Nainital Zoo Guide (2026): Shuttle Service, Timings & Entry Fee

Planning a trip to Nainital and wondering how to visit the famous high-altitude zoo?
This Nainital Zoo Guide (2026): Shuttle Service, Timings & Entry Fee covers everything you need from entry tickets and mandatory shuttle service to updated timings and helpful tips for families and first-time visitors.

Officially known as Pt. G.B. Pant High Altitude Zoo, Nainital Zoo is one of the very few zoos in India located at such a high altitude. Surrounded by dense Himalayan forests, it offers a calm, educational, and nature-rich wildlife experience away from city crowds.

About Pt. G.B. Pant High Altitude Zoo, Nainital

The Pt. G.B. Pant High Altitude Zoo is one of India’s highest zoological parks, situated at an altitude of around 2,100 meters in the picturesque town of Nainital. Established in 1995, the zoo is managed by the Uttarakhand Forest Department and spans over 4 hectares of lush forest land.

Unlike conventional city zoos, this high-altitude zoo focuses on Himalayan wildlife conservation, providing natural habitats for species adapted to the cold climate. It serves both as a tourist attraction and a research centre for rare and endangered species.

Key Highlights of the Zoo:

• Snow Leopard: Majestic and elusive, a star attraction for wildlife enthusiasts.
• Himalayan Black Bear: Known for its playful nature, easily spotted in the enclosures.
• Tibetan Wolf: Rare species protected in a naturalistic habitat.
• Himalayan Monal: The state bird of Uttarakhand, displaying vibrant colours.
• Red Panda & Barking Deer: Popular with children and families.

Nainital Zoo Timings (2026 Updated)

Understanding Nainital Zoo timings helps you avoid crowds and enjoy animal activity.

Opening Hours:

•  10:00 AM – 4:30 PM
•  Closed on Mondays
•  Last entry usually by 3:30 PM

 Animals are most active before noon, making mornings the best time to visit.

Nainital Zoo Entry Fee (2026)

Planning your visit? Here’s the updated Nainital Zoo entry fee (2026) so you know what to expect before you go. The zoo offers affordable pricing for all visitors, making it a great choice for families, students, and nature lovers alike. Entry fees are structured to support the conservation efforts of Pt. G.B. Pant High Altitude Zoo and ensure a pleasant experience for everyone.

• Adults: ₹50
• Children (5–12 years): ₹20
• Students (with valid ID): ₹20
• Still Camera Charges: ₹25
• Video Camera Charges: ₹200

Best Time to Visit Nainital Zoo

The zoo remains open most of the year, but timing matters.

Summer (March to June):

This is the best season to visit Nainital Zoo. The weather is pleasant, animals are more active, and the shuttle service runs smoothly. Morning visits are ideal during this time.

Monsoon (July to September):

The surroundings turn lush and green, but frequent rain and slippery paths may affect the experience. Animal sightings can be limited, and occasional weather-related restrictions are possible.

Winter (October to February):

Cold temperatures and fog are common, especially in the mornings. Some animals may stay in indoor enclosures, but clear winter days still offer a peaceful, crowd-free visit.

Nainital Zoo Location & How to Reach

Nainital Zoo Location:
Nainital Zoo, officially known as Pt. G.B. Pant High Altitude Zoo, is located on Sher Ka Danda hill, about 3 km from Nainital Mall Road. The zoo is surrounded by dense Himalayan forests and offers panoramic views of the town.

How to Reach Nainital Zoo:

• From Mall Road: Walk or take a local taxi to the designated zoo parking area near Tallital or Mallital. From there, use the mandatory shuttle service to reach the zoo gate.
• By Taxi: Local taxis are easily available from anywhere in Nainital up to the shuttle pickup point.
• By Walking: Adventure lovers can walk up to the parking area, but the uphill route can be tiring.

Nearby Attractions to Combine with Zoo Visit

A visit to Nainital Zoo can be easily combined with several nearby attractions, making it perfect for a half-day sightseeing plan. Most of these places are close to Mall Road and easily accessible after your zoo visit.

• Naini Lake: Enjoy boating or a peaceful lakeside walk after exploring the zoo.
• Snow View Point: Offers stunning Himalayan views and is a great spot for photography.
• Eco Cave Gardens: A fun and adventurous attraction, especially for children.
• Mall Road: Ideal for shopping, café hopping, and evening strolls.
• Tiffin Top (Dorothy’s Seat): A scenic viewpoint known for panoramic views of Nainital.

Things You Can See at Nainital Zoo

Nainital Zoo is known for showcasing rare and high-altitude Himalayan wildlife in a natural forest setting. The zoo focuses on conservation and education, making it a great place for families and nature lovers.

Animals & Birds, You Can See:

• Snow Leopard – the main attraction of the zoo
• Himalayan Black Bear
• Tibetan Wolf
• Sambar Deer
• Barking Deer (Kakar)
• Himalayan Civet
• Ghoral (Mountain Goat)
• Steppe Eagle and other high-altitude birds

Along with wildlife, visitors can enjoy well-maintained walking trails, information boards, and beautiful views of the surrounding Himalayan forests, making the zoo visit both educational and scenic.

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FAQs

What is the official name of Nainital Zoo?

The zoo is officially called Pt. G.B. Pant High Altitude Zoo, Nainital.

Is the shuttle service compulsory?

Yes, all visitors must use the Nainital Zoo shuttle service from the parking area.

What are Nainital Zoo timings in 2026?

The zoo is open from 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM, except Mondays.

How much time is required to explore the zoo?

Most visitors spend 1.5 to 2 hours comfortably.

Is Nainital Zoo suitable for children and seniors?

Yes, the zoo is family-friendly, but expect some walking on slopes.