Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park in Darjeeling is one of the breathtaking attractions that is well renowned for its diverse ecosystem. It is a must-see for nature and wildlife lovers as this zoo houses a wide variety of Himalayan animals and other rare animals that you usually wouldn’t get to see elsewhere.
This zoological park’s popularity is due to its elevation of 7000 feet, which makes it the largest high-altitude zoo in India. Breeding and conservation programs are also held here, and snow leopards and red pandas are breeding off-display. The former prime minister of India, Indira Gandhi, dedicated this zoo to the ex-governor of West Bengal, Padmaja Naidu, the daughter of Sarojini Naidu.
Padmaja Naidu Zoological Park in Darjeeling is also recognized for the Central Zoo Authority of India’s red panda program. Not just this, it is also a member of the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums. This zoological park is one of the best globally and has also received an award of “The Earth Heroes” out of other 300 zoos across the globe.
Location: Near HMI Museum, Darjeeling, West Bengal
Time Required: 4 hours
Timings of Padmaja Naidu Zoological Park
- 8.30 am to 4.30 pm in summer
- 8.30 am to 4.00 pm in winter
Note: Open daily except Thursday.
Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Park Entry Charges
- INR 60 for Indians and SAARC country residents
- INR 100 for Foreign Nationals
- Entry fee for children below 6 years of age.
- INR 10 for cameras
Note: Prices are subject to Change
Attractions of Padmaja Naidu Zoological Park
This zoo is home to several endangered animal species you might not see anywhere else. Tibetian wolf, Snow leopard, and Siberian Tiger are major zoo highlights counted as threatened species. Apart from that, different types of flora and migratory birds can also be spotted. In addition, you will witness many Darjeeling zoo animals, including barking deer, Eastern Pangolin, Pheasant, Himalayan Monal, Lady Amherst, Red Jungle Fowl, Royal Bengal Tiger, Sambar Deer, blue and yellow Macaw, Asiatic black bear, and more.
Places to Visit Near Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Park
This Darjeeling park is surrounded by several tourist attractions that will enhance your travel experience. From lush green gardens to historical museums, you will find several places to add to your sightseeing tour near this Darjeeling Zoo. We have listed some of the best tourist attractions that you can include in your sightseeing plan.
- HMI Museum
- Ropeway Station
- Chowrasta Darjeeling
- Rock Garden
- Observatory Hill View Point
- Shrubbery Nightingale Park
Best Time to Visit Padmaja Naidu Zoological Park
This Himalayan zoological park Darjeeling is a year-round destination that you can visit any time of the year. However, March to June and September to January are peak months to visit Zoological Park Darjeeling. During these months, the weather remains clear, and you can also enjoy joyful wildlife exploration. Apart from that, you can visit nearby tourist places.
How to reach Zoological Park in Darjeeling
You can book a cab to reach Padmaja Naidu Zoological Park, or you can drive in your car. However, remember that a car is prohibited at the zoo entrance. So, you can park your vehicle, take Jawahar Road from Mall Road, and walk for 30 minutes to the zoo. Another option to reach the Darjeeling Zoo is by the Lebong Cart Road, located below the zoo, and the rest of the distance can be covered on foot.
You can opt for battery-operated cars if you have small kids. They are available from Gorkha Bhawan and accommodate 8 persons at one time. The timings of these battery cars are 10.00 am to 4.00 with a minimal charge of INR 20 per person (one way). The entire car can be hired at INR 500.
Contact our tour experts to get more information about this zoo. You can also add this attraction to your vacation by booking a fully customizable Darjeeling tour package with us.
