Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park

Overview

Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park is a renowned zoological park located in Darjeeling, West Bengal. It is dedicated to the conservation of Himalayan species and offers a unique experience to visitors.

The park is significant for its efforts in the conservation of endangered Himalayan species and its role in wildlife education and research.

Wildlife Conservation Educational Tourist Attraction

Location

Address

Lebong Cart Road, Jawahar Parbat, Darjeeling, West Bengal

Neighborhood: Jawahar Parbat

Coordinates

27.024300, 88.267500

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

tuesday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

wednesday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

thursday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

friday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

saturday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

sunday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Admission

Adults

300 INR

Children

150 INR

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

March-May

Best Time of Day

Early morning

fewer crowds

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

2 hours

Recommended

4 hours

Full Experience

half day

Seasonal Highlights

spring

mild

• breeding season for many species
• lush greenery

summer

warm

• extended hours

autumn

cool

• fall colors
• migratory birds

winter

cold

• winter habitat adaptations

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Book tickets online in advance
Carry a valid ID
Check weather forecasts

What to Bring

essential

ID water bottle tickets

seasonal

warm jacket (winter) umbrella (monsoon)

not allowed

large bags drones food

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: moderate

• uneven paths
• high altitude

Medical facilities: first aid available

Payment Information

Accepted

cash, credit/debit cards

Currency

Indian Rupee (INR)

Typical Costs

entry 300 INR

parking 50 INR

food 200 INR

souvenirs 300 INR

Dress Code

casual, comfortable walking shoes, sturdy shoes, inappropriate clothing

Booking Tips

• 1 week
• official website
• 48 hours
• available

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Padmaja Naidu Zoo App

Size: 30 MB

Features: Interactive map, Audio guide, Ticket booking

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Cafe

Charging Stations: Rest areas

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Bagdogra Airport

Distance: 65 km

Travel Time: 2.5 hours

taxi

1500 INR 2.5 hours

public_transport

300 INR 3.5 hours

From City Center

Distance: 2 km

bus

20 INR 10 minutes

taxi

200 INR 5 minutes

rickshaw

100 INR 7 minutes

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Important for wildlife conservation and education

Historical Significance: Established in 1958, one of the highest-altitude zoos in the world

Insider Tips

Free entry for local residents on certain days
Best views from the Himalayan Monarch Butterfly Enclosure

Local Recommendations

• Try local momo at the nearby eateries
• Ask for a guide at the entrance

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Namaste

thank_you Dhanyavaad

where_is Kaha hai?

how_much Kitna?

beautiful Sundar

ticket Ticket

Guide Languages: English, Hindi, Nepali

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Snow Leopard Enclosure

Best Time: Early morning

Tips: Low angle

Result: Great shot of snow leopards

#snowleopard #wildlife #darjeeling

Himalayan Monarch Butterfly Enclosure

Best Time: Late afternoon

Tips: Macro shots

Result: Beautiful butterfly images

#butterfly #nature #himalayas

Photography Rules

allowed areas outdoor enclosures, designated photography zones

prohibited areas indoor exhibits, restricted zones

flash photography not allowed

commercial photography permit needed

drone policy prohibited

tripod policy restricted

selfie sticks allowed

Nearby Attractions

Himalayan Mountaineering Institute

Distance: 1 km

Walking: 15 minutes

Type: Museum

Darjeeling Himalayan Railway