Central zoo is the only zoo of Nepal spread in 6 hectare land of the Jawalakhel. It is operated by the National Trust for Nature Conservation (NTNC) and is the home for about 870 animals of 109 species. It is located in the North-East part of the Kathmandu valley. This zoo is mostly crowded during the public holidays.  The zoo is also equipped with the small Amusement park for the children. The main attraction of the zoo is Royal Bengal Tigers, Rock Python and One Horned Rhinos which are on the edge of being extinct. 

HISTORY

The zoo was established by the Rana prime minister Juddha Shumsher as a private zoo in 1932. After the end of the Rana regime the zoo came under the control of the government in 1950. The zoo was officially opened to the public in 1956. The government handed the responsibility of the zoo to the National Trust for Nature Conservation in December, 1955. The central pond at the zoo which is now used for boating was built during the rule of King Siddhi Narsingh Malla and was the source of water for people of Patan during that time. The NTNC has been working since to upgrade the facilities so that animals can live in their Natural habitat. It is also working to make the zoo into the research and educational facilities and as well as the tourist attraction. 

INFORMATION

The zoo is home to the 870 animals in 109 species in which 15 of 38 are endangered local species. It also has an aquarium for sub-tropical fishes. The zoo also includes a playground for the children, library, picnic spot and boating. We can observe the male rhino which is the oldest member of the zoo. Over one million visitors come annually to enjoy the displays at the central zoo. The fishing is allowed at the zoo from 1st of Chaitra till 30th of Kartik according to the Lunar calendar. The fees is Nrs 1000 for both Nepali and foreigner.

FEES at The Central Zoo

Adult Nepali – NRs 150

Nepali student – NRs 90

Nepali children(4-12 years)- NRs 50

Adult foreigner- NRs 750

Foreigner children- NRs 375

Video and Documentary filming- NRs 15,000

Feature filming – NRs 25,000