Central Zoo Jawalakhel - a couple of monkeys sitting on top of a fence
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Central Zoo Jawalakhel

4
·9k reviews·Lalitpur, Nepal

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Central Zoo Jawalakhel - a couple of monkeys sitting on top of a fence

Central Zoo Jawalakhel

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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

4
(9k reviews)

"A charming green oasis amidst the bustle of Kathmandu, offering a delightful blend of wildlife, recreation, and history."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎟️ 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.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Avian Paradise

Avian Paradise

Bird Enclosures

Marvel at brilliantly colored parrots, regal peacocks, and exotic waterfowl in a vibrant, tropical setting.

Reddit
Majestic Big Cats

Majestic Big Cats

Tiger & Lion Enclosures

Observe Nepal's unique biodiversity, including majestic tigers and other large felines in well-designed habitats.

Reddit
Paddle Boat Fun

Paddle Boat Fun

Central Pond

Enjoy a relaxing paddle boat ride on the scenic pond, a favorite activity for families and visitors.

Reddit
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Ticketing Tips

Skip the queues by purchasing your tickets online via the eSewa app. This ensures a quick entry with a simple QR code scan, saving you valuable time. Reddit

Best Time for a Relaxing Visit

Visit during weekdays to avoid larger crowds. The zoo is a peaceful green lung for Kathmandu, offering a refreshing escape. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoons
Why
Animals are often more active
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

best day ever tbh 🥬🪱🍊🍎🦧🍠 #zookeeper #zoolife #zooanimals #fyp #zootok #zoology #centralpark #centralparkzoo #nyc #wildlifeconservation #wildlifeoftiktok
@alidobbs
9.2K likes • 76.9K views

🎟️ Online Ticket Purchase

Use the eSewa app for quick online ticket purchase and skip counter queues. Reddit

👟 Comfortable Footwear

Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the 6-hectare zoo grounds. Reddit

reddit.com

The central zoo is a mess .

reddit.com

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. Reddit

🌳 Enjoy the Greenery

The zoo is a green lung; take time to appreciate the natural, shaded environment. Reddit

reddit.com

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. Reddit

👟 Comfortable Footwear

Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the 6-hectare zoo grounds. Reddit

📸 Capture the Wildlife

Bring your camera to photograph the diverse animals and serene environment. Reddit

🌳 Enjoy the Greenery

The zoo is a green lung; take time to appreciate the natural, shaded environment. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4
(9k reviews)

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

Well-maintained and clean
Diverse animal collection
Family-friendly activities

What People Dislike

Some enclosures need updates

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. Reddit

Yes, there is parking available at the zoo, though it can get busy on weekends. Arriving early can help secure a spot. Reddit

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. Reddit

Absolutely! Local buses frequently run through Jawalakhel, making public transport a convenient and affordable option to reach the zoo. Reddit

The main pathways are generally well-maintained and offer a relatively smooth experience. However, some areas might have uneven terrain. Reddit

🎫 🎫 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. Reddit

Yes, online ticket purchase is highly recommended via the eSewa app. This allows you to skip the long queues at the ticket counter. Reddit

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. Reddit

Upon purchasing tickets online, you'll receive a QR code. Simply scan this code at the entrance gate for quick and easy entry. Reddit

Refund policies can vary. It's advisable to review the terms and conditions when purchasing tickets online or inquire directly with the zoo. Reddit

🎫 🧭 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. Reddit

Yes, the zoo offers child-friendly play areas and paddle boating on the pond, making it a great spot for family fun. Reddit

Visitors consistently praise the zoo for being clean and well-maintained, with hygienic pathways and enclosures. Reddit

Photography is generally allowed and encouraged to capture the wildlife and serene environment. Reddit

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. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are usually food stalls and snack vendors within the zoo premises offering refreshments and light snacks. Reddit

Bringing your own food and drinks is generally permitted, making it ideal for picnics. There are also designated picnic spots. Reddit

Expect typical snack items like chips, ice cream, and local beverages. For full meals, it's advisable to dine before or after your visit. Reddit

Snack options are usually limited. If you have specific dietary needs, bringing your own food is the most reliable option. Reddit

Yes, bottled water is readily available for purchase at various points within the zoo. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The bird enclosures, tiger habitats, and the scenic pond area offer excellent photographic opportunities. Capture the natural behavior of animals. Reddit

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. Reddit

Lighting varies throughout the day. Mornings and late afternoons offer softer light, while midday can be harsher. The shaded areas provide good diffused light. Reddit

Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, flash photography might be discouraged in certain enclosures to avoid disturbing the animals. Reddit

Early mornings and late afternoons are ideal for wildlife photography as animals are often more active and the light is softer. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Central Zoo Jawalakhel is an excellent destination for families. The zoo boasts a wide variety of animals, from playful monkeys to majestic tigers, ensuring something to captivate every child's interest. Reddit Beyond the animal enclosures, the child-friendly play areas and the paddle boating on the pond offer fantastic opportunities for fun and active engagement. Reddit The zoo's clean and spacious environment, coupled with the chance to learn about wildlife conservation, makes for an educational and enjoyable day out for the entire family. Remember to bring snacks and drinks for a comfortable picnic experience. Reddit

🌿 Nature Lovers & Wildlife Enthusiasts

For those who appreciate nature and wildlife, Central Zoo Jawalakhel offers a rewarding experience. The zoo is home to a diverse collection of over 100 species, including unique Nepalese fauna like the red panda and tigers. Reddit The bird enclosures are particularly noteworthy, described as a tropical paradise filled with vibrant colors and natural calls. Reddit The zoo's commitment to maintaining a clean, hygienic, and natural environment allows visitors to observe animals in settings that mimic their natural habitats, fostering a deeper connection with the wildlife. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Central Zoo Jawalakhel presents numerous opportunities for photographers to capture stunning wildlife and serene natural scenes. The vibrant bird enclosures and the majestic big cats are prime subjects. Reddit The scenic pond area with paddle boats also offers picturesque shots, especially during the softer light of morning or late afternoon. Reddit While personal photography is generally welcomed, it's advisable to avoid flash photography in animal enclosures to prevent disturbance. The zoo's well-maintained grounds provide a clean backdrop for your shots. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into Nepal's Biodiversity

Central Zoo Jawalakhel is more than just an animal exhibit; it's a vital sanctuary showcasing Nepal's rich biodiversity. Home to over 1,200 animals across more than 100 species, visitors can encounter iconic creatures like tigers, rhinos, and the elusive red panda. The zoo plays a crucial role in wildlife conservation and education, aiming to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation for the natural world among its visitors. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

Recreation and Relaxation Amidst Nature

Central Zoo Jawalakhel offers a delightful blend of wildlife viewing and recreational activities, making it a perfect escape within Kathmandu. The 6-hectare sanctuary is a much-needed green lung for the bustling city, providing a serene environment for visitors to relax and unwind. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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