Plan a picnic with your family or take time out to be with nature and its organisms. The zoo in Gorakhpur or Shaheed Ashfaq Ullah Khan Zoological Park is the perfect destination for any nature and animal lover. Nestled in the heart of the busy city of Gorakhpur, it is amongst fully fledged zoos, boasting of their unique species and well-maintained enclosure, offering both learning and entertaining values to people. During a visit to the main zoo in Gorakhpur, one can take a nature walk amidst lush landscapes, see animals up close, and click some amazing snaps.
Location
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Situated in the city’s heart, Shaheed Ashfaq Ullah Khan Zoological Park is conveniently located both for locals and travellers. It was laid out in a spacious area with adequate greenery to provide natural habitats for animals and still provide easy access to visitors. This place of interest is easily accessible from major sites after a short drive and can be located through signs properly displayed along the roads.
How To Reach
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By Air: The nearest airport is the Gorakhpur Airport GOP, which is approximately 8 kilometres from the zoo. Taxis or online ride-sharing services can be used from there for direct transportation to the zoo.
By Bus: Regular buses ply from nearby cities like Lucknow and Varanasi to Gorakhpur. The zoo is about 5 kilometres from the city’s main bus terminal, Gorakhpur Inter-State Bus Station. Locals or other modes of transport, like autorickshaws, make it pretty easy to reach from the bus terminal.
By Rail: Gorakhpur Junction is a major railway station, and most cities are well connected with it. The zoo is about 6 km from the station. One can get a taxi or an auto-rickshaw and reach the zoo directly from the station.
Places To Visit In And Around Zoo in Gorakhpur
While the zoo in Gorakhpur or Shaheed Ashfaq Ullah Khan Zoological Park is a major highlight, several other attractions around the area are worth visiting. Here are some notable spots to explore nearby.
1. Gorakhnath Temple
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Among the most famous places in the precincts of Gorakhpur come its Gorakhnath Temple, which surely forms part of any tourist itinerary, including spiritual seekers and enthusiasts of history. It has a great complex with peacefulness, built in honour of Guru Gorakhnath, and contains many beautiful sculptures and architectural works that reflect culture. An annual fair is held here and draws pilgrims and visitors from all over India. The surroundings of the temple premises are peaceful and quite suitable for contemplation and sightseeing. You can also find religious artefact shops selling souvenirs around.
Timings: 4 AM – 9 PM
Entry Fee: Free
2. Kushmi Forest
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Kushmi Forest is situated just off Gorakhpur town and forms a popular getaway for nature lovers and bird watchers. It is just unbeatable in its dense greenery and peaceful atmosphere, with which one can relax and get refreshed far from the city’s hustle and bustle. The forest has various birds and small wildlife, allowing one to take in scenic trails and sitting areas. It is ideal for those wanting to revisit natural landscapes, take unique photos at a zoo set amidst surroundings that will make Gorakhpur proud, or just quietly picnic in the middle of nature.
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: Free
3. Ramgarh Tal Lake
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The freshwater lake, Ramgarh Tal is one of the favourite amusement places in Gorakhpur. Boating facilities, walking paths, and street food varieties will render it an ideal place to go for a day outing with friends and family members. Scenic beauty, especially at sunset, provides many photography moments as the calm waters of the lake reflect the changing colours of the sky. The visitors prefer taking rides in boats during the evening and capturing serene views, which contrast nicely with the bustling city nearby.
Timings: 6 AM – 8 PM
Entry Fee: Free
4. Vishnu Mandir
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Vishnu Mandir is a prestigious temple in Gorakhpur and is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It draws locals and tourists alike. The carvings of the temple are detailed, reflecting the skill of artisans, adding to the temple’s charm. The peaceful atmosphere of the temple makes it highly suitable for quiet reflection or prayer; hence, it is among the preferred places for spiritual people to find their solace. Festivals like Janmashtami are celebrated with great enthusiasm and hence draw huge crowds. This temple provides a glimpse of the religious and cultural traditions that continue in Gorakhpur.
Timings: 6 AM – 8 PM
Entry Fee: Free
5. Nehru Park
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Gorakhpur’s Nehru Park is an excellent place to have a relaxed day out with your family or peer group. Greenery and colorful flower beds are kept in line at the park. The general facility of walking paths, fountains, and children’s play areas makes this place delightful for people of all ages to spend time in. The peaceful picnic and random jigs around give an excellent photographic opportunity among the lush green surroundings of Gorakhpur smart city. Coupled with scenic beauty, the serene environment of Nehru Park is a perfect destination for nature and photography-loving tourists.
Timings: 5 AM – 8 PM
Entry Fee: Free
Where To Stay
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Gorakhpur offers several comfortable accommodations near the zoo. For a relaxing stay, consider hotels such as Hotel Royal Residency or Hotel Kama International, which are near the zoo. These hotels provide comfortable rooms, excellent service, and easy access to the city’s main attractions.
Where To Eat
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For foodies visiting the zoo in Gorakhpur, there are several dining options nearby. Try local favourites at Annapurna Restaurant or savour authentic North Indian cuisine at The Grand Sweets. Both eateries are known for their tasty dishes and friendly service and are located conveniently close to the zoo, making it easy to enjoy a hearty meal before or after your visit.
Best Time To Visit
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The best time to visit the zoo in Gorakhpur is during the winter months, from November to February when the weather is cool and pleasant. During these months, both animals and visitors are more active, making it an ideal time to explore the zoo and take photos at the zoo in Gorakhpur. Summers can be extremely hot, and monsoons bring heavy rains, which may limit some outdoor activities.
Other Factors To Consider
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Average Cost Of The Trip:
For a day at the zoo in Gorakhpur, visitors should budget around ₹300 to ₹500 for entry and transportation costs. This estimate includes zoo in Gorakhpur entry fee, basic refreshments, and local travel costs. For a more comprehensive experience including nearby attractions, an additional ₹500 to ₹700 is recommended.
Tips For Travellers:
- Research the zoo in Gorakhpur timings and plan your trip accordingly to make the most of your visit.
- Bring water, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes for a day of walking and exploring.
- Follow all safety rules and avoid feeding the animals.
- Bring a camera or smartphone to capture photos at the Gorakhpur zoo.
The zoo in Gorakhpur is quite a thrilling place for families, nature lovers, and adventure-loving people. With many wildlife, scenic landscapes, and other nearby attractions, this spot promises to provide an electrifying experience for all visitors, old and young alike. Plan your visit with us, and we at TripXL have made your trip even smoother with easy booking options for an unforgettable adventure.
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