Overview
Nestled within the heart of Guwahati, Assam State Zoo and Botanical Garden is a sprawling oasis of wildlife and greenery that offers a perfect escape for nature enthusiasts, families, and tourists alike. Covering an area of approximately 432 acres, it is the largest zoo in the Northeast region of India. The zoo is home to a diverse range of animal species, including some rare and endangered ones, while the botanical garden boasts an impressive collection of indigenous and exotic plants. Guwahati One Day Local Sightseeing By Private Cab.
Established in 1957, the Assam State Zoo and Botanical Garden has grown into one of the most visited attractions in the region. It serves as both a center for wildlife conservation and a place of recreation, where visitors can immerse themselves in the beauty of nature. The zoo is designed to mimic the natural habitats of the animals as closely as possible, providing a safe and nurturing environment for them to thrive. Unveiling the Mystical Navagraha Temple Guwahati: A Spiritual Journey to the Abode of the Nine Planets
The botanical garden, which is an integral part of the zoo, enhances the experience with its lush landscapes, blooming flowers, and towering trees. Together, the zoo and the garden offer a unique blend of education, conservation, and recreation, making it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Guwahati.
Location of Assam State Zoo and Botanical Garden
- State: Assam, India
- City: Guwahati
- Address: R.G. Baruah Road, Ambikagirinagar, Guwahati, Assam – 781005
- Coordinates: 26.1681° N, 91.7690° E
The Assam State Zoo and Botanical Garden is conveniently located in the Hengrabari Reserved Forest area, just off R.G. Baruah Road in Guwahati. Its central location makes it easily accessible from various parts of the city, while the surrounding greenery offers a serene environment, away from the city’s hustle and bustle.
Time/Entry Fees of Assam State Zoo and Botanical Garden
Visiting Hours
The Assam State Zoo and Botanical Garden is open to visitors throughout the week, except on Fridays, which is a maintenance day. The best time to visit is during the early morning hours or late afternoon when the animals are more active, and the garden is at its most vibrant.
- Summer (April to October): 7:00 AM to 4:30 PM
- Winter (November to March): 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM
- Closed on Fridays
Entry Fees
The entry fees for Assam State Zoo and Botanical Garden are nominal, making it an affordable attraction for everyone. The fees are categorized based on age and nationality, with separate charges for cameras.
- Adults: INR 30 per person
- Children (3 to 12 years): INR 10 per child
- Foreign Nationals: INR 100 per person
- Still Camera: INR 10
- Video Camera: INR 100
Special discounts are often available for groups and educational institutions. Additionally, the zoo occasionally organizes special events and guided tours, which may have different pricing.
How to Reach Assam State Zoo and Botanical Garden
By Air
The nearest airport to Assam State Zoo and Botanical Garden is Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati. The airport is well-connected to major cities across India, such as Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Bangalore. From the airport, you can hire a taxi, use app-based cab services, or take a pre-paid taxi to reach the zoo.
- Nearest Airport: Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport, Guwahati
- Distance from Airport to Zoo: Approximately 25 kilometers
- Travel Time: Around 45 to 60 minutes by road
By Rail
Guwahati Railway Station is the nearest major railway station to Assam State Zoo and Botanical Garden. It is a key junction in the Indian railway network, with trains connecting it to various parts of the country. From the railway station, you can take a taxi, auto-rickshaw, or local bus to reach the zoo.
- Nearest Railway Station: Guwahati Railway Station (GHY)
- Distance from Railway Station to Zoo: About 6 kilometers
- Travel Time: Approximately 15 to 25 minutes by road
By Road
Assam State Zoo and Botanical Garden is well-connected by road to different parts of Guwahati and neighboring towns. The zoo is located along R.G. Baruah Road, making it easily accessible by car, taxi, or bus. If you are driving from within Guwahati, follow the signs to R.G. Baruah Road, and you’ll find the zoo on the outskirts of the Hengrabari Reserved Forest.
- Distance from Guwahati City Center: Approximately 4 kilometers
- Public Transport: Local buses, shared taxis, and auto-rickshaws are readily available from different parts of the city to the zoo.
- Private Vehicle: If you’re driving, the journey from the city center takes about 10 to 20 minutes.
Things to Do at Assam State Zoo and Botanical Garden
1. Explore the Wildlife
The Assam State Zoo is home to a wide variety of animals, including mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians. Some of the notable species you can expect to see include the Royal Bengal Tiger, Indian Rhinoceros, Asiatic Lion, Clouded Leopard, Hoolock Gibbon, and the Himalayan Black Bear. The zoo also has a large aviary that houses a colorful array of birds, from peacocks to hornbills.
Visitors can walk through the well-maintained paths, observing the animals in enclosures that mimic their natural habitats. The zoo also offers an insight into the conservation efforts being made to protect endangered species, making it both an educational and enjoyable experience.
2. Stroll Through the Botanical Garden
The Botanical Garden within the Assam State Zoo is a haven for plant lovers. It boasts a vast collection of indigenous and exotic plant species, including medicinal plants, ornamental flowers, and rare trees. The garden is meticulously maintained, with seasonal flowers in full bloom, providing a feast for the eyes.
As you stroll through the garden, you’ll encounter beautifully landscaped lawns, serene water bodies, and shaded walkways. It’s an ideal spot for a peaceful walk, photography, or simply to relax and enjoy the natural beauty.
3. Visit the Orchid House
One of the highlights of the Botanical Garden is the Orchid House, which showcases a stunning collection of native orchids. Assam is known for its rich orchid diversity, and the Orchid House is a great place to see these beautiful flowers up close. The vibrant colors and delicate patterns of the orchids make it a popular attraction within the garden.
4. Enjoy a Picnic
The Assam State Zoo and Botanical Garden is a popular spot for picnics, especially for families and school groups. There are designated picnic areas within the zoo where you can spread out a blanket and enjoy a meal amidst nature. The serene environment, coupled with the chirping of birds and the rustling of leaves, makes for a perfect picnic setting.
5. Participate in Educational Programs
The zoo regularly organizes educational programs and guided tours for students, researchers, and wildlife enthusiasts. These programs include wildlife talks, conservation workshops, and interactive sessions with the zoo staff. Participating in these activities is a great way to learn more about the animals, plants, and the importance of conservation.
6. Photography and Bird Watching
The Assam State Zoo and Botanical Garden is a paradise for photographers and bird watchers. With its diverse flora and fauna, there are endless opportunities to capture stunning images of animals, plants, and landscapes. Bird watchers will especially enjoy the aviary and the natural surroundings, where various bird species can be spotted.
7. Visit During Special Events
The zoo and botanical garden often host special events and festivals, especially during Wildlife Week in October. These events include animal feeding sessions, tree-planting drives, and cultural performances, which add to the overall experience of visiting the zoo. Attending these events provides a deeper understanding of wildlife conservation and the efforts being made to protect the environment.
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1. Umananda Temple
Situated on the Umananda Island in the Brahmaputra River, Umananda Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is a short ferry ride away from the city and offers a serene spiritual experience. The island is also home to the endangered Golden Langur, which can sometimes be spotted near the temple.
2. Kamakhya Temple
Located about 10 kilometers from the zoo, Kamakhya Temple is one of the most important Shakti Peethas in India. The temple, perched on the Nilachal Hill, is dedicated to Goddess Kamakhya and attracts thousands of pilgrims every year. It is especially crowded during the Ambubachi Mela, a festival celebrating the goddess’s annual menstruation cycle.
3. Guwahati Planetarium
Guwahati Planetarium, located about 4 kilometers from the zoo, offers a fascinating journey through the cosmos. The planetarium conducts regular sky-gazing sessions, astronomical shows, and educational programs, making it a great place to visit for science enthusiasts and families.
4. Basistha Ashram
Located around 8 kilometers from the zoo, Basistha Ashram is an ancient hermitage dedicated to the sage Vashistha. The ashram, set amidst tranquil surroundings and a small stream, is an ideal place for meditation and spiritual reflection.
5. Saraighat Bridge
Saraighat Bridge, the first bridge constructed over the Brahmaputra River, is a significant landmark in Guwahati. The bridge connects the city to North Guwahati and offers stunning views of the river and surrounding landscape. It’s a great spot for photography and enjoying the scenic beauty of the Brahmaputra.
6. Regional Science Centre
Located about 7 kilometers from the zoo
[…] The temple, known for its stunning South Indian architectural style, stands as a beacon of devotion and faith. It is beautifully adorned with intricate carvings, and the sanctum sanctorum houses the deity of Lord Venkateswara, whose idol is believed to possess divine energy. The serene atmosphere of the temple, coupled with the rhythmic chanting of hymns and the aroma of incense, offers a deeply spiritual experience to all who visit. Discover the Wilderness: A Guide to Assam State Zoo and Botanical Garden […]