Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park

Attractions in Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park

Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park or commonly known as the Darjeeling Zoo is the only specialized Zoo in the country and is internationally recognized for its conservation breeding program of Red Panda, Snow Leopards, Tibetan Wolf, and other highly endangered animal species of Eastern Himalaya. Darjeeling Zoo is now amongst the best zoos in the world since it is the first zoo in India to receive the prestigious international award 'The Earth Heroes' 2014 out of over 300 zoos worldwide. This annual award is given away by the Royal Bank of Scotland in collaboration with the British Government. A recent study showed that the zoo has over 200 species of trees and plants, shrubs, climbers, medicinal plants, etc out of which there are some 60 varieties of Orchids. Some slow-growing oak trees are over 100 years old. And then there are trees like Birch, Alder, and others that belong to the Castanopsis species.

For animal lovers, the zoological park offers a special 'Adoption Program'. Under this program, visitors can adopt an animal and pay for their care by entering into an agreement with the management of the zoo. They will not only get the satisfaction of helping animals but also contribute to the conservation of the rich fauna of the country. Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park is an ideal place to visit and observe endangered animals like red panda and snow leopard in their semi-natural habitat and learn more about the wild animals of the Himalayan Region.

Darjeeling Zoo Timings and Entry Fee

Darjeeling Zoo usually opens at 8:30 am in the morning and closes at 4 pm in the afternoon. It opens 6 days a week except for Thursday. The entry fee will be included visits to the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute and also Bengal Natural Museum as they are located in the same compound.

Darjeeling Zoo Location & How to Reach

Darjeeling Zoo or Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park is located at Birch Hill Park which is now known as Jawahar Parbat. To reach Darjeeling Zoo comfortably, a taxi can be hired from the Chowk Bazaar, and then you will be driven to Lebong Cart Road near Darjeeling Zoo. from Chowk Bazar, the zoo is around 3 km driving distance away and takes not more than 15 minutes to cover. The 5 minutes of uphill walk will finally take you to the Gate of the zoo. Alternatively, you can walk for around 30 minutes from Darjeeling Mall Road to reach Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park.

Best Time to Visit Darjeeling Zoo

The best time to visit Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park or Darjeeling Zoo is during the months of March to June and then again from September to January. During these months, the weather is quite pleasant and clear. Due to the clear weather, the animals of the zoo can be seen quite clearly.