The Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park, also known as Katraj Snake Park, is one of India’s most popular zoos. It is located near Katraj, just a short drive from Pune. The park is divided into three sections- the snake park, the zoo and the lake. It features a wildlife research centre that also functions as an animal orphanage, rescue centre and care facility. The zoo’s snake park has a small library where you can learn more about snakes. It also hosts animal care events, environmental awareness events and guided tours.
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See also: Travel guide to Gandhinagar’s Indroda Park
Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park: History
The Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park Katraj was established by Pune Municipal Corporation in 1953 as the Peshwe Park. Later, in 1987, Katraj Snake Park was constructed. A new zoo, encompassing this snake park, was proposed in 1997. The Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park and Wildlife Research Centre Katraj first opened its doors in 1999. Until 2005, it was just a snake park with a few deer and monkeys. The animals from Peshwe Park were later relocated to the zoological park in Pune and Peshwe Park was closed.
Around 2007, the nearby Animal Rescue and Rehabilitation Centre, which was founded in 1992 with the goal of capturing and rehabilitating snakes, was also incorporated into this zoological park. It later evolved into a rescue centre for all wounded and orphaned animals and birds. The zoo has also operated animal adoption programmes since 2010.
Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park: Things to do
Observe animals: The Park is home to approximately 300 species, including leopards, crocodiles, sambhars, white tigers and Bengal tigers. It also houses several species of birds such as peacocks, eagles and vultures.
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Learn about snakes: Known for its extensive collection of snakes and reptiles, the park houses venomous snakes, including vipers and pythons. A 13-foot-long king cobra can also be seen here.
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Participate in educational activities: The park’s animal care and research branch conducts numerous behavioural studies and research. It also organises a variety of programmes and seminars to educate the public about animals. Moreover, it hosts educational programmes, guided excursions and snake festivals.
Take an electric vehicle trip: Battery-powered cars are offered at this park for those who find it difficult to walk.
Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park: Timing and ticket
| Day | Opening time | Closing time | Entry fee for adults | Entry fee for children (under 4 years of age) | Entry fee for foreigners |
| Monday | 9:30 AM | 5:00 PM | Rs 40 | Rs 10 | Rs 100 |
| Tuesday | 9:30 AM | 5:00 PM | Rs 40 | Rs 10 | Rs 100 |
| Wednesday | Closed | Closed | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Thursday | 9:30 AM | 5:00 PM | Rs 40 | Rs 10 | Rs 100 |
| Friday | 9:30 AM | 5:00 PM | Rs 40 | Rs 10 | Rs 100 |
| Saturday | 9:30 AM | 5:00 PM | Rs 40 | Rs 10 | Rs 100 |
| Sunday | 9:30 AM | 5:00 PM | Rs 40 | Rs 10 | Rs 100 |
Students who visit on school excursions can enter for free. In addition, blind and handicapped people can enter for free with proper identification. If you bring your camera, you must pay Rs 50 for photography and Rs 200 for filming. The battery-powered cars can be hired for Rs 40 for adults and Rs 25 for children. You may also hire a guide to learn about all there is to see and do at the Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park.
Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park: Best time to visit
Monsoon (July-September) is the finest time to visit the park as the weather will be cool and nice. However, unexpected showers may disrupt your visit to the zoo. It will take you around 3-4 hours to fully explore this location.
Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park: How to reach?
The park is located at Katraj, on the Pune-Satara Highway, approximately 7 km from Pune. It is well-connected by roadways and can be reached from anywhere in the city.
By rail – The distance between Pune station and the park is around 10 km.
By bus – There are many public city buses from Pune to Katraj Zoo. The zoo is approximately 1 km from the Katraj bus station.
By a cab – Hiring a full-day cab from a car rental company is a more convenient way to see the park and other popular tourist attractions.
FAQs
Is food permitted at the Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park?
Food is not permitted inside the park. Visitors are advised to consume their meals before entering the zoo or outside the zoo premises.
What is the Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park's speciality?
The park houses a wide range of exotic and endangered species of animals and birds, offering visitors a chance to observe them in their natural habitats. Additionally, the park is also home to a snake park and a wildlife orphanage.
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