Delhi Zoo - Entry Fee, Timings, Location & How to Reach

Delhi Zoo, is one of the most visited family-friendly attractions in the capital. Spread over 176 acres of green, shaded landscapes, the zoo is home to over 1,000 animals and birds representing nearly 100 species from across the globe.

Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a student, a nature lover, or a family planning a day out, the Delhi Zoo offers an enriching and educational experience. From mighty big cats to playful primates, from exotic birds to reptiles, this zoological park is a window into the diversity of our planet’s fauna.

In this complete guide, we’ll cover:

A brief history of Delhi Zoo
Entry fee and ticket booking options
Opening hours and best time to visit
How to reach the zoo
Major attractions inside
Facilities available
Rules and guidelines
Tips for visitors
Nearby places to visit

About Delhi Zoo

The Delhi Zoo, officially known as the National Zoological Park, was inaugurated on November 1, 1959, and is located next to Purana Qila (Old Fort) and close to the famous India Gate.

Originally conceived as a model zoo, it was designed by German zoo expert Carl Hagenbeck and Indian planner Major Weinman. The zoo has been set up with a mix of open moats and enclosures that allow animals to live in conditions close to their natural habitats.

Unlike traditional zoos with cages and tight enclosures, Delhi Zoo focuses on landscape-based exhibits, giving animals more space and freedom. It is not just a recreational space but also plays a critical role in wildlife conservation and education.

Delhi Zoo Entry Fee (Updated 2025)

General Ticket Price:

Category	Indian Nationals	Foreign Nationals
Adults (above 18 years)	₹80	₹400
Children (5–12 years)	₹40	₹200
Children below 5 years	Free	Free
Senior Citizens (60+)	₹40	N/A

Zoo Battery Car Ride (Optional):

Type	Fee
Adults	₹67
Children	₹34
Full Zoo Round	₹80 (approx.)

Note:
Ticket prices are subject to change, especially on weekends or holidays. It is advisable to check the official website or booking platforms before visiting.

Delhi Zoo Timings

Day	Timing
Tuesday to Sunday	8:30 AM – 4:30 PM (April to October)
Tuesday to Sunday	9:00 AM – 4:00 PM (November to March)
Closed on Mondays and National Holidays

Best Time to Visit:

The best time to visit the zoo is during October to March, when the weather is pleasant. Early mornings or late afternoons are ideal for animal sightings, especially in summer when animals are more active during cooler hours.

Location of Delhi Zoo

Address:
National Zoological Park, Mathura Road, Near Purana Qila, New Delhi – 110003

Google Maps: National Zoological Park – Location

The zoo is centrally located and easily accessible from all parts of Delhi.

How to Reach Delhi Zoo

By Metro:

Nearest Metro Station: Pragati Maidan (Blue Line) or Khan Market (Violet Line)
From Pragati Maidan, take an auto or walk ~1.5 km to reach the zoo gate.

By Bus:

Several DTC buses (Route numbers vary) stop near Purana Qila or Delhi High Court, both within walking distance of the zoo.

Reach By Auto/Cab:

Book an Ola, Uber, or local auto to National Zoological Park, Mathura Road.

By Car:

Paid parking is available near the entrance gate. On weekends, it’s advisable to arrive early to secure parking.

What to See at Delhi Zoo – Must-Visit Animal Enclosures

The zoo is divided into two broad sections: one for Indian animals and another for exotic species. There are over 100 species of animals, reptiles, and birds, many of them endangered or protected under wildlife conservation laws.

Major Highlights:

Big Cats:

Royal Bengal Tiger
White Tiger
Asiatic Lion
Leopard
Jaguar (on rotation)

Primates:

Chimpanzees
Bonnet Macaques
Langurs
Rhesus Monkeys

Reptile House:

Indian Rock Python
King Cobra
Marsh Crocodile
Monitor Lizard
Gharial

Bird Aviaries:

Peacocks
Indian Hornbill
Painted Stork
Pelicans
Flamingoes

Deer and Herbivores:

Sambar Deer
Blackbuck
Chinkara
Hog Deer
Nilgai (Blue Bull)

Other Notable Animals:

Hippopotamus
Rhinoceros
Elephants
Zebra
Ostrich
Emu

The animals are kept in spacious enclosures separated by moats instead of cages, making the zoo more like a natural habitat than a holding space.

Zoo Layout & Visitor Experience

The zoo has well-laid walking trails, shaded trees, and clear signage throughout. It typically takes 2–3 hours to explore at a relaxed pace.

You can choose to:

Walk the entire route
Take the battery-operated vehicle for a full round (great for senior citizens and children)
Stop at designated rest areas, toilets, and food stalls

Photography:
Photography is allowed but commercial photography requires permission. DSLR cameras may be subject to additional fees.

Facilities at Delhi Zoo

Battery-operated carts (ticketed)
Toilets at regular intervals
Drinking water stations
Snacks & refreshment counters
Benches and shaded areas
Wheelchair access at main entrances
Guide Maps & Info boards

Rules & Guidelines for Visitors

Do not feed or tease animals. It’s punishable by law.
Maintain silence, especially near big cat and bird enclosures.
No plastic bags or packaged items allowed—carry reusable water bottles.
Smoking, littering, and bringing pets are strictly prohibited.
Stick to designated paths and do not cross barricades.
Children must be supervised at all times.

Educational Value & Conservation Efforts

The National Zoological Park is more than a tourist attraction. It plays an important role in:

Captive breeding of endangered species (like lions and gharials)
Environmental education through school programs and awareness events
Research and conservation efforts as part of the Central Zoo Authority (CZA) of India

Many Delhi schools organize field trips to the zoo to educate children about biodiversity and environmental responsibility.

Nearby Attractions to Visit

Make the most of your day in Delhi by combining your zoo visit with these attractions:

Purana Qila (Old Fort)

Right next to the zoo. Offers boating, history, and evening sound-and-light shows.

India Gate

A 10-minute drive away, ideal for evening strolls and photography.

National Crafts Museum

A lesser-known gem near Pragati Maidan, showcasing Indian folk art.

Humayun’s Tomb

Humayu’s Tomb is a UNESCO World Heritage Site about 3 km from the zoo.

Lodhi Garden

Great for a post-zoo picnic or nature walk in Lodhi Garden.

Tips for Visiting Delhi Zoo

Visit in the morning (8:30–11:00 AM) to see animals active and beat the heat.
Carry caps/hats and sunscreen, especially in summer.
Bring reusable water bottles to stay hydrated.
Wear comfortable walking shoes—you’ll be walking quite a bit.
Visit on weekdays to avoid large crowds.
Use the battery cart if visiting with young kids or elderly family members.

Who Should Visit Delhi Zoo?

Families with children looking for educational outings
Students of biology, environment, or photography
Wildlife lovers interested in observing animals up close
Travelers seeking budget-friendly attractions in central Delhi
Photographers exploring candid animal shots in natural settings

Conclusion: Why Delhi Zoo is Worth Your Visit

The Delhi Zoo offers an exceptional combination of recreation, learning, and conservation in the heart of the capital. It’s not just a place to spot lions and elephants—it’s an immersive introduction to wildlife, habitat preservation, and environmental awareness.

Whether you’re a Delhi local or a tourist exploring the capital, make sure to set aside a few hours for this green oasis that continues to inspire generations about the importance of our animal kingdom.

Planning a complete trip to Delhi or Northern India?
Explore customized itineraries and nearby wildlife tours at Ease India Trip.

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Delhi Zoo | Entry Fee, Timings, How to Reach, Location & More

About Delhi Zoo