Situated 11 km from the Fort - Colombo, the zoo has a fine collection of animals, birds, reptiles and fish from all over the world. The aquarium is the only one of its kind in Asia and displays over 500 varieties of aquatic life. Also walk through Aviary, Reptilian, and Butterfly Park to see another amazing world of wild animals. There are daily elephant performance at 5.15 p.m. Open daily between 8.00 a.m. and 6.00 p.m.

The National Zoological Gardens, popularly known as the Zoo, is a beautifully landscaped 30 acres in which a rich collection of mammals, birds, reptiles and fishes live in harmony with Nature. Although it was begun as a menagerie in the late nineteen twenties by John Hagenbeck a member of the famous show-business family from Hamburg, Germany, the Zoo was officially recognized as such only in July 1936 when the Government purchased it.

It was then a mere 9 acres in extent but has steadily grown into a beautiful Zoological Garden exhibiting animals in naturalistic setting using modern methods of husbandry. Over 1.2 million visitors pass through the Zoo's gates every year for it caters to young and old alike and is a source of healthy recreation to the average citizen especially those who come in family groups. To all its visitors the Zoo is quiet tranquil haven into which they could withdraw from the bustle of urban life.