Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park often called Darjeeling Zoo is very popular among tourists. It is situated in an area of 68 acres. This zoo was opened in 1958.
This is also the largest high-altitude zoo (7000 ft ) in India. Here breeding of endangered species, like snow leopards, Himalayan wolves, and red pandas.
History Behind Darjeeling Zoo
This zoo was established on 14 August 1958. The zoo contains endangered animals like snow leopards, red pandas, gorals., Siberian tigers. In 1972 this zoological park was registered.
In 1993 this was transferred to the West Bengal Forest Department. This park was renamed in 1975 when Indira Gandhi visited the park and was dedicated to the memory of Padmaja Naidu, former Governor of West Bengal.
Best Time To Visit Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park
For the best views and pleasant weather in Darjeeling Zoo, the following months are to be considered
- Summer: March to Early May
- Autumn: October to November
- Winter: December to February
Darjeeling Zoo ticket price
Here ticket price includes both Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park and Himalayan Mountaineering Institute with Bengal History Museum which are in the same compound
- For SAARC countries visitors: Rs. 110
- For Foreigners: Rs. 180
- Carera Charge: Rs 10
- Child below 6 years: Free
Darjeeling zoo timing
Zoo Time:
- Summer: 8.30 am to 4.30 pm
- Winter: 8.30 am to 4.00 pm
Thursday Zoo is Closed
Darjeeling zoo animals
The Red Panda is the main attraction At Darjeeling Himalayan Zoo. You can see Pandas on trees as well as on Bamboo and eating green bamboo. There are a variety of Beautiful birds.
There are tigers and snow leopards. Among animals, Tibetian wolves, Siberian tigers, Yaks, Himalayan Black Bear, Sambar Deer, Barking Deer, Leopards, Royal Bengal Tigers, and Macows attract tourists here.
How to reach Darjeeling Zoo
Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoo is easily accessible from Darjeeling, Mall Chowrasta. It is about 3 km from Chawk Bazar Darjeeling.
Book a cab from Chawk Bazar and go close to the zoo. But it can not go to the Himalayan Zoo Entrance. You have to get out of the car at Lebong Cart Road just below the zoo.
Alternatively, if you are enthusiastic enough to go to Darjeeling Zoo walking it will take around 30 min to reach from Nehru Road, Darjeeling.
Do And Do Not at Darjeeling Zoo
DO
- Keep Silence
- Must use Dustbins
- Follow Signages
- Address your queries to the Zoo Keeper/ Museum Attendant
DO NOT
- Tease the Animals
- Feed the Animals
- Make Contact with the Animals
- Lean/Climb on the walls of the Enclosures
- Smoke or drink alcohol
- Bring food from Outside
- Make Noise
- Touch Artifacts/Models or Show piece
- Photograph inside The Museum
Conclusion
Like any other zoo, The Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park in Darjeeling is not just a zoo; it’s a place where humans, wildlife, and nature meet.
It is a place of entertainment as well as education. College and university students visit here as a part of an excursion in their curriculum. This will be a memorable experience to Visit this Hill Zoo.
π ΅π °π On Darjeeling Zoo
Q.1: Is the park suitable for children?
Ans: This is a family-friendly zoo like any other zoo. Children will certainly enjoy here
Q.2: Are there any guided tours available?
Ans: Yes, a guided tour is available. Though no need as there are placard displays everywhere
Q.3: Can I take photographs inside the zoo?
Ans: You can bring your camera by paying an extra Rs 10 otherwise your smartphone is enough to take photographs. But keep in mind that don’t disturb animals when capturing photos
Q.4: What is the best time to visit the zoo?
Ans: Summer is the best season when they are active outside their habitat
Q.5: Is there a restaurant or cafe inside the park?
Ans: yes there is a cafe inside the Himalayan Zoo
Q.6: Which is India’s largest high-altitude zoo?
Ans: Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park known as Darjeeling Zoo in West Bengal is at an elevation of 7,000 feet (2,134 m)
Q.7: What are the rare animals in the Darjeeling Zoo?
Ans: There are tigers and snow leopards. Among animals, Tibetian wolves, Siberian tigers, Yaks, Himalayan Black Bear, Sambar Deer, Barking Deer, Leopards, Royal Bengal Tigers, and Macows attract tourists here.
Q.8: What is the name of Darjeeling Zoo?
Ans: Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park
Q.9: Which animal is Darjeeling Zoo famous for?
Ans: The Red Panda is a famous animal here
Q.10: Which day closed Darjeeling Zoo?
Ans: Thursday Darjeeling Zoo closed
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