Pinnawala Zoo
Pinnawala Zoo
Explore the Beauty of Sri Lanka’s First Open Concept Zoo
Welcome to Pinnawala Zoological Gardens
Pinnawala Zoological Gardens offers visitors a refreshing and modern wildlife experience in a spacious environment designed to reflect natural animal habitats. Established as Sri Lanka’s first open-concept zoo, the facility was developed to provide improved animal welfare while creating a relaxing and educational setting for visitors to explore wildlife more closely.
The zoological gardens are home to a wide variety of animals including mammals, birds, reptiles, and aquatic species from different parts of the world. Wide walkways, natural landscapes, and carefully designed enclosures allow visitors to observe animal behavior in surroundings that promote comfort and enrichment. The institution also plays an important role in conservation, research, and environmental education programs conducted by the Department of National Zoological Gardens.
Today, Pinnawala Zoological Gardens continues to attract families, students, and wildlife enthusiasts who seek a peaceful and informative wildlife experience while learning about the value of biodiversity conservation.
The zoological gardens are home to a wide variety of animals including mammals, birds, reptiles, and aquatic species from different parts of the world. Wide walkways, natural landscapes, and carefully designed enclosures allow visitors to observe animal behavior in surroundings that promote comfort and enrichment. The institution also plays an important role in conservation, research, and environmental education programs conducted by the Department of National Zoological Gardens.
Today, Pinnawala Zoological Gardens continues to attract families, students, and wildlife enthusiasts who seek a peaceful and informative wildlife experience while learning about the value of biodiversity conservation.
Explore the Wonders of Pinnawala Zoo
Opened on 17 April 2015 as Sri Lanka’s first open-concept zoo, Pinnawala Zoo is situated on a scenic 36-acre landscape beside the Ma Oya in the Kegalle District. Designed with spacious naturalistic enclosures, the zoo provides visitors with an immersive wildlife experience while supporting animal welfare, conservation, research, and environmental education.
The zoo features a diverse collection of mammals, reptiles, birds, and aquatic species including Sri Lankan leopards, Royal Bengal tigers, sloth bears, crocodiles, flamingos, and the country’s largest open butterfly garden. Interactive programmes, educational facilities, and a wildlife museum further enrich the visitor experience for families, students, researchers, and nature enthusiasts.
The zoo features a diverse collection of mammals, reptiles, birds, and aquatic species including Sri Lankan leopards, Royal Bengal tigers, sloth bears, crocodiles, flamingos, and the country’s largest open butterfly garden. Interactive programmes, educational facilities, and a wildlife museum further enrich the visitor experience for families, students, researchers, and nature enthusiasts.
Advancing Conservation of the Endangered
Sri Lankan Leopard
Pinnawala Zoo plays a pioneering role in the conservation of the endangered Sri Lankan Leopard through an advanced artificial insemination breeding programme. This special initiative supports the Department of National Zoological Gardens’ commitment to wildlife conservation by protecting a species threatened by habitat loss, human activities, and declining wild populations..
Conducted under the principles of Ex-Situ Conservation in collaboration with the Veterinary Research Institute, the programme utilizes modern technology, scientific expertise, and skilled professionals. The initiative represents a significant step toward securing the future survival and genetic sustainability of Sri Lanka’s iconic leopard species.
A Safe Haven for Sri Lanka’s Endangered Species
At the Department of National Zoological Gardens, conservation and animal welfare are central to our mission. Pinnawala Zoo plays a key role in protecting and sustainably conserving Sri Lanka’s unique and endangered wildlife, including the highly threatened Sri Lankan Loris.
Through conservation initiatives, veterinary care, scientific management, and awareness programmes, the zoo provides a safe environment for vulnerable species while supporting national biodiversity preservation. It continues to advance research, education, and long-term wildlife welfare for future generations.
Connection to Broader Goals
Revenue generated from these special programmes directly supports the zoo’s vital work in wildlife conservation, scientific research, and public education. By participating, visitors contribute to initiatives like breeding programmes for endangered species and habitat conservation, making their visit both enjoyable and meaningful.
Ticket prices
| Local Adults (Over 12) | Rs. 295.00 |
| Local Children (Under 12) | Rs. 118.00 |
| School Children (Group of 20+) | Rs. 59.00 |
| Foreign Adults | USD 11.80 |
| Foreign Children | USD 5.90 |
| SAARC Foreign Adults (3 to 12 years) | USD 9.44 |
| SAARC Foreign Children (3 to 12 years) | USD 4.72 |
Combined Ticket Prices
Enjoy more with a single ticket! These tickets give you access to both the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage and the Pinnawala Zoo, making your visit even more memorable.
| Foreign Adults | USD 20.00 |
| Foreign Children | USD 10.00 |
| SAARC Foreign Adults (3 to 12 years) | USD 10.00 |
| SAARC Foreign Children (3 to 12 years) | USD 5.00 |
Special events ticket prices
| Bird feeding | 250 RS |
| Leopard feeding | 250 RS |
| Herbivores feeding | 200 RS |
| Take photos with reptiles | 200 RS |
| Crocodile feeding | 500 RS |
| Wedding photography | 5000 RS |
| Buggy cart tickets | 2000 RS |
| Garden for functions | 5000 RS |
| Birthday celebrations (With animals) | 7500 RS |
| Birthday celebrations (Without animals) | 5000 RS |
| Education building for meetings | 5000 RS |
Special Programmes
Pinnawala Zoo offers a range of engaging activities designed to enhance the visitor experience, promote education, and support its broader conservation goals.
Animal Feeding Sessions
These scheduled events provide exciting, up-close viewing opportunities and educate visitors about animal diets and behaviors.
Leopard Feeding: A dramatic demonstration showcasing the power and agility of these big cats, conducted under expert supervision.
Crocodile Feeding: An awe-inspiring session that reveals the feeding strategies and strength of these ancient reptiles.
Herbivores Feeding: A gentle and interactive experience where visitors can feed deer and other grazing animals.
Bird Feeding: A vibrant session where endemic and exotic birds flock to feed, creating excellent opportunities for observation and photography.
Interactive Animal Encounters
These programmes offer hands-on experiences to foster a deeper connection with wildlife.
Pony Rides: A beloved activity for children, providing a safe and supervised introduction to horses and building early appreciation for animals.
Take Photos with Reptiles: A guided encounter that allows visitors to safely interact with creatures like pythons and tortoises, helping to overcome fears and promote understanding
Venue Hire & Special Events
The zoo's natural settings provide a unique backdrop for private celebrations and functions.
Wedding Photography: Couples can have their special photos taken amidst the scenic landscapes of the zoo.
Birthday Celebrations & Garden Functions: The gardens are available for hosting events, offering a unique, nature-themed environment for parties and gatherings.
Visitor Amenities
This service is designed to ensure a comfortable and accessible experience for all guests.
Buggy Cart Tickets: A convenient transport option to navigate the expansive zoo grounds, ideal for families with young children, elderly visitors, and those with mobility needs.
Park Rules & Regulations
Pet Animals / Musical Instruments
Do not bring any kind of pet animal to the zoo premises. Any noise producing instruments (Drums, Symbols, Whistles, JBL etc.) are not allowed at the premises.
Plastic & Polythene
Bringing plastic and polythene to the Zoo is strictly prohibited. Please discard your trash to the proper bins.
Smoking / Alcohol
Smoking, Alcoholic beverages and any type of narcotics are prohibited in the Zoo premises.
Safety First
Unauthorized contacts with Zoo animals may cause injury. Do not enter to the unauthorized areas and construction sites. No climbing on barriers or walls.
Animal Harassments & fine
If a visitor is found harassing an animal, they will face either eviction from the zoo or a fine determine by the severity of the incident.
Safety of Your Belongings
Always keep your belongings in your custody. Please do not leave them at public areas without any protection. Make sure your wallets, mobiles & other valuable items are secure when you are walking along the crowded pathways. The zoo will not be responsible for any goods lost.
Scammers / Unauthorized Guides
Do not give money to any person if you are not provided a guide service officially. The zoo will not take any responsibility in any adversity arisen in such a situation.
Animal Interaction Program
You can feed animals with our animal interaction program. No other feeding is allowed.
Department of National
Zoological Gardens
120 Anagarika Dharmapala Mawatha,
Dehiwala-Mount Lavinia Sri Lanka
Dehiwala-Mount Lavinia Sri Lanka
Mon – Sun: 8:30 am – 5:00 pm
Recent News
පින්නවලට වසර 51යි
Feb 16,2026
78 වැනි ජාතික නිදහස් දිනය
Feb 04,2026
පාසල් ළමා චිත්ර තරගය – 2026
Mar 11,2026