Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park
India's largest high-altitude zoo, and a serious snow leopard and red panda breeding centre.
- Timings
- Around 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM (closed Thursday)
- Entry fee
- Approx. ₹60 – ₹100, covers the zoo and mountaineering institute
- Time needed
- 2 – 3 hours
- Best time
- Morning
About Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park
At 2,134 m this is India's largest high-altitude zoo, and its conservation record is genuine — internationally recognised breeding programmes for snow leopards, red pandas and Himalayan wolves. It shares its site with the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, founded after Tenzing Norgay's 1953 Everest ascent, whose museum covers the history of Himalayan climbing. One ticket covers both, and together they make a strong half-day.
Insider tips
- Closed Thursdays
- One ticket covers the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute — don't skip it
- Red pandas are most visible in the cooler early hours
Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park — common questions
What are the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park timings?
+
Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park is open Around 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM (closed Thursday).
What is the entry fee for Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park?
+
Entry: Approx. ₹60 – ₹100, covers the zoo and mountaineering institute.
How much time do you need at Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park?
+
Plan for roughly 2 – 3 hours.
What is the best time to visit Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park?
+
Morning.
How crowded does Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park get?
+
Medium crowd levels overall.
Nearby
More to see in Darjeeling
ViewpointTiger Hill
Sunrise over Kanchenjunga — and on the clearest mornings, Everest on the horizon.
HeritageDarjeeling Himalayan Railway (Toy Train)
A UNESCO World Heritage narrow-gauge railway, running steam since 1881.
ViewpointBatasia Loop & War Memorial
A spiral railway loop with a Gorkha war memorial at its centre and Kanchenjunga behind.
NatureHappy Valley Tea Estate
An 1854 tea garden a short walk from town, with factory tours and tastings in season.