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Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park: A Conservation Haven

Discover rare Himalayan wildlife at India's highest zoo, a leading conservation center for snow leopards and red pandas.

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Nestled in the scenic hills of Darjeeling, the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park is India's largest high-altitude zoo. Established in 1958, it's renowned for its conservation efforts and breeding programs for endangered Himalayan species like the snow leopard and red panda, offering visitors a unique glimpse into the region's diverse wildlife.

A brief summary to Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park

  • Monday 8:30 am-4 pm
  • Tuesday 8:30 am-4 pm
  • Wednesday 8:30 am-4 pm
  • Friday 8:30 am-4 pm
  • Saturday 8:30 am-4 pm
  • Sunday 8:30 am-4 pm

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable walking shoes as the zoo is located on a hill and requires a lot of walking.
  • Carry warm clothing as temperatures can get quite cold, especially in the mornings and evenings.
  • Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and see the animals when they are most active.
  • Check the weather conditions before visiting, as fog and rain can obscure visibility.
  • Entry fee includes access to the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute and Bengal Natural History Museum.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Chowrasta (Darjeeling Mall), walk along Jawahar Road towards Mall Road. Continue for approximately 30 minutes until you reach the zoo entrance. Note that the zoo is located uphill.

  • Public Transport

    Hire a cab from Chowk Bazaar in Darjeeling. The zoo is approximately 3 kilometers away, and the ride takes about 15 minutes. Cabs can drop you off near Lebong Cart Road, which runs below the zoo. From the parking point, it is a 5-10 minute walk to the entrance. Taxi fares typically range from ₹150-₹300.

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Discover more about Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park

The Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, also known as the Darjeeling Zoo, is a unique zoological park located in Darjeeling, West Bengal, India. Established on August 14, 1958, the zoo sits at an average elevation of 7,000 feet (2,134 meters), earning it the distinction of being the largest high-altitude zoo in India. The zoo was founded with the goal of studying and preserving Himalayan fauna. It has since become a prominent center for conservation, particularly for endangered species adapted to alpine conditions. The park is named after Padmaja Naidu (1900–1975), the daughter of Sarojini Naidu and former Governor of West Bengal. In 1975, it was dedicated to her memory by then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. The zoo is recognized for its successful captive breeding programs for the snow leopard, red panda, and Himalayan wolf. These programs have garnered international recognition, and the zoo serves as a central hub for the Central Zoo Authority of India's red panda program. Visitors can observe these rare and endangered animals in enclosures designed to mimic their natural habitats. Other species housed at the zoo include the Himalayan tahr, blue sheep, Himalayan monal, grey peacock pheasant, Himalayan salamander, blood pheasant, and satyr tragopan. The zoo is located near the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, making it easy to visit both attractions. It attracts around 300,000 visitors annually.

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