Pt. G.B. Pant High Altitude Zoo
Detailed Overview : The Pt. Govind Ballabh Pant High Altitude Zoo, popularly known as the Nainital Zoo, is a unique wildlife park perched at an elevation of 2,100 meters. Established in 1984 and opened to the public in 1995, it is one of only three high-altitude zoos in India, designed specifically to house animals adapted to cold Himalayan climates. Spread over 4.6 hectares, the zoo is home to several endangered and rare species, including the Red Panda, Snow Leopard, Royal Bengal Tiger, and the Tibetan Wolf. Unlike traditional zoos on flat ground, this facility is built on a steep hillside, requiring visitors to walk along winding paths that offer a naturalistic forest experience. The zoo plays a vital role in conservation and education, providing a safe haven for animals that are otherwise difficult to spot in the wild. It was famously the home of India's only Siberian Tiger for many years. The enclosures are designed to mimic the natural habitats of the animals, with plenty of greenery and rocky terrain. The zoo's location on Sher Ka Danda hill provides panoramic views of the Naini Lake and the surrounding town, making it a favorite for both children and adults. It is managed by the Bharat Ratna Pt. G.B. Pant High Altitude Zoo Management Society, ensuring high standards of animal welfare. Visiting this zoo is not just about seeing animals; it’s about understanding the fragile high-altitude ecosystem of the Himalayas.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
2 to 3 HoursPlace Type:
Zoo & WildlifeEntry Fees:
Adult Entry : The fee is approximately Rs. 50 to Rs. 100 for adults (age 13-60) depending on the season and residency.
Child and Student Rates : Children (5-12 years) pay a reduced fee of about Rs. 20 to Rs. 50, and students with ID ca...Adult Entry : The fee is approximately Rs. 50 to Rs. 100 for adults (age 13-60) depending on the season and residency.
Child and Student Rates : Children (5-12 years) pay a reduced fee of about Rs. 20 to Rs. 50, and students with ID cards often get group discounts.Timing:
Standard Hours : Open from 10:00 AM to 4:30 PM daily; the zoo is strictly closed to the public every Monday.
Best Visit Time : Early morning at 10:00 AM is ideal to avoid the heat and see the cats before they retreat for afternoon naps. ...Standard Hours : Open from 10:00 AM to 4:30 PM daily; the zoo is strictly closed to the public every Monday.
Best Visit Time : Early morning at 10:00 AM is ideal to avoid the heat and see the cats before they retreat for afternoon naps.Special Events:
Wildlife Week : Celebrated in the first week of October, the zoo hosts painting competitions, quizzes, and special tours for school children.
Zoo Foundation Day : Observed on June 1st, this day often features special feeding sessions and d...Wildlife Week : Celebrated in the first week of October, the zoo hosts painting competitions, quizzes, and special tours for school children.
Zoo Foundation Day : Observed on June 1st, this day often features special feeding sessions and discounts on entry for local residents.Best Photo Spots:
Snow Leopard Enclosure : The rocky backdrop and the majestic cat provide a powerful subject for wildlife photography enthusiasts.
Naini Lake Viewpoint : There is a specific bend in the path near the Bear enclosure that offers an unobstruct...Snow Leopard Enclosure : The rocky backdrop and the majestic cat provide a powerful subject for wildlife photography enthusiasts.
Naini Lake Viewpoint : There is a specific bend in the path near the Bear enclosure that offers an unobstructed view of the entire Crescent Lake.
The Red Panda Cage : Capturing the vibrant orange fur of the Red Panda against the green leaves is a favorite for Instagrammers.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Animal Spotting : Walk the circuit to see the Bengal Tiger and Tibetan Wolves; the early morning is the best time as the animals are most active during feeding.
Educational Walk : Read the detailed information boards at each enclosure to learn about the conservation status and biological facts of the Himalayan species.
Panoramic Photography : Take advantage of the zoo's elevation to capture bird's-eye views of Naini Lake and the town of Tallital.
Nature Hiking : The steep climb between enclosures serves as a great physical workout and a mini-trek through a lush oak forest.
Bird Watching : Besides the caged birds, the zoo’s forest cover attracts many wild Himalayan birds like the Red-billed Blue Magpie.
Read MoreAnimal Spotting : Walk the circuit to see the Bengal Tiger and Tibetan Wolves; the early morning is the best time as the animals are most active during feeding.
Educational Walk : Read the detailed information boards at each enclosure to learn about the conservation status and biological facts of the Himalayan species.
Panoramic Photography : Take advantage of the zoo's elevation to capture bird's-eye views of Naini Lake and the town of Tallital.
Nature Hiking : The steep climb between enclosures serves as a great physical workout and a mini-trek through a lush oak forest.
Bird Watching : Besides the caged birds, the zoo’s forest cover attracts many wild Himalayan birds like the Red-billed Blue Magpie.
Shopping for Souvenirs : Visit the small shop near the exit for wildlife-themed merchandise and local handicrafts that support zoo conservation.
Attending Awareness Programs : On special days, the zoo staff conducts talks on wildlife preservation, which are highly informative for students.
Information
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Why Famous:
Rare Himalayan Fauna : The zoo is famous for being one of the few places in the world where you can see the Red Panda and the Snow Leopard in a high-altitude setting. These animals are perfectly acclimated to the local weather, appearing healthy and active.Rare Himalayan Fauna : The zoo is famous for being one of the few places in the world where you can see the Red Panda and the Snow Leopard in a high-altitude setting. These animals are perfectly acclimated to the local weather, appearing healthy and active.
Endangered Species Center : It is well-known for its successful breeding and conservation programs for the Himalayan Black Bear and various types of high-altitude pheasants, making it a critical research site. -
Architecture:
Hillside Enclosures and Infrastructure : The architecture of the Nainital Zoo is defined by its clever use of the steep Sher Ka Danda terrain. Instead of flat cages, the enclosures are "Stepped Habitats" that follow the natural slope of the hill, typically measuring 20x30 ...Hillside Enclosures and Infrastructure : The architecture of the Nainital Zoo is defined by its clever use of the steep Sher Ka Danda terrain. Instead of flat cages, the enclosures are "Stepped Habitats" that follow the natural slope of the hill, typically measuring 20x30 meters for larger animals. The use of chain-link fencing is integrated with natural rock faces and evergreen oak trees to provide a realistic environment. The main administrative building and entry gate feature local stone masonry and traditional gabled roofs, reflecting the mountain aesthetic. A series of paved walking paths, roughly 1. 5 KMS in total length, connect the various levels of the zoo, punctuated by rest areas and viewpoints. For the birds, there are large walk-in aviaries with a height of nearly 15 feet, allowing species like the Golden Pheasant to fly comfortably. During winter, special "Thermal Enclosures" are used, where heavy curtains and heating pads are provided for sensitive species. The zoo also features a small museum and educational center built with modern RCC but finished with wood to blend with the surroundings. The vertical layout ensures that every animal enclosure doubles as a vantage point for the visitors to see the valley below. -
How To Reach:
By Air : Pantnagar Airport is 68 KMS away; after reaching Nainital, you can use the zoo shuttle service from the main town.
By Train : Kathgodam Railway Station is the nearest gateway (33 KMS); taxis are readily available for the 1. 5-ho...By Air : Pantnagar Airport is 68 KMS away; after reaching Nainital, you can use the zoo shuttle service from the main town.
By Train : Kathgodam Railway Station is the nearest gateway (33 KMS); taxis are readily available for the 1. 5-hour journey to the zoo gate.
By Road : Located on the way to Snow View, it is easily accessible from the Mall Road via local taxis or a steep 2 KM walk.
By Local Transport : The zoo provides a dedicated "Zoo Shuttle" service from Tallital and Mallital bus stands as private cars are not allowed inside the steep approach road. -
Weather and Best Time to Visit:
Summer (March to June) : Great for family outings; the weather is pleasant, though it can get crowded during the peak May-June season.
Monsoon (July to September) : The forest looks incredibly lush and green, but the steep paths can be sl...Summer (March to June) : Great for family outings; the weather is pleasant, though it can get crowded during the peak May-June season.
Monsoon (July to September) : The forest looks incredibly lush and green, but the steep paths can be slippery; carry an umbrella and wear shoes with good grip. -
Near Tourist Places:
Naini Lake (2 KMS), The Mall Road (2 KMS), Snow View Point (3 KMS), Naina Devi Temple (2. 5 KMS), Tiffin Top (4 KMS), Eco Cave Garden (4 KMS), Hanuman Garhi (3 KMS), Bhimtal (22 KMS), Sattal (24 KMS), Naukuchiatal (26 KMS).
Tourism Tips
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Health and Safety : The zoo involves a lot of uphill walking at high altitude; people with breathing issues or heart conditions should take frequent breaks.
Packing Essentials : Wear comfortable sneakers, carry a water bottle, and bring a...Health and Safety : The zoo involves a lot of uphill walking at high altitude; people with breathing issues or heart conditions should take frequent breaks.
Packing Essentials : Wear comfortable sneakers, carry a water bottle, and bring a cap to protect yourself from the mountain sun.
Cash and ATMs : The entry counter takes cash and UPI, but it's best to keep cash handy; the nearest ATMs are in the Tallital market area.
Visitor Etiquette : Do not feed the animals or tease them with noise; stay behind the safety barriers at all times for your own security.
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