Itanagar Zoo: An Amazing Place With Diverse Species Of Fauna

The Itanagar Zoo also referred to as the Naharlagun Zoo, is a wildlife sanctuary with goals that extend beyond the normal objectives of housing animals. Their dedication towards this noble cause is wonderful. It has many varieties of animals, some of which are very interesting and include the Himalayan persistence, one-horned rhinoceroses or rhinos, and many reptiles. It also includes several areas that protect the environment and endangered species. It is also a favourite hangout for those in love with animals and plants as it offers hiking opportunities and witnessing animals in their natural habitats.

Location Of Itanagar Zoo

Visit the Itanagar Zoo on your next trip and return home with unforgettable memories.

Photo: Daiga Ellaby / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

Located in the beautiful environs of Itanagar, this small but neatly maintained zoo was established in 1980 in Arunachal Pradesh, India, for the laudable cause of promoting environmental education for the preservation of the natural world.

History Of Itanagar Zoo

The Itanagar Zoo houses several endangered species of animals in their natural habitat.

Photo: MARIOLA GROBELSKA / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

Since its establishment, Itanagar Zoo has provided shelter to rare and exotic wild animals, disseminating awareness of the enormous biodiversity in northeastern India. The history of tourism in the zoo developed with the enhancement of accessibility and infrastructure of the state. With increased awareness about the typical flora and fauna of the region, the zoo started attracting visitors who would venture out to explore the beauty of wildlife in Arunachal Pradesh. The zoo serves as an important educational place by enlightening visitors about the different species of flora and fauna.

How To Reach In Itanagar Zoo

Photo: Karsten Würth / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

By Air

The nearest airport to Itanagar is Lilabari Airport (LLB) in Assam, which is at a distance of about 60 kilometres (37 miles) from the zoo. You may hire a taxi from Lilabari Airport to Itanagar. Alternatively, you can fly to Guwahati Airport (GAU) and then travel by road to Itanagar.

By Train

The nearest railway station is the North Lakhimpur Railway Station in Assam. It is approximately 50 kilometres away from Itanagar. One can hire a taxi or shared vehicle from North Lakhimpur to reach Itanagar.

By Road

If you like to travel by road, Itanagar is approximately 350 km (217 miles) from Guwahati. It takes around 7 to 8 hours by car or bus. From Tezpur, which lies a distance of about 200 kilometres (124 miles), the drive to Itanagar takes about 5 to 6 hours. Itanagar has local transport such as taxis, auto-rickshaws, and buses that easily take you to Itanagar Zoological Park.

Places To Visit Near Itanagar Zoo

Here are some amazing tourist attractions near the Itanagar Zoo:

1. Ganga Lake

A scenic view of Ganga Lake with lush green trees and mountain peaks in the background.

Photo: Mrkrish / Wikimedia Commons

Ganga Lake (Geker Sinying) is a scenic retreat amidst limitless greenery and tall, towering pine trees. It offers boating, picnic spots, and strolling facilities with serenity on the quiet pathways. The essence of this perfect setting for nature lovers and photographers is constituted by crystal-clear waters and green surroundings. This is an ideal spot for relaxation and soaking in the natural beauty of Itanagar.

Distance From Itanagar Zoo: 6 km

2. Ita Fort

View of a brick wall, a part of the Southern gate of the Ita Fort in Arunachal Pradesh.

Photo: AshLin / Wikimedia Commons

Ita Fort is a 14th-15th century ancient wonder. Because of its many bricks, “Ita” in Assamese means brick. This ancient fort represents the genius of architecture from this region. With panoramic views of Itanagar and surrounding areas from within this fort, it is an ideal location for history buffs and photographers. History buffs may learn much about the ruins of the Ita Fort and its cultural importance to the region’s past.

Distance From Itanagar Zoo: 3 km

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Arunachal Pradesh

3. Gompa Buddhist Temple

View of Charang Thupten Sedup Dharkeling Gumba with a clear sky as the backdrop.

Photo: Gerd Eichmann / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Perched on top of a hill in Itanagar, this Gompa Buddhist Temple presents a serene and spiritual retreat. Colourfully decorated with varicoloured prayer flags, intricate carvings, and a gold Lord Buddha statue, this monastery offers a tranquil ambience that is most conducive to meditation and contemplation. One can get a panoramic view of the city from here and feel the inner peace promoted by the tranquil environment.

Distance From Itanagar Zoo: 4 km

4. Jawaharlal Nehru State Museum

A picture of the premises of a museum in Arunachal Pradesh, a northeastern state in India.

Photo: Bodhisattwa / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Located in Itanagar, the Jawaharlal Nehru State Museum is a rich storehouse of Arunachal Pradesh’s cultural heritage. Starting from traditional artefacts to tribal costumes, handicrafts, and ancient historical documents, it gives one an idea about the local culture and its history. This is a great place to familiarise oneself with various ethnic groups and their customs. It also gave contemporary art a platform, making this cultural viewfinder comprehensive.

Distance From Itanagar Zoo: 3 km

Suggested Read: Jawaharlal Nehru Museum Itanagar

5. Itanagar Wildlife Sanctuary

An image of a tiger roaming around in a national park on a sunny day in the summer season.

Photo: Ryutaro Tsukata / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

Itanagar Wildlife Sanctuary is a perfect haven for nature lovers, as it provides excellent scope for viewing various species of flora and fauna. Many birds and animals, such as elephants, tigers, and deer, are found there. Nature walks and bird watching can be done through its thick forests and hills. The rich biodiversity and serene atmosphere away from the fast urban life make this destination attractive.

Distance From Itanagar Zoo: Spans across the city

6. Indira Gandhi Park

A lush green park in Itanagar with a picnic like ambience and quaint views

Photo: Pangalau / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Indira Gandhi Park, located in the heart of Itanagar, Arunachal Pradesh, is a serene retreat that perfectly complements a visit to the nearby Itanagar Zoo. Known for its lush greenery and well-maintained gardens, the park offers a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks along its pathways, relax amidst vibrant flower beds, or simply soak in the tranquil ambience. The park also features open spaces ideal for picnics and family outings. For those exploring Itanagar Zoo, Indira Gandhi Park provides a refreshing and scenic addition to the day’s itinerary, blending nature with relaxation.

Distance From Itanagar Zoo: Situated within the Zoo

Suggested Read: Arunachal Pradesh National Parks

7. Rupa

An aerial picture of 2 lakes in Arunachal Pradesh, divided by lush green land

Photo: Aash Grg / Wikimedia Commons

Rupa, a quaint hill station near Itanagar Zoo in Arunachal Pradesh, is a serene destination that showcases the untouched beauty of the region. Nestled on the banks of the Tenga River, Rupa is surrounded by verdant greenery, rolling grasslands, and majestic mountains, offering a tranquil escape for nature lovers. The area is also home to the Chillipam Gompa, a monastery of the Gelugpa school of Tibetan Buddhism, which adds a spiritual dimension to the visit. Whether you’re exploring the meandering trails or soaking in the crisp mountain air, Rupa is a must-visit spot for those seeking peace and scenic charm.

Distance From Itanagar Zoo: 230 km

8. Dikrong River

A picture of a beautiful river flowing through Itanagar with blue waters, surrounded by greenery

Photo: Mrkrish / Wikimedia Commons

The Dikrong River, flowing through the scenic landscapes of Arunachal Pradesh and Assam, is a serene waterway that adds to the natural charm of the region. Originating in the Sub-Himalayan hills of Papum Pare district, the river meanders through lush greenery and picturesque valleys before joining the Subansiri River, a tributary of the Brahmaputra. Along its course, the Dikrong River supports diverse ecosystems and offers opportunities for activities like picnicking and nature walks. For those exploring Itanagar Zoo, a visit to the nearby Dikrong River provides a refreshing escape into nature, blending tranquility with the beauty of the surrounding landscapes.

Distance From Itanagar Zoo: 15 km

Suggested Read: Top Valleys In Arunachal Pradesh

9. Ziro Valley

A picture of a valley with a blanket of greenery and mountains in the background

Photo: Arunachal2007 / Wikimedia Commons

Ziro Valley, nestled in the Lower Subansiri district of Arunachal Pradesh, is a picturesque destination renowned for its lush green landscapes and vibrant cultural heritage. Home to the Apatani tribe, the valley offers a unique glimpse into their traditional way of life, including their sustainable farming practices and distinctive customs. Surrounded by rolling hills and dotted with paddy fields, Ziro Valley is a haven for nature lovers and cultural enthusiasts alike. Its proximity to Itanagar Zoo makes it an ideal addition to your itinerary, offering a serene escape into nature and a chance to explore the rich traditions of the region.

Distance From Itanagar Zoo: 110 km

10. Polo Park

A picture of a park near the Itanagar Zoo with people enjoying picnics and outings

Photo: Stephen Craven / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Polo Park, located in Naharlagun near Itanagar Zoo, is a charming botanical garden that offers visitors a peaceful retreat amidst nature. Known for its vibrant collection of flowers, orchids, and cane thickets, the park is a visual delight for plant enthusiasts. It also features a mini zoo housing small animals and reptiles, adding an element of curiosity for families and children. The park’s handicraft center showcases traditional shawls, woven carpets, and bamboo crafts, providing a glimpse into Arunachal Pradesh’s rich cultural heritage. For those visiting Itanagar Zoo, Polo Park is a delightful addition to the itinerary, blending relaxation with cultural exploration.

Things To Do In Itanagar Zoo

Here is a list of the top things to do at Itanagar Zoo for a memorable visit.

1. Wildlife Viewing

An image of two leopards sitting on bamboo sticks and resting during the daytime.

Photo: Subhkaran Singh / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

The list of animals is long, with the Bengal tiger and Himalayan black bear at the top, along with some bird species. Watching them inside their enclosures provides knowledge about the behaviour of the animals and how they should be protected from many dangers. Visitors can explore the wild animals that are housed in their natural habitat at this zoo in the state of Arunachal Pradesh.

2. Educational Tours

A picture of people roaming around and exploring wildlife at Main Loop in Mysore.

Photo: Timothy A. Gonsalves / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Participate in guided tours or educational programs to enlighten yourself on various aspects of wildlife conservation, knowledge about animal behaviour, and the need to protect endangered species. The educational tours are informative and offer value for money spent on the visit. These amazing educational programs and activities that are related to wildlife conservation and protection of the endangered species of animals are frequently organised by the zoo, especially for school children.

Suggested Read: Arunachal Pradesh Picnic Places

3. Photography

A picture of a girl clicking a picture of snow-covered mountains with a DSLR camera.

Photo: Noah Wulf / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Take beautiful snaps of the animals and also of the natural environment in which they are housed within the zoo. However, exercise caution and adhere to the zoo management guidelines for taking photographs to avoid disturbing the animals during your photography sessions. The serene surroundings offer a mesmerising backdrop for the images and let visitors cherish a bag full of memories for a lifetime.

Where To Eat

Have a delectable meal at the restaurants and eateries near the famous Itanagar Zoo.

Photo: Kevin628 / Wikimedia Commons

Food facilities at the zoo are very basic and restricted to a small canteen that offers snacks and soft drinks. Outside, you will get local restaurants like Dosa Plaza, serving South Indian food; Hotel Arunachali, serving Assamese food; and Cafe North East, offering a combination of local and continental food. You will find street stalls serving momos and pork with bamboo shoots. Besides, you can find different types of cuisine available in hotels like Hotel Dolma or Hotel Mayur.

Suggested Read: Trekking In Arunachal Pradesh

Where To Stay

Enjoy a comfortable stay at the hotels, homestays, etc. located near the Itanagar Zoo.

Photo: Andrew Neel / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

Hotels dealing with this section include Hotel Dolma and Hotel Mayur, all with comfortable, modernized rooms located near the city centre. In case one does not want to invest much there, he or she can stay at Hotel Arunachal, which though basic, will give a comfortable stay. Another comfy place to stay is Hotel Tiger, which has great hospitality and several facilities to expect at a hotel. All of them give a pleasurable experience while exposing the zoo and the downtown area.

Other Factors To Consider

While visiting the Itanagar Zoo, the tourists need to keep some important factors in mind.

Photo: Aaron Burden / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

Best Time To Visit

November to February is the best time to visit the zoo. The climate is cool and pleasant during this period and is most apt for touring the zoo and enjoying the varied flora and fauna it houses.

Entry Fee

The entrance fee for the zoo is INR 10 for Indian visitors and INR 50 for foreign tourists.

Tips For Travellers

Abide by the rules of the zoo for your safety, and respect no-entry signs or staff instructions.
Keep a check on educational programs and activities related to events on wildlife conservation and the protection of endangered species are frequently organized by the zoo.
General photography is allowed in a manner that does not disturb the animals, following the guidelines issued by the zoo. No flash photography or disturbing of animals is allowed to safeguard the well-being of the animals.
Do take some time to learn about the local culture and customs when visiting. Interacting with the local communities could add value to your experience in getting an insider’s view of the rich heritage of the place.

Suggested Read: Discover Top Things To Do In Arunachal Pradesh

Itanagar Zoo holds great value for every wildlife enthusiast and nature lover in Arunachal Pradesh. With its objective of disbursing environmental education and conservation, it provides shelter to endangered animal species. The nearby tourist places reflect both the cultural and natural experience of the place. The zoo is a spot of interest due to its highly educational motive and atmosphere of tranquillity. Plan a trip with TripXL and have a fun getaway with your loved ones.

Cover Photo: Pixabay / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

Itanagar Zoo: Your Guide To The Wildlife Haven In Arunachal Pradesh

Location Of Itanagar Zoo

History Of Itanagar Zoo

How To Reach In Itanagar Zoo