Alipore Zoological Garden: Kolkata's Wildlife Haven
Discover diverse wildlife at India's oldest zoo, a Kolkata landmark since 1876. Explore majestic creatures in a lush, historic setting.
The Alipore Zoological Garden in Kolkata, fondly called the Alipore Zoo, holds the distinction of being India's oldest formally established zoo. Since its opening in 1876, it has been a favorite destination for locals and tourists alike, offering a glimpse into the animal kingdom. Covering a sprawling 46.5 acres in the heart of Alipore, Kolkata, the zoo is home to a wide array of creatures from around the world. Visitors can marvel at majestic lions, graceful giraffes, imposing elephants, and the iconic Royal Bengal Tiger. The zoo also houses a variety of birds, reptiles, and other fascinating animals. The Alipore Zoo has a rich history, evolving from a private menagerie established by Governor-General Richard Wellesley in the early 1800s. The zoo has been instrumental in captive breeding programs, including the successful breeding of the Manipur brow-antlered deer, bringing it back from near extinction. The zoo was also among the first in the world to breed white tigers and the common reticulated giraffe. Over the years, the Alipore Zoo has undergone several renovations and improvements to enhance the visitor experience and provide better living conditions for its animals. The zoo is managed by the Department of Forests, Government of West Bengal, and the West Bengal Zoo Authority. It also focuses on rescuing and rehabilitating injured and displaced animals.
Local tips
- Visit during the winter months (December-January) for pleasant weather and the best chance to see the animals active.
- The zoo is closed every Thursday, plan your visit accordingly.
- Purchase tickets online through the Yatri Sathi app to avoid queues, especially during peak season.
- Allocate at least 2-3 hours to explore the entire zoo.
- Utilize the electric vehicles available inside the zoo for easier navigation, especially if visiting with senior citizens or children.
A brief summary to Zoological Garden
- 2, Alipore Rd, Kolkata, Alipur Zoological Garden, Alipore, West Bengal, 700027, IN
- +912233400500
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Friday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Saturday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Sunday 9 am-5:30 pm
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Esplanade, take the direct line 77 bus to Alipur Zoo. Buses depart every 10 minutes, and the journey takes approximately 15 minutes, costing ₹18-₹26. From Park Street Station, take a bus to PTS Race Course. Buses depart every 30 minutes, with tickets costing ₹17–25. Alternatively, take the subway to Netaji Bhavan. The subway journey takes 5 minutes and costs ₹10–13.
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Taxi/Ride-sharing
Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available throughout Kolkata. A taxi from Park Street Station to the Alipore Zoo will cost approximately ₹120-₹150 and take 5 minutes. From Esplanade, a taxi to the zoo will cost approximately ₹160-₹200 and take 7 minutes.
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Parking
Limited car parking is available opposite the zoo, but it fills up quickly. Alternative parking is available at Alipore Multilayer Car Parking with Food Court, approximately 650-850 meters from the zoo. Parking charges vary.
