Keeping up with the modern concept of a zoo which is more of an educational and conservation based visitor center, which provides an opportunity to see the animals close to its natural state, the Pinnawala Zoo was designed with a unique taste of architecture and complete with immerse exhibits. The locality was chosen with the close proximity to the renowned Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage with access to natural water resources such as the Ma Oya.
Inaugurated by the Hon. Minister Dharmasiri Senanayake the Pinnawala Zoo opened its doors to the public on the 17th of April 2015 under the patronage of Hon. Navin Dissanayaka Minister of tourism and sports.