Kathmandu Zoo, Public zoo in Jawalakhel, Lalitpur, Nepal
Kathmandu Zoo is a facility spread across about 6 hectares that houses more than 900 animals representing various species of mammals, birds, fish, and reptiles. The animals are kept in dedicated sections, allowing visitors to move easily from one animal type to another.
A prime minister created this place in 1932 as a private animal collection before it became government property in 1950. It opened to the public in 1956 and has operated as a public facility since then.
The zoo partners with schools across the Kathmandu Valley to teach young people about wildlife protection and conservation. These programs help students connect with nature through direct experience with animals from different parts of the world.
The facility is open daily and visitors should wear comfortable shoes since the grounds are large and require significant walking. It is best to arrive early in the day when animals are more active and the weather is cooler.
A historic pond sits in the center with a floating island where rare cranes make their home and visitors can explore by paddleboat. This body of water dates back several centuries and offers a quiet corner within the grounds.
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