The Nainital Zoo, officially known as “G.B. Pant High Altitude Zoo, Nainital,” spans an area of 4.592 hectares atop SherKaDandahill, at an elevation of about 2100 meters in Nainital City, Uttarakhand.

Initially approved in 1980 by the Government of Uttar Pradesh, the zoo’s construction concluded in 1984, It was opened to the public on 01 June 1995, and it has been managed by “Bharat Ratna G.B. Pant High Altitude Zoo Management Society, Nainital” since 01 March 2002.This zoo, aligned with Central Zoo Authority (CZA) guidelines, attracts numerous visitors yearly, featuring 36 species, 45 percent of which are endangered.

From its inception, Nainital Zoo has embraced modern trends, displaying animals in naturalistic habitats with barriers, moats, and net wires. It stands as one of Uttarakhand’s first recognized and upgraded zoos, drawing considerable tourist footfall.

The Director from the Forest Department, Government of Uttarakhand is Heading the Nainital Zoo administration.

Nainital Zoo History

The idea of establishing a zoo in Nainital arose in 1972, with a suitable location chosen in 1974, considering proximity to the city, sufficient water, sunlight, and future development prospects. A conference meeting in September 1975 led to the decision to construct the zoo. The concept took shape in 1980, with a committee formed in 1986 to oversee design and structure, led by Mr. N.D. Bachkheti.

The zoo was inaugurated on June 1, 1995, and officially certified by the “Central Zoo Authority” in 2001. The “G. B. Pant, High Altitude Zoo Management Society” was registered in 2001-2002. In 2017, the zoo’s name was changed to “G. B. Pant, High Altitude Zoo, Nainital” to adhere to national title norms.

The zoo has evolved dynamically, with positive changes such as a waterfall, new ticket house, nature shop, and a nature café introduced in 2016-17.

Entry Fee

Note: Free entry for:-
1. Children below 12 years.
2. especially abled persons and Senoir Citizen.