The Central Zoo, located in Jawalakhel, Lalitpur, Nepal, is the only zoological park in the country. It offers families a chance to connect with wildlife. Managed by the National Trust for Nature Conservation (NTNC), this 6-hectare sanctuary provides both educational and fun experiences, especially for children who are often fascinated by different animals. Planning a visit with kids requires understanding the costs and making sure it is safe and enjoyable.
Children’s Safety Details
Keeping children safe during a zoo visit is essential. Although the search results do not provide specific safety protocols for kids, such as emergency procedures or staff-to-visitor ratios, it is important to follow general safety guidelines in any zoo.
Constant Adult Supervision: The most important safety measure is active and attentive supervision by parents or guardians. Children, especially younger ones, can be unpredictable and may not fully grasp boundaries or potential dangers.
Respecting Barriers and Enclosures: Teach children to always stay behind barriers, railings, and fences. These are there to ensure both visitor safety and animal well-being. Never allow kids to climb on or over any barriers.
No Feeding of Animals: Visitors should never feed the animals unless zoo staff gives explicit permission in a supervised setting. Feeding animals can be dangerous for both children and animals, possibly leading to bites, scratches, or digestive issues for the animals.
Hand Hygiene: After touching railings, benches, or any surfaces, especially before eating, encourage children to wash their hands thoroughly with soap and water or use hand sanitizer. This helps stop the spread of germs.
Staying on Designated Paths: Keep children on marked pathways and prevent them from wandering into restricted areas.
Emergency Preparedness: Although specific details were not available, familiarizing yourself with the zoo’s layout upon entry, identifying exits, and knowing where to get help from staff in case of an emergency, like a lost child or injury, is always wise.
Designated Children’s Areas: The Central Zoo reportedly has a “children’s park.” These areas are usually designed with child safety in mind, providing a secure space for play.
Animal Health and Containment: NTNC manages the zoo and provides facilities for animal vaccination, nursery, and quarantine. This shows a commitment to keeping animals healthy within secure enclosures, which helps minimize risks related to uncontrolled animal interactions.
For up-to-date safety guidelines, visitors should check the Central Zoo’s official website or ask staff upon arrival.
Cost Details
Entrance fees for the Central Zoo vary based on nationality and age group. It is best to check the latest prices directly with the zoo or through official sources before visiting, as rates may change.
Here’s a breakdown of ticket prices in Nepali Rupees (NRs) as reported by various sources:
Nepali Nationals:
Adult: NRs 250
Student: NRs 150
Children (typically 4-12 years): NRs 100 or NRs 75
Senior Citizen (above 65 years): NRs 100
SAARC Nationals:
- SAARC Nationals:
- Adult: NRs 500
- Children: NRs 250
- Non-SAARC (Foreign) Nationals:
- Some sources indicate NRs 500 , while others suggest prices around INR 500 (approximately NRs 800). Visitors should confirm the exact rates upon arrival.
Tickets can typically be purchased at the zoo’s ticket counter . Additionally, digital payment platforms like Khalti and eSewa may offer options to purchase tickets, and it is worth checking these platforms for any specific discounts for children or students.
