The capital city of Colombo is a metropolitan city, and is the economic and business hub of the country. Given this perception, tourists travelling to the country may be reluctant to explore Colombo as they may feel that there is not much to see in the city. This perception is grossly unfounded for Colombo, though being the commercial capital of Sri Lanka, boasts of a location close to the ocean, and hosts a number of attractions that tourists will be thrilled to visit. While those who wish to reside in a resort close to the ocean can do so at the Mount Lavinia Hotel without having to make their way down south, tourists looking for places of interest will find the National Museum, Galle Face Green, Independence Square, the Old Parliament and the Colombo Zoo within remarkably close vicinity to one another.
Those who wish to explore the endemic wildlife of Sri Lanka, and do not have the time to make a visit to one of the National Parks such as Wilpattu or Yala, which are located several hours outside the capital, the Colombo Zoo can provide a glimpse of insight. This Zoo located in Dehiwala is home to over three thousand animals and marine species and is open to the public and tourists.
The National Zoological Gardens were opened in 1936 and is geared towards conservation and research, while enabling and enhancing the knowledge of the public of various animals. While travellers may be surprised to learn that this particular zoo is one of the oldest of its kind in Asia, the Zoo consists of a Butterfly Garden, a Bird Park and a number of species such as jaguars, lions, elephants and bears. The Zoo also has an array of performances such as elephant and sea lion performances in addition to several educational programmes.
Caleb Falcon is a travel writer who specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers. Google+