Alipore Zoo
India's oldest zoo, established in 1876, offering a glimpse into diverse wildlife and a touch of history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Alipore Zoo
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
India's oldest zoo, established in 1876, offering a glimpse into diverse wildlife and a touch of history.
"A refreshing experience with a certain charm and history, offering a chance to see creatures you might have only read about."
🎯 Stay Hydrated & Protected
Carry water, wear a cap, and bring an umbrella to beat the heat.
🎟️ Tickets: Online & Offline
Purchase tickets online or at the counter. Plan to finish by 4:30 PM.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Majestic Big Cats
Big Cat Enclosures
Witness the power and grace of lions and tigers in their well-maintained enclosures. A must-see for any visitor.
Playful Primates
Monkey Enclosures
The monkeys are a lively and entertaining sight, often a favorite for both kids and adults.
Colorful Aviary
Aviary Section
A vibrant display of diverse bird species, offering a splash of color and sound.
Reptile House
Reptile House
Explore a fascinating collection of snakes, lizards, and other reptiles. Can get crowded on weekends.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Heat and Crowds
Plan Your Visit Timing
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Stay Hydrated & Protected
Carry water, wear a cap, and bring an umbrella to beat the heat.
🎟️ Tickets: Online & Offline
Purchase tickets online or at the counter. Plan to finish by 4:30 PM.
🚶♀️ Explore with Ease
Consider the indoor bus service for a comfortable tour without extensive walking.
📸 Capture the Moments
Great spot for photography, especially with kids.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Stay Hydrated & Protected
Carry water, wear a cap, and bring an umbrella to beat the heat.
🎟️ Tickets: Online & Offline
Purchase tickets online or at the counter. Plan to finish by 4:30 PM.
🚶♀️ Explore with Ease
Consider the indoor bus service for a comfortable tour without extensive walking.
📸 Capture the Moments
Great spot for photography, especially with kids.
🐒 Monkeys are a Hit
Don't miss the lively monkey enclosures; they're a crowd favorite!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Alipore Zoo for its historical charm, diverse animal collection, and family-friendly atmosphere. Many appreciate the well-maintained grounds and the educational value. However, some note that cleanliness could be improved in certain areas and suggest adding more seating. Overall, it's considered a refreshing escape and a nostalgic experience.
"I recently visited Alipore Zoo, and it turned out to be a refreshing experience. Being one of the oldest zoological gardens in India, the place carries a certain charm and history that immediately stands out. The moment I walked in, I was struck by the greenery and open spaces—it felt like a small escape from the busy streets of Kolkata. The layout is well planned, with clear pathways and signboards guiding you to different enclosures.
The variety of animals is quite impressive. From majestic lions and tigers to playful monkeys and exotic birds, the zoo really offers a chance to see creatures you might have only read about. I especially enjoyed watching the elephants and the colorful aviary section. The reptile house was another highlight, though it can feel a bit crowded on weekends.
What I liked most was how family-friendly the atmosphere is. Kids seemed to be having a wonderful time, learning and enjoying at the same time. That said, I do feel the management could improve cleanliness in certain areas and add more seating spots for visitors to relax. Overall, Alipore Zoo is not just about animals—it’s an experience of history, nature, and nostalgia combined."
Joyanta Ghosh
"Good for family. If you are coming with friends or toddlers it'll be a great place to hang out at. Just it'll be very hot so bring umbrellas, cap and a big water bottle along with you."
Zoya Khanam
"Best ever zoological garden in India
As ever I have seen.
Having so many enclosures and every enclosure is having animals and birds.
What enclosure mentioned that u will see inside that enclosure.
Best to visit with family and children
U can buy tickets online and offline.
This zoological garden is well maintained and so clean.
U can find so many icecream and fast food stalls inside even souvenir shop inside."
Sanjeet kumar
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From Esplanade, Rabindra Sadan, Park Street, or Maidan metro stations, you can get down at Exide and take a bus towards Behala. Alternatively, get down at Kalighat metro station and take a bus.
Several bus routes pass near Alipore Zoo. Buses heading towards Behala from the city center are a good option.
Yes, Alipore Zoo is well-connected by various bus routes, making it accessible via public transport from different parts of Kolkata.
Absolutely! Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Ola are readily available in Kolkata and can drop you directly at the zoo entrance.
While there isn't a metro station directly adjacent to the zoo, Kalighat and Exide (near Maidan) are relatively close and can be used as starting points for a bus or taxi ride.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices are generally affordable, with options for both online and offline purchases. It's best to check the official website for the most current pricing.
Yes, you can buy tickets online for Alipore Zoo, which can save you time queuing at the entrance.
Alipore Zoo is typically open from 9 am to 5 pm daily. However, it's advisable to confirm these hours before your visit.
Visiting on weekdays, especially during winter mornings, or late afternoons before closing can help you avoid the largest crowds.
Standard zoo rules apply. Avoid bringing outside food that might disturb the animals and follow the guidelines provided by the zoo staff.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Alipore Zoo houses a diverse range of animals, including lions, tigers, elephants, various species of monkeys, exotic birds in the aviary, and reptiles.
Yes, Alipore Zoo is highly recommended for families. Children often enjoy seeing the animals and learning about wildlife conservation.
While the zoo has pathways, accessibility can vary. The indoor bus service might be a helpful option for those with mobility concerns.
Inside the zoo, you can find food stalls selling ice cream and fast food, as well as a souvenir shop.
Yes, photography is generally allowed, and it's a popular spot for capturing memorable moments.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are food stalls inside Alipore Zoo offering fast food and ice cream, making it convenient for visitors.
It's generally recommended to check the zoo's specific policy on outside food. However, bringing water and light snacks is usually permissible.
The stalls typically offer popular fast food items and ice cream, suitable for a quick bite during your visit.
The area around Alipore has various restaurants and eateries, offering a wider range of dining options if you prefer to eat outside the zoo.
Food prices at the zoo stalls are generally considered reasonable for a tourist attraction.
📸 📸 Photography
The enclosures for big cats, the aviary, and the primate areas offer great photographic opportunities. The greenery also provides a nice backdrop.
For commercial photography, it's advisable to contact the zoo administration beforehand to inquire about permits and regulations.
A standard zoom lens is versatile for capturing animals at various distances. A wider lens can be useful for the overall landscape and greenery.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, using flash might be restricted in certain areas to avoid disturbing the animals.
Early morning or late afternoon offers softer light, which is ideal for photography and can also lead to more active animals.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
To ensure a smooth experience, remember to pack essentials like water, snacks, and sun protection. Visiting during cooler parts of the day, like early mornings or late afternoons, will make the outing more enjoyable for little ones. The zoo's educational aspect also provides a great opportunity for kids to learn about different species and conservation.
🚶 Budget Travelers
While there are food stalls inside, you can further save money by packing your own snacks and water. The zoo offers a full day's worth of entertainment and learning without breaking the bank, making it a great value for money.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
To get the best shots, aim for early morning or late afternoon when the light is softer and animals are often more active. A versatile zoom lens is recommended to capture animals at varying distances. Remember to be mindful of any flash restrictions to avoid disturbing the wildlife.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History and Conservation
The zoo plays a crucial role in educating the public about wildlife and the importance of conservation efforts. While it has faced challenges over the years, continuous efforts are made to improve enclosures and animal welfare. Visitors often remark on the historical charm and the sense of nostalgia the zoo evokes, making it more than just an animal park but a repository of memories for many Kolkatans.
Recent improvements have focused on enhancing the visitor experience, including better pathways, seating areas, and even an accessible indoor bus service for those who prefer not to walk extensively. This blend of history, education, and evolving visitor amenities makes Alipore Zoo a unique destination.
Navigating Your Visit: Practical Tips
Ticketing is straightforward, with options for both online purchase and on-the-spot buying at the counters. To make the most of your time and avoid the peak heat, it's recommended to plan your visit strategically. Arriving early in the morning or in the late afternoon, before the 5 pm feeding time, offers the best chances to see animals actively moving. The zoo's operating hours are typically from 9 am to 5 pm.
For a more comfortable experience, especially if you have young children or mobility concerns, consider utilizing the indoor bus service available within the zoo. This allows you to tour the various enclosures without extensive walking. The zoo also provides amenities like food stalls and a souvenir shop, adding to the convenience of your visit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit