If you are looking for a nice outdoor activity in Kolkata with your family or friends, the Alipore Zoological Garden, popularly known as Kolkata Zoo, is a perfect choice. This ancient zoo not only lets one have a nice city break, but also provides a place for people to learn about animals through its green and beautiful nature.

That said, it would be wonderful if you knew about the latest Kolkata Zoo timings, ticket prices, and other visitor information before you visited the zoo. This comprehensive guide will equip you very well for a hassle-free and memorable journey.

Alipore Zoological Garden Overview

The Alipore Zoo, which was founded in 1876, is the oldest zoo in India, along with others. The zoo occupies around 46 acres in the southern part of Kolkata and shelters a vast collection of animals and birds, including various species of reptiles and plants. Besides, people can see the famous and beautiful animals like Royal Bengal Tigers, Asiatic Lions, elephants, giraffes, zebras, rhinoceroses, and many kinds of exotic birds.

The zoo is a place where one can enjoy recreational activities, but it also carries out its conservation, education, and breeding programs, thereby helping people understand the significance of protecting endangered species.

The Zoo’s Opening and Closing Timings in Kolkata

It’s best to plan your visit around the zoo hours to avoid inconvenience and the crowds.

Zoo Visiting Hours:

Monday to Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Thursday: Closed (Weekly holiday)
Friday to Sunday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Extra Information:

The ticket counter closes at 4:30 PM.
The zoo aquarium operates from 10:30 AM to 4:30 PM.
The zoo remains open on Thursdays from December 15 to January 31, as well, due to the peak tourist season.

Kolkata Zoo Entry Fee Information

The zoo's pricing policy is very reasonable, which enables people of every age group to come and enjoy it.

Adults: ₹30 per person
Children (below 5 years): Free entry
Aquarium ticket: ₹10
Camera Charges: Approximately ₹20

The prices of tickets might get altered from time to time, and hence it is good to check the official updates before going.

Kolkata Zoo's Finest Time for Visiting

The season to visit the Kolkata Zoo was November to February, with pleasant weather and active animals.
The time of day considered to be best was early morning, when there was a greater chance of seeing animals.
Weekdays were a good time to visit if one wanted to avoid crowds and enjoy a relaxed experience.
It was better to go early in the summer as it helped to avoid the heat and fatigue.

Main Attractions in the Zoo

The zone of big cats: Royal Bengal Tigers and Asiatic Lions
African Displays: Giraffes and Zebras
Elephants and Rhinoceroses: Always a hit with toddlers
House of reptiles: there are snakes, crocodiles, turtles, and lizards
Aquarium: Different kinds of freshwater and marine fishes
Birds in the aviary: Parrots, flamingos, macaws, and migratory birds
Lakes and Gardens: A great spot for quiet walks and photography

Visitor Help for Experience Enhancement

Have good walking shoes on.
Bring water along, but do not create plastic waste.
Do not give food to or interfere with the animals.
Abide by the zoo's rules and follow the signs.
Be quiet next to the enclosures.
Take a camera to capture the moments.

Kolkata Zoo's Accessibility

Nearest Metro Station: Netaji Bhavan (approximately 2.5 km)
Bus Stop: Alipore Zoo, National Library
Howrah Station: About 7 km (20-25 minutes)
Airport: About 25 km (45-60 minutes)

Provided Facilities

Vending machines for drinking water
Toilets with clean and hygienic conditions
Resting areas
Food stalls
Merchandising outlets
Help desks

Day Trip Recommendations

You can also visit Victoria Memorial, National Library, Birla Planetarium, Alipore Jail Museum, and Maidan to make your outing even more rewarding.

Conclusion

Kolkata Zoo is an ideal combination of nature, education, and leisure. It is still one of the most popular attractions due to its affordable ticket prices, a wide variety of animals, and its location in the heart of the city.