A Jaffna Cultural Guide: How To Experience Tamil Culture In Jaffna? 

BY  Sibashree Jul 16, 2026

A Quick ViewAfter the July 2026 reclassification of the World Bank, Sri Lanka has become an upper-middle-income economy. The reclassification has happened as a result of a 5% GDP rebound driven by tourism, industry, and finance, three years after its 2022 debt default.Especially tourism has hit record arrivals in 2025 (2.36 million), though revenue and per-visitor spending still trail 2018 levels.Also, authorities are targeting $4 billion in 2026 tourism revenue through a "value over volume" strategy.However, the recovery narrative remains complicated with IMF debt-risk warnings, inflation, and a Middle East crisis.  A Story of Recovery!  This is what the World Bank has called the upgrade of the Sri Lankan economy in 2026. Overcoming the deep economic crisis in 2022, it is now an upper-middle-income economy.  But what does it mean for the tourism landscape of the island country? After traveling to Sri Lanka many times, I am curious to know whether it indicates rebranding and a paradigm shift. The answer is a thumping YES, and tourism has been a major force behind the economic expansion of 5% (GDP Growth) in Sri Lanka in 2025.  So, here is a deep dive into how Sri Lanka economy 2026 is going to impact the country’s tourism.  What The World Bank Classification Of Sri Lanka Economy 2026 Actually Measures World Bank moved Sri Lanka from lower-middle to upper-middle income on July 1, 2026, based on 2025 GNI per capita data, alongside Jordan, the Philippines, Vietnam, and Micronesia. The upper-middle band runs roughly $4,516–$14,005 GNI per capita, and Sri Lanka crossed the threshold narrowly with a GNI of $4,670 in 2025. So, there are two takeaways from the reclassification.  First of all, "upper-middle income" is a technical designation. It does not describe the household living standards.  Secondly, there has been a lot of overstatement about the reclassification. However, as mentioned, Sri Lanka has just crossed the threshold.  It is not a transformation, and the country could plausibly sit near the boundary for several classification cycles depending on GNI growth, exchange-rate movements, and population changes. Again, the World Bank has used the Atlas method, which smooths out exchange-rate volatility.  In this method, the World Bank has divided economics into four bands. Low-Income Lower-Middle Income Upper-Middle Income High Income This recent update has covered 218 economies and will remain the reference classification until June 30, 2027. So, while it is a significant marker for a country that was rationing fuel, running double-digit inflation, and defaulting on its external debt just four years earlier, the economic story has more layers to it.  Sri Lanka Is Not A First-Time Entrant To This Category  There is a third aspect to talk about when we discuss the reclassification of the Sri Lankan economy.  Sri Lanka has not moved to this level for the first time. It used to enjoy the same status before 2022, after which the crisis knocked the economy back down to lower-middle income.  So, this is like regaining a previously lost ground instead of achieving a brand new milestone.  Also, there are the practical consequences of this upgrade.  It plays a role in determining a country's eligibility for concessional financing and development assistance, meaning Sri Lanka's terms of access to certain low-cost loans may shift as a result of the upgrade. The Recovery Story Behind The Upgrade  The story behind the reclassification of Sri Lanka economy 2026 is different from that of Vietnam or the Philippines.  The World Bank itself clarifies that Vietnam's upgrade reflects a decade of export-led expansion.  On the other hand, the Philippines reflects broad-based growth across nearly every sector. However, the reclassification of the Sri Lankan economy is a resilient narrative following a severe crisis.  The numbers vouch for this claim.  Just three years back, in 2022, the country faced a crisis that almost brought it to the brink of collapse.  However, in 2025, the real GDP expands by 5%. Industrial activities alongside growth in the financial and tourism sectors have propelled this growth.  Also, the crisis in 2022 is worth remembering as it was the first sovereign default of the country in its post-independence history.  It happened due to a foreign exchange collapse that led to fuel and medicine shortages nationwide. The IMF Stepped In The International Monetary Fund (IMF) offered an Extended Fund Facility program in March 2023.  At that time, the country's foreign reserves were $1.9 billion, and the LKR had lost half of its value.  Furthermore, in a recent press release published on 27th May 2026, the IMF has confirmed that it has “...completed the combined Fifth and Sixth Reviews of the Extended Fund Facility for Sri Lanka, providing the country with immediate access to SDR508 million (about US$695 million) to support economic policies and reforms” In the same press release, the IMF has again mentioned that the total program payout now stands at around $2.4 billion.  In addition, in the IMF Country Report No. 26/111, we can see that the fiscal performance of Sri Lanka has improved.  The tax revenue in 2025 reached 15.4, which was a sharp rise from the tax revenue figure of 9.9 in 2023.  In addition, the primary budget surplus exceeded 5% of GDP in 2025, ahead of program targets.  So, overall, it is a faithful macroeconomic progress. However, it does not mean absolute stability or the Sri Lankan economy being completely risk-free.  A Snapshot Of Sri Lanka’s Economy Since 2022 Here is a summary of the key changes in the economy of Sri Lanka from 2022 to 2026.  (Sources: World Bank, IMF, Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA), World Bank, and Sunday Times). Indicator2022 (Crisis Low)2023202420252026World Bank income classificationLower-middle incomeLower-middle incomeLower-middle incomeLower-middle incomeUpper-middle income (from July 1)Real GDP Growth Deep contraction-2.3% Contraction (Stabilized by mid-year after the 2022 crash)5% Growth5% GrowthModerating with inflation shock mid-yearForeign reserves$1.9 billion$4.4 Billion$6.12 Billion$7 Billion (Estimated, March)$6.8 Billion (End of April)Tourist ArrivalsRecovering1.48 Million2.05 MillionA Record of 2.36 MillionA Target of 3 MillionTourism RevenueDepressed$2.0 Billion$3.17 Billion$3.2 BillionA Government Target of $4 BillionHeadline InflationVery High (Crisis)Returned to Single Digits. Averaged 16.5% annually, but dropped from a 60-70% peak down to 4% by Dec.Deflationary Period5% (Year-End)Spiked to 5.5% by May amid Energy Shock After sharing the financial summary, let’s talk about the tourism performance in 2025-26 and what the future looks like.  The Actual Tourism Scene Of Sri Lanka In 2025-26 The tourism sector of Sri Lanka had a record year in 2025.  However, when analyzing data from various sources, I found out that some structural challenges still remain, and an income reclassification cannot fix them directly.  The Gap Between Tourist Arrival And Revenue The Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority has confirmed an arrival of 2,364,978 tourists in 2025.  It even broke the record of 2.33 million tourist arrivals in 2018.  However, a Daily FT report published on 12th January 2026 clearly mentions that, revenue-wise, the year-on-year revenue growth in 2025 was just 1.6% despite a boost of 15% in tourist arrivals.  In addition, the tourism revenue in December 2025 went down by 14.8% YoY ($ 308.6) despite a record set in tourist arrivals.  The Tourist Spending Gap  The tourist spending gap depicts the real story.  The same Daily FT report I have earlier referred to has mentioned that the average daily tourist spend fell to about $148 in 2025.  Industry analysis attributes much of this to the rapid growth of budget guesthouses and Airbnb-style listings. Amarasiri, a guesthouse owner and a friend I met during my trip to Sri Lanka, shared his opinion on this.  “Most of these offer a pricing of under $50 a night, pulling the market average down against higher-end hotels charging $125–150.”  In addition, the overall contribution of tourism to the GDP has also shrunk. It was 5% in 2018, and as of 2025, it stands at 3%.  Does The Momentum Continue In 2026?  The tourism industry of Sri Lanka had a great start in 2026. By the first quarter, the country already had over 740,000 visitors.  February was the month when the numbers peaked. As a result, the tourism authorities had set a target of 3 million arrivals and $4 billion in tourism revenue for 2026.  Furthermore, there was an explicit strategic shift toward high-value visitors rather than sheer volume.  To support that shift, the Tourism Ministry again launched an eight-month global marketing campaign in April 2026, backed by roughly $6.4 million and targeting 12 to 15 source markets. These markets included India, the UK, Germany, China, and the Middle East. However, nobody anticipated the geopolitical shock in the Middle East. It caused a fall in tourist arrivals of around 20% in March on a YoY basis.  Also, with current day-to-day proceedings, the numbers do not seem to go up before September 2026.  The same conflict pushed up fuel costs sharply, and rupee-denominated Brent crude prices rose by more than half in about ten weeks in early 2026. Again, it disrupted flight routing, given that the Middle East accounts for roughly a third of flights into Sri Lanka. Does The Income Reclassification Actually Move The Needle For Tourism? Here is an honest assessment. The reclassification of Sri Lanka economy 2026 by the World Bank is not a policy lever for a direct transformation in the tourism sector.  However, it is an intersection of the tourism and financial sectors in many concrete ways.  1. Investor And Lender Perception The reclassification as an upper-middle-income country can give positive signals in how international investors, hotel groups, and lenders assess country risk. Thus, it will improve the path for hospitality infrastructure investment. However, the reclassification does not override the more immediate signals investors watch. These signals are: Currency Stability Debt Sustainability Ratings The Trajectory of IMF Programs 2. Currency And Pricing Dynamics  A stronger and more stable rupee indicates how affordable Sri Lanka feels to foreign visitors. Furthermore, currency stability was one of the explicit achievements cited in IMF program reviews. Though 2026's energy-driven inflation spike and the accompanying rate hike show that stability is not guaranteed and can reverse quickly under external shocks. 3. Financing Terms, Not Tourist Experience The most practical effect of the classification is on Sri Lanka's access to concessional financing. The reality is that upper-middle-income countries generally face different (often less favorable) borrowing terms than lower-middle-income ones. Now, this is a huge factor in determining the ability of the government to fund tourism infrastructure, including airports, roads, and utilities in emerging destinations.  However, it is an indirect, medium-term channel rather than something a visitor booking a trip this year would notice. 4. Brand Narrative, Not Policy Change  The most immediate effect of this reclassification is reputation.  Economic recovery and upper-middle-income! Terms like this make for a more compelling destination narrative than "post-crisis" or "developing economy in distress." The tourism authority of Sri Lanka is already leaning into a comeback narrative in its 2026 marketing push. Now, the World Bank news gives that campaign an additional, credible data point to cite. What the classification does not do is directly address the structural issue tourism officials themselves have flagged. It is getting visitors to spend more per day.  That's a product mix and marketing problem. It encourages MICE travel, weddings, wellness tourism, and higher-end stays that Sri Lanka is already tackling on its own terms, income classification or not. 5. Unlocking High-Value Tourism Niches The Wellness Boom: Wealthier economies pull health-conscious travelers looking for upscale, authentic Ayurvedic and holistic medical retreats. MICE Travel Magnet: Corporate infrastructure upgrades position Colombo as a highly competitive regional hub for Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE). Niche Eco-Adventures: Enhanced funding speeds up the preservation of wildlife sanctuaries and marine parks, drawing premium sustainable-travel consumers. 6. Strategic Advantages Over Competitors The economic reclassification gives Sri Lanka a strategic advantage over its competitors.  The table below explains the key areas.  Metric / AspectSri LankaIndiaBali/IndonesiaWorld Bank StatusUpper-Middle IncomeLower-Middle IncomeUpper-Middle IncomeTourism FocusHigh-end wellness and boutiqueDiverse mass and culturalHigh-volume mixed leisureFDI AppealHigh (Fresh post-crisis rebound)High (Scale-driven infrastructure)Mature / Nearing saturationPer Capita FootprintLow volume, high expenditureHigh-volume varianceSevere over-tourism pressures 7. Supply-Side Infrastructure And Service Upgrades Institutional stability triggers major foreign direct investments.  Mega ventures such as the $850 million City of Dreams integrated resort in Colombo are one of the most prominent examples of it.  Furthermore, with a rising per capita income, there is an empowerment of businesses to invest heavily in formal hospitality training. As a result, the workforce skill gaps are eliminated.  Moreover, a greater fiscal boom allows the country to fund critical tourist amenities. These include smoother highway connectivity to expanding green and renewable energy grids for eco-tourism. For example, the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and IUCN are working together to protect the central highlands of Sri Lanka.  They are working to protect the biodiversity and improve the livelihood of the people in this area.  GEF is supporting this initiative with funding of 3.5 million USD.  However, with these initiatives already ongoing, you may question what the reclassification can actually bring to the table.  Why Does The Recovery Remain Fragile? The story of revival for the economy of Sri Lanka focuses on human resilience. Now, if you think I am not giving the reclassification its due credit, I have my concern areas to justify it.  High Debt And Sustainability Risks  The IMF's own debt sustainability framework rates Sri Lanka's overall risk as high. Furthermore, Fund staff have acknowledged that even after a successful program and a near-complete debt restructuring, sustainability risks are expected to persist for years. Also, external debt can become more demanding as early as restructured bilateral and commercial debt matures alongside IMF repayments. In addition, the current IMF Program will expire in March 2027.  Thus, despite the reclassification, there is a narrow window to build reserves and sustain the reforms already made. Dependency On Official Sector Support  The return of Sri Lanka to the international capital markets is yet to happen. Furthermore, the country has not built reserves to the program's target threshold. These show how the country is dependent on official-sector support rather than standing fully on its own.  Furthermore, late 2025 and the year 2026 so far have brought two external shocks. 1. Cyclone Ditwah Struck in Late 2025 It has called for an emergency IMF financing and a supplementary government budget for relief and reconstruction. 2. Middle East conflict The Middle East conflict has caused a hike in fuel prices, problematic remittances, and disrupted flight connectivity through the first half of 2026.  Trade Policy Adding Another Layer Of Uncertainty  Sri Lankan economy also faces uncertainty due to its trade policy,  Sri Lanka is currently facing an effective US tariff rate of around 20% under Section 122 measures. Furthermore, its preferential GSP+ access to the EU market is set to expire in 2026, with authorities planning to reapply under a revised framework.  None of this directly targets tourism, but it affects the broader currency and investment environment that shapes how affordable and accessible the country feels to international travelers. So, What Does The Reclassification Actually Mean For Travelers? The Practical Takeaways  For us, the global travelers and global travel writers, the practical takeaways are more modest and specific than the headlines suggest.  Trend / Strategy ComponentKey Insights and DetailsStrategic Focus / ImpactPricing and Market PositionPrices will drift upward gradually, narrowing the gap for mid-range and upmarket properties."Value over volume" strategy, as budget travelers will see higher costs due to post-2026 inflation.Target Source MarketsCourtship of new markets (Poland, Eastern Europe) alongside traditional ones (India, UK, Germany).Diversifying and expanding future arrivals growth.Growth SegmentsHigh focus on MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, Exhibitions), weddings, and wellness travel.Driving higher per-visitor spend across the sector.Risk FactorsVulnerability to external events like Cyclone Ditwah and Middle East conflicts.Tourism numbers swing sharply based on geopolitical and weather risks, not just domestic policy. The actual challenge of the tourism sector remains in converting the record visitor numbers into a kind of high-value, high-spend visits that generate the expected revenue growth.  The income upgrade may support that ambition indirectly, through investor confidence and destination narrative. However, the short-term fortunes of the sector will likely be shaped far more by currency stability, fuel prices, and regional geopolitics. Also, the outcome of Sri Lanka's IMF program through its March 2027 conclusion will be a more important factor than the income bracket in which the World Bank places the country.

BY  Sibashree Sep 8, 2026

I was quite content at Arugam Bay for a week of surfing, and I had Kumana penciled in as one of my big wildlife detours.  I had heard about Lahugala, but most guides or locals I met mentioned it in passing.  It was more like, “Oh, that little park on the way to Pottuvil, you'll drive past it anyway.” However, an elderly guesthouse owner told me not to skip it. I listened to him. Otherwise, I would have missed the most understated, elephant-dense pockets of wilderness.  It was not like anything I had visited in Sri Lanka. Also, the best part was that I had it almost entirely to myself.  The park neither can nor tries to compete with Yala National Park or Wilpattu in scale or star power.  It is 5.4 square kilometres of flat, tank-fed scrubland in the Eastern Province, and that smallness is precisely the point. Everything in Lahugala revolves around water, grass, and elephants, and on the afternoon I visited, all three came together in a way I still think about. A Quick Introduction To Lahugala National Park Lahugala Kitulana National Park is in the eastern province of Sri Lanka, and it is roughly 16 Km inland from Arugam Bay.  It is also just off the Pottuvil–Monaragala road, which actually cuts through the park's southeastern edge. This park began its journey as a wildlife sanctuary in July 1966. Then, on 31st October 1980, it had an upgrade as a national park.  Furthermore, the ecology of the park revolves around the three ancient tanks, Lahugala, Kitulana, and Senagamuwa. These tanks eventually drain into the Heda Oya River. Nevertheless, have a look at the quick snapshot below before you plan a visit to Lahugala National Park.  DetailInformationLocationEastern Province, near Pottuvil and Arugam BayAreaApproximately 15.4 sq kmEstablishedSanctuary in 1966National park status on 31 Oct 1980Key featureThree Interconnected TanksLahugalaKitulanaSenagamuwaFamous forElephant gatherings around Lahugala tank, especially in the dry seasonNearest townPottuvil (approx. 16 km)Arugam Bay (approx. 16–18 km)Best seasonYear-roundElephant sightings are strongest July–September How To Reach Lahugala?  You do not need to plan a standalone trip for Lahugala National Park.  Like most travelers, I reached Lahugala from Arugam Bay. The tuk-tuk price was LKR 3000, and it took around 45 minutes.  Furthermore, the distance between Colombo and Lahugala is around 378 kilometers. So, if you are traveling from Colombo, choose Ella or Monaragala as your overnight stop.  Attempting the national park from Colombo will be an overly ambitious plan.  FromApprox. DistanceApproximate Drive TimeArugam Bay16–18 kmAround 30- 45 MinutesPottuvil16 km20–25 minutesMonaragala45 km1 hourColombo378 km6–7 hours The A4 Highway from Pottuvil to Monaragala runs directly alongside and briefly through the park. So, you do not even need a dedicated safari transfer to see part of Lahugala.  So, you can see a major section of the tank and grassland from the main road.  However, if you want to explore the interior tracks or the tank edges, you will need a park-registered tracker and jeep.  My Safari Experience At Lahugala National Park It was around 3:30 PM when I reached Lahugala. From the locals, I already knew that it was the ideal window for the classic dawn safari here.  The heat is at its peak in the afternoon, and that is what pushes elephants toward the tanks.  So, in the late afternoon, you will find them near the tanks.  The Elephants Of Lahugala Tank The Lahugala Tank supports a thick growth of Sacciolepis interrupta, a wetland grass elephants seem to genuinely love.  I saw herds gathering along the tank margins to graze on it.  The herds I came across had a decent strength of 20 to 30 elephants. However, the guide told me that during the peak season, there can be around 100 elephants in a herd.  Also, one thing I want to share here. The largest herd I spotted in the park was nowhere near the known gathering spots.  I saw them across the far bank and in the shallows.  Overall, barring the famous gathering of Minneriya, this was the largest elephant encounter I had in Sri Lanka.  I loved the elephant watching experience here because of how unhurried it felt.  No other jeeps were jostling for position, and there was no radio chatter about a sighting three tracks over.  My tracker cut the engine near the tank edge, and we simply sat and watched calves wade in, and adults strip grass with their trunks for close to forty minutes. Birdlife Along The Tanks The three tanks of Lahugala made it an exciting spot for bird watching. The park especially stands out with its population of waterbirds.  I picked out painted storks, several egret species, cormorants, and a pair of white-bellied sea eagles working the thermals above the water. Because the park is so rarely crowded, birds tend to stay closer and longer than they would somewhere busier. Sloth Bears And Other Wildlife In the park, I saw spotted or axis deer, sloth bears, along with mugger crocodiles and freshwater turtles.  However, to be honest, sloth bears are elusive, and you can spot them by luck.  They are shy. So, even if you cannot see them, know that they are present in the park.  What Is The Best Time To Visit Lahugala National Park? Lahugala National Park is a year-round destination.  However, if you are in the park especially for elephant gatherings, dry months are the best time to spot them.  During the dry months of July to September, elephant sightings become frequent, with the water levels dropping elsewhere and the gigantic creatures gathering around the tanks.  Also, you must avoid the northeast monsoon period from October to January. The tanks are full in these months, and the elephants disperse into the surrounding forest, making sightings far less predictable. Entrance Fees And Permits CategoryApproximate Cost (2026)Foreign Adult (12+)USD 12Foreign Child (6–12 Years)USD 6Foreign Children under 6 Years FreeSAARC NationalsUSD 10 for AdultsUSD 5 for Children between 6 and 12 YearsFree for Children below 6 YearsLocals Adults: LKR 60Children from 6 to 12 Years: LKR 30Children below 6 Years: FreeStudents: LKR 20Vehicle Entry TicketLKR 300Foreign Group Fee Per VehicleUSD 10 A Half-Day Lahugala Itinerary Because Lahugala is small, it is easy to pair with either Arugam Bay's beaches or a longer Kumana National Park excursion. Here is roughly how I had structured the afternoon based on my own visit. TimeActivity2:30 PMDepart Arugam Bay 3:00 PMArrive at Lahugala entrance, collect tracker3:30–4:45 PMSafari loop around Lahugala tank, elephant and bird watching4:45–5 PMStop at the old Magul Maha Vihara ruins near the park boundary5:15 PMReturn to Arugam Bay in time for sunset Tips From My Visit A few practical notes I will pass on. Go in the late afternoon rather than dawn, since Lahugala's elephant activity peaks as the heat pushes them toward water. Bring binoculars, as the tank is wide and animals often graze on the far bank. Do not expect the density of jeeps you will find in Yala National Park. This is one of the few parks in Sri Lanka where a wildlife sighting still feels unhurried and private. Nearby Places To Explore Lahugala sits at the crossroads of Sri Lanka's east coast and its deep south, which makes it easy to fold into a longer itinerary.  If you are basing yourself in Arugam Bay, it pairs naturally with a Kumana National Park safari for a more thorough wildlife day.  Travellers heading further south along the coast often continue on toward Pasikudah or Nilaveli for beach time. Again, those coming from the cultural triangle sometimes route through Mullaitivu or Vavuniya on the way east.

BY  Sibashree Mar 16, 2026

The National Zoological Gardens of Sri Lanka, or Dehiwala Zoo, is one of the first zoos in Asia.  So, if you have enjoyed the Kaudulla National Park safari, you will also love a visit to the Dehiwala Zoo.  This zoo has an area of 26 acres, and it is home to more than 2000 animals. Furthermore, you will find fountains, orchids, and peaceful lakes here. Moreover, it offers a unique Night Safari experience. On this night safari, you can spot the mysterious nocturnal animals.  In addition, you can join the educational workshops here to learn about wildlife conservation.  So, come and have a thrilling wildlife experience at Dehiwala Zoo. However, before I talk about its location, how to travel, things to do, and the best time to travel, here is a quick look at the essential details.  Dehiwala Zoo In Colombo: Quick Info  Address120 Galvihara Road, Dehiwala-Mount Lavinia, Sri LankaTimings8:30 AM to 6 PMTicket- LKR 100 for Local Adults- LKR 2,500 for ForeignersFacilities- Souvenir Shops- Restaurants- Boat Rides- Icecream Stalls- Zoo Aquarium- Butterfly Garden Pony Rides- Elephant Rides- Flowers- Fountains How To Reach Dehiwala Zoo?  Dehiwala Zoo is well accessible by air, train, bus, taxi, and ride-hailing apps. While the easiest option is to take a taxi or private car, traveling by bus is the cheapest way.  1. By Air Dehiwala Zoo is just 40 km away from the Bandaranaike International Airport.  Furthermore, you will easily get a ride-hailing service or a taxi to reach the Dehiwala Zoo within 45 minutes.  2. By Train The Dehiwala Railway Station is the closest to the zoo. So, if you are traveling from the north, you have to take a train from Colombo Fort Station to Dehiwala Railway Station.  Also, if you are traveling from the south, you can stop at Mount Lavinia Railway Station. The beautiful Mount Lavinia Beach is just 1.4 km away from the railway station.  Tuk-tuks are available from both these railway stations, and the train ticket price will be between 40 and 100 LKR.  3. By Taxis Or Ride-Hailing Apps The easiest way to reach Dehiwala Zoo is to take a ride-hailing service or a taxi. Uber and PickMe are the main ride-hailing services here.  You can book vans, tuk-tuks, or cabs using these apps.  Furthermore, the travel cost in this way is between 1700 and 2400 LKR.  4. By Bus  You will get buses to Dehiwala Zoo throughout the day. You can take bus 176, 100, and 101.  Furthermore, the ticket prices are between 30 and 50 LKR.  What Are The Best Things To Do At Dehiwala Zoo?  From watching the elephant performance to taking a ride in the zoo train, the activities in the zoo are diverse and ideal for tourists of all age groups.  However, for me, the most delightful part was watching the elephants in action. Here is more about the things to do at Dehiwala Zoo.  1. Watching The Animal Shows  Located on the Anagarika Dharmapala Mawatha, Dehiwala Zoo has monkeys, animals, fish, birds, reptiles, and other animals.  The zoo further hosts animal shows.  So, you will love seeing an elephant dancing or a seal playing with a ball.  2. A Walk Through The Zoo The zoological garden has a reptile house, aviary, aquarium, and butterfly garden. So, you can take a walk through the garden.  The zoological garden area also has a dedicated botanical garden.  However, if you don’t want to walk much, you can take a ride on the zoo train.  3. Learn About The Flora And Fauna Present Here  If you want to know about the animals and plants here, you have to take a guided tour. Furthermore, you can learn about the flora and fauna and the rich history of the zoo from the Educational Center.  Moreover, the zoological garden has an animal hospital. You will find veterinary doctors and caregivers at work there.  4. Take A Part In The Night Safari  The zoo has a dedicated Leopard Trail for night safaris. You can watch the nocturnal animals in action during the safari.  Furthermore, you can arrange a picnic or explore the local Dehiwala Market. Furthermore, if you want a spiritual experience, visit the Bellanwila Rajamaha Viharaya.  If you want to explore more Buddhist places of importance in Sri Lanka, you can visit the Ritigala Forest Monastery and Sigiriya Rock.  What is the Best Time to Visit Dehiwala Zoo In Sri Lanka? December to April is the best time to visit Dehiwala Zoo. This is the dry season and hence is ideal for outdoor exploration and wildlife spotting.  However, it is also the peak season. So, plan a visit early in the day and avoid weekends.  Furthermore, May to November is the wet season in the garden, and the zoo looks lush and green. However, the animals can be less active in these months.  Things To Keep In Mind For Visiting The Dehiwala Zoo In Sri Lanka Irrespective of the season of your visit, you have to keep the following things in mind.  You have to wear comfortable footwear with a good grip as you have to walk a lot through the zoo.  Furthermore, you have to be respectful to the animals and follow the rules of the zoo. Is A Trip To Dehiwala Zoo Worth The Experience?  Yes, Dehiwala Zoo is a place worth visiting because you don’t just spot animals here, but learn about their livelihood and nature.  Furthermore, this is one of the oldest zoos in Asia and was built in 1936.  However, the zoo authority must be more focused on the preservation of the zoo, as the last time I visited, certain things drew my attention.  Seeing the animals here, the night safari, and the performances by animals have become more like a curriculum, and they show a lack of infrastructure.  So, you may feel sometimes disappointed if you are planning to visit the zoo to see a performance of the animals.  Still, many people visit this zoo because of its heritage.