One of Asia's oldest zoological gardens, Dehiwala Zoo is a lush sanctuary home to over 3,000 animals, featuring a vibrant marine aquarium, walk-through aviary, and a colorful butterfly garden.

Why visit Dehiwala zoo

• Historical and Pioneering Origins: The zoo’s history dates back to 1927–1936. It was established by the British colonial government with initial animal collections influenced by European zoos, but not founded by the Hagenbeck brothers (that refers to the Hamburg Zoo in Germany).
• One of Asia's Oldest Zoos: Established as a national institution in 1936, it is one of the oldest and largest zoological gardens in Asia. It has a long history of displaying a wide range of fauna.
• Focus on Conservation: The zoo's modern mission is focused on conservation and education. It runs captive breeding programs for rare and endangered species.
• Diverse Wildlife Collection: The zoo has a vast collection of animals from around the world. It houses over 72 mammals, 65 birds, and various reptiles, fish, and amphibians.
• Unique Exhibits and Features: The zoo has a butterfly garden with controlled temperatures. It also has a walk-through aviary, a reptile house, and an aquarium.