Alipore Zoological Garden
A Journey Through Time: The Alipore Zoological Garden, popularly known as the Alipore Zoo, was established in 1876 and is the oldest formally stated zoological park in India. It was inaugurated by Edward VII, the then Prince of Wales. The zoo’s history is deeply intertwined with the British Raj, o riginally starting as a private menagerie of the Governor-General. Spread across 46.5 acres, it has been a favorite getaway for generations of Kolkata residents. The zoo gained international fame for being the home of Adwaita, an Aldabra giant tortoise that was said to be over 250 years old before passing away in 2006. Today, the zoo focuses on conservation and education, housing a wide variety of species including the Royal Bengal Tiger, African Lions, Jaguars, Hippopotamuses, and a vast collection of exotic birds. The park is beautifully landscaped with ancient trees and central water bodies that attract migratory birds during winter. It serves as a vital green lung for the city of Kolkata. The zoo has undergone several modernizations, replacing old cages with open-air moated enclosures that mimic the animals' natural habitats. The reptile house and the primate house are particularly popular among visitors. For children, the zoo is an educational wonderland, offering a chance to see wildlife up close in the heart of the city. The zoo also plays a role in captive breeding programs for endangered species. Despite the urban surroundings, the interior of the zoo is remarkably peaceful. It remains one of the most visited tourist attractions in West Bengal, especially during the holiday season. The management has introduced several visitor-friendly features like battery-operated carts and digital maps. A visit to the Alipore Zoo is not just about seeing animals; it is about experiencing a piece of Kolkata’s heritage that has evolved with the city for over 140 years.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
3 to 4 HoursPlace Type:
Wildlife and NatureEntry Fees:
Affordable Entry: The entry fee is very reasonable, typically around Rs.50 for adults and Rs.20 for children. There are small additional fees for the aquarium and professional videography. ...Affordable Entry: The entry fee is very reasonable, typically around Rs.50 for adults and Rs.20 for children. There are small additional fees for the aquarium and professional videography.Timing:
Regular Timings: Open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The zoo is strictly closed on Thursdays.
Ideal Visit Time: Arrive at 9:00 AM when the animals are most active and the weather is cooler. ...Regular Timings: Open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The zoo is strictly closed on Thursdays.
Ideal Visit Time: Arrive at 9:00 AM when the animals are most active and the weather is cooler.Special Events:
Winter Carnival: During Christmas and New Year, the zoo hosts a carnival-like atmosphere with extra stalls and decorations.
Wildlife Week: Celebrated in the first week of October, this event includes drawing competitions for children and awa...Winter Carnival: During Christmas and New Year, the zoo hosts a carnival-like atmosphere with extra stalls and decorations.
Wildlife Week: Celebrated in the first week of October, this event includes drawing competitions for children and awareness talks about conservation.Best Photo Spots:
Tiger Enclosure: The glass viewing area provides a safe and clear spot for a "face-to-face" photo with a tiger.
Giraffe Paddock: The tall giraffes against the greenery make for a very "safari-like" photograph.
T...Tiger Enclosure: The glass viewing area provides a safe and clear spot for a "face-to-face" photo with a tiger.
Giraffe Paddock: The tall giraffes against the greenery make for a very "safari-like" photograph.
The Heritage Gates: The old Victorian entrance gate is a perfect spot for a group photo.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Wildlife Spotting: Spend time observing the Royal Bengal Tigers in their moated enclosure. The sight of these majestic cats is the highlight for most visitors.
Bird Watching: Visit the walk-through aviary to see colorful macaws, cockatoos, and pheasants. During winter, spend time by the lake with binoculars.
Educational Walk: Read the information plaques at each enclosure to learn about the conservation status and natural history of the animals.
Photography: Capture the expressions of the primates or the graceful movements of the giraffes. The zoo offers endless opportunities for nature photography.
Picnicking: Enjoy a family picnic in the designated green zones. It is a traditional winter activity for Kolkata families.
<...Wildlife Spotting: Spend time observing the Royal Bengal Tigers in their moated enclosure. The sight of these majestic cats is the highlight for most visitors.
Bird Watching: Visit the walk-through aviary to see colorful macaws, cockatoos, and pheasants. During winter, spend time by the lake with binoculars.
Educational Walk: Read the information plaques at each enclosure to learn about the conservation status and natural history of the animals.
Photography: Capture the expressions of the primates or the graceful movements of the giraffes. The zoo offers endless opportunities for nature photography.
Picnicking: Enjoy a family picnic in the designated green zones. It is a traditional winter activity for Kolkata families.
Visiting the Reptile House: See the King Cobra, Pythons, and Mugger crocodiles in their specialized habitats.
Children's Play Area: Let the kids enjoy the dedicated play zone and the toy train (when operational).
Feeding Sessions: Try to catch the scheduled feeding times for animals like elephants or sea lions for a more interactive experience.
Exploring the Botany: The zoo is home to several rare and ancient tree species; take a moment to appreciate the botanical diversity.
Shopping for Souvenirs: Visit the small kiosks near the exit to buy animal-themed toys and educational books.
Hotels
● Best Inn
Address: Bhowanipore, Kolkata
Distance: 2.1 km
Details: Best Inn provides a budget-friendly stay with all necessary amenities for a comfortable visit. The rooms are tidy, and the staff is helpful and courte...
● Dream Guest House
Address: Khidirpur, Kolkata
Distance: 1.4 km
Details: Dream Guest House is a budget-conscious accommodation providing essential services for a comfortable stay. The rooms are clean, and the location allow...
● Hotel Casa Fortuna
Address: 234/1, AJC Bose Rd, Kolkata
Distance: 2.2 km
Details: Hotel Casa Fortuna maintains a consistent standard of mid-range comfort. With well-maintained rooms, a multi-cuisine restaurant, and friendly staff, i...
● Hyatt Centric Ballygunge
Address: 17/1, Gariahat Rd, Kolkata
Distance: 3.6 km
Details: Hyatt Centric Ballygunge is a high-end luxury hotel that blends modern design with cultural influences. It offers world-class dining, a relaxing loung...
● Kenilworth Hotel
Address: 1 & 2, Little Russell St, Kolkata
Distance: 2.1 km
Details: Kenilworth Hotel offers a classic and elegant stay with a blend of heritage and modern comforts. The hotel provides excellent service, fine dining res...
● Malik Guest House
Address: Bhowanipore, Kolkata
Distance: 1.6 km
Details: Malik Guest House offers a simple and affordable stay for budget travelers. It features clean, no-frills rooms and basic amenities. Its location is ex...
● Park Prime Kolkata
Address: 27, Gariahat Rd, Kolkata
Distance: 2.6 km
Details: Park Prime is a stylish mid-range hotel offering modern facilities and great service. It features comfortable rooms, an on-site restaurant, and a plea...
● Roland Hotel
Address: 23, Roland Blvd, Kolkata
Distance: 2.6 km
Details: Roland Hotel is a reliable mid-range option known for its clean rooms and friendly atmosphere. Guests appreciate the comfortable beds, decent breakfas...
● Taj Bengal
Address: 34B, Belvedere Rd, Alipore, Kolkata
Distance: 0.2 km
Details: Taj Bengal is an iconic 5-star hotel near the Alipore Zoo, synonymous with luxury and class. It offers grand rooms, award-winning fine dining restaura...
● The Opus
Address: 232, AJC Bose Rd, Kolkata
Distance: 2.3 km
Details: The Opus is a boutique hotel that provides a unique and luxurious experience. Its artistic decor, premium dining, and attentive staff create a sophist...
Show AllInformation
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Why Famous:
Famous for the Giant Tortoise: The zoo is historically famous for Adwaita, the tortoise that reportedly belonged to Lord Clive. It is also famous for its successful breeding of the Royal Bengal Tiger and the rare Manipur Brow-antlered Deer. The zoo’s location in the hear...Famous for the Giant Tortoise: The zoo is historically famous for Adwaita, the tortoise that reportedly belonged to Lord Clive. It is also famous for its successful breeding of the Royal Bengal Tiger and the rare Manipur Brow-antlered Deer. The zoo’s location in the heart of Alipore, one of Kolkata’s most posh neighborhoods, also makes it a high-profile landmark. -
Architecture:
Zoo Architecture and Enclosures: The architecture of the Alipore Zoo is a mix of Victorian-era structures and modern eco-friendly enclosures. The "Mullick House," the first animal house built with a donation from Raja Rajendra Mullick, still stands as a historical landmark....Zoo Architecture and Enclosures: The architecture of the Alipore Zoo is a mix of Victorian-era structures and modern eco-friendly enclosures. The "Mullick House," the first animal house built with a donation from Raja Rajendra Mullick, still stands as a historical landmark. Modern enclosures, such as the glass-walled tiger and lion habitats, are designed to provide maximum safety while offering an unobstructed view for visitors. The zoo covers 46. 5 acres, with a layout that includes wide pathways and shaded rest areas. The reptile house features specialized temperature-controlled environments. The aviary is a large walk-through structure that allows birds to fly freely in a semi-natural space. Dimensions of the main paddocks are designed according to Central Zoo Authority guidelines to ensure animal welfare. The central water body is a significant feature, acting as a natural landscape element and a haven for water birds. -
How To Reach:
By Air: Kolkata Airport is 22 Kms away. Prepaid taxis are the best option.
By Train: Sealdah and Howrah are the main stations. From Howrah, take a bus heading towards Ekbalpur or Alipore.
By Road: Well con...By Air: Kolkata Airport is 22 Kms away. Prepaid taxis are the best option.
By Train: Sealdah and Howrah are the main stations. From Howrah, take a bus heading towards Ekbalpur or Alipore.
By Road: Well connected by city buses. Use the AJC Bose Road flyover to reach quickly from the north or central parts.
By Local Transport: The nearest metro is Netaji Bhavan. From there, you can take an auto-rickshaw or a 10-minute taxi ride to the zoo. -
Weather and Best Time to Visit:
Winter: December to February is the peak season due to the pleasant weather and migratory birds.
Monsoon: July to August makes the zoo lush green, though rain might limit walking.
Morning: 9:00 AM to 11:00 A...Winter: December to February is the peak season due to the pleasant weather and migratory birds.
Monsoon: July to August makes the zoo lush green, though rain might limit walking.
Morning: 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM is the best time of day. -
Near Tourist Places:
National Library (0. 5 km), Victoria Memorial (1. 5 km), Birla Planetarium (2. 0 km), Kalighat Temple (2. 5 km), Agri-Horticultural Society (0. 8 km), BM Birla Heart Research Institute (0. 2 km), Race Course (1. 2 km), Maidan (1. 8 km), Science City (7. 0 km), Babu Ghat (4. 0 km).
Tourism Tips
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Health and Safety: Do not feed or tease the animals; it is a punishable offense. Stay hydrated as the walk is long.
Packing: Carry a hat, sunglasses, and a water bottle. Wear comfortable sneakers.
Accommodati...Health and Safety: Do not feed or tease the animals; it is a punishable offense. Stay hydrated as the walk is long.
Packing: Carry a hat, sunglasses, and a water bottle. Wear comfortable sneakers.
Accommodation: Nearby options include Taj Bengal for luxury or several guest houses in the Alipore and Lansdowne area.
Zoo Etiquette: Avoid making loud noises and do not throw plastic inside enclosures.
Reviews
FAQs
Ans:- Alipore Zoo is a plastic-free zone to protect the environment and the health of the animals. Visitors are strictly prohibited from carrying plastic bags or littering within the premises. There are designated dustbins placed at regular intervals throughout the garden. Security guards often check bags at the entry point to ensure that no harmful materials are brought inside.Ans:- Alipore Zoo is well-connected by various modes of public transport in Kolkata. Visitors can take a bus to the Alipore Zoo stop or hire a yellow taxi or ride-sharing cab from any part of the city. The nearest metro station is Netaji Bhavan, from where one can take an auto-rickshaw or a short bus ride to reach the zoo entrance.Ans:- Established in 1875 and opened in 1876 by the Prince of Wales, Alipore Zoo is one of the oldest zoological parks in India. It was initially started as a private menagerie and grew into a public institution. It has played a significant role in captive breeding programs and has been a central landmark of Kolkata’s heritage for over a century.Ans:- The Alipore Zoological Garden frequently organizes educational workshops and awareness programs, particularly for school children, to teach them about wildlife conservation. While formal guided tours for individuals may not always be available, the zoo provides detailed information boards near every enclosure in English and Bengali. Educational institutions can contact the zoo director’s office for organized group visits.Ans:- The Alipore Zoological Garden in Kolkata generally opens for visitors from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM throughout the week. However, the zoo remains closed to the public every Thursday for maintenance and animal care. It is advisable for tourists to plan their visits on other days to enjoy the wildlife exhibits and lush greenery comfortably.Ans:- The best time to visit Alipore Zoo is during the winter months, specifically from November to February. During this period, the weather in Kolkata is pleasant and cool, making it easier to walk around the vast 46-acre campus. Additionally, many migratory birds can be seen in the zoo’s lakes during winter, adding to the beauty of the experience.Ans:- The entry fee for Alipore Zoo is quite nominal to ensure it remains accessible to everyone. For adults and children above five years, the ticket price is approximately 30 to 50 rupees depending on the day, while toddlers under five usually enter for free. Tickets can be purchased at the gate or through the official West Bengal Zoo Authority website.Ans:- The zoo has a basic first-aid station to handle minor injuries or health issues that may occur during a visit. For any serious medical emergency, the zoo staff can coordinate with nearby hospitals in the Alipore area. Visitors are encouraged to stay hydrated and wear comfortable footwear while exploring the large grounds to prevent exhaustion or heat-related issues.Ans:- The zoo is home to a wide variety of species, including the Royal Bengal Tiger, African lions, jaguars, and Indian elephants. Other popular exhibits include giraffes, zebras, and the reptile house featuring crocodiles and snakes. Historically, it was famous for being the home of "Adwaita," an Aldabra giant tortoise that lived for over 250 years until 2006.Ans:- The zoo management has made efforts to make the park accessible by providing paved pathways and ramps in many areas. However, due to the historical nature of the park and its vast size, some sections might still be challenging for wheelchair users. It is recommended to check with the authorities at the entrance for specific assistance or battery-operated vehicle availability.Ans:- There are limited cloakroom facilities available at the main entrance gate where visitors can store small bags for a nominal fee. However, it is generally advised not to carry heavy luggage or valuables to the zoo, as the facility might be full during peak tourist seasons. Keeping your belongings light will make your walking tour more comfortable.Ans:- There are several small food kiosks and a canteen located within the Alipore Zoo premises that serve snacks, tea, coffee, and light meals. Visitors can find items like sandwiches, biscuits, and cold drinks. However, feeding the animals with outside food is a punishable offense and is strictly monitored by zoo security to ensure the health of the wildlife.Ans:- Yes, photography is allowed inside the Alipore Zoological Garden, but it often requires a separate nominal fee for professional cameras. Visitors are permitted to use mobile phones for casual photos without extra charges. However, the use of flash photography is strictly prohibited near animal enclosures as it can startle the animals and cause them unnecessary stress or health issues.Ans:- Yes, the zoo features a dedicated Reptile House that hosts various species of snakes, including pythons and cobras, as well as crocodiles and monitors. There is also an aquarium located near the entrance that displays a variety of freshwater fish. These indoor sections are very popular among children and provide a detailed look at aquatic and reptile life.Ans:- Yes, visitors can conveniently book their entry tickets online through the official portal of the West Bengal Zoo Authority. This digital facility is highly recommended, especially during weekends and public holidays when the ticket counters at the main gate can become extremely crowded. Online booking provides a QR-based entry system for a smoother and faster experience.Kolkata Itineray And Cost:-
Alipore Zoological Garden Tourism:-
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