It is hard to imagine the presence of a dense green enclosure with an extensive animal population within a bustling metropolis that is the city of Dehiwala, Sri Lanka. Home to thousands of creatures and as of 2005, 350 different species, the zoo is a world of its own with sprawling gardens, sheltered walkways, water pools canopied by a thick green branches and drooping creepers and the roar of the lion in harmony with the chirp of the macaws.
The National Zoological Gardens of Sri Lanka or better known as the National Zoo or Dehiwala Zoo inaugurated in 1939 is one of the oldest zoological gardens in Asia. With a vision to become one of the most outstanding zoological gardens in the world and a mission to create a place for resourceful conservation and education of the masses, the Dehiwala Zoo has undertaken numerous projects for the development of the zoo and the welfare of the animals. Successful breeding programs have been implemented through the years as well as exchange programs with other zoological gardens around the world to create a larger and more diverse collection of animals.
The butterfly garden is a cosy little enclosure filled with shrubs, bright coloured flowers, creepers and little streams. This enclosure is maintained at an optimum temperature by an artificial mist and exhibits 30 different species of different life cycles. There are also a few bird enclosures and watch as rainbow coloured wings flutter past you and gently peck at your feet if you are extremely careful not to move. Step into the cool and eerie reptile house to witness some of the most dangerous and venomous snakes of the land. Watch as their scaled bodies slither across the floor and the interesting patterns light forms on them. Visit the many cages and enclosures converted into dense forests rich in rare plants and those with medicinal importance and the dark coolness of the aquarium. There also daily elephant shows, sea lion shows, elephant and pony rides to certain time tables. Experience and listen to the sound of the wild from the low hum of the crickets, roar of the big wild cats, and trumpet of the Asian elephant and the silent meditation of the turtles.
Jetwing Travels offers a range of Sri Lanka Tours to explore end to end this dynamic country. Sri Lanka travel includes historical and cultural destinations as well as sandy beaches and picturesque forests and mountains.
