National Zoological Garden situated only 9.5 kilometres from Colombo City is a place that will excite both young and the old when they explore through gardens filled with beautiful birds and fierce animals. Dehiwala Zoo is open usually from 8:30am to 6pm, all 365 days a year. 

If you like to use public transport, the easiest way to get to the Zoo is by train. You can get in the from the train station at Colombo Fort and get down from Dehiwala station which is very close to the zoo and get the Bus Route Number 176 or 118 from there to reach the zoo or you can take the Bus Route Number 101 from Colombo Fort that stops at Dehiwala junction, and get the Bus Route Number 176 or 118 or simply get a cab or a tuk tuk since it’s not so far away from the main city.
If you are a foreign adult you will have to pay Rs.2000 as the entrance fee and if you have children coming with you Rs. 1000 will be charged for each foreign child. If you are from a SAARC country as an adult you will have to pay Rs.500 and a child only Rs. 250. Locals have to pay lesser than that for a wonderful experience inside the zoo. 
There are so many types of animals that will surely take your whole day to look around. Seeing all the Mammals, reptiles, birds & butterflies and the pretty aquarium itself will be one of the best experiences you’ll ever have in Colombo. They have a great Zoo Museum as well with great descriptions which are very informative and staff will also be very helpful to give out more information about the animal skeletons to be seen at this great place. 
Elephant Rides are entertained on Saturdays 2:30pm to 4:00pm and pony rides are given on Sundays at the same time. You will be able to catch up on an exciting lion show and the elephant shows every day between 4 – 4:15pm and 4:30 to 4:55pm which will amuse for sure. 
This will be a perfect place for your families to hang out during day time and since it’s usually sunny it’s better for you to be wearing light clothes and bring an umbrella or a hat to stay safe from the sun.  And you can download the map inside the zoo before you come for your own convenience by using the link, http://www.colombozoo.gov.lk/images/stories/zoomap/zoomap_en.gif