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Central Zoo
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kid-friendly
Central Zoo in Kathmandu is the only official zoo in Nepal and is located in Jawalakhel. It was founded in 1932 by King Tribhuvan as a private zoo and opened to the public in 1956. The zoo covers approximately 10 hectares and houses over 900 animals of more than 100 species, including rare species like the royal tiger, snow leopard, and various bird species. The zoo also serves research and conservation purposes. It features a botanical garden, a pond, and playgrounds. About 1.5 million people visit the zoo annually. Central Zoo is operated by the National Trust for Nature Conservation and is a popular destination for families and tourists. The facility is wheelchair accessible and provides educational amenities.
- Location: Nepal
- Top sights: Central Zoo · Jawalakhel · Film Foundry
- Nearby: Kakani (5 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Mar, Apr, Oct.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 11 | 14 | 18 | 22 | 24 | 25 | 23 | 23 | 22 | 19 | 16 | 12 |
| Rain mm | 10 | 17 | 21 | 37 | 89 | 170 | 280 | 238 | 169 | 45 | 3 | 5 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The zoo is a popular family-friendly destination where visitors can walk along designated pathways to observe various regional and exotic wildlife species. The enclosures are spread across a shaded park-like setting, offering a pleasant outdoor walking experience for all ages.
Typical hours
Facilities typically open by mid-morning and close in the late afternoon, operating daily throughout the year with minor seasonal variations. Weekends and national holidays tend to draw large local crowds, so visiting on a weekday morning generally ensures a quieter and more relaxed experience.
Photography
Photography is widely welcomed and encouraged as you stroll through the grounds, with plenty of opportunities to capture images of fascinating animals like the Bengal tiger. Fast-moving subjects might require a good zoom lens or quick shutter speed to get the clearest shots through the viewing barriers.
Time needed
Most families plan to spend about two to three hours here, allowing sufficient time to view the majority of the animal habitats without rushing. There are also resting spots and small recreational areas that can extend the visit if you wish to take a leisurely break.
Combine with
The location in Jawalakhel makes it easy to combine a morning trip here with an afternoon exploring the historic Patan Durbar Square, which is located relatively close by. Alternatively, there are numerous local cafes and shops in the surrounding neighborhood to enjoy afterward.
Getting there
The entrance is centrally situated in the Kathmandu Valley area and is easily reachable by taxi, ride-hailing services, or local public buses navigating the main roads. Traffic in the area can be quite heavy during peak commuting hours, so plan your journey times accordingly.
Insider tip
Bring your own reusable water bottle and some light snacks, especially if you are traveling with young children, as food options inside the grounds may be somewhat limited on certain days. Comfortable walking shoes are a must, as navigating the uneven paths between enclosures requires a fair amount of steps.
Geography
Facts
- Founded in 1932 by King Tribhuvan
- Opened to public in 1956
- Area approx. 10 hectares
- Over 900 animals from over 100 species
- Approximately 1.5 million visitors annually
- Operated by National Trust for Nature Conservation
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Central Zoo (11)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Is the Central Zoo kid-friendly?
Yes, the zoo provides many educational areas and is a popular family destination.
What are the zoo's opening hours?
The zoo typically opens at 10:00 AM and closes at sunset.
Is there parking available on-site?
Yes, there is limited parking available for visitors in front of the main entrance.
Am I allowed to feed the animals?
No, feeding the animals is strictly prohibited.
Are there food options at the zoo?
Yes, there are small cafes and stalls selling snacks and drinks.
Central Zoo: where is it located?
Central Zoo is located in Nepal.
Central Zoo: what is there to see?
Highlights include Central Zoo, Jawalakhel, Film Foundry.
Central Zoo: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Mar, Apr, Oct.
Central Zoo: why is it worth visiting?
Central Zoo in Kathmandu is the only official zoo in Nepal and is located in Jawalakhel.
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