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.
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Information
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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... -
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...
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