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Dushanbe Zoo

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kid-friendly
—°11
Dushanbe Zoo (Tajikistan)

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The Dushanbe Zoo was established in 1960 and is located in the heart of the Tajik capital, situated along the banks of the Luchob River. Covering an area of approximately 6.7 hectares, the zoo houses a wide variety of animal species, including native Central Asian fauna as well as exotic animals from Africa, India, and Australia. Its collection of large cats, such as lions and tigers, is particularly notable, along with various regional ungulates. The zoo serves not only as a recreational destination for families but also as an educational center aimed at raising awareness for wildlife conservation and the threats facing local endangered species like the snow leopard. In recent years, extensive renovation projects have been launched to modernize enclosures and improve the living conditions of the animals. As an integral part of the city's urban ecosystem, the zoo provides school groups with the chance to experience biological diversity firsthand and learn about the ecological interconnectedness of Tajikistan's natural environment.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Sep.

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Avg °C1281419252826211472
Rain mm365252523111212113335

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
The zoological park provides an outdoor walking experience suitable for families looking to observe native and exotic animals. Visitors should note that the enclosures often reflect older, traditional zoo designs.
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Typical hours
The zoo is typically open every day from morning until early evening, making it an easy addition to any daily itinerary. Weekends see a significant increase in local crowds, so visiting on a weekday morning is much quieter.
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Photography
Photography is permitted throughout the park, offering chances to capture images of native Central Asian species. Using a zoom lens is highly advantageous for getting clear shots through fencing without disturbing the animals.
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Time needed
Most families find that spending around two to three hours is plenty of time to walk the entire grounds. This allows for a relaxed pace, with enough time to stop at various enclosures and perhaps enjoy a quick snack.
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Combine with
The zoo's central location makes it easy to combine with a relaxing stroll around the adjacent Navruz Palace or Komsomol Lake. Many visitors seamlessly pair their visit with exploring the modern monuments of downtown Dushanbe.
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Getting there
Situated relatively close to the city center, the park is highly accessible by local public buses, inexpensive taxis, or even on foot. Its prominent location means that any local driver will be immediately familiar with it.
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Insider tip
Bringing along small bills in local currency is highly recommended for purchasing affordable snacks and beverages within the park. If visiting during summer, aim for an early morning visit when the animals are generally much more active.

Geography

Coordinates
38.58000, 68.76000

Facts

  • The zoo was officially opened to the general public in 1960.
  • The facility spans a total land area of 6.7 hectares.
  • It is home to about 1,500 animals representing nearly 150 species.
  • The zoo is conveniently located on the banks of the Luchob River.
  • Features a specialized terrarium building for reptiles and amphibians.
  • Works with international wildlife organizations on breeding programs.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Navruz PalaceNavruz Palace<1 km · NExplore →
Aquapark Dolphin DushanbeAquapark Dolphin Dushanbe1 km · SWExplore →
Children's Park DushanbeChildren's Park Dushanbe2 km · NExplore →
Boghi Poytakht Amusement ParkBoghi Poytakht Amusement Park4 km · NExplore →
Ayni Opera and Ballet TheatreAyni Opera and Ballet Theatre4 km · NExplore →
Hissar FortressHissar Fortress18 km · SExplore →
Almosi Gorge Wildlife AreaAlmosi Gorge Wildlife Area18 km · SExplore →
Takob Fluorite MineTakob Fluorite Mine19 km · NEExplore →

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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Sights in the town Dushanbe Zoo (11)

Alulak🎡 recreation

Alulak is a family-friendly theme park with various rides located near the Dushanbe Zoo.

Childrens Entertainment Center Panda🎡 recreation

This children's entertainment center features imaginative play areas with panda-themed decorations.

water park🎡 recreation

A modern water park in the city center providing refreshment with its outdoor pools and slides.

Shamsi No. 4🏺 historical

Shamsi No. 4 is an urban monument serving as a landmark in the bustling Dushanbe neighborhood.

Pamiatnik Abuali ibn Sino🏺 historical

This monument honors the famous Persian polymath Avicenna, also known as Abu Ali ibn Sino.

Academy of Painters of Tajikistan🎭 culture

This arts center serves as a creative hub for promoting Tajik painting and visual arts.

Dom kul'tury🎭 culture

A traditional House of Culture that regularly hosts local theatrical performances and community events.

Masch'idi "Mekhkalon" MIR SAID ALI Kh'AMADONI📍 landmark

This mosque is dedicated to the prominent Sufi scholar Mir Sayyid Ali Hamadani.

Hoji Ismail mosque📍 landmark

The Hoji Ismail mosque is a local place of worship featuring traditional Islamic architectural elements.

🕒 24/7

Maschidi makhallavii Zarafshon📍 landmark

This community mosque is located in the Zarafshon neighborhood and serves local residents for daily prayers.

fruit market🎭 culture

At this lively fruit market, you can find a wide selection of fresh, seasonal fruits from Tajikistan.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Is the zoo in Dushanbe worth a visit?
Yes, it is a popular place for families and shows local animal species.
How long does a tour take?
About one to two hours are sufficient.
Are there admission fees?
Yes, the admission is very inexpensive.
When is the zoo open?
Usually daily from morning until evening.
Is the zoo kid-friendly?
Yes, there are many enclosures that are easily visible for children.
Dushanbe Zoo: where is it located?
Dushanbe Zoo is located in Tajikistan.
Dushanbe Zoo: what is there to see?
Highlights include Alulak, Childrens Entertainment Center Panda, water park.
Dushanbe Zoo: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Sep.
Dushanbe Zoo: why is it worth visiting?
The Dushanbe Zoo was established in 1960 and is located in the heart of the Tajik capital, situated along the banks of the Luchob River.
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Nearby cities

Dushanbe — Dushanbe Zoo (Tajikistan)
Dushanbe
Dushanbe is the capital and the political, economic, and cultural center of Tajikistan.

History & landmarks

Navruz Palace — Dushanbe Zoo (Tajikistan)
Navruz Palace
A huge cultural and entertainment complex demonstrating traditional craftsmanship.
Dushanbe Flagpole — Dushanbe Zoo (Tajikistan)
Dushanbe Flagpole
One of the tallest free-standing flagpoles in the world in the center of the capital.
Palace of Nations — Dushanbe Zoo (Tajikistan)
Palace of Nations
The official residence of the President of Tajikistan with magnificent architecture.
Haji Yaqub Mosque — Dushanbe Zoo (Tajikistan)
Haji Yaqub Mosque
One of the largest and most important mosques in the capital of Tajikistan.
Ayni Opera and Ballet Theatre — Dushanbe Zoo (Tajikistan)
Ayni Opera and Ballet Theatre
An architectural masterpiece in neoclassical style in the center of Dushanbe.

More places

Youth Park at Komsomol Lake — Dushanbe Zoo (Tajikistan)
Youth Park at Komsomol Lake
An expansive recreation area around an artificial lake in Dushanbe, offering paddle boating, walking paths, and green picnic spots.
Dushanbe Thermal Power Plant — Dushanbe Zoo (Tajikistan)
Dushanbe Thermal Power Plant
A key coal-fired power plant providing the capital with electricity and district heating during the cold winter months.
Aquapark Dolphin Dushanbe — Dushanbe Zoo (Tajikistan)
Aquapark Dolphin Dushanbe
The largest water park in Tajikistan offers cooling on hot summer days with numerous slides, pools, and recreational options for children.
National Museum of Tajikistan — Dushanbe Zoo (Tajikistan)
National Museum of Tajikistan
A significant museum showcasing the rich history and culture of the country.
Dushanbe Cement Plant — Dushanbe Zoo (Tajikistan)
Dushanbe Cement Plant
A crucial building materials producer supporting the construction boom in the capital and infrastructure projects across the country.
Children&#39;s Park Dushanbe — Dushanbe Zoo (Tajikistan)
Children's Park Dushanbe
A colorful park in the city center designed specifically for younger children, offering playgrounds, small rides, and ice cream stands.
Dushanbe Botanical Garden — Dushanbe Zoo (Tajikistan)
Dushanbe Botanical Garden
A peaceful green oasis in the capital of Tajikistan, also known as Iram Garden, featuring old trees and a large peacock enclosure.
Rudaki Monument — Dushanbe Zoo (Tajikistan)
Rudaki Monument
A majestic statue in Rudaki Park dedicated to the father of Persian poetry.