With summer holidays in full swing, this is the perfect time to blend learning with adventure and what better way to do that than a trip to the zoo? Whether you're exploring the north or south of India, the country’s rich biodiversity offers a wonderful opportunity to experience its unique flora and fauna. From lions in Gir to tigers in Pench, summer is also the time when many animals in national parks head to watering holes, making them easier to spot.
While storybooks, documentaries, and activity kits spark imagination, nothing compares to seeing real animals up close. So here are five incredible zoos across India that offer fun-filled learning experiences for your little one and a great family outing for you.
Mysore Zoo, Karnataka
Also known as: Sri Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens
One of India’s oldest and most well-maintained zoos, this 245-acre space was established in 1892 by Maharaja Chamaraja Wodeyar. It’s known for its green, open layout and an impressive variety of animals - from elephants and zebras to a rare gorilla (the only one in South Asia!). Don’t miss the big cats and exotic birds.
Kid highlight: Watching Asiatic black bears and African elephants up close.
Zookeeper tip: Pack a nature journal, it’s perfect for sketching their favourite animal after the visit.
Book Safari Ticket:- www.mysuruzoo.info/
Nehru Zoological Park, Hyderabad
One of the largest zoos in India, this space is home to over 1,500 species. Known for its naturalistic enclosures, it features a safari ride, a nocturnal house, and an aquarium. The white tigers and lions are sure to leave your little one wide-eyed and curious.
Kid highlight: The safari experience where you can spot animals in a semi-wild setup.
Zookeeper tip: Visit early in the morning to beat the heat and see more active animals.
Book Safari Ticket:- www.nzptsfd.telangana.gov.in/
Gir Interpretation Zone, Devaliya (Gujarat)
Not exactly a zoo, but a must-visit if you're exploring Gujarat. The Devaliya Safari Park offers a safe, guided look into the Gir forest ecosystem - home to the majestic Asiatic lions.
Kid highlight: Seeing a lion roam freely in a semi-wild habitat.
Zookeeper tip: Book tickets in advance - slots fill quickly during summer.
Book Safari Ticket: - www.girlion.gujarat.gov.in/
Kaziranga National Orchid & Biodiversity Park, Assam
Located just outside the famous Kaziranga National Park, this park offers a gentle, kid-friendly introduction to North East India’s biodiversity. Explore a butterfly park, orchid greenhouse, and trails that showcase birds and small animals.
Kid highlight: The butterfly garden and orchid tunnel.
Zookeeper tip: Pair this visit with a Kaziranga jeep safari to spot elephants and rhinos.
Book Safari Ticket:- www.kaziranganationalpark-india.com/
Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, Darjeeling
India’s highest-altitude zoo, this unique park is nestled in the hills of Darjeeling and specializes in Himalayan species such as the Red Panda, Snow Leopard, and Tibetan Wolf. Though smaller than other zoos, it offers access to rare mountain wildlife your child may never see elsewhere.
Kid highlight: Spotting a Red Panda in its cool, shaded enclosure.
Zookeeper tip: Bring a pair of binoculars for hilltop viewing fun.
Book Safari Ticket:- www.wbza.org/
Can’t Make It to a Zoo This Year?
Don’t worry, you can still bring the wild home.
Whether your child loves elephants, lions, or monkeys, Zookeeper offers a range of jungle-inspired products to spark their imagination. From wildlife-themed wall art to tropical forest bedding, you can turn their room into an indoor safari.
A cozy bedsheet for the kids room or a vibrant children's bedsheet from our Serengeti from Serendipity or The Fox’s Wedding collection makes bedtime both fun and educational. Pair it with animal-themed storybooks, nature puzzles, or one of our My Wild Wild Life activity boxes for a truly immersive, at-home wild experience.
Let’s raise curious explorers, little Zookeepers who grow up with a love for nature, adventure, and learning.
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