About Us

Welcome to the Department of National Zoological Gardens

The Department of National Zoological Gardens of Sri Lanka serves as the leading authority responsible for wildlife conservation, education, research, and responsible wildlife tourism in the country. Established to safeguard animal biodiversity while providing opportunities for public learning and engagement, the department manages several key zoological and conservation facilities across Sri Lanka.
These institutions function as centers for animal welfare, scientific research, conservation breeding programs, and environmental education. Through modern zoological practices and naturalistic habitats, the department strives to protect endangered species while promoting awareness of the importance of wildlife conservation.

Today, the department operates four major facilities: the historic Dehiwala Zoo, the world-renowned Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, the open-concept Pinnawala Zoological Gardens, and the expansive Ridiyagama Safari Park. Together, these institutions provide unique opportunities for visitors, researchers, and students to experience wildlife in environments designed to reflect natural ecosystems.
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Major Wildlife Facilities
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Over Five Decades of Wildlife Conservation

For more than half a century, the Department of National Zoological Gardens has played a crucial role in wildlife conservation, education, and research in Sri Lanka. The department works to maintain healthy animal populations, support breeding programs for threatened species, and educate the public about biodiversity and environmental protection.Through its zoological parks and conservation facilities, the department promotes sustainable tourism while ensuring the welfare and protection of animals. These institutions act as living classrooms for students and researchers and provide visitors with memorable experiences that foster appreciation for wildlife.

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Sri Lanka’s Premier Zoological Authority

The Department of National Zoological Gardens is the country's leading institution for ex-situ wildlife conservation, focusing on animal welfare, breeding programs, and public education to protect biodiversity.

World-Renowned Elephant Conservation

The Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage is globally recognized for caring for orphaned elephants and maintaining one of the most successful captive breeding programs for Sri Lankan elephants.

Modern Open-Concept Zoological Parks

Facilities such as Pinnawala Zoo and Ridiyagama Safari Park provide natural habitats where animals exhibit natural behaviours while offering visitors immersive wildlife experiences.

Explore Our Zoological Gardens

Discover the wonders of Dehiwala Zoo, Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, Pinnawala Zoo, and Ridiyagama Safari Park, where wildlife conservation, research, and education come alive.

Department of Forest Conservation Sri Lanka

The Sri Lanka Department of Forest Conservation holds the true authority as the leading administrative body responsible for safeguarding the nation's forests and biodiversity.

Official Documentary
Department of National Zoological Gardens Sri Lanka

This official documentary presents an in-depth look into the work and mission of the Department of National Zoological Gardens of Sri Lanka. Through stunning 4K visuals, the film showcases the country’s major zoological facilities and highlights their role in wildlife conservation, animal welfare, research, and environmental education.

Department of National
Zoological Gardens

120 Anagarika Dharmapala Mawatha,
Dehiwala-Mount Lavinia Sri Lanka
Mon – Sun: 8:30 am – 5:00 pm

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