Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Safari Park

Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Safari Park, commonly known as Safari Park, is a popular wildlife park located near Dhaka, in Gazipur district, Bangladesh. This park offers a unique experience where animals roam freely in large open areas, and visitors can observe them from a safe distance, often from vehicles or observation points. Unlike a traditional zoo, the safari park allows people to enjoy nature in a more natural and spacious environment. It is one of the most visited tourist attractions near Dhaka and is suitable for families, students, and nature lovers.

How to Reach Safari Park, Dhaka

Safari Park is located in Bhawal Mirzapur, Gazipur, which is approximately 40 kilometers north of Dhaka city.

By Car or Ride-Sharing: You can reach the park easily by private car or ride-sharing services like Uber or Pathao. The journey takes around 1.5 to 2 hours depending on traffic.

By Bus: Several buses travel from Dhaka to Gazipur (like BRTC, Shoukhin, or Anabil), and you can get off at Bagher Bazar. From there, local transport such as CNG or auto-rickshaws can take you to the park gate.

By Tour Package: Many local tour operators arrange day trips to Safari Park with transportation and entry included.

Weather in Dhaka and Safari Park Area

The climate in Gazipur is similar to Dhaka’s and features a tropical monsoon weather pattern.

• Summer (March to June): Hot and humid with temperatures around 35°C to 40°C.
• Monsoon (June to September): Wet and muddy, with frequent rains. Some areas may become slippery.
• Winter (November to February): Pleasant and ideal for visiting. Temperatures range from 15°C to 25°C.

The best time to visit Safari Park is during winter and spring (November to March) when the weather is dry and comfortable.

Timings of Safari Park, Dhaka

The park follows regular visiting hours and remains closed on certain public holidays.

Opening Hours:
- Daily: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Weekly Holiday: Tuesday (Closed)
- Ticket counters close at 3:30 PM

It is recommended to arrive early in the day to enjoy the full safari experience without rushing.

Why is Safari Park, Dhaka Famous?

Safari Park is famous because it is the largest wildlife park in Bangladesh and offers a more natural and spacious habitat for animals. Unlike traditional zoos where animals are kept in cages, this park allows them to roam freely within designated zones, giving visitors a unique and exciting wildlife experience.

It is home to many exotic and native species, including tigers, lions, elephants, zebras, deer, bears, and many types of birds and reptiles. The park also has beautiful landscapes, artificial lakes, watch towers, and eco-friendly walking paths that make it an ideal day-trip destination from Dhaka.

Entry and Visit Details

Entry Fees:
- Adults: BDT 60
- Children: BDT 30
- Foreigners: BDT 500
- Car Parking Fee: BDT 50 – 100 (depending on vehicle type)

Other Costs:
- Safari Bus Ride: BDT 100 per person (highly recommended)
- Paddle Boat, Bicycle Ride, and Mini Train: Additional costs apply

Entry tickets are available at the counter at the entrance. There are also restrooms, food courts, and prayer areas inside the park.

History and Architecture of Safari Park

Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Safari Park was established in 2003 with the aim of conserving wildlife and providing educational and recreational opportunities for visitors. The park was designed based on the concept of African safari parks where animals live in open enclosures that mimic their natural habitats.

The park covers an area of about 3,810 acres and is divided into multiple zones:

• Core Safari Area (for large animals like lions and tigers)
• Animal Enclosures
• Bird Aviary
• Reptile House
• Elephant and Deer Zone
• Butterfly Park and Orchid House

The park was developed by the Forest Department and continues to be maintained under their authority. It has become an important center for wildlife education and conservation in Bangladesh.

Things to Do at Safari Park

There are many fun and educational activities to enjoy during your visit:

• Take the Safari Bus through lion, tiger, and deer zones.
• Visit the Bird Aviary and see colorful parrots, peacocks, and other species.
• Explore the Reptile House with snakes, crocodiles, and turtles.
• Watch the elephants bathe or feed them in their open zone.
• Walk or ride a bicycle around the Eco-Park area.
• Relax at the picnic spots near the artificial lakes or gardens.
• Take photos from the watchtowers that offer views of the entire park.
• Enjoy paddle boating or ride the mini train with children.

Interesting Facts About Safari Park, Dhaka

- The park was inspired by safari models in Africa and Thailand.
- More than 4,000 animals from over 50 species live in the park.
- It is one of the largest safari parks in South Asia by land area.
- The park supports wildlife breeding programs for endangered species.
- There is an information center and museum that educates visitors on animal conservation.

Tips for Visiting Safari Park, Dhaka

- Visit early in the day to avoid crowds and heat.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking and light clothing.
- Bring drinking water, sunscreen, and hats.
- Follow park rules and do not feed or disturb the animals.
- Keep an eye on children, especially around animals and lakes.
- Try to visit on a weekday to avoid large weekend crowds.
- Carry cash, as some stalls and ticket counters may not accept mobile payments.

Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Safari Park is a wonderful place where nature, wildlife, and education come together. Whether you're traveling with family or friends, it's a perfect one-day trip from Dhaka that offers both excitement and learning. From spotting majestic animals to enjoying the beauty of the forest, this safari park is truly a gem near the capital city.