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The Guwahati Zoo, also called the Assam State Zoo is known as the Botanical Garden. Inside the picturesque Hengrabari Reserve Forest, spanning around 432 acres, this Zoo was founded in 1957. A popular attraction, the Zoo has many animals, birds, and reptiles worldwide, including some rare and exotic species. This place is home to about 900 animal species and 113 bird species. The One-horned Rhinoceros, Asian Elephants, Royal Bengal Tigers, Hoolock Gibbons, and a variety of rare birds and reptiles are among the primary fauna.
About Guwahati Zoo
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The Zoo in Assam was established in the middle of the 20th century and started its journey in the 1957 State when, during the tenure of the Chief Commissioner of this State, Mr. S.N. Khosla, it was opened to the public. The Guwahati Zoo started with an initial 42 animals but has increased to a sprawling housing of more than 900 animals and birds that represent almost 113 species of wildlife. It has changed a great deal from the early days and reflects more and more the enhanced concerns for conservation and animal welfare.
Guwahati Zoo Location
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In the Hengrabari Forest, Guwahati Zoo, or Assam State Zoo, is in the northwestern part of Guwahati, Assam. It lies quite close to the heart of the city and thus is easily accessible. There is a wide variety of wildlife herds in the zoo, including indigenous species such as the one-horned rhinoceros and other exotics from the world over. This coupled with green surroundings makes the zoo a perfect place for families and nature lovers to have a swell time exploring the rich biodiversity of the region.
How To Reach
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By Air
The nearest airport is Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport GUA, which is at a distance of about 20 kilometres from the zoo. You can hire a taxi or take a cab ride from the airport to the zoo.
By Train
Guwahati Railway Station is a major railway station within the city, located at a distance of about 10 kilometres from the zoo. You can take a taxi, auto-rickshaw, or board a local bus from the station to the zoo.
By Bus
Guwahati is well-connected to different parts of Assam and neighbouring states through bus services. You can hire a taxi or an auto-rickshaw to the zoo from the Guwahati Inter-State Bus Terminal (ISBT).
Things To Do In Guwahati Zoo
1. Wildlife Viewing
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One gets exposed to a diversified range of fauna, from Bengal tigers and rhinos to some of the most exotic birds. Guwahati Zoo is a thrilling opportunity for individuals who love animals to view and know closely about various species.
2. Educational Tours
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Guided tours help in briefing one regarding animal conservation and natural habitats. These educational experiences on wildlife protection efforts, species behaviour, and why biodiversity is important are imparted in a fun way at the zoo.
Places To Visit Around Guwahati Zoo
1. Iskcon Temple
Photo: Satyajit Deb / Wikimedia Commons
ISKCON Guwahati is one of the more than 550 locations worldwide for the International School of Krishna Consciousness. The main goal of the Hare Krishna Movement is to dedicate one’s life, thoughts, and deeds to the service of Lord Krishna. It is situated on a little mountain near Ulubari, around 2 km from the Guwahati Railway Station. The temple’s imposing white architecture features exquisite decorations honouring their Deities, Krishna and Rukmini, and marble floors. Every year, in the middle of August, this place celebrates Sri Krishna Janmashtami with great rigour, hosting several events and tournaments.
Location: Kasturba Ashram Rd, South Sarania, Ulubari, Guwahati, Assam 781007
2. Assam State Museum
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The Assam State Museum was founded in 1940 by the Assam Research Society (Kamarupa Anusandhan Samiti). This museum has many sections: Natural History, Art, Arms, Anthropology, Crafts, and Epigraphy. Another fascinating area is the sculpture portion, which is divided into areas for clay, metal, wood, and stone sculptures. The museum’s library houses an extensive collection of stenographic materials.
Location: GNB Rd, near Dighalipukhuri, Mawhati, Ambari, Guwahati, Assam 781001
3. Guwahati Planetarium
Photo: Vikramjit Kakati / Wikimedia Commons
The only astronomical research centre in northeastern India, Guwahati Planetarium, is on Mahatma Gandhi Road in Dighalipukhuri. It is the second Planetarium in India to use a unique hybrid projection system, following Delhi Planetarium. The main draws of this Planetarium are the special events and sky-watching sessions. These courses are offered in Hindi, English, and Assamese, among other languages. You can check the Show Time Table online. In addition to its daily programming, the Planetarium frequently hosts lectures, workshops, and conferences for the astronomy community.
Location: MG Rd, Latasil, Uzan Bazar, Guwahati, Assam 781001
4. Umananda Temple
Photo: AYON TALUKDAR / Wikimedia Commons
The Umananda Temple offers breathtaking views of the river and is on the verdant Peacock Island amid the Brahmaputra, approximately 1 km north of the railway station. The only ways to get to the temple are ferries or motor launches because it is in the middle of the Brahmaputra River. The temple was constructed by the well-known Ahom monarch Gadadhar, famous for his devotion to Lord Shiva. The temple is devoted to Lord Shiva. The exquisite carvings and engravings on the temple walls are evidence of the craftsmanship of the ancient people.
Location: Umananda Island, Baruah Souk, North Guwahati, Guwahati, Assam 781030
5. Basistha Ashram
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A popular tourist destination in the state, the Basistha Temple, also called the Basistha Ashram, is situated in Guwahati’s Beltola neighbourhood. The Ashram and the temple are located beside the Basistha River, and the area is all the more charming because of the surrounding natural splendour. The construction of this temple was ordered by King Rajeswar Singha of the Ahom dynasty in 1764. Lord Shiva is the temple’s patron saint. If the inscriptions are accurate, Saint Basistha constructed the Ashran, which goes back to the Vedic era.
Location: Temple, Basistha, Guwahati, Assam 781029
Best Time To Visit
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Winter is the best time to visit the Assam Zoo in Guwahati, Assam, with visits open from November through April. Guwahati appears to have a relatively comfortable climate this season, with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 20°C. Consequently, visitors find it easier to engage in outdoor activities such as wandering through the botanical gardens and Zoo. Because of the pleasant weather that encourages animal movement, this is also the time when most animals are active.
Where To Stay
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There are affordable lodging alternatives in Guwahati for you to choose from. There are many ‘lodges’ in the city besides independent hotels and a few upscale establishments. These lodges are the most excellent choice for travellers on a tight budget because they are located near practically all the main cities, making dining out or shopping convenient. You can try The Riverside Lodge, Hotel Dispur Lodge, and Tranqville, among other lodges
Where To Eat
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Some of the most incredible spots for a filling brunch are 11th Avenue Cafe and Bistro in Dhigali Pukhri (next to the Assam State Museum), Hotel Sagar Ratna in Paltan Bazaar, and Mocha Guwahati in Bhangagarh, GS Road. Some of the most outstanding venues for a classic Assamese dinner include Gam’s Delicacy Restaurant, Paradise Restaurant, Ambrosia, Heritage Khorika, and King Chilly. Classic dishes include hog curry, aloo Ritika, Lomita khar (young papaya curry), maas pura (roasted fish), and haa kumara.
Other Factors To Consider
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Average Cost Of Trip
The entry fees for this Assam Zoo are ₹30 for adults and ₹10 for children. There may be a difference in the level of service or some other benefit derived in each of these scenarios. This difference in charges caters to the needs and affordability of varied age groups.
Tips For Travellers
- Observe every zoo sign concerning feeding, touching, and photographing animals. Always maintain a safe distance away from the animals for their safety and yours alike.
- Dispose of litter correctly by putting it in the bins provided to keep the zoo clean. This helps in preserving the environment and assures all visitors have a good experience when visiting the zoo.
- When in doubt, though the general assumption is that photography is permitted, be aware of restrictions against flash or specific areas where photography might be forbidden.
- Always bring a valid ID with you when purchasing tickets.
- Keep yourself hydrated and carry water bottles.
- Take note of the Zoo’s rules, and don’t feed the animals.
- Wear comfortable shoes for the walk.
The combination of natural beauty and wildlife makes Guwahati Zoo, inside Hengrabari Reserved Forest, a must-see destination. The sanctuary includes a botanical garden and almost 900 different types of animals, inspiring seriousness about conservation. The Guwahati Zoo offers an exciting experience for nature lovers and casual tourists amidst the breathtaking natural beauty of Assam. Book a holiday with TripXL today.
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