Manda Zoo: Exploring The Rich Biodiversity Of Zoological Park In Jammu

Manda Zoo Park is situated near the popular heritage stay - Hari Niwas in Jammu.

Located on the Palace Road near Hari Niwas in Jammu, Manda Zoo is one of the only two zoological parks in the whole province. The place is quite well known for its eclectic collection of plants, and animals including leopards, black bears, wild cats and antelopes. It is home to several bird species as well like the Western Tragopan and Himalayan Monal. The place is quite popular among families and nature enthusiasts looking to gain more insight into the regional wildlife.

Quick Details

Manda Zoo Location: Palace Road, Jammu
Total Coverage: 31.50 sq km
Manda Zoo Timings: 8:30 AM – 6 PM (Closed on Tuesdays)
How To Reach: By car, taxi, bus or on foot
Nearest Railway Station: Jammu Railway Station
Nearest Airport: Jammu International Airport
Manda Zoo Ticket Price: ₹10 for children and ₹20 for adults
Best Time To Visit: Throughout the year

About Manda Zoo

Manda Zoo is home to several birds, plants and animal species including Nilgai.

Photo: Tathekalyani / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Also called Manda Wildlife Sanctuary, this zoo is located in the Manda village of Udhampur district of Jammu and Kashmir. The place is popular for its wide array of animals, birds and vegetation. Due to its proximity to the royal palace of Hari Niwas, the place is quite popular for a family visit both among the locals as well as the tourists. The place houses many animals like cobras, crocodiles, tigers and deer. One of the prime attractions of the park is the attractive assemblage of beautiful exotic butterflies like grass yellow, peacock pansy, plain tiger, sailor and lime butterfly.

Suggested Read: Things To Do In Jammu

Places To Visit Near Manda Wildlife Sanctuary

Due to its prime location in the Udhampur district of Jammu and Kashmir, there are several other places to visit in the zoo’s vicinity.

1. Mansar Lake

 Mansar Lake offers stunning views of lush greenery amidst the surrounding high mountains.

Photo: Pranavmagotra03 / Wikimedia Commons

Located at a distance of 36 km from Udhampur, the Mansar Lake is a glistening lake destination amidst lush green hilly surroundings. The sheer calmness of the region makes it a popular picnic spot. There are some renowned shrines and temples located nearby that hold much religious importance such as the ancient Sheshnag temple, Umapati Mahadev temple and the goddess Durga temple.

Location: Mansar Lake Road, Jammu and Kashmir
Timings: 7 AM – 5 PM

2. Sudh Mahadev Temple

 Sudh Mahadev Temple is a popular and sacred place for tourists visiting Jammu& Kashmir.

Photo: Atudu / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Considered to be one of the most religious places of Udhampur, Sudh Mahadev Temple is located near Patnitop in Chanhani Village. The place is famous for the naturally originated Lord Shiva lingam, the Bheema mace from Mahabharata and the Lord Shiva trident.

Location: Dhar Shiv Garh, Jammu and Kashmir
Timing: 7 AM – 12 PM and 4 PM – 7 PM

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Kashmir

3. Ramnagar Fort

Ramnagar Fort and Mausoleum is quite a popular place that can be visited besides Manda Zoo.

Photo: Malikbek / Wikimedia Commons

Located about 40 km from Udhampur is the majestic Ramnagar Fort. This fort is a historical and architectural marvel showcasing a blend of Rajput and Mughal architectural styles. There are three halls in the fort – Sheesh Mahal, Rang Mahal and Darbar Hall that further accentuate the architectural beauty of the place.

Location: Ramnagar district, Jammu and Kashmir
Timing: 24*7

4. Krimchi Temples

 Krimchi Temples (or Pandava Temples) is a complex of seven ancient temples, near Manda Zoo.

Photo: Akhil2 / Wikimedia Commons

A complex of ancient temples located around 12 km from Udhampur, Krimchi temple is a group of seven temples locally known as Pandava Temples. Historically, these were built in the 9th Century AD in stages. According to local belief, it was Raja Kichak who built these temples as well as founded the Krimchi Kingdom with the temple being home to Pandavas during their exile. The complex is a true embodiment of Indo-Greek architecture as reflected in its etchings and designs.

Timings: 7:30 AM – 5 PM
Location: Temple Road, Krimachi, Jammu and Kashmir

Suggested Read: Museums In Jammu And Kashmir

Where to Stay

Tourists can find several resorts and budget-friendly stays near Manda Zoo in Udhampur.

Photo: Syed Qaarif Andrabi / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

Udhampur, being a popular tourist destination in Jammu and Kashmir, has several accommodation options from budget-friendly to luxury stays. Some of the top choices for travellers include Hotel Subhash, the Vardaan Resort, Hotel Holiday Inn, Hotel Jai Skahan, Samrat Hotel and many more.

Where to Eat

Jammu and Kashmir offers numerous food options to different tastes and budgets.

Photo: TheZord / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

There are several multicuisine restaurants and eateries located in Udhampur. One can choose to have a complete dining experience at restaurants like The Hype or taste some delicious local fare at RT’s Southern Spice or Kukadoo Koo restaurant.

Suggested Read: Trekking In Kashmir

Manda Zoo’s location makes it an enchanting place to explore where different seasons bring life to new foliage and a refreshing ambience. It is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna including several endangered species thus making your vacation worthwhile. Add this charming zoo to your Jammu and Kashmir itinerary, and plan your trip with TripXL to make your trip more enjoyable and seamless.

Cover Photo: Mithun.M.Das / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, one can bring still and video cameras along when visiting the zoo.
Yes, the zoo is the perfect place to take your families and kids on a day picnic. The proximity to the majestic Hari Mahal makes it a popular destination for all.
Yes. One can see the natural adaptations of the local animals and birds in the winter season.
Yes, there are buses, cabs and private taxis available from the main city to the zoo
Vaishno Devi Temple Hill is located at a distance of about 54 km from the Jambu Zoo, Jammu or Manda Wildlife Sanctuary.

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