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Yadanabon Zoological Gardens

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Yadanabon Zoological Gardens (Myanmar (Burma))

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The Yadanabon Zoological Gardens in Mandalay were opened in 1989, situated at the base of the historic Mandalay Hill. Covering an area of about 42 acres (17 hectares), the zoo serves as the primary wildlife facility in northern Myanmar, housing more than 300 species of vertebrates. It is particularly renowned for its involvement in conservation efforts for endangered local species, most notably the Burmese star tortoise. The zoo's layout utilizes portions of the former royal palace moats, providing a unique landscape that integrates historic infrastructure with animal enclosures. Visitors can observe a variety of mammals, including Asian elephants and tigers, as well as an extensive collection of reptiles and tropical birds. As an educational center, it plays a vital role in teaching the local public about Myanmar's biological diversity and the importance of habitat preservation. Despite ongoing needs for modernization, it remains a significant cultural and recreational landmark in Mandalay. Its proximity to other major tourist sites makes it a frequent stop for those exploring the country's royal history. The gardens contribute to both regional tourism and national wildlife management goals.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C212428313130303030292623
Rain mm11271532443338303397

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
The extensive zoological gardens can be explored through well-maintained outdoor walking paths that lead past various animal enclosures. Visitors can enjoy shaded areas and educational displays focusing on the unique wildlife of Myanmar.
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Typical hours
The zoo typically opens its gates early in the morning and welcomes guests throughout the day until late afternoon. Arriving earlier in the day often provides the best chance to see the animals during their most active periods before the afternoon heat.
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Photography
Photography for personal use is widely encouraged, offering great opportunities to capture the endemic Burmese species and lush green landscapes. A zoom lens is highly recommended to get clear shots of animals while respecting the barriers of their enclosures.
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Time needed
Plan to allocate roughly two to three hours for a leisurely stroll through the entire park and to observe the different breeding programs. Families with small children might want to stay a bit longer to allow for rest breaks in the shaded garden pavilions.
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Combine with
Its location at the foot of Mandalay Hill makes it incredibly easy to combine this visit with an inspiring hike up the hill to explore the ancient pagodas. You can also explore the nearby Mandalay Palace to complete a full day of sightseeing in the city.
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Getting there
The gardens are conveniently located within the urban area and are easily accessible by taxi, auto-rickshaw, or rented bicycle from most parts of Mandalay. It serves as a well-known landmark, so local drivers will easily navigate you right to the main entrance.
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Insider tip
Pack plenty of drinking water and wear breathable clothing, as the tropical climate in Mandalay can be quite hot and humid, especially at midday. Carrying some mosquito repellent is also wise, given the dense vegetation surrounding the animal habitats.

Geography

Coordinates
21.99610, 96.10170

Facts

  • The zoological gardens were officially established in 1989.
  • The facility covers an area of approximately 42 acres (17 hectares).
  • It houses a diverse collection of over 300 vertebrate species.
  • The zoo is a key site for the Burmese star tortoise conservation program.
  • The gardens are located at the foot of the prominent Mandalay Hill.
  • Parts of the zoo occupy land formerly belonging to the royal palace moat.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Mandalay PalaceMandalay Palace<1 km · SExplore →
Kuthodaw PagodaKuthodaw Pagoda1 km · NExplore →
Mahamuni Buddha TempleMahamuni Buddha Temple3 km · SExplore →
Amarapura Historical CityAmarapura Historical City5 km · SExplore →
Hsinbyume PagodaHsinbyume Pagoda10 km · SExplore →
Ayeyarwady Dolphin Protected AreaAyeyarwady Dolphin Protected Area12 km · SExplore →
SagaingSagaing13 km · SExplore →
Irrawaddy RiverIrrawaddy River20 km · SEExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

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Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Yadanabon Zoological Gardens (6)

The East Gate (Gate for Foreigners)📍 landmark

The official east gate of the Mandalay citadel, serving as the sole entry point for international tourists.

Mandalay Royal Palace (Foreigner gate)📍 landmark

A historical entrance to the Mandalay Royal Palace that crosses the palace moat.

Yadanarpon Zoo🎡 recreation

A zoo located at the foot of Mandalay Hill, showcasing native wildlife species of Myanmar.

National Theater (amiu:saa: kjaattruN)🎭 culture

A cultural venue in Mandalay known for its performances of traditional Burmese dance and puppetry.

Presbyterian Church of Myanmar📍 landmark

A Christian place of worship serving the local Presbyterian community in Mandalay.

Mi Ba Market🎭 culture

A lively local market where fresh produce and daily necessities are sold.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What distinguishes the Yadanabon-Zoo?
It is a significant zoo, primarily known for its regional biodiversity.
Are there native animal species there?
Yes, a focus is on presenting Burmese wildlife.
Is the zoo easy to navigate?
Yes, the paths are well-marked and offer a logical route through the area.
What are the usual opening hours?
Usually, the zoo is open to visitors daily from 8 AM to 5 PM.
Are you allowed to bring your own drinks?
Yes, bringing water is explicitly allowed due to the hot climate.
Yadanabon Zoological Gardens: where is it located?
Yadanabon Zoological Gardens is located in Myanmar (Burma).
Yadanabon Zoological Gardens: what is there to see?
Highlights include The East Gate (Gate for Foreigners), Mandalay Royal Palace (Foreigner gate), Yadanarpon Zoo.
Yadanabon Zoological Gardens: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
Yadanabon Zoological Gardens: why is it worth visiting?
The Yadanabon Zoological Gardens in Mandalay were opened in 1989, situated at the base of the historic Mandalay Hill.
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Nearby cities

Pakokku — Yadanabon Zoological Gardens (Myanmar (Burma))
Pakokku
A bustling city on the Irrawaddy River, known for its trade in tobacco and cotton.
Magway — Yadanabon Zoological Gardens (Myanmar (Burma))
Magway
The capital of the Magway Region, known for the production of edible oil and sesame.

History & landmarks

Kyauk Ka Lat Pagoda — Yadanabon Zoological Gardens (Myanmar (Burma))
Kyauk Ka Lat Pagoda
A tiny golden pagoda spectacularly built on top of a narrow, steep limestone spire.

More places

Amarapura Historical City — Yadanabon Zoological Gardens (Myanmar (Burma))
Amarapura Historical City
A former capital of Myanmar, known for its silk weaving and the famous teakwood U Bein Bridge.
Mandalay Palace — Yadanabon Zoological Gardens (Myanmar (Burma))
Mandalay Palace
The last royal palace of the Burmese monarchy, built as a walled fortress with a wide moat in the center of Mandalay.
Mandalay Palace Moat Park — Yadanabon Zoological Gardens (Myanmar (Burma))
Mandalay Palace Moat Park
An expansive recreational area surrounding the wide, water-filled moat of the historic Mandalay Royal Palace.
Kuthodaw Pagoda — Yadanabon Zoological Gardens (Myanmar (Burma))
Kuthodaw Pagoda
A Buddhist stupa in Mandalay that contains the "world's largest book", consisting of hundreds of marble slabs inscribed with Buddhist texts.
Shwenandaw Monastery — Yadanabon Zoological Gardens (Myanmar (Burma))
Shwenandaw Monastery
A historic Buddhist monastery in Mandalay, famous for its exquisite teak wood carvings and traditional architecture.
Mahamuni Buddha Temple — Yadanabon Zoological Gardens (Myanmar (Burma))
Mahamuni Buddha Temple
One of the most important Buddhist pilgrimage sites in Myanmar, housing a highly venerated Buddha statue.
Ayeyarwady Dolphin Protected Area — Yadanabon Zoological Gardens (Myanmar (Burma))
Ayeyarwady Dolphin Protected Area
A stretch of river north of Mandalay dedicated to the protection of the rare Irrawaddy dolphins, known for their cooperation with local f…
Inwa Ruins — Yadanabon Zoological Gardens (Myanmar (Burma))
Inwa Ruins
The remnants of the ancient imperial capital that was the center of successive Burmese kingdoms from the 14th to the 19th centuries.