Gorewada Zoo or Gorewada National Park is an interesting wildlife sanctuary within Nagpur’s metropolis. It is one of India’s largest zoological parks, with a total area of 1,914 hectares. A visit here will guarantee a thrilling experience with nature, as it covers everything from safaris and biodiversity to beautiful landscapes. Be it the call of the wild or a haven of solitude and retreat amidst nature, this zoo in Nagpur is where you should be for an unforgettable day trip. Unravel the beauty, history, and wild treasures of this incredible zoo.
Location
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Where is Gorewada Zoo located? It lies in the northwest part of Nagpur, Maharashtra. It is about 10 kilometres away from the city centre. The park falls amidst the dense forest cover and serene Gorewada Lake for protection and conservation of wildlife, while presenting an enjoyable experience for the visitors.
How To Reach
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Knowing how to reach Gorewada Zoo is essential to plan your trip seamlessly. There are multiple ways to reach this natural haven.
By Air: The nearest airport is Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport, from which the zoo is about 18 km away. For the airport terminal, one can hire a taxi or book a cab to reach the zoo. It will take approximately 30–40 minutes to arrive at the destination.
By Bus: Nagpur is well-connected with other cities through MSRTC buses. From Nagpur city, frequent buses are available to Gorewada Zoo. Gorewada Junction is the nearest bus stop, which is around 5 kilometres away from the zoo area.
By Rail: The nearest railway station to the zoo is Nagpur Junction, which lies at a distance of about 12 km from the zoo. You can hire a shared auto service or avail of cab services from here to reach the zoo. It will take approximately 25–30 minutes by drive.
Places To Visit In And Around Gorewada Zoo
While the zoo is the primary attraction, several nearby places add to the experience of a day trip. Here are five must-visit places around Gorewada Zoo in Nagpur.
1. Gorewada Lake
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Gorewada Lake is an enchanting destination amid Gorewada Forest, protruding an escape into nature at serenity. The lake attracts many species of birds, including migratory birds during winter. It is a haven for birdwatchers and for those snapping pictures of nature. Boating in the lake is among serene sessions; you get to enjoy the tranquil surroundings on view of wildlife. Besides being a major feeding place, it provides water to the reservoir that supplies several animals in Gorewada Zoo; hence, it is an ecologically important site.
Timings: 24*7
Entry Fee: Free
2. Nagpur Futala Lake
Photo: Adikarmore / Wikimedia Commons
Futala Lake is located about 8 km from Gorewada Zoo in Nagpur. It is the most preferred choice for evening walks and family outings. With its copious tranquil water, coloured fountains, and incredible sunsets, the lake attracts locals and tourists alike. Built during the regime of the Bhonsle kings, Futala Lake manages to have a lot of history interlaced within it and is considered a picnic spot by tourists. The lake is surrounded by bright food stalls serving local delicacies, making it a perfect place to relax and sit after touring Nagpur’s wildlife and historical sites all day.
Timings: 24*7
Entry Fee: Free
3. Maharajbagh Zoo
Photo: Ganesh Dhamodkar / Wikimedia Commons
The Maharajbagh Zoo in Nagpur lies about 13 km from Gorewada Zoo. Much smaller than the Gorewada Zoo, Maharajbagh Zoo brings together many species of animals, such as tigers, leopards, and deer. It was established during the Bhonsle dynasty and remains popular for school trips and families. The zoo also houses a botanical garden where you can just stroll through lush greenery. Centrally located in Nagpur, it is easily accessible to people visiting this city’s rich biodiversity and historical heritage.
Timings: 9 AM to 5 PM
Entry Fee: ₹20 for adults, ₹10 for children
4. Deekshabhoomi
Photo: Ganesh Dhamodkar / Wikimedia Commons
Deekshabhoomi is a central Buddhist holy structure about 15 kilometres from Gorewada Zoo, Nagpur. This place is considered the spot where Dr B.R. Ambedkar and thousands of his followers turned towards Buddhism in 1956. The majestic stupa at Deekshabhoomi is the symbol of equality and peace. It attracts tourists from around the world, especially at significant festivals like Dhamma Chakra Pravartan Din. Besides, the surrounding park and peaceful ambience allow scope for meditation and quiet reflection. Deekshabhoomi is not only a place of pilgrimage but also a historic landmark of national significance.
Timings: 7 AM to 8 PM
Entry Fee: Free
5. Seminary Hill
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One of the finest panoramas of Nagpur city is available from Seminary Hill, only 11 km from Gorewada Zoo. Lush greenery at the top of this hill makes it home to several species of flora and fauna. The trek to the mountain is relatively easy and thus can be covered by family or casual trekkers. Once at the top, the cool breeze and striking views have taken one to a soothing retreat. Moreover, the place has a seminary, hence the name Seminary Hill, and that adds to its cultural importance and beauty as well.
Timings: 24*7
Entry Fee: Free
Where To Stay
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Visitors planning an extended trip can find several accommodation options near Gorewada Zoo, Nagpur. Hotels and guest houses such as Hotel Radisson Blu, Pride Hotel Nagpur, and Mango Hotels are available within a 10-15 kilometre radius. These places offer a comfortable stay with modern amenities to ensure a relaxing experience after a day of exploring the zoo.
Where To Eat
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There are a variety of restaurants and eateries near the zoo, offering both local and international cuisines. Popular choices include Barbeque Nation, Haldiram’s, and Nanking Mayfair Restaurant, all located within 10 kilometres from the zoo. Whether you prefer street food or fine dining, there are plenty of options to satisfy your hunger after an adventurous day.
Best Time To Visit
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The best time to visit Gorewada Zoo is during the winter months, from November to February. During this time, the weather is pleasant, making it ideal for exploring the zoo and enjoying outdoor activities. The summers can get quite hot, while the monsoons bring heavy rainfall, limiting some of the outdoor experiences at the zoo.
Other Factors To Consider
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Here are some things you should remember before visiting the zoo.
Average Cost Of Trip
The trip cost to the zoo depends on various factors such as transportation, accommodation, and dining preferences. On average, a day trip to Gorewada Zoo will cost around INR 500-1,000 per person, including entry fees, transport, and meals. If you plan to stay overnight, the cost will increase based on your choice of accommodation.
Tips For Travellers
- Carry Water: It’s essential to stay hydrated, especially during summer visits.
- Plan Your Safari: The zoo offers a safari experience, so ensure you book your tickets in advance to avoid last-minute hassles.
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: Exploring the zoo involves a lot of walking, so make sure to wear comfortable shoes.
- Photography: Don’t forget to capture photos at Gorewada Zoo. The scenic landscapes and wildlife offer plenty of photo opportunities.
- Follow Zoo Rules: Adhere to the zoo’s guidelines to ensure the safety of both visitors and animals.
Gorewada Zoo in Nagpur is an exciting destination for nature lovers, families, and wildlife enthusiasts. From the expansive zoo to the nearby attractions like Gorewada Lake and Futala Lake, there’s no shortage of experiences to enjoy. Book your wildlife adventure with TripXL today and immerse yourself in the beauty and tranquillity of the zoo!
Cover Photo: Wild Gorewada / Wikimedia Commons