Ever wondered if you can take your family to see majestic tigers and playful monkeys today? Lucknow Zoo, officially called Nawab Wajid Ali Shah Prani Udyan, stands as one of India’s oldest and most cherished zoological parks. Established back in 1921 to honor the Prince of Wales’ visit to the city, this 71.6-acre green haven right in Lucknow’s center has been delighting visitors for over a century.
More than a million people walk through its gates each year to witness Royal Bengal Tigers, White Tigers, Asiatic Lions, and hundreds of other fascinating creatures. But before you grab your camera and pack those snacks, let’s find out if the gates are open today and everything else you need for an amazing visit.
Is the Zoo Open Today?
Here’s the deal with Lucknow Zoo’s schedule: it stays closed every Monday and on the Holi festival. Since today is Tuesday, November 4th, 2025, yes—the zoo is open and ready for visitors!
Right now in November, the zoo welcomes guests from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM. That gives you a solid chunk of time to explore.
What Time Should You Arrive?
The gates open at 8:30 AM from November through January, and trust me, getting there early works in your favor. Mornings bring cooler weather, more active animals, and smaller crowds. Mondays draw the biggest crowds along with holidays, so you’re lucky it’s a weekday!
Operating Hours Throughout the Year
The zoo adjusts its schedule based on seasons:
- February to April: 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM
- May to July: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- August to October: 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM
- November to January: 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM
Ticket Prices and Discounts
Entry costs INR 40 for children between 5 to 12 years, and INR 80 for adults above 12 years of age and teachers. If you want to bring a video camera, that’s an extra INR 100.
Want to save some cash? Book your tickets online for a 10% discount, and groups of more than 50 students get 10% off too!
The standard ticket gets you into the main zoo plus the Aquarium House, Nocturnal House, and Nature Interpretation Center. Package tickets add rides on the toy train and battery-operated vehicles.
Best Time to Visit
February to April and October to November offer the most pleasant weather. Winter sunny days let you watch majestic animals basking outside their caves.
Summer months get brutal—temperatures can hit 40 degrees Celsius. If you’re visiting during hot months, stick to early morning hours.
Getting There
The zoo sits right in Lucknow’s heart at Hazratganj Road, opposite Civil Hospital. Hazratganj metro station is about a 20-minute walk from the zoo. You can also grab an auto-rickshaw, cab, or city bus. The zoo is roughly 6 kilometres from Lucknow Charbagh Railway Station.
What to See and Do
The zoo houses over 1000 animals from around the world, including Royal Bengal Tigers, White Tigers, Asiatic Lions, Himalayan Black Bears, and Lion-tailed Macaques.
Don’t miss these attractions:
Toy Train: This mini train takes you around the zoo premises. Kids absolutely love it!
Butterfly Park: Inaugurated in 2018, this newer section showcases over 28 vibrant butterfly species. You’ll need an extra ticket for this one.
Nature Interpretation Centre: This mini biological museum displays well-preserved ostrich, emu, and macaw eggs, tiger cubs of different species, animal fur and skins, and pugmarks of rare and endangered animals.
State Museum: Located within the zoo grounds, this museum houses Awadh artifacts, including an Egyptian Mummy, a 16th-century painting from the Kalpasutra, and various archaeological treasures.
Vintage Train: A replica from British times, this 1924 artifact from Laxmipur forest now sits in the zoo as a historical exhibit.
Practical Tips
- Wear comfortable shoes—you’ll be walking a lot
- Bring sunscreen and a hat for sunny days
- Carry water bottles to stay hydrated
- Food stalls operate inside the zoo, though you can bring your own snacks
- Photography is allowed, but video cameras cost extra
- Wheelchair and stroller rentals are available
- Parking accommodates buses, cars, and two-wheelers for a small fee
- Online booked tickets stay valid for entry until 5:00 PM
Zoo Rules to Remember
Animals can’t eat what visitors bring, so feeding them is strictly prohibited. Skip plastic bags and bottles since they harm animals and the environment. Pets aren’t allowed inside the zoo premises.
Contact Information
Address: Hazratganj Road, Opposite Civil Hospital, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, 226001
Phone: +91-8005493617
Website: www.lucknowzoo.com
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I visit the zoo on Monday?
No, the zoo remains closed every Monday for maintenance and to give animals a break from crowds.
How long does it take to see the whole zoo?
Plan for 2-3 hours to cover the main areas comfortably. If you want to explore everything including the museum and take rides, budget 4-5 hours.
Is food available inside the zoo?
Yes, canteens and food courts serve snacks and drinks at reasonable prices. You can also pack your own food, just avoid plastic containers.
Can I bring my pet to the zoo?
No, pets aren’t permitted inside the zoo premises for safety reasons and to avoid disturbing the zoo animals.
Are there facilities for differently-abled visitors?
Yes, the zoo is wheelchair accessible and offers wheelchair rentals. Battery-operated vehicles are also available for those who need them.
What’s the best day to visit to avoid crowds?
Weekday mornings, especially Tuesday through Thursday, see fewer visitors. Avoid Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays when crowds peak.
Is there a dress code?
No specific dress code exists, but wear comfortable clothes and closed-toe shoes suitable for walking on various terrains.
Can I book tickets in advance?
Yes! Online booking is available through the zoo’s website, and you’ll save 10% compared to buying tickets at the gate.
What animals can I expect to see?
The zoo houses Royal Bengal Tigers, White Tigers, Asiatic Lions, elephants, giraffes, zebras, hippopotamuses, various deer species, crocodiles, numerous bird species, and much more across 97 different species.
Is the toy train included in the regular ticket?
No, the toy train requires a separate ticket or you can purchase a package ticket that includes it along with other attractions.
So yes, Lucknow Zoo is open today and waiting for you! Pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready for a fantastic day exploring one of India’s oldest zoological gardens.
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