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Tucked in the heart of Kolkata, Marble Palace Zoo is a treasure that holds history, wildlife, and culture together. Marble Palace Zoo West Bengal, is a beautiful zoo located in the prestigious Marble Palace complex, known for its architecture of the 19th century and grand art collections. Established in 1855, the zoo houses several exotics, providing a unique blend of nature and heritage. This is the perfect spot for the animal lover, the history enthusiast, or just one looking for a peaceful escape to explore the beauty of Kolkata’s natural and cultural legacy.
Location
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Marble Palace Zoo is situated in North Kolkata, West Bengal, on the grounds of the ancient Marble Palace. Marble Palace Zoo address- Muktaram Babu Street. One can easily reach the place from any city corner through the same street. Opposite the Marble Palace Mansion, a famous attraction building, the zoo is a refuge of peace amid the din of Kolkata. The place has a lush green ambience and is neat and clean, making it apt for nature lovers who would also like to explore the city’s rich heritage.
How To Reach
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Getting to Marble Palace Zoo is relatively easy as it is in the central part of Kolkata. Here’s how you can reach the zoo:
By Road: Roads adequately connect the zoo, and several public buses, taxis, and auto-rickshaws are available from different parts of the city. So, you can easily catch a cab or ride-sharing service to reach the zoo.
By Metro: Maidan Metro Station is the nearest metro station, where you can hire a taxi or an auto-rickshaw to reach the zoo.
Local Train: For those travelling by train, Howrah Station is the nearest station from which a taxi or public transport can be taken to visit the zoo.
Places To visit
1. Marble Palace Mansion
Photo: en:User:Mjanich / Wikimedia Commons
Marble Palace Mansion is an architectural wonder right next to the Marble Palace Zoo and one of the iconic heritage sites in Kolkata. It was built in the mid-19th century by Raja Rajendra Mullick, a wealthy merchant. The mansion is famous for its magnificent marble floors and neoclassical architecture, along with the impressive collection of art, sculptures, and antique furniture located on the premises of the mansion. The complex offers the delights of beautiful courtyards, art galleries, and rooms crowned with masterpieces created by European and Indian artists.
Location: 0 km from Marble Palace Zoo
Activities: Photography, Learn History and see fabulous art collection
Best Time To Visit: October to March
2. Victoria Memorial
Photo: Subhrajyoti07 / Wikimedia Commons
One of the prominent landmarks of Kolkata and prime examples of British colonial architecture, the Victoria Memorial houses a museum detailing the history of British India, set amidst sprawling gardens with this white-marble monument erected in memory of Queen Victoria. The architectural grandeur, complemented by the sprawling gardens around it, made it the city’s favourite destination for tourists.
Location: 3.5 km from Marble Palace Zoo
Activities: Visit the Museum, Walk the Gardens and explore the art and sculptures
Best Time To Visit: October to March
3. Kumartuli
Photo: Indrajit Das / Wikimedia Commons
Kumartuli is Kolkata’s famous potters’ colony, where traditional clay idols of gods and goddesses are crafted. It is particularly famed for its Durga idols, which were made here for the annual Durga Puja festival. The area is known for its rich cultural importance. This is the place that would give visitors an insight into the craftsmanship and traditions of Kolkata. It is a vibrant area with a lot of activities to offer.
Location: 2 km from Marble Palace Zoo
Activities: Visit workshops, cultural study and photography
Best Time To Visit: September to October
4. Howrah Bridge
The Howrah Bridge, or Rabindra Setu, is a landmark in Kolkata. This cantilever bridge connects the central business district with Howrah. It traverses over the Hooghly River, an engineering marvel and one of the most splendid views of the river and city skyline.
Location: 5 km from Marble Palace Zoo
Activities: Photography, walk the bridge and boat ride on Hooghly
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Things To Do
1. Fauna at Marble Palace Zoo
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Viewing its widened fauna species is one of the most recommended things at Marble Palace Zoo. The zoo has several species that range from different kinds of birds, mammals, and reptiles. Take strolls along the well-kept enclosures, observe the animals in their natural habitats, and learn about conservation efforts. It is a great way to enjoy nature and wildlife in the heart of Kolkata while having the serenity the zoo offers.
2. Explore The Historic Marble Palace Mansion
Photo: Mitratanmoy01 / Wikimedia Commons
A visit to Marble Palace Zoo also includes visiting the adjacent Marble Palace Mansion, which is a glimpse of Kolkata’s colonial past. The mansion is a historical treasure in neoclassical architecture and boasts an awe-inspiring art collection. Exploring the exquisitely crafted marble floors, antique sculptures, and paintings done by artists creates numerous opportunities and possibilities. The zoo, with its elements of art and history, proves to be an excellent location for cultural exploration and photography.
3. Photography And Nature Walks At Marble Palace Zoo
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For photo enthusiasts and nature lovers, there are many opportunities to see great views within the Marble Palace Zoo. The lush gardens and dense green areas give this place a soothing ambience to walk through and enjoy the refreshing air. The peaceful background provided by the zoo, with its diversified flora and fauna, makes it a very ideal place for wildlife and landscape photography. Whether clicking motion photographs of animals or the majestic mansion within the background, Marble Palace Zoo is a photographer’s delight.
Where To Stay
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The accommodation comes in every budget at Marble Palace Zoo. There are budget accommodations, luxury stays, and everything in between. Try the Peerless Inn or The Oberoi Grand if you want to splurge a bit. For shoestring budgets, you have Hotel Heera or Hotel House of Royalty. Both are within striking distance and will have easy access to the zoo and all the major Kolkata attractions.
Where To Eat
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Across the road from Marble Palace Zoo are restaurants dishing out the best local and international fare. You can choose between 6 Ballygunge Place or Bhojohori Manna for Bengali cuisine. For something more contemporary in flavour, visit Flurys or The Bistro. There is light fare for the faint-hearted as much as severe meals for the hungry. All sought after by any foodie in the world is up for grabs here, and an authentic slice of culinary burst made famous by Kolkata.
Best Time To Visit
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The best time to visit Marble Palace Zoo is between October and March. Those are the months of winter in Kolkata. The climate is cool, dry, and warm-weather, which makes it perfect to spend a day outdoors. Without the humidity and heat, which prove prevalent in Kolkata from April to June, the zoo and its surroundings are much more fun. It could be a better time to visit during the monsoon season between June and September because heavy rains might hamper your visit.
Other Factors To Consider
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Average Cost Of The Trip
It is about ₹500 – ₹1500 per person, transport included, entry fee, and food
Cash Payment
Most places in Kolkata today accept cards. For Marble Palace Zoo, though, ensure you have cash for entry tickets or snacks.
Tips For Travellers
- Wear good shoes because there is a lot of walking.
- Bring in water and snacks because it may get boiling.
- Remember to bring your camera along for these excellent photo-ops!
- Do check up on the Marble Palace Zoo timings so that you can get in before they close (The zoo is usually open between 9 AM and 5 PM).
A treasure trove of adventure, wildlife, and history, the Marble Palace Zoo presents the perfect amalgamation of everything, making it the ultimate destination for adventure and wildlife enthusiasts in Kolkata. This place is ideal for those who want to traverse exotic animals and the architectural beauty of the adjacent Marble Palace Mansion. Plan your trip with TripXL and enjoy this thrilling tour of the wonders of Marble Palace Zoo.
Cover Photo: David Riaño Cortés / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
