"Witness rare Himalayan wildlife in natural habitats."
The Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, located in Darjeeling, is a popular tourist attraction known for its diverse collection of Himalayan wildlife. Established in 1958, the zoo is named after Padmaja Naidu, the former governor of West Bengal and the daughter of Sarojini Naidu, the renowned freedom fighter and poet. This zoological park is spread over 67.56 acres of lush greenery and is situated at an altitude of 7,000 feet, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
The Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park is located in the town of Darjeeling in the Indian state of West Bengal. It is situated on the Jawahar Parbat Hill, overlooking the majestic Kanchenjunga mountain range. The park is easily accessible by road and is approximately 2 kilometers away from the main town of Darjeeling.
The Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park is open to visitors from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM every day, except on Thursdays and on the Holi festival. It is advisable to plan your visit accordingly to make the most of your time at the zoo.
The entry fee for the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park is INR 60 for Indian adults and INR 20 for Indian children. Foreign nationals are required to pay INR 200 for admission. Additionally, there is a nominal camera fee for those who wish to capture memories of their visit.
The zoo is home to a wide variety of Himalayan flora and fauna, including the endangered snow leopard, red panda, Tibetan wolf, Himalayan black bear, and several species of birds and reptiles. The park also houses a conservation breeding center for the red panda, which aims to protect and preserve this vulnerable species.
Visitors to the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park can enjoy a range of activities, including guided tours, wildlife safaris, and interactive sessions with zookeepers. The zoo also hosts educational programs and workshops to raise awareness about wildlife conservation and environmental protection.
For those looking to explore the park in a more adventurous way, jeep safaris are available at an additional cost. The jeep safari charges vary depending on the duration of the safari and the number of participants. It is recommended to book your safari in advance to avoid any last-minute hassles.
Children under the age of 5 are granted free entry to the zoo. The entry fee for children aged 5-12 is INR 10. For male and female visitors above the age of 12, the entry fee is as mentioned earlier. Senior citizens are also eligible for a discounted entry fee upon presenting valid identification.
The Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park is equipped with facilities to cater to the needs of senior citizens, including wheelchair access, resting areas, and guided tours tailored to their pace. The zoo staff are trained to assist elderly visitors and ensure their comfort throughout their visit.
The best time to visit the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park is during the spring and autumn months, from March to May and September to November, respectively. The weather is pleasant during these periods, making it ideal for exploring the zoo and enjoying the panoramic views of the Himalayan mountains.
While in Darjeeling, visitors can explore other nearby attractions such as the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, Tiger Hill, Batasia Loop, and the Peace Pagoda. These sites offer a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage and natural beauty of the region, making for a memorable trip.
The Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park provides ample parking space for visitors who prefer to drive to the zoo. The parking facility is well-maintained and secure, allowing visitors to park their vehicles with peace of mind while they explore the park.
Visitors are required to follow certain rules and regulations while visiting the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, such as refraining from littering, feeding the animals, or causing any disturbance to the wildlife. It is important to respect the natural habitat of the animals and adhere to the guidelines set by the zoo authorities.
The Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park is easily accessible by road from Darjeeling town. Visitors can hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach the zoo in a short amount of time. For those flying in, the nearest airport is Bagdogra Airport, approximately 70 kilometers away from Darjeeling. Additionally, there are several accommodations available in Darjeeling for those looking to extend their stay and explore the beautiful hill station further.
