There are a number of tourist spots in Lahore that have been well-maintained and well-kept over the years. These include parks, monuments, historical places, museums etc.
Zoos, in particular, are quite popular family attractions in Lahore. While there are several zoos in the city, Lahore Zoo stands out the most, with its open areas, lush green spaces and the fact that it is home to a number of exotic animals and birds. It is also one of the largest zoos in Pakistan.
Graana.com has compiled a detailed guide on Lahore Zoo below to help you plan your visit.
History of Lahore Zoo
With construction starting in the 1860s, Lahore Zoo was built as a menagerie at first. It was later established as a zoo in 1872, after Lala Mela Ram (a popular socialite and businessman of that time) donated an aviary.
It was supervised by a zoo advisory committee until 1962, after which the Lahore Municipal Committee took control from 1872 to 1921.
Lahore zoo was later handed over to the Deputy Commissioner and Commissioner of Lahore. The Livestock and Dairy Development Department then took over, followed shortly after by the West Pakistan Agriculture Department.
The management of the zoo was finally entrusted to the Wildlife & the Parks Department in 1982. It is currently run by the Zoo Management Committee (ZMC) of Lahore Zoo, which was founded in accordance with the Punjab Zoos & Safari Parks Rules 2012.
Since its transfer to the Wildlife Department in 1982, the displays, buildings, landscaping, and management have undergone significant changes, and the zoo has developed into a self-funded institution.
It is usually visited by families, especially on the weekends, federal holidays, and during the summer and winter breaks. Lahore Zoo receives more than 4.5 million visitors annually. It also features clean and green areas, well-built walking tracks, cafés, and much more.
Location of Lahore Zoo
Lahore Zoo is situated in the centre of the city on Mall Road. You can see the Alhamra Arts Council on the other side. Moreover, the distance between the Lahore Zoo and the Lahore Railway Station Road is only 3 and 4 kilometres. The prime location makes Lahore Zoo easily accessible.
As it also shares a wall with Jinnah Park, you can view rare plant and animal species on both sides of the fence in a single visit.
Address: 92 – Shahrah-e-Quaid-e-Azam (Mall Road), Jubilee Town
Timings of Lahore Zoo
The operational timings of the zoo are from 09:00 am to sunset throughout the week. However, the timings usually change during winter.
Ticket Prices
With a nominal entry fee, Lahore Zoo gets plenty of visitors, especially children.
Entry Ticket Rates
Adult: Rs. 40
Child: Rs. 20
Student Package
Up to 50 students: PKR 600
Up to 100 students: PKR 1000
Additionally, it should be noted that tickets are only valid for the same date of purchase, and they are non-refundable and non-transferable.
It is also mandatory for educational institutions to send a request on the letterhead of their institution, in order to avail the student packages.
Parking Fee
Lahore Zoo has a designated parking area as well. The parking fee for different vehicles is mentioned below:
Cycle: Rs. 5
Motorcycle/Rickshaw: Rs.10
Car: Rs. 20
Bus: Rs. 50
Popular Attractions in Lahore Zoo
There are many attractions, animals and eateries in Lahore Zoo, the most notable of which have been mentioned below.
Aviary
As mentioned earlier, Lahore Zoo was initially an aviary in 1872. You can see different kinds of bird breeds in the zoo, including birds, parrots, peafowl, pheasants, partridges, western capped pigeons, macaws, grey parrots etc.
Camel Ride
You also have the opportunity to ride a camel around Lahore Zoo for a unique experience. These have been set up near the monkey and elephant houses. Following are the timings and prices.
- Timings: 09:00 am till sunset
- Rates: Adult – Rs. 20 | Child – Rs. 10
Horse Riding
You can also take horse rides here as well. It is not only an enjoyable activity, but it is also a healthy sport for both adults and children.
Following are the timings and price.
Timings: 09:00 am till sunset
Rate: Rs. 20
Jumping Castle
Jumping Castle is one of the most fun experiences for children under the age of 12.
Timings: 09:00 am till sunset
Rate: Rs. 20
Jungle Cafe
Jungle Cafe is an ideal place to relax after spending an entire day at the zoo. You can order from a wide selection of snacks and beverages here.
Timings: 09:00 am till sunset
Mechanical Elephant Ride
Kids under the age of 12 can enjoy the mechanical elephant ride at Lahore Zoo too. Following are the timings and ticket price of the ride.
Timings: 09:00 am till sunset
Rate: Rs. 15
Animal Museum
You can find an animal museum near the reptile house of Lahore Zoo. You can find several stuffed specimens here, including tigers, leopards, pumas, gavials, pelicans, flamingoes and many more. It provides a great learning experience about animals and their ecosystem.
In addition to the animals, the Lahore Zoo regularly hosts drawing contests to boost healthy competition among children. There are occasionally some carnival games as well.
Adopt an Animal
The Lahore Zoo administration has launched an adoption program via which individuals, businesses, or other groups can adopt the animal(s) of their choice. They will also receive the following benefits:
- Recognition certificate
- Zoo education material
- Free visit to Lahore Zoo during the adoption period
- Adopters’ name plates/messages will be displayed in the cage/enclosure
Contact Information
If you want more information regarding Lahore Zoo, you can contact Lahore Zoo at the details mentioned below.
Phone: +92 42 36314684, +92 42 36314682
Email: lahorezoolahore@gmail.com
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I buy tickets?
Tickets can be bought upon your arrival at Lahore Zoo.
Can I pre-book my ticket?
No, tickets can only be bought on arrival and on the same day of your visit.
I bought a ticket but couldn’t visit – can I use it some other day?
Tickets are non-refundable, non-exchangeable, and can only be used on the same day they were bought.
I am bringing children with me who are under three. Do I need to pay for them?
Children under the age of 3 years are entitled to free entry to the zoo.
Can I store my luggage when I visit?
The zoo does not have a locker facility.
What are the random bag checks?
For the safety of guests, crew and animals, the zoo guard reserves the right to inspect packages, bags and containers at entry and/or exit points.
Does the zoo offer a discount for students?
Lahore Zoo has student packages only for those who are coming through their institution. For a group of up to 50 individuals, Rs. 600 will be charged, and for a group of up to 100 individuals, Rs. 1000 will be charged.
Can I rent wheelchairs at the zoo?
Yes, wheelchairs are available at Lahore Zoo on a first-come, first-served basis. You have to submit your original CNIC first, which will be returned at the end of your visit when you hand over the wheelchair. They are available for rent at both gates.
Where can I park my car?
Parking is available outside the gate on Mall Road, as well as in front of Lawrence Gate.
When do the car parks open/close?
The car park at Lahore Zoo is open from 9 am and closes at sunset.
Can I feed any of the animals?
All of our animals are on specific diets, which have been designed according to their needs. Hence, visitors are not allowed to feed the animals.
Are any of the enclosures closed in the winter/summer months?
Some of the animals do prefer to stay indoors when it gets too cold or hot.
How do I report lost property?
To report a lost item, contact the Director’s Office. You will be informed if your lost item is found.
Can I get biological samples from the zoo?
It is possible to obtain biological samples from the zoo animals, subject to the terms and conditions of Lahore Zoo. Samples could be faeces, hair or feathers.
Research involving samples from live animals and blood will be subject to ethical review and the administration’s decisions.
Can I survey visitors at the zoo?
It is possible to survey visitors, however, you will need to apply first and provide a copy of your survey. You can call at 0423- 6316441 for more details.
Will the zoo accept an animal I cannot care for?
Depending on the housing facility and health concerns, Lahore Zoo can only accept a few animals. You can call at 0423-6314681 for further inquiries.
I have some complaints, where do I report them?
You can visit the Director’s Office, call at 0423-6314684, or email at lahorezoolahore@gmail.com.
To Sum Up
Lahore Zoo offers visitors the chance to get up close to some of the most exotic animals and birds.
It has been steadily improving and adding new facilities over the years, making it one of the most popular zoos in Pakistan today. All animals are given the care they require, and zoologists also make frequent visits here.
For more guides on tourist places in Lahore, visit Graana blog.
