The zoo was officially opened by the Prince of Wales in 1876.
Adwaita, a giant Aldabra tortoise that lived in the zoo until 2006, is considered one of the longest-lived animals in recorded history.
The zoo holds a historic collection of specimens that originated from the private menagerie of the Governor-General of India.
The site hosts a notable captive breeding success rate for the rare and endangered Manipur brow-antlered deer.
The garden layout retains several large, ancient Banyan trees that predate the establishment of the zoo.
The zoo has historically functioned as a hub for both zoological research and public education in West Bengal.
Established in 1876, the Zoological Garden Alipore is the oldest formally stated zoological park in India. The facility spans approximately 45 acres in the heart of Kolkata, housing a diverse collection of mammals, birds, and reptiles. Notable enclosures include the Primate House, the Reptile House, and an expansive aquarium. The zoo serves as a significant center for ex-situ conservation, participating in breeding programs for species like the Manipur brow-antlered deer. Its collection features iconic Indian fauna including the Royal Bengal Tiger and the one-horned rhinoceros. Historical landmarks within the grounds include the Adwaita enclosure, once home to a famous Aldabra giant tortoise estimated to be over 250 years old at the time of its death.
The raised viewing gallery near the tiger enclosure provides an unobstructed vantage point.
Carry your own water and stay hydrated, as the site is expansive with limited indoor cooling.
Visit the Reptile House early to avoid the largest crowds, as it is a high-traffic narrow gallery.
Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the park requires significant pedestrian travel between enclosures.
Visiting on weekends or public holidays when the zoo experiences extreme crowding that significantly limits viewing access.
Closed on Thursdays.
Do not feed the animals, refrain from tapping on glass enclosures, and maintain a quiet volume near the big cat areas.
