Gwalior Zoo, located in Madhya Pradesh, is terrific for wildlife enthusiasts and families. It’s like an oasis in the city, surrounded by greenery. You can see various animals here, from majestic big cats to colourful birds. The zoo provides recreational enjoyment and plays an essential role in breeding endangered species and raising awareness about environmental issues. Whether you are looking for an educational outing or a peaceful retreat, Gwalior Zoo offers an engaging and memorable experience.
About Gwalior Zoo
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The Gwalior Zoo, also known as the Gandhi Zoological Park, is located in the heart of Gwalior city in Madhya Pradesh. Established in 1922 by the royal family of Madho Rao Scindia, the zoo is a section of the more extensive garden known as Phool Bagh. Sprawling over 8 hectares, it houses various animal and bird species.
The zoo is well-maintained, with ample greenery and clearly marked pathways, making it enjoyable for visitors of all ages. One of the significant attractions of the Gwalior Zoo is the presence of a white tiger. Along with other mammals like the sambhar, hyenas, and monkeys, there is a section for reptiles and a variety of birds, such as peacocks and emus. The Gwalior Zoo is also involved in wildlife conservation and awareness programs, making it an integral part of Gwalior’s cultural heritage.
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Animals At Gwalior Zoo
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The Gwalior Zoo offers an excellent chance to see many different wild animals. You can find rare and protected species, along with more common ones, all living in natural settings. Some of the exciting animals here are hyenas, spotted deer, blackbucks, bears, panthers, bison, sambars, hippos, white tigers, Royal Bengal tigers, lions, snakes, lizards, crocodiles, monkeys, and many others.
The zoo has over 300 kinds of colourful birds, like golden pheasants, painted storks, falcons, and macaws. Visitors can enjoy a fantastic display of wildlife, making the Gwalior Zoo an excellent place for nature lovers and families.
Gwalior Zoo Timings, Fees, And Best Time to Visit
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The Gwalior Zoo operates from 10:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. every day except Fridays. The zoo charges a nominal entry fee of INR 20 for adults and INR 5 for children. The best times to visit the zoo are during the cooler months of winter and spring, from October to April, when weather conditions are more favourable for outdoor exploration.
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Top Places To Visit Nearby Gwalior Zoo
There are several top attractions near Gwalior Zoo that you must add to your bucket list. Some of them are:
1. Gwalior Fort
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Gwalior Fort, situated in Madhya Pradesh, stands as a grand hill fort with origins dating back to the 6th century AD. Its architecture bears the influence of Rajput, Mughal, and Hindu styles, a testament to the various dynasties that controlled it over the centuries.
Tourists can explore a rich array of historical monuments within the fort, including the Man Mandir and Gujari Mahal palaces, the intricately carved Sas-Bahu temples, the Teli ka Mandir, and the Jain caves. From its vantage point, the fort offers breathtaking views of Gwalior city. Visitors also have the opportunity to experience a captivating light and sound show that vividly recounts its storied past.
Location: Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh 474008
Travel Time: 9 minutes
2. Jai Vilas Palace
Image Credit: Kshitiz Sikka for Wikimedia Commons
The Jai Vilas Palace, also known as Jai Vilas Mahal, is a grand testament to 19th-century architectural splendour in Gwalior. Constructed in 1874 by Maharaja Jayajirao Scindia to impress Prince Edward VII, the palace showcases European, Mughal, and Maratha styles, featuring Italianate influences. Today, most of the palace houses the Jiwajirao Scindia Museum, which has been open to the public since 1964.
Here, visitors can immerse themselves in the opulent lifestyle of the Scindia dynasty, exploring sections like the Durbar Hall with its colossal chandelier and vast carpet, the armoury showcasing historical weaponry, and royal chambers adorned with European furniture and art objects. Tourists can experience a journey through history at Jai Vilas Palace, marvelling at its architectural magnificence, exploring its rich cultural exhibits, and gaining insight into the regal heritage of Madhya Pradesh.
Location: Jai Vilas Palace, Lashkar, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh 474007
Travel Time: 3 minutes
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3. Teli Ka Mandir
Image Credit: Suyash Dwivedi for Wikimedia Commons
Teli Ka Mandir is an ancient Hindu temple located within the Gwalior Fort. It is built between the early 8th and early 9th century CE. The temple has an atypical design for a Hindu temple, featuring a rectangular sanctum instead of the usual square shape. It also integrates architectural elements from the Nagara style and the Valabhi Prasada.
Tourists can marvel at the sculptures that adorn the temple’s exterior. The temple is dedicated to Shiva, Vishnu, and the Matrikas, offering a glimpse into the rich Hindu pantheon. Inside the temple, visitors can experience a sense of peace and serenity.
Location: 65C8+574, Gwalior Fort, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh 474008
Travel Time: 15 minutes
4. Gujari Mahal
Image Credit: Nitin Pandey for Wikimedia Commons
Tucked within the majestic Gwalior Fort lies the Gujari Mahal, a 15th-century palace with a fascinating past. Built by Tomar king Man Singh Tomar for his queen Mrignayani, the palace boasts a unique backstory. Legend says the queen, belonging to the Gujjar tribe, requested a separate residence with a constant water supply. The king obliged, constructing the palace and building an aqueduct to bring water from the nearby Rai River.
Today, the Gujari Mahal is not just a monument to love but also a treasure trove of history. 1922 it was transformed into the State Archaeological Museum, showcasing a vast collection of artefacts. Tourists can get a peek into the region’s rich heritage through sculptures, coins, pottery, and weapons spanning centuries. The museum also houses captivating Jain and Hindu sculptures dating back to the 1st and 2nd centuries BCE, offering a glimpse into Madhya Pradesh’s ancient artistic traditions.
Location: Lohamandi, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh 474008
Travel Time: 9 minutes
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Gwalior Zoo in Madhya Pradesh is a place where you can see many different animals. Gwalior Zoo isn’t only a place to see animals, but it also helps people learn about wildlife and how to keep animals safe. If you enjoy animals, want to discover new things, or need a peaceful spot to visit, the Gwalior Zoo is ideal. Ready to go on an unforgettable adventure? Book your trip to Madhya Pradesh today and make Gwalior Zoo a must-visit destination. Discover the beauty of this fantastic state, experience its exciting culture, and create special memories with the beautiful animals at Gwalior Zoo.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Gwalior Zoo
Is the Gwalior Zoo worth visiting?
Yes, the Gwalior Zoo can be a worthwhile visit, especially for families with children. It's a good option for a budget-friendly outing with a chance to see various animals. The zoo houses a decent collection of mammals, birds, and reptiles, including a crowd-favourite - the white tiger.
What is the time of Gwalior Zoo?
The Gwalior Zoo timings are from 10:30 AM to 5:00 PM. Keep in mind that the zoo is closed on Fridays.
How far is Gwalior Zoo from the railway station?
Gwalior Zoo is conveniently located around 2 kilometres from Gwalior Junction, the main railway station. This makes it easily accessible by public transport like rickshaws or taxis.
What is Gwalior famous for?
Gwalior is renowned for its rich history and cultural heritage, highlighted by magnificent forts and palaces such as the iconic Gwalior Fort. The city also boasts numerous temples and museums that vividly showcase its deep-rooted heritage of the city.
How much is the cost for Gwalior Zoo?
Visiting the Gwalior Zoo is incredibly budget-friendly. The entry fee is just INR 20 for adults and INR 5 for children, making it an affordable choice for families.
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