5 Zoos and Bird Parks in Sri Lanka

The Birds Park and Research Centre in Hambantota is a haven for bird lovers, nature enthusiasts, and anyone interested in wildlife conservation. Spread across 35 acres, this park is home to over 180 species and around 3,200 birds, making it one of the most diverse avian sanctuaries in Sri Lanka. Here’s a detailed account of my experience, broken down into sub-topics: First Impressions As I entered the Birds Park, I was greeted by the soothing sounds of chirping birds and the sight of lush greenery. The park’s well-maintained pathways and spacious enclosures created a welcoming atmosphere. The variety of birds,…

Visiting Ridiyagama Safari Park in Hambantota was an exhilarating experience. As Sri Lanka’s first-ever drive-through safari park, it offers a unique opportunity to witness wildlife in their natural habitats. At the same time, we remain safely enclosed in a safari jeep or bus. Spanning a vast 500-acre landscape, the park was a marvel to explore, combining thrilling encounters with serene moments of connection to nature. Getting There Reaching the park was a smooth drive through Sri Lanka’s southern province. Conveniently accessible via the E01 expressway, it’s about a 3-hour drive from Colombo and just over an hour from nearby attractions…

My visit to the Pinnawala Open Zoo felt like stepping into a place with a remarkable story. Established on April 17, 2015, it marked Sri Lanka’s first open-concept zoo, designed to mimic natural habitats for the animals. Learning about its history, from the initial vision in 2000 by former President Chandrika Kumaratunga to its completion under President Mahinda Rajapakse’s administration, gave me a deeper appreciation of the effort behind this incredible project. The staggering LKR 862 million investment reflects the country’s dedication to wildlife conservation. Exploring the Zoo Walking into the Pinnawala Open Zoo was like entering a wildlife and…

Nestled along the Colombo-Kandy road near the 82nd km post, the Elephant Orphanage offers an unforgettable journey into the heart of Sri Lanka's wildlife conservation efforts. Established in 1975 amidst a lush 7-hectare coconut plantation, this sanctuary serves as the first elephant orphanage in the country and operates as a breeding centre for elephants. Discovering the Orphanage Grounds Upon entering the orphanage, I was greeted by a serene atmosphere, where towering coconut trees swayed in the breeze. The orphanage currently houses over 60 elephants of various ages and sizes. These majestic creatures have a unique story—most of them were rescued…

Dehiwala National Zoo, nestled in the heart of Sri Lanka, is an unforgettable destination for anyone who loves wildlife and nature. During my visit, I was awestruck by the vibrant atmosphere and the extraordinary collection of animals it houses. Known globally as the Colombo Zoo, this is a place for entertainment and a hub for education and conservation. The Origins and Transformation of Dehiwala National Zoo Walking through the zoo, I couldn't help but reflect on its rich history. Initially established by John Hagenbeck as a private collection centre, the Sri Lankan government later acquired the zoo in 1936. Under…