Gwalior is one of the most historic and beautiful cities in Madhya Pradesh. Known for its grand forts and royal places, the city also offers a peaceful place for nature and animal lovers, the Gwalior Zoo, also known as Gandhi Zoological Park.
Located in the heart of the city, inside the famous Phool Bagh, this zoo is a favorite spot for families, students and tourists. It is a calm and green area where you can spend a few relaxing hours watching animals and enjoying nature. In this article, you will get everything about Gwalior Zoo Timing and its other related details.
About Gwalior Zoo
The Gwalior Zoo was established many years ago during the rule of the Scindia royal family. It was developed as part of the larger Phool Bagh garden, which was created for the royals and their guests. Over time, the garden was turned into a public park, and a part of it was developed as a zoo for the people of Gwalior.
Today, the zoo is maintained by the Municipal Corporation of Gwalior and spreads over several acres of land filled with trees, plants and pathways.
However, Gwalior zoo is not a huge zoo like Delhi zoo or Mysore zoo but it is well-maintained and offers a refreshing atmosphere for a short visit.
Gwalior Zoo Timing
Knowing the exact timings is very important before planning your visit. The zoo opens early in the morning and remains open till evening.
- Opening Time: 8:00 AM
- Closing Time: 6:00 PM
- Closed Day: Friday
So, if you’re planning to visit, make sure to come between 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Avoid visiting on Friday, as the zoo remains closed that day.
Sometimes, the timings may change slightly depending on the season. In summer, the zoo may close a little earlier due to the heat, and in winter, it might stay open till evening. It’s always best to reach before noon to enjoy your visit comfortably.
Gwalior Zoo Entry Fee
The entry fee at Gwalior zoo is very affordable for everyone.
| Category | Entry Fee |
|---|---|
| Adults | ₹30 |
| Children | ₹10 |
| Students | ₹20 |
| Children (below 5 years) | Free |
| Foreign Nationals | ₹100 |
Gwalior Zoo Location and Address
Location: The zoo is centrally located in the heart of Gwalior city, making it easily accessible for both locals and tourists.
Full Address:
Gandhi Zoological Park (Gwalior Zoo)
Gandhi Road, Lashkar, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh – 474002
Landmark: Near Phool Bagh area, close to Gwalior Fort.
Location Map for Gwalior Zoo
Best Time to Visit Gwalior Zoo
The best time to visit Gwalior zoo depends on the season and the time of day.
Best Season: Winter Season
During the months from October to March, the weather in Gwalior is pleasant and cool. As you can walk in the zoo comfortably without worrying about the heat.
Monsoon Season
During the month from July to September, the surroundings look green and beautiful, but the ground might be a little wet due to rain.
Avoid: Summer Season
Gwalior gets very hot in the summer season from April to June, and it can be tiring to walk in the sun.
Best Time of Day: Morning hours between 8:00 AM and 11:00 AM are ideal because animals are more active, and the weather is cooler.
How to reach Gwalior Zoo
Gwalior Zoo is centrally located in the Lashkar area near the Mayor’s Office. It is easy to reach from any part of the city.
- By Train: The zoo is around 2 km away from Gwalior railway station. It is just a 10-minute drive.
- By bus: The zoo is around 3 km from Gwalior bus stand.
- By Air: If you are travelling by aeroplane then, the Gwalior zoo is around 10 km away from Gwalior airport.
You can take an auto-rickshaw, cab, or local bus to reach the zoo easily. The roads are well-connected, and parking is also available near the entrance.
Things to see in Gwalior Zoo
Even though the Gwalior zoo is not very large, it has a variety of animals and birds that make the visit enjoyable.
1. Animals
You can see lions, tigers, leopards, deer, hyenas, crocodiles, monkeys, bears, and the famous white tiger here. The white tiger is the main attraction of the zoo, and many visitors come specially to see it.
2. Reptiles
You can also see the reptile section in the zoo. Here you can see snakes, turtles, and crocodiles. This section can be very interesting for kids.
3. Birds
The bird section in Gwalior zoo has very colorful and rare species such as peacocks, parrots, golden pheasants, painted storks, and many more.
4. Garden Area
The zoo is part of the beautiful Phool Bagh garden, which adds to the charm. There are benches, trees, and walking paths where you can relax and take pictures.
Nearby Attractions
If you are visiting Gwalior Zoo, you can also explore many other nearby places on the same day. Some of the famous attractions include:
- Gwalior Fort – The iconic fort on the hilltop that gives a complete view of the city.
- Jai Vilas Palace – The royal residence of the Scindia family with a huge museum.
- Sun Temple – A beautiful temple inspired by the Sun Temple of Konark.
- Phool Bagh Garden – Right next to the zoo, perfect for a short walk.
Perfect Itinerary for Gwalior Zoo
If you want to plan your day properly, here’s a simple example:
- 8:00 AM: Reach Gwalior Zoo and buy your tickets.
- 8:15 AM – 10:00 AM: Explore the animal and bird sections.
- 10:00 AM – 10:30 AM: Take a short break near the garden area.
- 10:30 AM – 11:30 AM: Visit the reptile section and take photos.
- 11:30 AM – 12:00 PM: Exit the zoo and head towards Gwalior Fort or Jai Vilas Palace for sightseeing.
This way, you can cover the zoo comfortably in the morning and still have the rest of the day free to explore other attractions.
Visitors Tips
- Visit early, the morning is the best time to explore comfortably.
- Carry water and snacks to keep yourself hydrated, especially during summer.
- Wear comfortable footwear, as you’ll walk quite a bit inside.
- Don’t feed animals, it is strictly not allowed.
- Keep the surroundings clean and peaceful.
Conclusion
The Gwalior Zoo, or Gandhi Zoological Park, is one of the best places in the city for a calm and refreshing outing. It may not be a very large zoo, but it offers a peaceful experience surrounded by nature. With affordable entry, convenient location, and plenty of animals to see, it’s perfect for a short family trip, especially if you’re traveling with kids.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the timing of Gwalior Zoo?
The zoo opens at 8:00 AM and closes at 6:00 PM. It remains closed on Fridays.
Where is Gwalior Zoo located?
It is located in Phool Bagh, Lashkar area, near the Mayor’s Office in Gwalior city.
Is Gwalior Zoo suitable for kids?
Yes, it’s a great place for kids to learn about animals and enjoy nature safely.
Which animal is the main attraction of Gwalior Zoo?
The white tiger is the main attraction and a must-see for all visitors.
Also read about: Delhi Zoo Timing: Ticket Price, Location, Address, and Best Time to Visit
