Central Zoo | Lalitpur

Information

Landmark: Central Zoo
City: Lalitpur
Country: Nepal
Continent: Asia

Central Zoo, Lalitpur, Nepal, Asia

The Central Zoo (commonly referred to as the Patan Zoo) is the only zoo in Nepal, located in Jawalakhel, Lalitpur. It serves as both a public recreational space and a center for conservation and education managed by the National Trust for Nature Conservation (NTNC).

Visual Characteristics & Layout

The zoo covers approximately 6 hectares (15 acres). It is centered around a massive, 17th-century man-made pond (the Jawalakhel Pokhari) used for boating. The grounds are lush with mature trees and landscaped walkways. Enclosures vary from modern open-air habitats for large carnivores to older, cage-style structures for birds and primates.

Location & Access Logistics

Address: Jawalakhel Rd, Lalitpur 44600, Nepal.

Transport: Accessible via local buses/tempos to the "Jawalakhel" hub. It is a 20-minute walk west from Patan Durbar Square.

Hours: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Monday–Thursday); Extended hours on Friday (until 6:30 PM) and Saturday–Sunday (until 6:00 PM).

Entry Fee: Separate pricing tiers exist for SAARC nationals, foreign tourists, and locals.

Historical Origin

The zoo was established in 1932 by Prime Minister Juddha Shumsher JBR as a private collection for the Rana royalty. It was formally opened to the public in 1956 by the Government of Nepal. Management was transferred to the NTNC in 1995 to improve animal welfare and educational facilities.

Key Species & Attractions

Mammals: Houses over 30 species, including the Royal Bengal Tiger, One-horned Rhinoceros, Himalayan Black Bear, Red Panda, and Clouded Leopard.

Aviary: Features over 300 species of birds, including many native to the Himalayas.

Aquarium: A dedicated facility for native and exotic fish species.

Boating: Paddle boats are available for use on the central pond.

Children's Area: Includes a playground and Ferris wheel.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Cafeteria: Basic snacks and beverages are available on-site.

Information Center: Provides details on Nepal's biodiversity and conservation efforts.

Restrooms: Public facilities are located near the main entrance and the children's park.

Shade: Highly shaded by dense tree cover, making it a cooler alternative to the city streets during peak heat.

Best Time to Visit

Weekdays are recommended to avoid heavy local crowds. For animal activity, morning (10:00 AM) or late afternoon (4:00 PM) is optimal as many animals are less active during the mid-day heat.