Central Zoo Jawalakhel
A 6-hectare green oasis in Kathmandu, Central Zoo Jawalakhel offers diverse wildlife, paddle boating, and family fun, promoting conservation.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Central Zoo Jawalakhel
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 6-hectare green oasis in Kathmandu, Central Zoo Jawalakhel offers diverse wildlife, paddle boating, and family fun, promoting conservation.
"A charming green oasis amidst the bustle of Kathmandu, offering a delightful blend of wildlife, recreation, and history."
🎟️ Online Ticket Purchase
Use the eSewa app for quick online ticket purchase and skip counter queues.
👟 Comfortable Footwear
Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the 6-hectare zoo grounds.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Avian Paradise
Bird Enclosures
Marvel at brilliantly colored parrots, regal peacocks, and exotic waterfowl in a vibrant, tropical setting.
Majestic Big Cats
Tiger & Lion Enclosures
Observe Nepal's unique biodiversity, including majestic tigers and other large felines in well-designed habitats.

Paddle Boat Fun
Central Pond
Enjoy a relaxing paddle boat ride on the scenic pond, a favorite activity for families and visitors.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Ticketing Tips
Best Time for a Relaxing Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Online Ticket Purchase
Use the eSewa app for quick online ticket purchase and skip counter queues.
👟 Comfortable Footwear
Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the 6-hectare zoo grounds.
The central zoo is a mess .
Central zoo ko ticket lai kati parcha? And is it worth going there?
📸 Capture the Wildlife
Bring your camera to photograph the diverse animals and serene environment.
🌳 Enjoy the Greenery
The zoo is a green lung; take time to appreciate the natural, shaded environment.
A tiger, which created terror in the areas around the Bardiya National Park in southwestern Nepal, has finally been caged at the Central Zoo in Jawalakhel, Lalitpur.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Online Ticket Purchase
Use the eSewa app for quick online ticket purchase and skip counter queues.
👟 Comfortable Footwear
Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the 6-hectare zoo grounds.
📸 Capture the Wildlife
Bring your camera to photograph the diverse animals and serene environment.
🌳 Enjoy the Greenery
The zoo is a green lung; take time to appreciate the natural, shaded environment.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Central Zoo Jawalakhel is widely praised as a well-maintained, clean, and family-friendly destination offering a diverse range of animals and recreational activities. Visitors highlight the vibrant bird enclosures, the opportunity for paddle boating, and the zoo's role as a green lung for Kathmandu. While generally positive, some mention that a few enclosures could benefit from updates.
"I recently visited Jawlakhel Zoo and had an absolutely amazing experience, easily deserving a full 5-star rating. The zoo is well-maintained, spacious, and filled with a diverse range of animals that reflect Nepal’s unique biodiversity. What stood out the most for me—and what I loved the most—were the birds; from brilliantly colored parrots to regal peacocks and exotic waterfowl, each enclosure offered a vibrant and captivating glimpse into the avian world. The bird section felt like a tropical paradise, echoing with natural calls and surrounded by lush greenery that made it both peaceful and awe-inspiring. I also appreciated how the enclosures are designed with both the animals' comfort and the visitors' visibility in mind, allowing you to observe closely without feeling intrusive. The zoo is perfect for families, nature lovers, and anyone looking to spend a relaxing day in Kathmandu while learning about wildlife conservation. I took plenty of pictures—some of which I’ve included below—to capture the serene environment, the natural behavior of the animals, and the joy the place radiates. From playful monkeys and majestic tigers to the calm pond area where children enjoy boating, every corner of the zoo has something memorable to offer. Jawlakhel Zoo isn’t just a place to see animals—it’s a place to feel connected with nature, and I’m already looking forward to my next visit."
nisip shrestha
"Central Zoo is a well-kept and family-friendly place with a good variety of animals and informative displays. The enclosures are decent, and the zoo promotes conservation and education. It’s a fun, educational spot for a day out, though a few areas could use updates. Overall, a great visit!"
Sagun Sigdel
"Central Zoo in Jawalakhel is a charming green oasis amidst the bustle of Kathmandu, offering a delightful blend of wildlife, recreation, and history. Home to over 1,200 animals of more than 100 species—including tigers, rhinos, red pandas, and even chimpanzees—this 6-hectare sanctuary is perfect for families and curious visitors alike. The zoo is not just about animals; it features lush gardens, a scenic pond for paddle boating, and child-friendly play areas, making it a wonderful spot for a relaxing afternoon. With ongoing improvements and a focus on conservation and education, Central Zoo stands as a proud landmark and a must-visit in the heart of Nepal."
Rahul Shah
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Central Zoo is located in Jawalakhel, Kathmandu. You can reach it by local bus, taxi, or ride-sharing services. It's a well-known landmark, so most drivers will know the way.
Yes, there is parking available at the zoo, though it can get busy on weekends. Arriving early can help secure a spot.
The zoo is typically open daily from morning until late afternoon. It's best to check their official website or social media for the most current hours.
Absolutely! Local buses frequently run through Jawalakhel, making public transport a convenient and affordable option to reach the zoo.
The main pathways are generally well-maintained and offer a relatively smooth experience. However, some areas might have uneven terrain.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices are generally affordable. For the most up-to-date pricing, it's recommended to check the eSewa app or the zoo's official channels.
Yes, online ticket purchase is highly recommended via the eSewa app. This allows you to skip the long queues at the ticket counter.
Information on discounts for children or students is usually available on the eSewa app or at the ticket counter. It's worth checking for specific offers.
Upon purchasing tickets online, you'll receive a QR code. Simply scan this code at the entrance gate for quick and easy entry.
Refund policies can vary. It's advisable to review the terms and conditions when purchasing tickets online or inquire directly with the zoo.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The zoo houses over 1,200 animals of more than 100 species, including tigers, rhinos, red pandas, chimpanzees, and a wide variety of birds.
Yes, the zoo offers child-friendly play areas and paddle boating on the pond, making it a great spot for family fun.
Visitors consistently praise the zoo for being clean and well-maintained, with hygienic pathways and enclosures.
Photography is generally allowed and encouraged to capture the wildlife and serene environment.
While not explicitly mentioned, the zoo's layout and signage make it easy to navigate. Inquire at the information desk for any available guided options.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are usually food stalls and snack vendors within the zoo premises offering refreshments and light snacks.
Bringing your own food and drinks is generally permitted, making it ideal for picnics. There are also designated picnic spots.
Expect typical snack items like chips, ice cream, and local beverages. For full meals, it's advisable to dine before or after your visit.
Snack options are usually limited. If you have specific dietary needs, bringing your own food is the most reliable option.
Yes, bottled water is readily available for purchase at various points within the zoo.
📸 📸 Photography
The bird enclosures, tiger habitats, and the scenic pond area offer excellent photographic opportunities. Capture the natural behavior of animals.
Drone usage is typically restricted in zoo environments to ensure the safety and well-being of the animals. It's best to avoid bringing drones.
Lighting varies throughout the day. Mornings and late afternoons offer softer light, while midday can be harsher. The shaded areas provide good diffused light.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, flash photography might be discouraged in certain enclosures to avoid disturbing the animals.
Early mornings and late afternoons are ideal for wildlife photography as animals are often more active and the light is softer.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🌿 Nature Lovers & Wildlife Enthusiasts
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Nepal's Biodiversity
The diverse range of animals, from the vibrant avian population to the larger mammals, provides an educational experience for all ages. The enclosures are designed to be both informative for visitors and comfortable for the animals, allowing for close observation without intrusion. This focus on conservation and education makes a visit to Central Zoo a meaningful experience, highlighting the importance of protecting these species for future generations.
Beyond the animal encounters, the zoo's commitment to conservation is evident in its efforts to maintain a natural and healthy environment. This dedication ensures that the zoo remains a valuable resource for both the animals it houses and the community it serves.
Recreation and Relaxation Amidst Nature
A key attraction is the scenic pond where visitors can enjoy paddle boating, a popular activity for families and couples seeking a leisurely afternoon. The zoo also features child-friendly play areas, ensuring that younger visitors have ample opportunities for fun and engagement. The well-maintained pathways and shaded environment make it ideal for leisurely strolls and picnics.
This combination of natural beauty and recreational options makes Central Zoo a holistic destination. It’s a place where you can connect with nature, enjoy outdoor activities, and create lasting memories, all within the heart of Kathmandu.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit