The Dehiwala Zoological Gardens, also known as the Colombo Zoo, is a large zoological garden located in Dehiwala-Mount Lavinia, Sri Lanka. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Sri Lanka, and it is home to a wide variety of animals, including elephants, lions, tigers, bears, monkeys, birds, reptiles, and fish. The zoo also has a butterfly garden and an aquarium.
History:
The zoo was founded in 1879 by a group of British expatriates. It was initially located in the Cinnamon Gardens area of Colombo, but it was moved to its current location in Dehiwala-Mount Lavinia in 1937. The zoo has undergone a number of renovations and expansions over the years, and it is now one of the most modern zoos in Asia.
Attractions:
- Elephant Enclosure: The elephant enclosure is one of the most popular attractions at the zoo. It is home to a herd of Asian elephants, including calves and adults.
- Lion Enclosure: The lion enclosure is another popular attraction. It is home to a pride of lions, including two males and two females.
- Tiger Enclosure: The tiger enclosure is also home to a pride of tigers, including two males and two females.
- Bear Enclosure: The bear enclosure is home to a variety of bears, including brown bears, black bears, and polar bears.
- Monkey Enclosure: The monkey enclosure is home to a variety of monkeys, including macaques, langurs, and baboons.
- Bird Aviary: The bird aviary is home to a variety of birds, including parrots, eagles, owls, and ducks.
- Reptile House: The reptile house is home to a variety of reptiles, including snakes, lizards, crocodiles, and turtles.
- Fish Aquarium: The fish aquarium is home to a variety of fish, including sharks, stingrays, and tropical fish.
- Butterfly Garden: The butterfly garden is home to a variety of butterflies, including swallowtails, monarchs, and painted ladies.
Other attractions:
- Children’s Playground: The zoo has a children’s playground, which is equipped with swings, slides, and other play equipment.
- Restaurants and Cafes: The zoo has several restaurants and cafes where visitors can purchase food and drinks.
- Gift Shops: The zoo has several gift shops where visitors can purchase souvenirs and gifts.
Visiting the zoo:
The zoo is open daily from 8:30 AM to 6:00 PM. Admission is Rs. 500 for adults and Rs. 250 for children.
Getting to the zoo:
The zoo is located in Dehiwala-Mount Lavinia, which is about 10 kilometers from Colombo. There are several ways to get to the zoo:
- By bus: Take bus number 180, 181, or 182 from Colombo to Dehiwala-Mount Lavinia. Get off at the Dehiwala Junction bus stop and walk about 5 minutes to the zoo.
- By train: Take the train from Colombo Fort Station to Dehiwala Station. Get off at Dehiwala Station and walk about 10 minutes to the zoo.
- By taxi: Take a taxi from Colombo to the zoo. The journey should take about 20 minutes.
- By car: If you are driving, take the Galle Road (A2) from Colombo to Dehiwala-Mount Lavinia. The zoo is located about 10 kilometers from Colombo on the Galle Road.
Tips for visiting the zoo:
- Go early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you will be doing a lot of walking.
- Bring a hat and sunscreen, as it can get hot in Sri Lanka.
- Pack a lunch or snacks, as there are limited food options inside the zoo.
- Don’t feed the animals.
- Keep an eye on your children at all times.
