Nestled in the beautiful hills of Nainital, the Govind Ballabh Pant High Altitude Zoo, also known as the Nainital Zoo, is a popular destination for nature and wildlife enthusiasts. Located at an altitude of 2,100 meters (6,900 feet), this zoo offers a rare opportunity to observe and learn about high-altitude wildlife in a serene environment. Established in 1984, it covers an area of about 4.6 hectares and houses a variety of animal species, making it an ideal spot for families, students, and wildlife lovers to explore.
Wildlife at the Nainital Zoo
The Nainital Zoo is home to many endangered and exotic species. Visitors can expect to see Himalayan Black Bears, Snow Leopards, Barking Deer, Himalayan Civet, and Himalayan Monal – Uttarakhand's state bird, among many others. The zoo focuses on conservation and education, making it a great place for children and adults alike to learn about the rich biodiversity of the Himalayas.
Entry Fees
Visiting the Nainital Zoo is affordable, making it accessible to a wide range of tourists:
₹50 per person for Adults (between 13 Yrs - 60 Yrs)
₹20 per person for Children (between 5 Yrs - 12 Yrs)
₹25 for Still Camera
₹200 for Professional Video Camera
Note:
Free entry for senior citizens and disabled individuals.
Students receive free entry on special days such as World Environment Day, Zoo Foundation Day, Ozone Day, and Wildlife Week.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit the Nainital Zoo is during the pleasant summer months (March to June) when the weather is mild, and the wildlife is more active. However, for those who enjoy the cool climate of winter, the zoo is also open from September to February. The zoo remains closed during the monsoon season (July to August) due to heavy rainfall.
How to Reach the Nainital Zoo
Located just 2 kilometers from the Nainital town center, the zoo is easily accessible by road. Visitors can either walk up the scenic route or take a shared taxi available at Mallital. There is also a shuttle service provided by the zoo for a small fee, which is convenient for those who prefer not to hike up the steep paths.
Nearby Attraction
While you're in Nainital, make sure to explore other popular attractions such as:
Naini Lake (1.5 km): A picturesque lake perfect for boating and enjoying the serene beauty of the surroundings.
Tiffin Top (Dorothy's Seat) (4 km): A viewpoint offering stunning panoramic views of the Himalayas.
Snow View Point (3 km): One of the best places to catch a glimpse of the snow-clad Himalayan peaks.
Naina Devi Temple (1.2 km): A sacred Hindu temple situated on the northern shore of Naini Lake.
With these nearby attractions, a visit to the Nainital Zoo can easily become part of a full day of exploration and sightseeing.