwala station, take a tuk-tuk to the zoo, it is just 5-10 mins away
• This option is best if you're coming from another city and passing through Colombo
• Approx. Cost: Between ₹12-30 (LKR 40-100)

How to Reach Dehiwala Zoo by Taxis/Ride-Hailing Apps(Easiest Way)

• PickMe and Uber work great here
• Book a tuk-tuk, car, or van right from your phone
• Just search "Dehiwala Zoo" in the app
• You can also find taxis everywhere: at the airport, hotels, and on streets
• If you're driving, head south on Galle Road and follow signs
• Approx. Cost: Between ₹500-700 (LKR 1,700-2,400)

How to Reach Dehiwala Zoo by Bus (Cheapest Option)

• Buses run all day and they are one of the are the most cheapest options to reach Dehiwala.
• Bus routes 100, 101, and 176 go straight to Dehiwala.
• Approx. Cost: Between ₹9-15 (LKR 30-50)

To make the most of your visit, here are some tips for visiting Dehiwala Zoo in Colombo:

1. Wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking involved.
2. Carry water and snacks, especially if you’re visiting with children.
3. Follow the zoo rules and respect the animals and their habitats.
4. Plan your visit during cooler parts of the day for a more enjoyable experience.
5. Visit on weekdays to avoid crowds.
6. Bring sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
7. Check the daily schedule for animal shows and performances.
8. Keep children supervised at all times throughout your visit.
9. Don't feed or tease the animals for their safety and yours.

Dehiwala Zoo in Colombo offers a delightful and educational experience for visitors of all ages. From exploring diverse animal exhibits and the stunning Dehiwala aquarium to enjoying the unique Night Safari, there's something for everyone.

With its rich history dating back to 1936, a collection of over 2,000 animals, and beautifully landscaped grounds, it stands out as one of Colombo's premier destinations.

Before you go, check the Dehiwala Zoo ticket price and plan your visit during cooler hours for the best experience. Immerse yourself in the wonders of the animal kingdom while enjoying educational workshops, entertaining shows, and the serene garden atmosphere.